A picturesque stroll from Punat to cape Negrit

The hiking trail ‘St Nicolas Tale’ leads through the picturesque landscapes of the southwestern part of the island, from Punat to the Church of St Nicholas, offering exceptional views of the sea and untouched nature. Explore the picturesque coastline, which alternates between secluded pebble beaches and cliffs plunging into the deep, clear blue sea. Along the way, you will come across some sheep grazing in the meadows where the grass is rich in sea salt.

From the centre of Punat take the southern promenade, passing the campsite and the town’s outskirts toward a quieter natural setting. The scent of aromatic plants and the view of the clear sea and the nearby islands of Kormat, Plavnik, the town of Krk and the island of Cres will accompany you all the way.

Beyond Mala Krasa and Konoba Cove, the view reaches the hills of Veli and Mali Kaslir, where the remains of Illyrian settlements can be seen. They are surrounded by kilometres of drystone walls, olive trees and holm oaks. The 45th parallel north cuts this area, reminding you that you are exactly halfway between the equator and the North Pole.

Continue towards Cape Negrit, where steep cliffs and rugged coastline make for a more challenging walk. Stop to take in the scent of the sea and medicinal sage and enjoy the silence. The Tranjevo lighthouse on the cape will take you back to 1874, when a lighthouse keeper lived there, turning the lights on and off every day. This building, made of white stone, is now just a silent witness to times gone by.

The final section of the trail leads to the Church of St Nicholas, located in a secluded spot with views of the sea and nearby islands. This medieval church, dedicated to the patron saint of sailors, is an ideal place to stop and meditate before returning along the same route.