Municipality of Poličnik: Lake, Cultural Heritage and Olive Oil

At Lake Vlačine in Suhovare, nature conservation and waterside activities go hand in hand: the lake is protected under the Natura 2000 network and designated as a bird protection area; it is also notable for its abundance of fish and birds. Fishing on the lake is one of the forms of active tourism in the Municipality of Poličnik. As part of its revitalisation, a shelter was built there for the recreation centre, intended for all visitors to the lake. In this way, the Municipality of Poličnik offers points of interest ranging from nature and outdoor activities to historic sites and produce from Murvica.

Cultural Heritage in Poličnik and Dračevac Ninski

The archaeological remains of Gradina Fortress in Poličnik date back to the 16th century and are protected as cultural heritage. This places the site in its historical context while also recognising it as protected heritage. The Church of St Nicholas stands in the heart of Poličnik. Built in 1978 on the site of an older church, its architectural features include a spacious nave and two bells.

The Church of St Martin in Dračevac Ninski has a different building history, dating back to 1785. The Kovačević family house is also one of Poličnik’s historic landmarks. Together, these places offer different perspectives on the area’s cultural heritage: fortress remains, churches from different periods and a historic family house represent various aspects of local history. Those interested in historic buildings can use these sites as starting points for planning their trip.

The Lake, Landscape and Activities

Lake Vlačine combines its protected status with a strong connection to nature: its abundance of fish and birds is as much a part of its character as its location in the Suhovare area. The shelter is intended for all visitors to the lake. Before visiting, check whether access to the shelter is currently possible. Poličnik also offers views of fertile fields, dense forests and the Velebit mountain range.

These natural features each have a different focus: the lake is notable for its protected birdlife, abundance of fish and fishing, while the views from Poličnik are shaped by fields, forests and mountains. Depending on your interests, you can appreciate the landscape through the lake and its wildlife or through its wide-ranging views.

Horse Riding, Fruit and Local Produce

In Murvica, visitors can go horse riding at a local ranch. They can also visit an OPG (family farm) with an apple orchard and other fruit-growing areas. Producers in Murvica offer liqueurs, wine, cheese and cured meats for tasting. These experiences have different focuses: horse riding offers an outdoor activity, while the orchards and tastings showcase the region’s produce.

Olive oil also plays a role in Poličnik. The first Dani maslinovog ulja event was held in March 2025 at the Poličnik Centre for Development and Education. Samples from local olive oil producers were collected and chemically analysed. The quality results were then announced, and successful producers were recognised. A second event took place in Poličnik on 13 March; it included the evaluation of olive oil samples and a professional programme.

Running Event and Getting Around

The first Visočane Trail was held in 2026. It featured a 5-kilometre run for recreational runners and families, as well as a 17-kilometre run. The two distances offer a clear choice of route: five or seventeen kilometres. The Adriatic Coastal Road runs its entire length through the Municipality of Poličnik, providing a geographic reference point for getting around. When choosing a hotel, you can first consider whether cultural heritage, nature by the lake, activities or local produce is the main focus of your trip.

Discover more destinations: Dračevac Ninski, Poličnik, Murvica, Briševo, Municipality of Novigrad, Municipality of Pakoštane, Municipality of Bibinje, Municipality of Pirovac.

For the broader travel overview: Zadar County.