Cres Island holidays, Kvarner Holiday rentals - villas & holiday homes to rent on Cres Island
Cres Island is a hidden gem and not that well known compared to Croatia's other islands such as Hvar and Rab. However, it is the joint largest island in the Kvarner archipelago covering an area of 409 sq kms which means there is plenty to see and do. The medieval town of Cres is the focal point of the island and is not to be missed. Its preserved walled historical centre dates back to the 15th century with the centre piece being its Venetian Towers. During the evenings, the waterfront is the place to be with many restaurants, cafes and bars facing on to fishing and tourist boats that pack the marina.
Looking for a beautiful beach? You will need to head to the west coast to Lubenice. This village is perched on a steep cliff and it tales around 45 minutes to walk down the windy path but it's certainy worth the effort. Alternatively, you can take a water taxi from Cres or Valun.
| At a glance... | |
|---|---|
| Population | 3,000 |
| Main town | Cres |
| Historical sites | ✔ |
| Family friendly | ✔ |
| Connected to | Losinj Island by bridge |
| Best beach | Lubenice |
| International airport | Rijeka airport on Krk island |
| Connection to mainland | Ferry to Pula, 1 hour crossing |
Featured villas on Cres Island
Cres Island is not firmly established on the tourist radar yet which means the wide selection of self catering holiday rental accommodation from luxurious coastal villas to cosy apartments offer better value for money. Renting a villa on Cres Island or holiday home can be the ideal base for exploring the local area and other nearby islands in the Kvarner archipelago.
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Things to see & do on Cres Island and Kvarner
In addition to wandering around the fascinating seaside villages, wining, dining and sight seeing, there are plenty of things to see and do for the whole family on the island and around the Gulf of Kvarner.
| A few suggestions.... | |
|---|---|
| Blue Grotto under the village of Lubenice | ✔ |
| Explore the medieval Cres Town with its Venetian Tower | ✔ |
| Sunset sail from Cres town | ✔ |
| Explore 13th century Trsat Castle in Rijeka | ✔ |
| Take a boat trip and swim with the dolphins | ✔ |
| Sunbathe on Rab Island with its 22 sandy bays | ✔ |
| Tour Biserujka Cave on Krk Island | ✔ |
| Stroll along the 12km Lungomare Opatija promenade | ✔ |
| Wander around Nehaj Fortress and Park Nehaj, Krk Island | ✔ |
| Visit the blue lagoon village Veli on Losinj Island | ✔ |
Our view on Cres Island
A must-see island in the Kvarner Bay, Cres Island oozes charm and character and is easily accessible from the mainland by ferry. Staying in a villa holiday rental is the best way to experience the island and is ideal for for families, friends and groups. Renting a holiday home provides the space, freedom and flexibility to do what you want, when you want - home from home.
