Punat

The 1,800 people populated town of Punat is located on the island of Krk and is only accessible from the Usta Bay through a narrow channel in the Kvarner Bay. The popular resort is situated on the southwest coast of the isle, only a few kilometers east from the main town of Krk. First mentioned in 1377, Punat, due to its location in the narrow bay, has been a popular spot for boating. Today there are many boat owners who cavort and make stops in the port of the village during their nautical tours through the Kvarner Bay. Overall, the small marina has over 1,000 moorings in water and on land. Many boaters also use the bay's location as a springboard for boat tours to nearby islands in the Kvarner Bay - especially to Cres, which stretches itself out in front of the large Bay of Krk. Not only Punat's harbor, but also the beautiful coastlines are reasons enough for many tourists to travel to the region annually. There are not only beautiful beaches to explore in Punat, but also in the neighboring towns of Krk and Stara Baska. This region is ideal for animal loving vacationers because there are some well-developed, official dog beaches.

In Punat, although, you can not only marvel at scenic beauty but also explore secular and sacred places, such as, for example the old oil mill. This mill was built in the 18th century and is one of the oldest buildings in Punat. Simultaneously, the old oil mill tells of the long-standing traditions of the inhabitants who worked mainly in the olive orchards. Among the most important, sacral monuments include the parish church of the Holy Trinity from 1777, around which the romantic, yet lively old town has formed. The carved wooden altar and the late Gothic wooden sculptures are worth seeing in the church. Also notable is a visit to the Church of the Holy Dunat, which is regarded as a valuable monument of early Croatian architecture. Dating back to the 9th century, this little church was heavily damaged in World War II. Even up until today they have not been able to completely restore it. Sacral sights in Punat can also be connected with a relaxing boat ride. On the small Kosljun Island located in the Bay of Punat, is the 11^th century monastery built by the Benedictine monks, which was transferred to the Franciscans in the 15th century. Partially rebuilt as a museum, the monastery today now gives interesting insights into Punat's past. Among other things, the monastery has an interesting zoological collection and a library with over 30,000 book titles. 

There is no gastronomy to be found on the isles, however. Those who want to enjoy a bit of culinary variety have plenty of choices in the old town and along the waterfront. The restaurants and cafés serving local food invite you to stay and linger in the sunny evening hours. Tasty local foods and products naturally include their olives, wines and fish dishes.