This 14-mile-long, 36-square-mile island off the northern coast of Croatia in the Adriatic is one of the Mediterranean’s best kept secrets, with show stopping beaches with golden sand and emerald-coloured waters.
The island of Rab is home to some of the most diverse landscapes in the Kvarner region, with the northeastern side of the island mostly barren, while the southwestern side is covered by one of the last oak forests of the Mediterranean. In fact, it was declared a geopark in 2008.
The main settlement on the island is the eponymous town of Rab, but the neighbouring Palit actually has the biggest population. The terracotta roofs of its settlements beautifully contrast the sea-green Adriatic, making a feast for the eyes.
Named one of the best tourist destinations in the Adriatic, the town of Rab sits on a narrow peninsular protruding towards the mainland, bounded by ancient city walls. It is most recognisable for its four church towers. St Mary’s Campanile, dating from the 12th-century, is the island’s tallest bell tower, and named one of the most beautiful on the entire Croatian coast.
Its 26-metre edifice is topped by an octagonal pyramid, surrounded by a Romanesque balustrade and features a cross with five small globes and reliquaries – or shrines – of several saints.
The Holy Cross Church, built in the 13th-century, takes its name from the crucifix, with an image of Christ which, in 1556, is said to have wept due to the immoral conduct of the island’s people. Unfortunately, the cross was lost in the early 20th-century, but the church remains a venue for summer concerts during the Rab Musical Evenings.
In World War Two, Fascist Italy established the Rab concentration camp on the island. According to historians, the annual mortality rate was higher than the average rate in the Nazi camp of Buchenwald. A memorial complex was built in 1953 which commemorates the site.
Rab is famed for its show stopping beaches, with over 30 on offer. For example, Paradise Beach is ideal for families and is named as one of Croatia’s best, backed by mini golf and ice cream parlours as well as a small offshore island which makes a great swimming or kayaking destination. For those craving a quieter atmosphere, visit the pebbly Carolina Beach which features showers and changing cabins, with sun loungers available for rent.
In 1936, King Edward VIII famously went skinny dipping with Wallis Simpson off their yacht at Kandarola beach, which sparked a trend of naturism in Croatia. Kandraola is now one of the oldest naturist beaches in the world, consisting of several smaller pebble and rocky sections and coves.
Freshly grilled fish, lamb prepared under the peka baking lid, and the famous Rab Cake are some of the must-try delicacies for guests who want to experience an authentic gourmet experience from the island of Rab.
To reach this hidden paradise, fly to Rijeka Airport and from there catch a ferry either from Stinica on the mainland or Valbiska on Krk in around 15 minutes.
Visitors to Rab do not hold back on their ravings on Tripadvisor, with one describing Komrcar Park as a “20+ acre piece of paradise”. Another said: “this place is breathtaking, the old town is so pretty and the place is so spotless, not a spot of dirt anywhere, lovely long walks and the people are very helpful…”
Another described the harbour and old town as a “delightful town”, wishing they could have stayed longer than their two-hour flying visit while on a cruise.
