Fort Grpašćak: A Sentinel of the Adriatic

Explore a historic Austro-Hungarian fortress with panoramic Adriatic views in Telašćica Nature Park on Dugi Otok.

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Fort Grpašćak, constructed in 1911 by the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, sits atop the highest slope of the Adriatic on Dugi Otok. Once a military fortress and signal station, it now serves as an educational center offering panoramic views of Telašćica Nature Park, Kornati Islands, and the open sea.

A brief summary to Fort Grpašćak

Sali, 23281, HR

Local tips

Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and the best lighting for photographs.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the fort can be uneven.
Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints surrounding the fortress.
Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience.
Combine your visit to the fort with a hike on the nearby nature trails for a full day of exploration.

Getting There

Walking

From Sali, head south on the main road towards the coast. Follow the coastal path leading towards the fort. The walk is approximately 3 km and takes around 45 minutes. Ensure you wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Boat Hire

Consider hiring a local boat from Sali to Fort Grpašćak for a direct route. Several boat rental services are available in Sali; prices may vary, so check with multiple services. This offers a unique perspective of the Kornati Islands.
Public Transport

From Zadar, take a bus to Biograd na Moru, then a ferry to Sali. Check the ferry schedule in advance. From Sali, you can walk (45 minutes) or hire a local boat to the fort. A bus from Zagreb to Sali is about £11.

Discover more about Fort Grpašćak

Perched 161 meters above sea level, Fort Grpašćak offers an unforgettable vista of Telašćica Bay, the Kornati archipelago, and the dramatic cliffs of Dugi Otok. Originally built as a military fortress by the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy in 1911, it served as a vital signal station and observatory, monitoring maritime activity, particularly on the Italian side. In good weather, messages could be transmitted from Boka to Pula in just half an hour using lights or flags. Throughout the 20th century, the fortress was utilized by various military forces, including the Royal Yugoslav Navy, Italians, Germans, and the Croatian Navy. Today, Fort Grpašćak has been transformed into a modern interpretive and educational center. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the area's rich history, culture, and natural values. The fort also features a lookout point, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding landscapes and providing opportunities for dolphin watching. Open to visitors, the Interpretation and Education Center Grpašćak combines the functions of visitor reception, information, souvenir sales, and education. It exemplifies the conversion of a military fortification into a modern center, surrounded by a peaceful bay and archipelago.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Fort Grpašćak

0.0 km

Explore a historic Austro-Hungarian fortress with panoramic Adriatic views in Telašćica Nature Park on Dugi Otok.

Lago Mir

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LIRICA-boat excursion

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Konoba Soleta

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Konoba Sandra

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RESTORAN FEŠTA

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Konoba Levrnaka

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House Kornati-Kravljacica

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Konoba Ante Vrulje, Kornati

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Fort Saint Michael

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Plaža Punta Rožica

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Vidikovac Tkon

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ACI Marina Piskera

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Kolovare Beach

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Statue of Špiro Brusina

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Unmissable attractions to see

Cliffs of Dugi otok

2.3 km

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Park prirode Telašćica

2.3 km

Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Telašćica Nature Park, a Croatian treasure along the Adriatic coast.

Best viewpoint

2.5 km

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Velika Piramida Sali

3.6 km

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Kamene skulpture

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Panorama view

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Otok Veli Garmeniak Cave

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Uvala Cuscica

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Lavdara

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Kornati Bucht Excursion

7.1 km

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Katina

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Dugi otok

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Lighthouse Tajer

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Essential places to dine

Konoba Kršovica

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Taverna GO-RO

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Šporka Mare Restaurant

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Konoba Suha Punta

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Konoba Statival

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Konoba Vison

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Restoran Trabakul Kornati

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Restaurant Kusaonica

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Restaurant Sidro

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Konoba Maslina

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Konoba Jadra

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N20

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The Botanist

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L'Osteria 12 Restaurant & Bar

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Fort Grpašćak: A Sentinel of the Adriatic

A brief summary to Fort Grpašćak

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Boat Hire

Public Transport

Unlock the Best of Fort Grpašćak

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