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Veli Rat Lighthouse on the Croatian island of Dugi otok is one of the most beautiful in the Adriatic. The island of Dugi Otok is connected to the mainland by the Zadar-Bribinj ferry line (crossing time is one hour and 15 minutes). Veli Rat is frequently visited by guests from all over the world and is one of the most popular vacation destinations offered by www.adriatica.net.
The lighthouse was built in 1849 on the northwestern cape of the island during Austro-Hungarian rule. After being used only by seamen for many years, the lighthouse has been automated and turned into accommodation for guests looking for a unique holiday. Surrounded by pine trees and numerous wonderful bays, the 40-meter (130 feet) high Veli Rat Lighthouse offers an extraordinary view and an unforgettable experience.
The thick walls of the lighthouse, containing thousands of egg whites in order to make the walls more resistant to the sea and winds, keep the lighthouse cool during the hot summer months. An old church, hidden under a century-old pine tree in the lighthouse’s large paved yard, could be used for a unique and romantic wedding.
With a pine tree forest surrounding the lighthouse, Veli Rat is a great place for an active holiday for those looking for more than swimming and sun bathing. One four-bed apartment and one three-bed apartment can accommodate guests from March through November. Guests have parking for their vehicles, and a regular supply of provisions can be arranged. The lighthouse has its own cistern and docking place as well as a device used to launch boats. Apart from being connected to the local electricity supply, it has its own solar panels.
The lighthouse keeper and his family live in the lighthouse and there is always a waiting list because many lighthouse keepers would like to work in this unique lighthouse. Hospitable lighthouse keeper Zvone, his wife Alenka, and daughter Ivana as well as their lively pet dog Pipo presently live in the lighthouse. Should you decide to stay in Veli Rat, their warm welcome awaits you.
For more information, visit the www.adriatica.net website.
Photos courtesy of adriatica.net.
This story appeared in the September 2002 edition of Lighthouse Digest Magazine. For subscription information about the print edition, click here.
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