Walking Itineraries

An 18km circular route or a 10km one-way, beginning and ending in ancient Beli, taking-in beautiful mature woodlands, pastures, Roman remains & the old forest village of Niska, then following a ridge route across 7 peaks with arguably the most stunning views of Cres-Losinj Islands, Istria, Mainland Croatia and the surrounding islands, and a wealth of wildlife. Altitude ranges from 150 metres above sea level to 648m.Boots sun cream, water and or hat recommended in summer and water/wind-proofs in other seasons. Refreshments available at 'Pansion Tramontana' at beginning or end of walk.

A moderate hike for walkers of all abilities-route vague in places and some walls and small obstacles to negotiate

Please click on the map to enlarge & print

Points of Interest

Magnificent views of the whole Kvarner gulf and a good chance of seeing the 'Eurasion Griffon Vulture' Gyps Fulvus on the wing.

Lizards(2 species), Snakes(9 non-venomous species), Bats, Amphibians, Beetles, Insects and interesting Invertebrates, Wild Boar, Moufflon, Sheep, Goats, Deer, Martens (Kuna), Hoopoe's, Woodland Birds and many Birds of Prey, Sea Birds, 'Griffon Vultures',Enchanting Mature forests, Old settlements, Wild Herbs and an abundance of interesting and rare Flora and Fungi

Starting outside the 'Pansion Tramontana' guesthouse at 150 metres above sea level, the route ascends steeply and in a westerly direction along the right hand side of a wooded canyon-following the way-marks of the Blue 'Eco-trail'. Follow this clearly marked and well trodden path, still climbing, which after 2kms joins one of the forest access gravel roads. Continue in a generally westerly direction for 1km until this road converges with another gravel road (30 mins from start). Bear right-still looking out for the blue markings, for 25 metres and then veer left off the road onto another trail signposted 'Niska'. This route is again well marked, sometimes on stone walls, sometimes on trees. Note the change in the trees here as the Oak and Hornbeam give way to mature stands of Sweet Chestnut. The route has levelled off somewhat now. After 10 minutes the path leads you through an ancient pasture before returning to the trees briefly before reaching the picturesque old abandoned settlement of 'Niska'. The last inhabitants left here decades ago-leaving the buildings to the local sheep and other wildlife. Some are still in remarkably good condition-testimony to the traditional building methods and strong local materials.

After a well earned rest and some contemplation you should take a left turn as you meet a stone road on leaving Niska. You follow the red coloured markers for around 200 metres. On reaching some electricity pylons, you now bear left and follow the route created by these up to the top of the ridge (around 500 metres), pausing occasionally to take in the wonderful views as the whole of Tramontana begins to open up behind you as you clear the tree-line. Continue ascending until you reach 'Veli Vrh'(567m). Take some time here if you have a map to orientate yourself with the Istrian Peninsular, 'Rijeka' and to the West- 'Krk'. From here you can also view the various settlements scattered across the north of Cres Island. You will now follow the backbone of this ridge as it strikes South-eventually reaching today's, and the islands highest point above sea level. This part of the route is between 6 & 7 km long and will take you over several trig-points including the 3 over 600m which form 'Orline Gorice', and you will pass just below that of Gorice-heavily wooded and no good views(648m) and'Mukova'(625m), and finally that of 'Sis'(639m).

This section takes around 2-3 hrs and follows no particular path. I advise you to stick to the top of the ridge wherever the hardy vegetation and rocky terrain allow. You will be rewarded for your efforts with some of the most breathtaking views in the Adriatic, and if you are lucky-you will see 'Griffon-Vultures' soaring on thermals near the top of the ridge.

On the approach to 'Gorice(648m)' a densely wooded peak, keep to the left of the ridge following a large stone wall on your right. Follow this for around 2km keeping it close on your right side. The route drops temporarily with the terrain, before rising towards the final 2 peaks. From whichever side of the ridge you approach these there are several stone walls around pastures to negotiate-(please take care to replace any disturbed rocks). The peak of 'Gorice' is largely covered in trees and affords poor views, 'Sis' however is the established viewpoint, as you will see by the many small Cairns, and it is here you can pause and take in the 360 degree panorama before taking the well established 30min descent to the road junction at 'Krizic' below. From here follow the road either on foot or by car to Beli(8km).