Vrsar - 4 places worth visiting

The Croatian coast of Istria has been attracting visitors from all over Europe for many years, offering not only excellent climatic conditions, extensive tourist facilities, but also interesting places to visit. One of them is undoubtedly the seaside Vrsar. While in this picturesque town, it's good to know what to see there.

Vrsar is a famous Croatian port in western Istria through which Istrian stone, appreciated all over Europe, was transported in the past. At that time, the place was still called Orsera. Vrsar has preserved its Mediterranean climate to this day and the very narrow stone streets characteristic of the towns situated on the Mediterranean Sea, which lead to numerous small squares . Vrsar is the perfect place for relaxation and sightseeing. The mild climate and perfect weather in the summer season allow you to enjoy relaxation in ideal conditions, while the local attractions provide entertainment when we get bored with the beach and swimming pools. What is worth seeing in this town?

1. Skulpturenpark Vrsar

One of the most famous attractions of Vrsar is the Sculpture Park (Skulpturenpark) . This is an area of over 10 hectares, where the amazing sculptures of Dušan Džamonj , a world-famous sculptor who graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in Zagreb in 1951, are on display. This artist has gained a very high reputation both in Europe and in the United States. He died in 2009.

A visit to the Sculpture Park is an opportunity to walk in the picturesque surroundings and admire the extraordinary works of the Croatian sculptor. Original sculptures in a modern form, often enriched with nails and chains, are an expression of simplicity, and at the same time are a symbol of the secrets of our world. The large space where the sculptures are gathered allows for a long walk (preferably the whole day), and also allows you to rest or even have a picnic.

2. Camping Porto Sole

Vrsar is not only interesting monuments and unusual places, but also a comfortable tourist base. Camping Porto Sole is one of those places that is not only worth visiting, but also worth staying there for longer. The resort is located near a picturesque bay , hidden in a grove covered with pine and cypress trees that provide shade even on the hottest days.

Camping Porto Sole provides comfort both for lovers of sleeping in motorhomes, which can be parked on one of the numerous plots with electricity and water connections, as well as for people who prefer to sleep in comfortable holiday homes or apartments . In addition, in the resort you can enjoy a very tasty meal in an exquisite restaurant serving seafood and traditional Istrian dishes. There is also a snack bar, pizzeria and grocery store with daily delivery of fresh bread.

There are two large swimming pools and a beautiful pebble beach on the campsite. However, it is also a perfect place for enthusiasts of active recreation. The resort has a professional diving center, and you can practice both traditional sailing and paragliding. People who do not prefer water sports can use the tennis court or play football or basketball. Children have not been forgotten as well, with a well-equipped playground and paddling pool at their disposal, and additionally games for the youngest are organized by animators.

3. Church of St. Martin

The monumental church of St. Martin , which we can reach from the old town, walking along Starogradski Prilaz street or taking the route along Gradska street. A tall belfry was erected right next to the church. The construction of the temple began in the 19th century (the foundations were made in 1804), but it was not completed until 1927. This three-nave church is really impressive. The light walls perfectly contrast with the colorful decorations of the arches above the columns. The chancel is separated by two arches (small and large), behind which a monumental figure of Christ rises. St. Martin is not only a place of religious worship, but also an exhibition of old church bells . In summer, concerts are also held in the temple.

4. The Limski Channel

Right behind Vrsar we find another attraction that is worth paying attention to while staying in that area. We are talking about the Limski Canal, which is deceptively similar to a Scandinavian fjord . The canal was created as a result of flooding the old river bed along which Pazinčica flowed years ago and stretches for 10 km , ending in the vicinity of Rovinj. The Limski Channel is a very picturesque place with beautiful views . They can be admired from the ship as local shipowners organize regular canal cruises or from the viewing platform .

The Limski Channel is also an important center of mussel breeding in Croatia. The name of the canal comes from the Latin word "limes", because this is where the border between the province of Dalmatia and the province of Italia ran in this place during the times of the Roman Empire.