Hiking
Baška
Baška’s rocky challenge
From the most stunning coves of Mala luka and Vela luka to the Moon-like rocky plateau
Karakteristike
The barren rocky terrain resembling the Moon’s surface in the farthest south-eastern part of the island of Krk is certainly among the all-time favourite challenges of both seasoned and recreational hikers. With the views of attractive bays, kilometres of drystone walls and ponds scattered along the way, the experience gets even more intense. It is a demanding 21-kilometre-long trail, so plan a full-day trip and make sure to take enough water. Start in Baška, and walk along the seaside promenade in the direction of Bunculuka campsite. Following the trail that runs along the very edge of rocky coast, you will be amazed by many coves, beaches and cliffs. After eight kilometres of a flat, but rocky terrain, you will reach one of the most beautiful and picturesque coves on the island – Vela luka. This is just the right spot to take a break and sip a glass of refreshing drink, lulled by the sound of the waves. In the area of Vela luka, Mala luka and the fertile Bosnar plain the human activity can be traced back to the ancient times. Archaeologists have discovered a number of glass items in Mala luka, pointing to the fact that there was a glass workshop there in the late Antiquity, while the clear shallow waters reveal the traces of a former port and many pottery fragments. Then follows a more demanding uphill section, starting from the sea level to the Diviška peak at 471 m. The stunning views of the deep coves of Mala luka and Vela luka will surely make the strenuous hike easier. Upon reaching this fabulous place, also known as the Moon Plateau, you will be greeted by griffon vultures circling above the nearby Kuntrep Ornithological Reserve. Centuries-old paths that were once used by shepherds to get their flocks of sheep to high-altitude pastures are today packed with tourists, but there is still a chance of spotting a flock of sheep there. From the Diviška peak the view stretches as far as the eye can see, but perhaps the most beautiful one is of the Diviška pond right underneath. It is notable due to drystone walls that divide it in five sections, thus preventing the sheep of different owners to mix together when drinking water from the pond. On your way back take some time to check two ‘mrgari’, an old sheepfold and a new one, testifying to the centuries-old tradition of joint sheep grazing and sorting. Follow the Path to the Moon through the pine forest for a highly rewarding hiking experience.
