Pakoštane: Where the sea meets the lake – a destination with a sweet and salty story

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

Imagine waking up in a cosy lakeside cabin at Vransko Lake Nature Park, serenaded by birdsong as the sun rises over calm waters.

Picture a morning spent birdwatching and swimming in the lake, followed by a lazy afternoon on one of 15 unique beaches along the Adriatic.

From the panoramic viewpoint of Kamenjak, take a short catamaran ride to Vrgada – a car-free island that looked so inviting from above.

Welcome to Pakoštane, a destination unlike any other – a true gem of Central Dalmatia that captures hearts both in and outside the high tourist season.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

This is where the story of salt and sweet unfolds – the meeting of lake and sea, of peaceful nature and active exploration, wrapped in sunsets and local charm.

With 17 hiking trails and 10 cycling routes, Pakoštane is a paradise for nature lovers. It offers unforgettable experiences and a rich culinary scene blending traditional flavours with modern twists – all topped off with a glass of chilled Maraština, Debit or Merlot, and award-winning local olive oil.

“This is a region where salt and fresh water meet, where fertile hinterlands and island archipelagos converge, and where contrasts blend in harmony,” says Danijela Vulin, Director of Pakoštane Tourist Board. Under her leadership, the region has become a must-visit for the modern traveller, especially in the quieter months.

To help visitors fully explore everything this area has to offer, Danijela and her team created the Sweet & Salty Adventure – a unique experience for nature enthusiasts to discover the region’s diversity in inspiring and sustainable ways.

Wake Up in an Ornithological Reserve

“Come for the adventure, stay for the peace, and leave with memories for a lifetime.” That’s the motto of Vransko Lake Crkvine Camp, located on the lake’s shoreline in the shade of fragrant pine woods. Renovated in 2017 and awarded the ECO-CAMPING certificate and four stars, this is the perfect place to truly immerse yourself in Pakoštane’s sweet-and-salty story.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

Here, you’ll fall asleep surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the ornithological reserve, wake to the gentle ripple of the lake, and in just a few kilometres – by bike or car – experience the best of the region’s natural beauty and cuisine.

The camp features 150 pitches and 23 eco-friendly mobile homes with lake views, ideal for families or solo adventurers. On-site, you’ll find a restaurant, shop, beach bar, and sports facilities (kayaking, SUP, tennis, mini golf, and bike hire).

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

Explore the Roads – Istraži Puteve

Few regions can match the natural diversity of Pakoštane Municipality – from a rugged coastline dotted with islands, to dreamy lakeside meadows, ancient springs, and panoramic lookouts. At its heart lies Vransko Lake, the largest natural lake in Croatia, with its north-western section designated an Ornithological Reserve, and the entire lake protected as a Nature Park.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

One ticket grants access to the Vransko Lake Educational Trail, a wooden path leading you across wetlands teeming with over 260 bird species. Birdwatching is a major draw here, especially when perched quietly at one of the reserve’s scenic lookouts.

You may spot the elegant Danguba Heron – the park’s symbol – or even board the “Danguba” electric boat for a tranquil tour of the lake’s far shore.

From there, head up to Kamenjak Viewpoint, offering a breathtaking panorama of lake, sea, and the Kornati Islands. Stops like Čelinka above Drage, Pećina Spring in Vrana, and the Knights of Vrana heritage site add layers of cultural richness. Don’t miss the Three Islands Trail, an open-air museum showcasing local flora and history.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

A must-visit is Vrgada Island, just a short catamaran ride away – often accompanied by dolphins – where hosts greet you with stories and the summer soundtrack of cicadas.

Reveal the Gardens – Otkrij Vrtove

“Fields and gardens are like a second mother tongue to the people of Pakoštane,” says Danijela Vulin. “The land here fed generations and remains a deep part of local identity.” While many residents have turned to tourism, nearly every home still has a private garden, vineyard, and olive grove.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

You’ll savour this connection to the land in every dish and every drop. Local wines like Maraština, Plavac, and Debit, along with award-winning olive oils, add richness to traditional dishes. Whether it’s lamb with peas, snails, stews, brudets, fritters, or the water-based cake Vodenjak, the flavours are authentic and unforgettable.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

The Lunch in Nature event highlights this culinary heritage with dishes prepared and enjoyed outdoors, using ingredients grown, caught, or foraged by locals.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

Traditional Meets Modern – A Treat for Food Lovers

Pakoštane’s food scene punches well above its weight. At Agrotourism Plavica, Slavo and Branka serve up slow-cooked dishes like meat or fish peka, hand-sliced prosciutto aged for years, and sheep cheese drizzled with award-winning olive oil.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

Young couple Marina and Mate Rašin bring a new flair at Parparot, their restaurant in the old town, serving daily catch and regional specialities like Pakoštane flatbread, all under the stars.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

Just a short drive from the lake, Karaba Winery offers stunning views and sunset tastings, while Nena and Šime Kurtov’s vineyard, with its Provencal vibe, is another unmissable spot.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

At the medieval Maškovića Han, the newly opened Timar Restaurant blends the old with the new, set within ancient stone walls and filled with modern flavour.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

Hear the Stories – Poslušaj Priče

Legends whisper through the fields of Vrana and echo down stone alleys. The project “Hear the Stories” brings these tales to life – stories of knights, prophets, fishermen, and miracles. Learn of prophetess Vrana at the Pećina Spring, Jusuf Mašković, Saint Justina, the fishermen of Drage, or the miraculous icon of Vrgada.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

The region’s history spans Roman villas and aqueducts to Templar and Ottoman eras. Take a guided walk and you’ll uncover secrets carved in stone and passed down through generations.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

Active Adventures in Nature

Even when you think you’ve seen it all, Pakoštane surprises again – especially in spring when it bursts into bloom. Explore scenic trails connecting beaches, forests, and cultural sites.

(Photo: Nikola Zoko)

Go cycling, hiking, or enjoy adrenaline activities at Vransko Lake Adventure Park. Try golf, tennis, or paintball, then hike to the nearest viewpoint for a sunset to remember.