At the mouth of the Krka river lies one of the most charming Adriatic towns. Autumn turns Skradin into a peaceful oasis, ideal for escaping into the silence of nature
Gateway to the Krka National Park
The picturesque town of Skradin is located at the very entrance to the Krka National Park, not far from the mouth of the river into the sea and about 15 kilometres from Šibenik.
It is located in the north-western part of Lake Prukljan, a natural extension of the Krka River before it flows into the Adriatic Sea.
Skradin’s unique position makes it an ideal destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and protected anchorage, while offering excellent gastronomy, beautiful views of the surrounding nature and cultural treasures.
Skradin: A Unique Destination for Luxury Yacht Charters
Ancient Roots
Skradin has a rich history and is one of the oldest Croatian towns. Its name – ‘skard’ – refers to the steep slopes and cliffs surrounding the area, and its origin dates back to pre-Roman times, when Liburnians were its rulers.
In ancient times, Skradin was a strategically important port on the Krka River, called Titius at the time, which connected the Adriatic Sea with the interior.
The Liburnians, known for their naval power, dominated the Adriatic Sea, and their maritime tradition continued into the Roman period. Skradin became the main transit port in this period, and trade flourished.
A number of archaeological discoveries, as well as shipwrecks along the Krka River testify to the wealth and importance of this small but powerful town.
ACI Marina Skradin
Although Skradin’s location offers protection from direct winds, keep in mind that it gets strong bora and sirocco winds. Sea currents, especially after heavy rainfall, can significantly speed up the Krka River flow rate. Therefore, it is important to take weather into account when planning activities.
The Skradin ACI Marina is located in a narrow bay north-west of the main pier. Located at the place where the river and the sea meet, it is one of the safest and most charming marinas in Croatia.
The marina is open all year round, offering 180 berths, laundromat, free Internet and boat rental services, and anchor systems were recently restored. Here, the sailing season lasts from Easter until the beginning of November, with peak periods in July and August.
Autumn brings less traffic and greater berth availability. The structure of the guests also changes – the marina is dominated by personal boats owned by slightly more experienced sailors who expect challenges at sea – the wind, waves, and the rain.
Cultural Gems
A walk through the historic centre of this Mediterranean town, with its stone houses and Venetian influence, feels like walking back in time. Don’t miss the bell tower and the Catholic Church of the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary, whose special organ has been named Croatia’s cultural asset.
If you are in the mood for a short climb, visit Turina, an old fortification complex with a spectacular view of the town and the Krka River.
Authentic Cuisine and Wine
Skradin is known for its rich gastronomic tradition, especially in autumn when a number of food festivals takes place, such as the Skradin Risotto and Lifestyle Festival. These typical dishes can only be found in Skradin and the Lake Prukljan area.
The Skradin risotto
If we had to choose one restaurant, it would be the Cantinetta. Formerly a cult tavern, called ‘Kod Ane’ by locals, this establishment cherishes the metaphysics and tradition of the original Skradin gastronomy, a mix of the spirit of Venice, the Morlach hinterland and oriental influences. We will single out the original ones from the wide range of dishes. The ‘Skradin čokalice’ is finger food consisting primarily of fish from Lake Prukljan.
The Skradin risotto needs to be ordered in advance because it takes 24 to 48 hours to prepare. It is made only by men who, after a decade of apprenticeship, get a ‘license’ from the father of the family.
A hidden gem on the Krka river
The Vidrovača bay loved by sailors located half a mile from Skradin, under the Krka Bridge, is home to ‘Vidrovača’ tavern, which was visited by the legendary Formula 1 driver, Michael Schumacher.
The rustic ambience, the beautiful view of the river and the extensive menu are impressive, and you can also make a reservation for one of its twenty berths. If you don’t have your own boat, this oasis can be reached by a water taxi. Have in mind that ‘Vidrovača’ is open from May to October.
A Wine Lover’s Paradise
Wine tours and tastings of top local wines only enrich the experience of visiting Skradin. Plastovo, located some six to seven kilometres from the town, is home to the Bibich family boutique winery, which has been producing wines for generations, focusing on indigenous varieties.
Today, Bibich wines can be found on the wine lists of some of the world’s finest restaurants, in New York, Tokyo, Stockholm… Experts describe them as different, unique, original, and intriguing.
Discover Krka’s Autumn Beauty
Nature’s Canvas
One of the top reasons for visiting Skradin in autumn is the proximity of Krka National Park. Krka takes on a special glow in autumn; the waterfalls are filled with water, nature is painted in warm colours, and the summer crowds are slowly disappearing.
Visitors can explore many hiking trails, enjoy views of waterfalls, or opt for bike tours that are popular with active vacation enthusiasts.
Waterfall Skradinski Buk
Only four kilometres from the town, the most popular waterfall – Skradinski buk impresses with its travertine barriers, islands and lakes. Enjoy a network of trails and bridges offering spectacular views and exploration opportunities.
Ethnographic collections and restored mills bear witness to the region’s rich economic past. Although swimming under the Skradinski buk was recently banned, other parts of the park still offer great opportunities to enjoy nature.
Visovac Island
If you decide to sail upstream through the Krka National Park, don’t miss the Visovac Island and the Roški slap waterfall.
The Visovac Island is one of the most important natural and cultural values of the Republic of Croatia, home to a Franciscan monastery since 1445 featuring the Church of Our Lady of Mercy surrounded by a number of plant species. The monastery holds a collection of works of art, valuable documents, books and incunabula.
Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and always take weather into account. Also, consider visiting gift shops in the restored mills, where you can find local products. In addition to natural beauty, visitors can also discover the rich history of this area through old mills, archaeological remains and places of worship.
Autumn is the ideal time to visit Skradin – with pleasant temperatures calling for an active vacation, exceptional gastronomic offer and rare peace that provides a perfect escape. Many visitors come here to run away from the hectic everyday life, ‘recharge their batteries’ and enjoy the privacy that this picturesque town offers, so it’s no wonder that many celebrities decide to visit.
Text Trešnja Ferić Koludrović
Photos Ivo Pervan, TZ Skradin, HTZ / Ivo Biočina, Unsplash & Shutterstock
