Amidst the tranquil beauty of the Croatian island of Lošinj lies a majestic mountain that stands tall and proud, commanding attention and admiration from all who lay eyes upon it. Its name is Osoršćica, and it is praised as one of the most enchanting peaks on the Adriatic coast. 

The Enchanting Beauty of Osoršćica

A place where nature's majesty is on full display, and the serenity of the mountains beckon you to explore its depths, Osoršćica's most popular peak Sv. Mikula offers 360-degree views of the entire Lošinj archipelago, the Istrian coast, Velebit, Gorski Kotar, Triglav, Rab, Pag, and Silba. 

Although you would think this is this island mountain's highest peak, this is not true. St. Mikula is 557m, while the highest peak of Televrin is 588 meters above sea level. The difference is certainly between the views these two peaks offer and the one from Sv. Mikule is definitely more attractive. It is interesting to note that this beautiful mountain of the island of Lošinj was conquered by the Austro-Hungarian heir to the throne, Rudolf Habsburg, back in 1887.

The trail's starting point is located in the small town of Nerezine, which is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The trail is well-marked, making it easy for hikers to navigate to the peaks of Osoršćica. During your hike, you're likely to make some new furry friends in the form of sheep who may join you on your journey.

The hike itself is moderately challenging, with a total length of around 25 kilometers. Most hikers take around 3-4 hours to complete the trail, but the duration may vary depending on your pace and fitness level. Along the way, there are a few rest stops where hikers can catch their breath and take in the scenery. These rest stops also offer opportunities to take photos and soak up the island's natural beauty. We highly recommend stopping at the Church of St. Nicholas, also known as Mikul, which dates back to the 14th century. In addition to its rich history, the mountain of Osoršćica is also home to several captivating caves, including the renowned St. Gaudencija and Vela Jama. The Vela Jama is particularly fascinating, as it contains some of the oldest known evidence of human habitation, with artifacts dating back over 10,000 years. 

Keep in Mind

It's important to note that hikers should wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water for the journey. Additionally, hikers should be mindful of their surroundings and adhere to any safety guidelines posted along the trail.

Also, one of the many great features of the Cres-Lošinj archipelago is the absence of poisonous snakes on the islands. According to the legend, these islands were blessed by Saint Gaudentius, the bishop of Osor, who banished poisonous snakes forever. 

So if you want to experience the breathtaking beauty of the island of Lošinj,  put on your hiking shoes, and get ready to be delighted by the magic of the mountain of Osoršćica.

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