As the summer heat slowly gives way to pleasant temperatures and golden colors, the island of Cres transforms into a true oasis for all lovers of nature and active holidays. Located in the heart of the Kvarner Gulf, this pearl of the Adriatic, known for its exceptional preservation and authenticity, offers a unique experience in autumn. Untouched nature, a mild Mediterranean climate, and a wealth of flora and fauna create the perfect stage for exploring on foot. It is precisely during this period that Cres becomes the center of two extraordinary events designed to bring its natural beauties closer to visitors: the "Cres Hike" series of free guided walking tours and the exciting "Cres & Lošinj Trail Weekend" sports competition.

The island of Cres is not just a destination; it is an ecosystem of exceptional value, which is confirmed by the fact that as much as 95% of its territory is part of the European ecological network Natura 2000. With more than 300 kilometers of maintained and marked hiking trails that wind through diverse landscapes, from the dense forests of Tramuntana in the north to the rocky pastures and hidden coves in the south, Cres represents an inexhaustible source of adventure. The trails connect abandoned villages, ancient olive groves, picturesque peaks with unforgettable views, and a coast bathed in crystal clear sea, making every walk a journey through history and nature.

Cres Hike: Discover the island's hidden trails with expert guidance

This autumn, the Cres Town Tourist Board is once again organizing the extremely popular "Cres Hike" project, offering all visitors and residents a unique opportunity to explore the island for free. From mid-September to mid-October, expertly guided walking tours are organized every Sunday, leading participants through some of the most beautiful, but also lesser-known parts of the island. These tours are not just recreation; they are a window into the soul of Cres, an opportunity to escape from everyday stress and fully immerse oneself in the peace and quiet provided by untouched nature. The walks are carefully planned and are part of a wider network of hiking trails known as Via Apsyrtides, a transversal that extends throughout the entire Cres-Lošinj archipelago, as well as the Kvarner Outdoor project, which promotes the most attractive trails in the region.

Participation in these tours is completely free, but due to the limited number of participants, registration is mandatory and is done via the e-mail address: info@cres-fun.com. The organizers emphasize the importance of adequate equipment – sturdy sports footwear, layered clothing, a sufficient amount of water (at least 1.5 liters), an energy snack or fruit, and a hat for sun protection are necessary. It is important to note that all participants hike at their own risk, and in case of unfavorable weather conditions, the organizer reserves the right to change the route or cancel the tour for the safety of all present.

Schedule of free guided tours "Cres Hike":

• September 21, 2025: Cres – Sveti Salvadur – Gavza – Cres
  This moderately demanding trail, 8 kilometers long, starts at 9:00 AM on Frane Petrić Square in the very heart of the town of Cres. The path leads towards the small church of St. Salvadur, from where there is a spectacular view of the Cres bay, after which it continues through old olive groves and dry stone walls to Gavza bay and back to the town. It is an ideal opportunity to get to know the surroundings of the town, and accommodation in the town of Cres provides the perfect starting point for this adventure.


• September 28, 2025: Cres – Dražica – Green Lighthouse – Cres
  A week later, from the same place at the same time, an easy 9-kilometer walk begins. This route follows the coast, passes through a dense pine forest with the intoxicating scents of the sea and Mediterranean plants, all the way to the Green Lighthouse at the entrance to the Cres harbor. The trail is ideal for families and those who prefer less demanding, but equally picturesque tours.


• October 5, 2025: Beli – Pepo's Trail – Beli
  At the beginning of October, the starting point moves to Beli, one of the oldest and most impressive settlements on the island. The meeting point is at 9:00 AM at the parking lot at the entrance to the village. The 6-kilometer long trail is of medium difficulty and leads through the famous Pepo's Trail, a unique artistic-ecological trail dedicated to the preservation of griffon vultures. A walk through the untouched nature of Tramuntana provides an opportunity to learn about the biodiversity and history of this area, and perhaps to encounter the magnificent vultures. For a complete experience, consider staying in this unique place; explore the options and find accommodation in Beli.


• October 12, 2025: Beli – Niska – Beli
  The last tour in the series also starts from Beli at 9:00 AM. It is a moderately demanding trail, 5 kilometers long, that leads to the location of Niska, revealing some of the hidden beauties and impressive viewpoints of the northern part of the island of Cres.

Richness of nature: In the realm of griffon vultures and medicinal herbs

What makes Cres truly special is its incredible biodiversity. The island is home to more than 1,400 different plant species, many of which are endemic and medicinal. The scents of sage, immortelle, and thyme accompany you at every step. However, the crown jewel of Cres's fauna is the griffon vulture, one of the largest birds of prey in Europe. Cres is one of their last natural habitats in Croatia. Observing these kings of the sky, whose wingspan reaches up to 2.8 meters, as they elegantly glide through the sky above the cliffs of Tramuntana, is an unforgettable experience. In Beli, there is also the Visitor Centre and Griffon Vulture Rescue Centre, a key institution for their protection and conservation, which is definitely worth a visit.

Cres & Lošinj Trail Weekend: A sporting challenge in the heart of Kvarner

For those eager for adrenaline and sporting challenges, the beginning of November brings the culmination of the autumn outdoor season – the "Cres & Lošinj Trail Weekend". This popular sports and recreational event, which takes place on November 1st and 2nd, 2025, uniquely connects the two neighboring islands, Cres and Lošinj, in an unforgettable running adventure. The race brings together runners, walkers, and nature lovers from all over the region, offering them the opportunity to test their limits while enjoying spectacular landscapes.

The event is designed as a weekend challenge with two separate stages. The first stage takes place on Saturday, November 1st, on the island of Lošinj, while the second, equally attractive stage, is run on Sunday, November 2nd, on the island of Cres. Participants can choose between three different difficulty categories, designed to suit all fitness levels: Purple (the longest and most demanding, for experienced trail runners), Blue (medium-length trail), and Green (the shortest trail, ideal for beginners and recreational runners). Each trail is carefully selected to take competitors through the most beautiful parts of the islands, combining technically demanding ascents, fast descents, and picturesque coastal sections. All additional information about the race, propositions, and registrations are available on the official website Cres & Lošinj Trail.