Unije: Island Paths, Coves and Local History

Unije appeals to travelers who want to consider paths, coastline and car-free island life when choosing a destination. The village, around 30 kilometers of paths and several coastal destinations offer different points of reference for planning. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip to Unije, you can start by considering whether hiking, cycling, beach time or a cultural focus is most important to you.

Getting There and Getting Around

Unije is served by boats from Mali Lošinj and catamarans from Rijeka, Pula and Zadar. A small airport connects the island with Lošinj. There are no cars on the island; you can explore it on foot or by bicycle. Accordingly, getting around locally centers on paths and destinations rather than car journeys. Connections may change seasonally or for operational reasons. Therefore, check timetables and current connections before your trip.

Hiking Trails and Places to Visit on the Island

Unije has approximately 30 kilometers of paths across macadam, dirt and rocky terrain, suitable for hiking and mountain biking. From the village, paths lead to Unijsko polje, Maračuol Cove, the viewpoint at Cape Hartina, the lighthouse at Cape Vnetak, Cape Arbit, Goligna Cove and Vele Stijene. The destinations include coves and capes, as well as a viewpoint and a lighthouse. Check local access conditions before taking longer walks.

Coastline and Natural Attractions

It is just a few minutes’ walk from the village to the village beach. Swimming, diving, fishing, snorkeling and sailing are possible in the coves. There are two pebble beaches at Goligna, with views toward Osoršćica, Ustrine, Žeća and Martinšćica. Vele Stijene are high cliffs on the western side of Unije; the walk there from the village takes about an hour. Conditions at sea and at access points may vary locally. Maračuol was once the site of a fish factory and is now an anchorage for boaters and sailors.

The Church, Squid and Island Tradition

The village Church of St. Andrew is considered a landmark of the island and is also its patron saint’s church. Its original building dates back to the 15th century. Local taverns prepare squid in various ways. In November, the Unijska lignjada, a squid fishing competition, takes place on Unije. If the competition is important for your plans, check the dates for the year you are traveling.

Culture in the Wider Destination of Mali Lošinj

In Mali Lošinj, the Apoksiomen Museum is dedicated to a single artifact. It opened in May 2016 in the Kvarner Palace in the center of Mali Lošinj. Fritzi Palace displays two of Mali Lošinj’s most significant art collections: the Piperata collection of old masters and the collection of Croatian masters by Andro Vid Mihičić. The latter comprises around 360 works of art.

Discover more destinations: Ilovik, Vele Srakane, Mali Losinj, Veli Losinj, Ćunski, Belej, Nerezine, Ustrine.

Back to the main travel overview: Mali Lošinj.