Nature park Telašćica

Nature Park Telašćica is located in the southeast of Dugi Otok. The area was declared protected in 1980, and in 1988 it gains the status of a Nature Park. The area was declared as protected due to its rich flora and fauna, geological phenomena, valuable seabed communities and interesting archaeological heritage.

The bay of Telašćica is one of the largest and safest natural bays on the eastern side of the Adriatic Sea and it is also a safe haven for many boaters to protect them from the wind. The bay is 8 km inland and hides 25 coves, capes and 5 islets. Contrary to the quiet bay is the tectonic cliff locally named ˝Stene˝. The cliff rises 160 meters above the sea and goes down 85 meters in depth. Appearance-wise, the cliff seems like a naked and lifeless rock, yet it should be admired because it provides shelter and a place to live for many species that live above and below the sea without much human influence. Between the bay and the open sea is the salt lake – Mir (peace). The lake was created after the last ice age, when the sea level rose and the sea filled the karst sinkhole through the micro cracks.

It is possible to go diving in several locations near the cliff within the Nature Park, and the bay itself is perfect for kayaking which may be the best form of activity that allows one to discover all of the charms that the many coves provide. The magnificence of the cliff can best be noticed while sailing below it.

In order to discover the Park’s mainland, we recommend taking a bike ride or hiking where you can let the environment capture you. While walking through the Park during springtime, you can smell various essential flora, and being that the Park is a protected area, it is strictly forbidden to pick them. While exploring the Park, you will come across numerous archeological sites that prove the importance and attractiveness of this area and how it was inhabited during the Paleolithic times.

For the youngest, close to the salt lake Mir, there is an adrenaline park with eight devices that have a maximum height of 2.5 meters. The Adrenaline Park can be used with safety equipment that will be issued by an authorized and educated employee who will guide you through the Park. The Cove of Tripuljak has an educational underwater trail that is about 200 meters long, not demanding and intended for visitors of all ages who know how to use a mask and snorkel. The tour includes swimming and underwater sightseeing at shallow depths. An adult should accompany children under 12 years of age.

You can reach the Park by sea through one of the agencies that offer day trips or you can come to the Park with your own boat where the guards of nature (rangers) will familiarize you with the rules of behavior. If you are coming from the mainland, you can come by ferry, catamaran or boat from Zadar and you will be greeted at the entrance of the Park where you will be informed of the rules and behavior of the Park as well as being informed of all attractions that you can visit.