Island Of KRK

OVERVIEW

Explore a more than 2,000-year-old walled city on the island of Krk and then enjoy a boat ride to a smaller island nearby to tour a centuries-old Franciscan monastery. Later, you'll sample some local snacks and wine. After departing from the pier, you will settle in for a leisurely 75 minute drive south to the lovely city of Krk on the island of the same name. As you explore the historical streets, be sure to notice the 2,000-year-old city walls that once protected Krk from invaders, the Krk Cathedral and Frankopan Castle which overlooks the city. The noble Frankopan family initiated construction on the castle in the 12th century. Next, you'll board a boat for a brief but scenic cruise to tiny Kosljun Island. Uninhabited except for the Franciscan monks living in St. Mary's Monastery, the island is heavily forested. More than 400 species of plants thrive here, some of them planted by the monks long ago. While exploring the museum in the 16th-century monastery, you may view a collection of ethnographic items from local fishermen and farmers, as well as folk costumes. The monastery's library holds more than 30,000 titles, the rarest being Ptolemy's atlas, one of three known copies from 1511. After returning to the mainland, you will continue on to Vrbnik, a town surrounded by fertile farmland and vineyards. Stopping at a small tavern, you will have the opportunity to sample some locally produced items such as savory prosciutto, smoked cheeses and the region's characteristic wine whites and brandy. Afterwards, you will return to the pier.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Tour the ancient town of Krk, watched over by Krk Cathedral and a commanding 12th-century castle.
• View the impressive 2000-year-old defensive wall built around the village of Krk.
• Cruise to tiny Kosljun Island and examine intriguing artifacts at a 16th-century Franciscan Monastery.
• Revel in savory prosciutto, smoked cheeses, local wine and brandy at an atmospheric tavern.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.