Plizio Visual Lab

Telašćica Nature Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

park

Weather…

Telašćica Nature Park is located on the southeastern part of Dugi Otok island and encompasses one of the largest and best-protected bays in the Adriatic. The park is characterized by three main natural phenomena: the deep Telašćica Bay, the dramatic cliffs known as 'Stene' that rise up to 160 meters above sea level, and the saltwater lake Mir. The bay serves as a safe haven for sailors, featuring 25 smaller coves and five islets within its perimeter. Lake Mir is famous for its high salinity and therapeutic mud, with water temperatures in summer being significantly higher than those of the surrounding sea. The vegetation is typically Mediterranean, with over 500 plant species, while the marine world hosts a rich biodiversity, including rare coral species. The park also includes a sanctuary for donkeys, which roam freely and serve as a symbol of island tradition. Archaeological remains indicate human habitation since ancient times, adding cultural depth to this striking natural area.

Location: Croatia
Top sights: Park prirode Telašćica · Veli vrh · Cliffs of Dugi otok
Nearby: Sali (Dugi otok) (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	9	9	11	14	18	23	26	26	22	18	14	10
Rain mm	90	100	78	66	65	48	40	47	102	93	129	108

📋 Practical info

🧭

Getting there

Most visitors arrive by organized boat tours from mainland ports, entering directly into the park's expansive bay. Those already on Dugi Otok island can access the southern tip by car or bicycle via local roads.

📅

Best season

The warmer months from May to September are the best time to appreciate the massive cliffs and swim in the safe bay waters. Early autumn provides a quieter experience with equally impressive coastal light.

⛰️

Terrain & paths

The park features a mix of calm, protected marine bays, comfortable walking trails, and stark, massive cliffs dropping into the sea. Pathways around the main attractions are mostly flat and accessible.

🎒

What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, and a camera are the primary items needed for a standard visit. Since the sun reflects strongly off the water and white rocks, high-quality sunglasses and sunscreen are vital.

🅿️

Parking

For visitors driving on Dugi Otok, parking is available near the entrance areas or at designated hubs. During peak summer, these lots can become crowded with excursionists, so early arrival is recommended.

⚠️

Safety

While the coastal paths are generally safe, visitors must stay well back from the unprotected edges of the towering cliffs. Ensure you are a confident swimmer if venturing out of the safest enclosed bays.

⏱️

Time needed

A typical excursion to see the massive cliffs, stroll around the bays, and swim takes about half a day. Organized boat tours usually structure this as a substantial part of a broader island-hopping itinerary.

Geography

Coordinates

43.89400, 15.16300

Facts

Telašćica Bay is approximately 8.2 km long and up to 2 km wide.
The 'Stene' cliffs reach a maximum height of 161 meters above sea level.
Lake Mir is a saltwater lake connected to the sea via underground fissures.
Home to a sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of the Dalmatian donkey.
Over 500 plant species have been documented within the park boundaries.
Important nesting site for the peregrine falcon and Eleonora's falcon.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Telašćica<1 km · NExplore →

Sali (Dugi otok)5 km · NExplore →

📍Zaglav6 km · NWExplore →

Bani Matar Coffee Farms8 km · NEExplore →

📍Žman10 km · NWExplore →

Jabal an Nabi Shu'ayb13 km · NEExplore →

📍Mali Iž14 km · NExplore →

Kornati Islands15 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Telašćica Nature Park (10)

Park prirode Telašćica

The protected area encompasses Telašćica Bay and the southern part of Dugi Otok island, known for cliffs and salt lakes.

🌐 pp-telascica.hr

Veli vrh

Veli vrh is a subpeak of Muravjak on the island of Dugi Otok in Croatia.

Cliffs of Dugi otok

The cliffs on the western side of Dugi Otok drop steeply into the sea, offering an impressive sight.

Luka Telaščica

Luka Telaščica is a natural harbor bay on the island of Dugi Otok, surrounded by hills.

Muravjak

Muravjak is a mountain on the island of Dugi Otok in Croatia.

Lojišcé Beach

Lojišće beach is located in Telašćica Bay and is known for its clear water.

Loišće Bay

Loišće Bay is a bay on the island of Dugi Otok in Croatia.

Fortress Grpašćak

Fortress Grpašćak sits on a hill overlooking Telašćica Bay.

Grpašćak🏰 castle

Grpašćak castle is a ruined fortification on the island of Dugi Otok.

Grbašćak

Grbašćak is a subpeak of Gračina on the island of Dugi Otok in Croatia.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What are the highlights in Telašćica Nature Park?

The giant cliffs (Stene), the Telašćica bay, and the saltwater lake Mir.

Can you swim in Lake Mir?

Yes, the lake water is warmer than the sea, and swimming is allowed.

How do you get to Telašćica?

Best by boat from Zadar or by car/bus across Dugi Otok island (via the town of Sali).

Are there donkeys there?

Yes, there is a donkey sanctuary in the park, and they are often very friendly toward visitors.

Is there an entry fee for the park?

Yes, there is a fee for boats and also for land access per person.

Telašćica Nature Park: where is it located?

Telašćica Nature Park is located in Croatia.

Telašćica Nature Park: what is there to see?

Highlights include Park prirode Telašćica, Veli vrh, Cliffs of Dugi otok.

Telašćica Nature Park: when is the best time to visit?