Have you ever heard about the friendly deer that bow to visitors at Nara Park in Japan? Well, guess what? Croatia has its own enchanting spot just like that, where you can have your own Disney moment! The Island of Badija - a place where fallow deer are the real hosts that give you the warmest welcome the moment you step foot on their turf.

A Place Straight Out of Fairy Tale – The Island of Badija

Nestled within the Korčula archipelago, Badija is a true gem of nature. Covering an area of 0.79 square kilometers, the island is blanketed with lush Mediterranean vegetation and aromatic pine forests, bordered by a string of stunning beaches along a circular path that stretches for 4 kilometers. Sounds idyllic, right?

Yet, what truly captures the heart are the fallow deer, known locally as "jeleni lopatari.'' These adorable creatures made their debut on the island in 1958, making the journey from another Croatian paradise called Brijuni. Now, these deer aren't just cute; they've got hospitality in their DNA. They'll give you the warmest welcome, even with their tails wagging like crazy. And you know what might be the secret to their heart? A little treat from your side pocket. Yep, a carrot or apple could turn you into their hero for the day!

Rich History

But Badija has more to offer than just its charming inhabitants. The turquoise waters, untouched nature, and rich history will leave you absolutely spellbound. The island got its name from a 15th-century monastery that stands gracefully on its land. This ties into a fascinating story from the 16th century when Turkish naval forces threatened Korčula. The locals prayed for protection and received help in the form of a mighty windstorm that destroyed the Turkish galleys, saving Korčula from invaders. To commemorate this event, every August 2nd, a boat procession carries an image of the Virgin Mary from Korčula to the church on Badija. Pilgrims from neighboring areas come together, arriving by boat to participate in this heartfelt tradition.

You can actually visit the monastery, although advanced notice is advisable. While exploring, make sure to visit the remains of the dwelling of the 14th-century hermit San Diego Ivanović, who lived by the motto of "pray and work." Also, don't miss the charming church of Saint Catherine, perched atop the highest point of Badija – it's a sight to behold.

Since the island is uninhabited, you won't find any hotels here; there's just a single restaurant available.

How to Reach Badija?

The most straightforward approach is by taking a taxi boat from Korčula or Lumbarda. During the tourist season, taxis run every half hour, and you can purchase a round-trip ticket before hopping aboard. The journey itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes, offering a brief but picturesque voyage to your newfound island haven.

So, if you're seeking a retreat into nature's embrace and a chance to meet the amiable fallow deer, Badija is the ideal escape. Make sure you've got a snack in tow – you're about to make furry friends who are all about that snack life!