Spend your day on the island of Ošljak

Just a 10-minute boat ride from Zadar, you can enjoy top-quality food on the smallest inhabited island in the Adriatic.

Spend your day on the island of Ošljak

Just a 10-minute boat ride from Zadar, you can enjoy top-quality food on the smallest inhabited island in the Adriatic.

Ošljak, the Unforgettable Island

While visiting our restaurant, don't miss the opportunity to explore the smallest populated island in the Adriatic - the island of Ošljak.

Ošljak is a serene oasis for nature enthusiasts just a short boat ride away from Zadar. Despite its small size, this island is steeped in rich history waiting to be explored.

You might hear locals referring to Ošljak as "Lazaret." This name dates back to the 17th century when the island served as a quarantine for the Zadar area. Even today, the name is still in use among the locals.

Island and Its Residents

On the island, there are only 35 inhabitants who are tightly connected by a strong sense of community. Most of them even share the same last name - Valčić.

The island is a part of their identity. They are committed to preserving the traditional way of life on the island such as growing olives and fishing.

As you arrive by boat, one of the first things you'll notice is the stunning architecture. The houses are perfect examples of traditional Mediterranean construction.

There are two main areas of Ošljak - the settlement and the protected forest park. The island's forest primarily consists of pine trees that provide ample shade and protection from the intense summer sun.

In addition to the pine trees, the island is also home to a diverse range of plant life, including cypress, holm oak, olives, and the classic Mediterranean maquis.

Take a breath of fresh air - there are no cars on the island.

A Walk Through History

The best way to explore the island is on foot. There is a well-arranged path that follows the coast of the island, stretching for over 2 kilometers.

As you make your way along the path, you'll eventually come across the island's lighthouse.  From the lighthouse, you can continue to the remains of a windmill from the 16th century. Stop here to explore its interior.

You will notice dry-stone walls, another recognizable element of Mediterranean construction. When built, dry-stone walls had a practical use of dividing land and protecting it from the wind. Today we admire the skills of those who carefully chose and deftly arranged stone to create this true work of art.

Another witness to the rich history of the island is the impressive, well-preserved Church of St. Mary from the 6th century.

On hot summer days, refresh yourself in the crystal clear sea. Choose one of the many hidden coves with a view of Zadar.

Visit Restaurant Lazaret and explore the island of Ošljak. Once you get to know this island, you will understand why islanders are so proud of it.

Ošljak, the Unforgettable Island

While visiting our restaurant, don't miss the opportunity to explore the smallest populated island in the Adriatic - the island of Ošljak.

Ošljak is a serene oasis for nature enthusiasts just a short boat ride away from Zadar. Despite its small size, this island is steeped in rich history waiting to be explored.

You might hear locals referring to Ošljak as "Lazaret." This name dates back to the 17th century when the island served as a quarantine for the Zadar area. Even today, the name is still in use among the locals.


Island and Its Residents

On the island, there are only 35 inhabitants who are tightly connected by a strong sense of community. Most of them even share the same last name - Valčić.

The island is a part of their identity. They are committed to preserving the traditional way of life on the island such as growing olives and fishing.

As you arrive by boat, one of the first things you'll notice is the stunning architecture. The houses are perfect examples of traditional Mediterranean construction.

There are two main areas of Ošljak - the settlement and the protected forest park. The island's forest primarily consists of pine trees that provide ample shade and protection from the intense summer sun.

In addition to the pine trees, the island is also home to a diverse range of plant life, including cypress, holm oak, olives, and the classic Mediterranean maquis.

Take a breath of fresh air - there are no cars on the island.

A Walk Through History

The best way to explore the island is on foot. There is a well-arranged path that follows the coast of the island, stretching for over 2 kilometers.

As you make your way along the path, you'll eventually come across the island's lighthouse.  From the lighthouse, you can continue to the remains of a windmill from the 16th century. Stop here to explore its interior.

You will notice dry-stone walls, another recognizable element of Mediterranean construction. When built, dry-stone walls had a practical use of dividing land and protecting it from the wind. Today we admire the skills of those who carefully chose and deftly arranged stone to create this true work of art.

Another witness to the rich history of the island is the impressive, well-preserved Church of St. Mary from the 6th century.

On hot summer days, refresh yourself in the crystal clear sea. Choose one of the many hidden coves with a view of Zadar.

Visit Restaurant Lazaret and explore the island of Ošljak. Once you get to know this island, you will understand why islanders are so proud of it.