Nerezine can be explored through two very different themes: the history of its church, monastery and harbour, and the landscape of Osoršćica. There is also a permanent exhibition, a sailing regatta with a long history, and a recurring cultural programme. When planning your trip, it is worth distinguishing permanent cultural sites from time-specific events and planning activities in the mountains around the weather, route conditions and the status of ongoing works.

Churches, Monastery and Maritime History

The Church of Saint Mary Magdalene was built at its present location in 1534. It houses a permanent exhibition featuring eleven models of traditional island life. The themes range from olive oil production and boat maintenance to the processing of sheep’s wool, fig products and sheep’s cheese, as well as a wine cellar. These bring a range of aspects of work and daily life together.

The Franciscan complex can also be dated: the Church and Monastery of Saint Francis were built between 1505 and 1513. The complex’s Renaissance bell tower was added later, between 1590 and 1604. Kula Kolana Draže is protected as cultural heritage.

The development of the historic harbour reflects the area’s maritime past. Fishing, maritime transport and trade contributed to its expansion; at the beginning of the 20th century, the town’s merchant fleet numbered 37 ships. The traditional sailing boat regatta is also part of its sailing history: it was held from 1920 to 1942 and from 1954 to 1966, and has been held again since 2011. Dates and programmes may vary, so check the latest information if you want to plan your stay around the regatta.

Gallery and Cultural Programme

Galerija Uljara Tuorić is located in a former 16th-century olive mill. The recurring cultural programme Ljeto u Uljari includes art exhibitions, workshops for children and adults, and music events. Specific dates and programme items may vary; check what is taking place during your stay before you travel.

Osoršćica: Views, Caves and Climbing Routes

When visibility is good, the view from the summit of Osoršćica extends across the Lošinj archipelago, Istria, Velebit, Gorski kotar and Triglav, as well as to the islands of Rab, Pag and Silba. Visibility depends on the weather. The caves’ locations also help with orientation on Televrina: the Cave of Saint Gaudentius is below the summit on the eastern side. The large Vela Jama is on the western side; human traces up to 10,000 years old have been found there.

The climbing area on Osoršćica stretches across Osor and Nerezine. The routes are divided into three sectors: A, B and C. There are 30 routes in total, with difficulty grades ranging from 4 to 8; the longest is 30 metres. As route availability can change with maintenance, check current route conditions before climbing.

Hiking and Cycling Trails in Development

The Green-Trails project, running in 2026, aims to improve 20 kilometres of hiking trails and 10 kilometres of cycling trails in the Nerezine area. The project includes connections with the Osoršćica mountain traverse, as well as between Nerezine and Osor. As works may affect access, check the latest status before setting out on a hike or bike ride. This makes it possible to consider cultural events, excursions and trail conditions separately when planning your trip.

For the broader travel overview: Mali Lošinj.