Rab: Nature, Trails and Culture

On Rab, the landscape ranges from rocky stretches of coastline to holm oak forests. The coast facing Velebit is rocky, while the western side is covered in holm oak greenery. Inland, there are centuries-old olive groves and vineyards; more than 30 percent of the island is covered by diverse vegetation.

Holm Oak Forest and Trails Through the Landscape

Dundo is a preserved holm oak forest and was designated a botanical park in 1949. Kalifront also has striking landscapes, with karst terrain, an indented coastline and hidden coves among pine forests. In Komrčar Park, trails wind around wooded hills and descend towards the beaches of Rab.

Two named routes offer different views of the island. The 15-kilometre Premužić Trail 2 runs from Kampor through Dundo and Kalifront to Frkanj and Sv. Eufemija Bay. The 14-kilometre Rab–Maman Trail starts at Rab’s town walls and runs via Kampor and Dumići to Maman. Their stated lengths, 14 and 15 kilometres, are close; the routes differ mainly in their course and destinations.

Archaeology and Island History

Rab Archaeological (T)races connects around 30 archaeological sites via three educational trails. There are 34 information points along approximately 40 kilometres of trails. The accompanying app works offline and is designed for walkers, cyclists and hikers. Rab has more than 340 kilometres of cycling routes. The network also includes around 200 kilometres of promenades and walking, cycling and hiking trails.

In Supetarska Draga stands the 11th-century Basilica of St Peter, considered Croatia’s oldest Romanesque church. Rab also connects its history with the sea: JUXTA MARE is a virtual museum about shipbuilding and Rab’s maritime and fishing history. The Rabska fjera takes place annually from 25 to 27 July and features traditional crafts and knightly games.

Coast, Beaches and Water Activities

Mel Beach in Kampor is accessible by sea or by car; there is a car park, restaurants and bars. A dedicated entrance is provided for people with special needs, and the southern section of the beach is reserved for pets. In Suha Punta, shaded cycling trails lead to hidden beaches. Facilities there include sun loungers, restaurants, sports courts and toilets; a car park is located right next to the hotel.

You can reach Kandarola Beach by taxi boat from Rab or Palit, or by car. In Lopar, Rajska plaža stretches for almost two kilometres and has been awarded the Blue Flag. Several colonies of bottlenose dolphins live in the sea around Lopar.

Sea kayaking on Rab offers a way to explore hidden coves and beaches; glass-bottom kayaks are also available to rent. Other offerings include diving with an instructor, week-long diving courses and equipment rental. ACI Marina Rab and ACI Marina Supetarska Draga are also useful points of reference on the water: both are part of the ACI marina portfolio in Kvarner Bay.

Flavours of Kampor and Banjol

Kampor’s dining options include fresh fish, homemade olive oil and wine. Rab has a long fishing tradition. In Banjol, fresh fish, Kvarner prawns, octopus and shellfish are prepared with Mediterranean herbs and homemade olive oil. Local and homemade wines can also accompany dishes in Banjol.

If you’re looking for a hotel on Rab, you can choose based on the offerings and places that matter most for your stay: trails through forest and karst, cultural heritage, beaches or water activities.

Discover more destinations: Supetarska Draga, Kampor, Lopar, Banjol, Mundanije, Palit, Barbat Na Rabu, Rab, Suha Punta

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