Molat combines a long history of settlement with landscapes of maquis and pine forest, coastal bays, and routes for cycling and hiking. When planning your trip, it helps to consider these as distinct areas of interest: cultural history, exploring trails, and spending time by the water appeal to different interests. This lets you shape your stay around the discoveries that matter to you, without reducing Molat to a single aspect.

History of Molat

Molat has been inhabited since the Paleolithic. In the Middle Ages, one of Dalmatia’s oldest fishing villages developed here. Another, much more recent historical trace is the Italian concentration camp that was located on Molat from 1942; members of the Partisan forces were imprisoned there. The camp’s former command building is registered as a cultural asset of the Republic of Croatia. The historical reference points therefore range from early settlement and medieval fishing history to a specific site connected with the history of the 20th century.

Bays and landscape

Maquis and pine forests define Molat’s landscape. Its many bays are popular destinations for boaters and sailors. Brgulje Bay in particular attracts many sailors and is busy during the summer months. Its sea is known for its crystal-clear water. The beaches near Brgulje are among Molat’s best beach areas; access and facilities may change, so check access information before visiting.

Brguljak, an uninhabited, forested island, lies in Brgulje Bay. The bays of Jaz and Lučina are near the village of Molat. Vodomarka Cave is also considered worth visiting; it is named after the Vodomarka Trail. These different natural and coastal features give you several points of reference when choosing your excursions, without assigning the cave to a specific stretch of coastline.

Choosing cycling and hiking trails

The Bargamul Trail is a cycling route in the central part of Molat, starting in the small village of Brgulje. Its attractions include the Church of St. Andrew the Apostle, which the route passes. The Vodomarka cycling trail is 12.3 kilometers long and leads through scenic landscapes to the bays of Pržina, Vrulje, and Vodomarka. The two cycling routes therefore differ in the reference points described: the Bargamul Trail has a named starting point and church, while the Vodomarka Trail is described by its length and the three bays it leads to.

For hiking trails, the difference in difficulty is a clear deciding factor. The Vranač Trail is considered easy and is suitable for runners and hikers of all ability levels. It passes the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Vapojni Trail, by contrast, is difficult; along the way, it passes through pine forests and olive groves. Historical points along this route include a bunker on Mount Straža and the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on the Vranač Trail. Check local trail conditions, as they may change. On Molat, it is also possible to walk along forest paths.

Planning your journey

Two Jadrolinija connections with journey times are listed for getting to the island. Ferry 433 takes three hours on the route from Gaženica via Rivanj, Sestrunj, and Zverinac to Molat. Catamaran 9403 takes one hour and 50 minutes on the route from Zadar via Molat, Brgulje, and Zapuntel. Check the current timetable before your trip. The different departure points and journey times are useful for comparing options when planning your journey to Molat.

For the broader travel overview: Molat.