As the owner of Buqez Villas, I often recommend trips that don’t appear in every travel guide. And Vrana is exactly that kind of place – understated, yet absolutely fascinating. If you’re in the mood for a short two-hour outing, perfect even with kids, and a great coffee at the end, this is my go-to recommendation.
Start at Maškovića Han – the gateway to history
Begin your visit at Maškovića Han, a unique Ottoman caravanserai – a resting stop for pilgrims, traders, and soldiers on long routes. In its day, this was a luxurious complex with a courtyard, baths, and a mosque. Today, it’s beautifully restored and serves as an elegant hotel with an excellent restaurant.
Park right at the site, walk past the main entrance (on your left), and after about 50 meters turn right – there you’ll find the ruins of a Templar fortress.
2. The Templar Fortress – secrets of the crown jewels
At first glance, it’s just a few old walls. But trust me – in the 12th century, this was one of the most powerful spiritual and military centers in all of Dalmatia. The Vrana monastery was once home to Benedictines, later the Knights Templar, and it even housed the Croatian royal crown jewels.
The ruins are open to everyone – perfect for a walk, a children’s adventure, or a few Instagram shots. It’s quiet, the views are stunning, and the atmosphere takes you 800 years back in time.
3. Pećina Spring – the spring, the prophetess, and medieval fun
Continue on foot along the same easy path for about 15 minutes to the Pećina Spring, also known as the Prophetess’s Source. A clean spring flows out of the cave, and local legend says a prophetess once sat here, offering answers to pilgrims’ questions.
The Romans tapped into the spring for their impressive aqueduct that supplied water to Zadar.
Just before the cave entrance, you’ll come across a wooden replica of medieval walls. These were built by the local municipality for festivals, but outside of those times, kids can play knights or just relax in the grass.
Inside the cave, there’s a memorial stone from 1871, commemorating the visit of Archduke Karl Stephan of Habsburg, then an eleven-year-old boy from the imperial family who ceremonially “reopened” the site.
4. A stylish finish: coffee and calm at Maškovića Han
Once you return, reward yourself with a well-earned break at the Maškovića Han restaurant. Located in the former mosque area, it has a truly special atmosphere – stone arches, shadows, and peace.
We had espresso, cappuccino, homemade ice cream, and sat under a huge tree in the courtyard – pure serenity.
Lunch is worth staying for too: Mediterranean and Oriental dishes, with options ranging from fish and lamb to vegetarian meals. And yes – everything tastes as good as it looks.
Summary – the ideal trip from Buqez
- Start/parking: at Maškovića Han
- Route: Han – fortress – spring – back
- Distance: about 2 km
- Time: 2 hours including coffee
- Great for: kids, strollers, seniors
- Experience: history, nature, great food
Jakub’s extra tip
If you’re still craving more, take a short detour – the Vransko Jezero nature reserve is just 5 minutes away by car. There you’ll find birdwatching towers, wooden boardwalks through reeds, and short educational trails for children. A perfect way to end the trip.
Vrana may not impress you at first glance. But stop for a moment, and you’ll discover one of the most fascinating places around. And those are the trips worth taking.