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Croatian island
Photo: Laurent de Walick from The Hague, The Netherlands, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Ugljan is an island in Northern Dalmatia, Croatia. It is the closest of the Zadar Archipelago islands to the mainland, lying just across the Zadar Channel from the city of Zadar, and is sometimes called the "Olive Island" for the centuries-old olive groves that cover its hills.
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Sveti Mihovil
Ruins of a Venetian-era hilltop fortress at about 265 m, offering the finest panorama on the island — a sweeping view over Zadar, the channel and the surrounding archipelago. The classic Ugljan viewpoint, and a popular spot for sunset.
A tiny wooded islet with a 15th-century Franciscan monastery, reached by a short boat ride from Preko. Peaceful, shaded and good for a quiet swim.
Remains of a Roman villa rustica and early Christian complex, including one of the region's oldest known olive-oil production sites.
Sheltered bay lined with the old summer residences of Zadar's nobility, with a pleasant waterfront.
The island has an extensive network of marked trails (well over 100 km) winding through olive groves, pine woods and coastal paths. A popular route is the climb up to St. Michael's Fortress. Bring sturdy shoes or a mountain bike, as some trails are rough and exposed.
Countless pebble and rocky coves line the coast. Popular options include Jelenica near Preko, the pebbly Batalaža and sandy Jaz on the southwest side, the parasol-lined Mostir, and the shallow, family-friendly bay of Velika Sabuša near Kukljica.
In summer, operators and campsites arrange day trips to the nearby Kornati and Telašćica nature areas; small boats can also be rented locally.
A traditional maritime procession and festival held in early August in Kukljica, one of the island's liveliest annual events.
Popular seafood konoba on the Kukljica marina, known for tuna steak, fish baked under a peka, and a strong Croatian wine list. Pleasant terrace overlooking the harbour.
Family-run seafood and Mediterranean tavern on the Kukljica seafront, running since 1989; fresh fish, octopus salad and black risotto.
Homely konoba with generous portions of fresh fish and meat, house wine and some vegetarian options.
Waterfront tavern and pizzeria in Preko with views toward the islet of Ošljak; seafood and pizza.
Casual pizza spot in the village of Ugljan.
Beach restaurant in Suha bay on the quieter southwest side of the island, run by Camping Ugljan Resort, with a view of the nearby islands. Pizza, burgers, fried calamari, salads, drinks and cocktails; cards accepted.
A modern 4-star eco camping resort set in a secluded, forested bay directly on the sea, surrounded by olive and pine trees. Offers grassy pitches of various sizes and mobile homes (studio to three-bedroom), a heated outdoor pool, a beach bar-restaurant, and a mini-market with fresh bread daily. Rents bikes, e-bikes, SUPs and boats, and arranges excursions to the Kornati islands and mainland parks. Dog-friendly, with its own dog beach and guest vegetable garden. Typically open April–October.
The most common option island-wide, especially in Preko, Kukljica, Kali and Lukoran. Book through the usual booking platforms or local agencies.
By car
From the south you can drive onto Ugljan across the bridge from Pašman. Pašman in turn connects to the mainland via the Tkon–Biograd ferry, making a road-and-ferry loop possible via Biograd na Moru.
A single main road runs the length of the island linking all the villages and continues over the bridge onto Pašman.
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