Dugi Otok trail

Dugi Otok has a rich cultural heritage and history, as archaeological sites throughout the island reveal its use since prehistoric times. Numerous archaeological findings are reflected in the remains of Liburnian hillforts and burial mounds, ancient villas, early Christian, and medieval churches. If you wonder why this race and route significantly differ from any other island race you've attended and if you're undecided about whether to participate or not, we'll convince you that this island gem is created for outdoor activities. At the race finish, you can enjoy a fair of island products and an inevitable celebration. If you didn't know, Dugi Otok's celebrations are well-known for their great atmosphere, unique Tovareća mužika, and delicious local cuisine. The trail demands a high level of fitness and experience (and agility) from participants and is not suitable for beginners. The start is in Sali and follows the sea through Telaščica to Lake Mir, from where it ascends to the impressive cliffs of Dugi Otok. The part along the cliffs has technically demanding sections on rocky terrain, requiring agility and greater caution from participants. This part includes several of the most beautiful viewpoints on the trail, and at some points, it leads into dense Mediterranean vegetation while running on moss-covered paths. Such frequent contrasts on the trail are intriguing. The trail also passes by another island phenomenon – Žman Lake, which contains freshwater. In the past, when agriculture was more prevalent, islanders would harvest grapes from small boats when the lake level rose. From Žman Lake, after several ascents and descents, the route reaches Žman, a picturesque village on the northern coast of the island. From Žman, the trail follows the coastline all the way to the finish in Sali. Total ascent: 1080 m.

The trail requires a certain level of fitness, experience, and agility, making it unsuitable for complete beginners while offering a good challenge for more advanced beginners. The start is from Lake Mir (competitors are taken to the start from Sali by boat), and after the start, it passes by the geological phenomenon – the salt lake Mir, from where it ascends to the impressive cliffs of Dugi Otok. The part along the cliffs has technically demanding sections on rocky terrain, requiring agility and greater caution from participants. This part includes several of the most beautiful viewpoints on the trail, and at some points, it leads into dense Mediterranean vegetation while running on moss-covered paths. Such frequent contrasts on the trail are intriguing. The trail also passes by another island phenomenon – Žman Lake, which contains freshwater. In the past, when agriculture was more prevalent, islanders would harvest grapes from small boats when the lake level rose. Before reaching the finish, the route exits to the very end of the Telaščica Bay, and, passing through olive groves, it reaches Sali. The organizer will transport competitors' belongings to the finish (you will receive bags in the starting package). Transportation by boat to Lake Mir is organized to the start (included in the starting fee) – giving you the opportunity to ride through the unique beauty of the Telaščica Nature Park (this transportation is included in the starting fee). Total ascent: 840 m.

The trail is suitable for more advanced beginners who want to try a somewhat challenging route. The start is together with the CLIFF Blue category near Lake Mir, to which organized boat transportation from Sali will take you (included in the starting fee). On this occasion, you will be able to see the beauties of Telaščica and Dugi Otok from the sea. Immediately from the start, you will run along Lake Mir, exiting to the famous cliffs of Dugi Otok (or Stene, as the locals call them), where you will undoubtedly capture some of your most beautiful running photos. There are parts of the cliffs with challenging terrain that require increased caution. From the cliffs, you descend again to Telaščica, from where you go to the most beautiful viewpoint – Grpašćak. From Grpašćak, you continue westward, all the way to Žman Lakes, freshwater lakes in the heart of the island. From there, you return to Telaščica again, passing through olive groves to Sali, where the finish line is. It can be said that this trail encapsulates almost all the best of this part of the island and Telaščica, without having too many demanding and rocky terrains. Total ascent: 555 m.

The trail is suitable for beginners but can also be a challenge for competitors eager to race. The start is on the waterfront in Sali, and the trail offers beautiful views of the indented Telaščica Bay and its islands. We believe that no one can remain indifferent to the view from the most beautiful viewpoint, Grpašćak, from which you can see the famous cliffs of Dugi Otok, Telaščica Bay, and the Kornati Islands in the distance. The finish is next to Lake Mir. The organizer will transport competitors' belongings to the finish, and organized boat transportation will return you to Sali – providing you with the opportunity to sail through the unique beauty of the Telaščica Nature Park (this transport is included in the starting fee). Total ascent: 385 m.