The island of Pag has unusual looks that make it immediately stand out: at first glance, this barren, rocky island floating in the luxuriantly blue waters of the Adriatic seems like something one should stumble across in space, instead. In fact, the lunar-like and distinct nature of the landscape of Pag has even lead to its increasingly becoming popular as a filming location. Even Ridley Scott, king of space epics, has filmed a project there back in 2017. However, the unique visual appeal of Pag is not all that it has to offer. In fact, it’s got plenty to see and do so why not find a villa in Zadar and make Pag your next day trip destination during a gorgeous coastal vacation in Croatia...
Incredible crafts
Pag is one of those destinations around the world that was originally made famous on a global scale by the talents of the island’s craftspeople. Lace is the speciality of Pag and the quality of the stunning creations from the island is truly impeccable, having even garnered a UNESCO designation as an intangible heritage. Though the exact origins are not known, there are records of the pursuit on Pag since the Renaissance when it was used to decorate the linen shirts and neckerchiefs that were part of the traditional costume of the region. Since at least the 15th century, the Benedictine nuns of the island began teaching fine-thread ornamental lace-making to local women, this beautiful local craft then became an important source of income to the economy of the area and has kept the most skilled hands of the region busy ever since. As of the 20th century, when the more traditional costumes of Pag faded into obscurity, the business evolved and the lace ornamentation was used for tablecloths, napkins, handkerchiefs, altar cloths, bedspreads, and other such objects more often than garments. Good enough for even empresses of old, these remarkable objects can still be purchased to this day in little shops around the island and make for truly exquisite souvenirs and gifts. However, if you’re more of the hands-on type and would like to give it a go yourself, you can also sign up for beginner classes with some of the island’s most experienced and gifted lace-makers – a highly unique activity that is a true must for crafty folk who find a vacation rental in Zadar and are considering spending some time on Pag! There is also a small Lace Gallery that can be visited with some extraordinary examples on display and those same Benedictine nuns at the Monastery of Santa Margherita also have some brilliant examples from the past 150 years on display that can be viewed by the public.
Cycling
If you have found a holiday rental in Zadar and are more interested in getting active and exploring that unique aforementioned landscape of Pag then renting a bike and cycling around the island might be more up your alley. There are endless kilometres of paved cycle paths throughout the island to explore and the most active and ambitious cyclists will be well able to actually ride the whole length of the island in a day. This route takes you from the Pag Bridge to the village of Lun and is about 60km in total. The best way to take in the most incredible views over this island, this makes for a stunning, fun, and engaging day out. If, however, you want a bit more adventure, meanwhile, you can head off-road to the unpaved mountain bike trails of the island. Zipping through the wild and rocky terrain of Pag, there are 120km of these cycle routes to explore, alternating with more gentle lush green fields and plenty of places where you can cool off in the sea to break up the day. Visiting Pag? Well, why not forgo cars or vehicles entirely, feel the wind on your skin, work up a sweat, and make some special memories!
Beaches
The beaches are one of the best reasons to find a villa in Zadar but many are often incredibly busy, particularly if you are visiting during the busy summer months. While this won’t bother some visitors, others would prefer a day at the seaside that is a little calmer and more relaxed. Cue the beaches of Pag. Utterly beautiful, plentiful in number, and relatively much less busy, the beaches of Pag are ideal if you are someone who likes to have a bit more space and peace and quiet. You’ll find lots of little beaches dotted all over and some especially scenic wide, shallow coves but some of the best beaches on the island include the one just outside the town of Pag itself, Zrće Beach in Novalja, and the cove at Simun. Furthermore, if you like to dive, there are some great diving centres based on Pag that will take you to the island of Premuda nearby, which is famous for its underwater "Cathedral". An affect of sunlight passing through the various caves and holes of the space underwater at Premuda, this very special diving spot makes people feel as though they are swimming through dappled stained-glass light. Sounds pretty magic to us!
Parties
This might seem like a surprise given everything we have discussed about Pag thus far but in addition to wholesome days of cycling and playing at the beach, as well as learning all about some impressive traditional local crafts, the island is also famous for offering those in search of a party a pretty good time. In particular, the lovely long pebble beach of Zrće Beach, near Novalja transforms from an idyllic Blue Flag beach for relaxing and trying out all sorts of water sports during the day into a major party destination come evening and all the time during festivals. There are several clubs and beach bars including Aquarius, Kalypso, Papaya, and Noa Beach club, that operate along the strand throughout the summer. Some of the biggest DJs in the world have come to play here and visitors can regularly attend EDM, house, hip hop, R&B, and trance gigs on the beach. In addition, there are a variety of other thrilling activities such as bungee jumping, jet-ski excursions, party boats, and inflatable catapults to be enjoyed as well. So, if you’re after a great party and other things to get the adrenaline pumping then be sure to find a vacation rental in Zadar and head to Pag and Zrće Beach, in particular.
Food & Wine
Like many regions, Pag has its own unique local food traditions and dishes. Those who find a holiday rental in Zadar and head to Pag for a visit should make a point of trying out local specialities such as the pungent Paski Sir cheese that is famous throughout all of Croatia, the local Zutica white wine from Pag, the flavourful lamb of Pag, and the highly specific salt panned in Pag that is almost creamy in flavour and is favoured by foodies. Between all of your other adventures on the island, be sure to pencil in some culinary ventures too!
So, if you have been considering a vacation in Croatia, why not browse our amazing villas in Zadar and then plan a day to the unique, unforgettable, and utterly magical island of Pag?