As the owner of Buqez Villas, I often recommend excursions that aren’t found in every guidebook. And Vrana is exactly that â inconspicuous but absolutely fascinating. If you’re looking for a short trip lasting about two hours, perfect even for kids, with great coffee at the end, this is my go-to option.
1. Park at MaĹĄkoviÄa Han â The Gateway to History
Start at MaĹĄkoviÄa Han, a unique Ottoman caravanserai â a stopping point for pilgrims, traders, and soldiers on long-distance routes. In its time, the han was a luxurious overnight complex with a courtyard, baths, and a mosque. Today, it’s carefully restored and operates as an elegant hotel with an excellent restaurant.
Park directly at the complex, walk past the main entrance (on your left), and after about 50 meters, turn right â there youâll find the ruins of a Templar fortress.
2. The Templar Fortress â Secrets of the Coronation Jewels
At first glance, it might just look like a few old walls, but trust me â in the 12th century, this was one of the most powerful spiritual and military sites in all of Dalmatia. The Vrana Monastery was home to Benedictines and later Templar knights, and even the coronation jewels of Croatian kings were kept here.
The fortress is freely accessible â perfect for a walk, an adventure for the kids, or some Instagram-worthy photos. It’s peaceful, with beautiful views, and an atmosphere that takes you back 800 years.
3. PeÄina Spring â The Spring, Prophecies, and Medieval Walls to Play Around
Continue on the easy trail you took to the ruins for about 15 minutes to reach PeÄina Spring Cave, also known as ProroÄiÄin izvor (The Prophetess’s Spring). The cave emits pure spring water, and according to local legend, this is where a prophetess used to sit, answering questions from pilgrims.
The spring was used by the Romans, who connected it to an impressive aqueduct supplying the city of Zadar.
Just before the entrance to the cave, youâll be surprised by a wooden imitation of medieval fortifications that the local community built on the grassy area. These are used for historical festivals, but in your free time, kids can play as Templars or just sit in the grass.
Inside the cave, you’ll find a commemorative stone from 1871, marking the visit of Archduke Karl Stefan Habsburg, then an eleven-year-old member of the imperial family, who symbolically “reopened” the site.
4. End in Style: MaĹĄkoviÄa Han â Restaurant and Relaxation under the Tree
After your exploration, treat yourself to a well-deserved rest at the MaĹĄkoviÄa Han restaurant. Itâs located in the former mosque, and the atmosphere is truly unique â arches, stone, shadows, and tranquility.
We had espresso, cappuccino, homemade ice cream, and sat under a large tree in the courtyard â pure bliss.
I also recommend lunch: Mediterranean and Oriental cuisine with a selection of fish, lamb, and vegetarian dishes. And everything tastes just as good as it looks.
Summary â An Ideal Trip from Buqez
- Start and parking: at MaĹĄkoviÄa Han
- Route: Han â ruins â spring â back
- Length: about 2 km
- Time: 2 hours, including coffee
- Suitable for: kids, strollers, seniors
- Experience: history, nature, excellent food
Extra Tip from Jakub
If this isn’t enough for you, I recommend a small detour â the Vrana Lake Nature Reserve is only a 5-minute drive away. There, youâll find observation towers, wooden walkways through the reeds, birdwatching, and short educational trails for children. A perfect way to end your trip.
Vrana might not catch your eye at first glance. But when you stop for a moment, youâll discover one of the most interesting places in the area. And these are exactly the kinds of trips that are worth taking.
