Unije island is the westernmost Croatian island, where only about 70 permanent inhabitants reside. Island Unije is located at the entrance to Kvarner, 26NM from the Marina Polesana Pula. The Unije have been inhabited since the old age precisely because of their fertile soil, drinking water and good location. Unije are the only village on the island, and are located on the western side of the island.
Getting to Unije is relatively easy. The island can be reached by ferry from the nearby town of Mali Lošinj, which is served by regular ferries from the mainland city of Rijeka or by your own boat. The ferry ride takes approximately two hours and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Mooring your boat on the Island of Unije
If you are planning to moor your boat on the island of Unije, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Main port (Luka Unije): The main port on Unije is located on the western side of the island and can accommodate up to 100 boats. There are several pontoons and mooring buoys available, but it is recommended to reserve in advance, especially during the high season.
- Coves: One of the most popular coves on Unije is the Vognišća Cove, located on the north-east side of the island. This cove is surrounded by cliffs and provides a sheltered area for swimming and sunbathing. Another popular cove on Unije is the Potkujni Cove, also located on the east side of the island. This cove is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a great spot for snorkeling and diving. There are also several other coves and bays on Unije, such as Maracol Cove, Vrulje Cove, and the Zajavori Cove, which offer visitors the chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.
- Fees: There are mooring fees associated with using the main port on Unije, and fees may also apply in some of the smaller ports. Make sure to check the fee schedule in advance.
- Restrictions: There may be restrictions on the size of boats that can moor in certain areas, so it’s important to check any regulations before arriving. It is also important to be aware of any protected areas or marine reserves around the island.
- Services: The main port (Luka Unije) on Unije has water and electricity available, as well as a few restaurants and stores. However, services may be limited in the smaller ports. It’s a good idea to bring all necessary supplies and equipment with you, just in case.
Around the island there are few smaller islands, the island of Mišnjak, the island of Školjić, the island of Samunćel, while south of the island is the bay Arbit. The east coast is full of numerous coves that resemble fjords in appearance and are so popular for sailors who are there during the season everyday visitors. It is the bay that is located next to the village that has once served as a shelter for ships in case of severe weather.
The inhabitants are engaged in olive growing, sheep farming, tourism and flower growing. This island is car-free, you can see only a few small tractors that residents use to process the land and transport goods that come by boat. Every year in November, the citizens host the ” Unijska lignjada” – a competition in the catching squid, so this is one of the reasons for the visit. You can visit the Unije by boat from Pula, Rijeka, Mali Lošinj or by your own boat.
On Unije island there are only two open taverns, Konoba “kod Joze” and Konoba “Unije”. From their menu, we recommend home-made freshly caught Adriatic squid. There is also one store that works only in the morning and in the evening. You do not have a large selection of offers in the store itself, but you have all the basic groceries that you need. On Unije you will also find a bakery, church, post office and reading room.
On the island there is a small airport for small planes. Of course it is a flat green area on the western side of the island. On Cape Hartina you can see the remains of a World War II bunker. At the westernmost point of the island you can see the lighthouse Vnetak, which has been abandoned, but is very well preserved.
Another must-see attraction on the island is the Unije lighthouse. Built in 1885, the lighthouse stands at the highest point on the island and offers panoramic views of the surrounding sea and neighboring islands. Unije is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The island offers a variety of hiking trails, which wind through lush forests and rocky terrain, and provide breathtaking views of the sea. The island is also a great spot for snorkeling and diving, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
If you want to escape from the world for a day or two, and enjoy the charms of untouched nature surrounded by clear blue sea and rest your body and soul from everyday life and stress, we recommend you to go on island Unije. The magical island of The Union does not offer much content, but the peace and quiet itself on the sandy beaches with the chirping of birds is what we think is the thing that will leave you speechless. Visitors to the island should take care to respect the island’s natural environment and the local community, in order to help preserve this unique and special place for future generations to enjoy.