SATURDAY BLISS

A perfect cycling day around Vrana lake.

Vrana Lake is about 1.5h drive from Split.  Because it is one of the rare natural habitats of water birds as well as because of its fresh water springs and biodiversity, the Vrana Lake and its surroundings have been declared a nature park on July 21st, 1999.

 

It is an unusual compromise and connection of land and water which offers a refuge to diverse species of plants and animals, offering them all that its necessary for life. Overgrown with grass, sedge, rush and reed it looks like field with shallow ponds scattered all over it and covered with permanent flowers of vibrant colours and with many butterflies, dragonflies and other different insects which enable the birds to stay in the reserve and in the park throughout the year. Hidden in the reed, bird lovers can experience watching the birds nesting and taking care of their chicks. 

Vrana Lake is a hot-spot with tremendous diversity of ornithofauna of 249 recorded bird species, of which 102 nest in the park area. Of these nesting birds, four are considered Endangered on the European level and seven on national level. For some of these birds Vrana Lake is the only nesting area in the entire Mediterranean part of Croatia. The park area is also an important resting and feeding place for a whole range of endangered European species. More than 100 000 water birds come here to spend the winter.

But if you are not that big Brid watcher and you like to spend your day more active, than cycling around Vrana lake provides amazing experience.

As usual you would need the common ingredients, if possible; friend(s), local guide and comfy bike… Not much ;)

The tour around the entire lake is about 36km long, with approx. 400m of total altitude, makes it quite pleasant ride both for beginners and more advanced riders.  It is about 20% asphalted road and about 80% of the dirt road, which isn’t technical so it is manageable for most of cyclists.

And off course after amazing views and physical activity, is there a better way to finish the day than by great local meal in small locally owned agro tourism in the vicinity of the park? 

And definitely the surprise of the day was a small private concert by owners of the tavern where we had dinner. Great welcoming place with amazing hosts… Just the way it should be. :)