A unique trail race, ZAVRATNICA TRAIL 2025, was successfully held yesterday, organized by the Velebit Nature Park Public Institution. Runners of all ages enjoyed the challenging yet beautiful 6-kilometre course that winds through the spectacular Zavratnica Bay – one of the Adriatic’s most stunning gems.
The race unfolded in an excellent atmosphere with perfect weather conditions. An additional incentive for visitors was free entry into Zavratnica Bay after 1 PM, which many used to take a stroll and enjoy the seaside nature.
Participants especially praised the well-maintained trail, the breathtaking viewpoint, and the overall experience of being immersed in nature.
Race Results:
Men’s Category:
1st place – Marin Mandekić
2nd place – Dominik Oblak
3rd place – Matija Ločarić
Women’s Category:
1st place – Maja Urban
2nd place – Ana Marija Grgurić
3rd place – Sara Pavlak
Boys’ Children’s Category:
1st place – Milan Mišić
2nd place – Ivan Mišić
3rd place – Leo Butorac
Girls’ Children’s Category:
1st place (tie) – Mirna Pražić & Dunja Vrkljan, both with a time of 51:52
2nd place – Lorena Aleksić
3rd place – Marta Bićan
A charming moment of the day was the prize for the final finisher. Among the adults, this honour went to Željko Kereta, while in the children’s race, the joyful Melita Pražić claimed the spot, winning the hearts of everyone present.
Mario Šaban, Director of Velebit Nature Park, took the opportunity to thank all participants and stated:
“ZAVRATNICA TRAIL was organized to mark the completion of the trail restoration through Zavratnica Bay, into which we invested over €400,000 last year. The trail is now fully restored and ready for events like this. Alongside the race, we also hosted an educational exhibition to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the sea and nature – our message is clear: waste does not belong in the sea or in protected natural areas. With this race, we are promoting not only Zavratnica as a destination but also the importance of sustainable natural heritage management.”
Velebit Nature Park also extends thanks to its sponsors: the Senj Tourist Board, the Karlobag Municipality Tourist Board, Tušak Bakery, Hotel Kul IN Ablana, and the Sveti Rok Water Bottling Plant.
ZAVRATNICA TRAIL has once again proven its potential to become a traditional event that combines recreation with the promotion of active tourism.