Zirje Island

4.4
Share
Save

Approximately 22 km southwest of Shibenik, the island of Zhirje is a continuation of the Kornati archipelago. It is the most remote inhabited island of the Shibenik archipelago and is the best choice for a rural island vacation, especially if you want to enter the rhythms of a traditional lifestyle almost untouched by tourism. The topography is similar to other Kornati with lots of rocks and sparse vegetation. It wasn't always like that. The name comes from the "acorns" that sprouted from the once abundant oaks. It is now a maquis that covers limestone ridges as vineyards, olive groves, fig and plum plantations spread across the plains. The indented coastline is dotted with coves, islets and coral reefs that provide ample fish and lobster farms. The island has an interesting history. There are remains of a late Hellenic fortress built in the 6th century, as well as traces of other ancient defensive structures around the island. The island first belonged to Zadar, and then in 1323 it became part of Shibenik. When the Venetians from the 15th and 16th centuries controlled the Dalmatian coast, noble families from Shibenik built summer houses on the island.There are no hotels on the island and a limited amount of private accommodation.Zhirje is connected to Shibenik, Zlarin and Kaprije by Jadrolinija ferry.

№232 in Islands of Croatia

The Zirje Island Maps


Reviews

4.4/5
Very Good
Based on 13 reviews
Excellent
5
Very Good
8
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Patricia

Patricia

13/11/2021

The topography of the Island is full of rocks and sparse vegetation and gave me a good desert like background for my pictures. I felt the rhythms of a traditional lifestyle on my arrival here, the locals were cordial and charming. An awesome Island with a rich history background.
Guus

Guus

09/10/2021

I went for a walk in the plum and olive groves plantation, the groves provided a good shade for our afternoon rest. We engaged in fishing activities in the indented coastline. We even bought some lobsters to take back home.
Beata

Beata

06/01/2022

I enjoyed visiting the fish and lobster farms. They were so large that I could not complete walking around. The fish were large and the lobsters looked scary. I was treated to delicious meals of fish and lobsters. I enjoyed this delicacy.
To

To

25/11/2021

I was lucky to come here during low peak holiday season, the island has limited accommodation spaces, i hiked the hills there and saw the remains of what was a fortress then went back down and saw the lobster farms, it was an eye opener vacation this one
Wilkins

Wilkins

19/12/2021

We wanted a rural island vacation and this was the perfect choice for us. We got the chance to experience the traditional lifestyle of the locals here. I loved the topography of this place which is made of lots of rocks and sparse vegetation.
Shelby

Shelby

18/12/2021

We explored the plains and vineyards, olive groves l, fig and plum plantations were some of the sights our eyes beheld.We bought some lobsters from the lobster farms and also fish that is caught from the indented coastline.There was a lot of history to learn about this place, the remains of a late Hellenic fortress tell it all .
Sven

Sven

03/11/2021

I would recommend this Island for a splendid and adventurous experience. It is a quiet and peaceful remote island. Its sandy beaches are not congested. The remains of the Hellenic fortress that date back to the 6th century were mesmerizing.
Showing 1 - 7 of 13 total
You must log in to write review