The Brijuni Islands are among Croatia’s most captivating tourist destinations. This archipelago consists of fourteen lush islands nestled within the azure waters of the northern Adriatic, just off the western coast of Istria. Together with the surrounding sea, they were designated a national park in 1983. Visitors can easily reach the islands via a regular daily boat service from the Port of Fažana, located only 6 km from Pula.
Once part of the Istrian mainland ten thousand years ago, the Fažana Channel is relatively shallow, measuring just 12 meters deep. The islands are supported by flat, slightly sloped limestone layers from the Cretaceous period, topped with a thick layer of brown calcareous soil, known as terra rossa. This white stone, characterized by its marble-like structure and rich in clay and silicic acid, has been valued as a durable construction material since Roman times, contributing to the building of many coastal towns.
The Brijuni archipelago features two larger islands, Veliki and Mali Brijun, along with twelve smaller, intricately shaped islands that have been inhabited since prehistoric times. The region enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by abundant sunshine and humidity, creating an ideal environment for lush vegetation and a delightful island experience.
Safari Park
To fully appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the Brijuni Islands, a visit to the Safari Park is essential. Home to a variety of animal species, the park’s most famous resident is Lanka, an elephant gifted by Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1972.
As you wander through the Mediterranean garden, you’ll encounter over 160 native plant species. Among them is one of the oldest olive trees in the Mediterranean, whose age was confirmed through research by the Ruđer Bošković Institute in Zagreb in the 1960s. This ancient olive tree, with its impressive trunk and lush crown, adds a distinctive charm to the landscape of Brijuni.
Riding the Safari Park train is a delightful experience for visitors of all ages, especially children. Don’t miss the chance to meet Koki, the park’s star attraction—a large yellow-crested cockatoo that visitors love to photograph. Be sure to take breaks during your visit to soak in the serene beauty of the surroundings.
Brijuni’s allure is further enhanced by its geo-paleontological sites, where over 200 dinosaur footprints have been uncovered. These ancient reptiles are believed to have roamed the islands 100 to 130 million years ago. If you arrive at the port of Veliki Brijun, keep an eye out for a three-toed print in a limestone block, likely left by a large theropod carnivore.