Island Vir - Zadar Archipelago

Island Vir is one of the 300 islands and islets of the Zadar archipelago, or one of the 1,189 islands and rocks in the Croatian Adriatic. It is located in the Vir Sea, in the northwestern part of Dalmatia. To the north, west, and south, it is surrounded by the islands of: Pag, Maun, Planik, Olib, Ist, Molat, Sestrunj, Rivnja, and Ugljan. Important maritime routes pass by Vir, connecting it to Rijeka, Italy, Zadar, and southern Croatia. The rugged coastline of Vir is adorned with mostly sandy and pebbly beaches, some of which are set along pine forests with crystal-clear waters, making the island ideal for a family holiday.

Vir is 24 km from Zadar, and by sea (to the pier), it is about 15 nautical miles. It is connected to the mainland via the Privlaka causeway and a bridge built in 1976, which made Vir an integral part of the mainland.

Numerous coves and inlets with docks and anchorages allow sailors to stop on their journey through the chain of 300 islands and islets, among which is the Kornati National Park.

In addition to swimming, surfing, sailing, jet skiing, and other water sports, hiking enthusiasts can enjoy a stunning panorama from the top of Bandira (112 m), which offers views of the entire island of Vir, nearby islands, and Velebit (1,750 m). Those familiar with mountain biking would strongly recommend this area for that sport. On some beaches on Vir, particularly in the Sapavac cove near the Venetian fortress Kaštelina, there is peloid mud used for treating rheumatic diseases, which we recommend for older individuals.

Due to its ideal location on the Croatian Adriatic, Vir is an excellent base for day trips, such as to national parks: Paklenica with its impressive canyons, Kornati with 200 islands and islets, Krka Waterfalls, and Plitvice Lakes. Nearby, you'll also find the old Croatian royal town of Nin, home to the smallest cathedral in the world—St. Cross, and the 3,000-year-old town of Zadar, whose historic core is full of monuments and the world’s first sea organ. Since April 15, 2005, you can enjoy a concert created by the winds, waves, tides, and the sea while sitting on the steps of the organ—where nature itself is the composer and performer.

Vir is not a destination for large hotels. The tourism offer on Vir is exclusively private accommodation in family-run guesthouses, room rentals, apartments, or entire holiday homes.

Vir, the people of Vir, and the Dernaj family warmly welcome you and invite you to discover and enjoy the charms of our island.