Olea Trail

The marathon course is designed for highly fit and experienced trail runners, combining rocky terrain, coastal paths, gravel roads, technical single-track trails, long climbs and descents, and the island of Pag’s diverse landscapes. The new Olea Trail marathon route connects the most beautiful and spectacular areas of Novalja and Stara Novalja, combining sections of the Metajna trails and the Svetojanj trails into one long and varied trail adventure. Participants will be transported by organised bus from the area in front of Hotel Olea to the centre of Metajna, where the marathon starts. Immediately after the start, runners enter some of the route’s most spectacular sections, passing Beriknica Beach and continuing towards Slana. This section features a via ferrata, which participants can cross either through the sea or via the secured route. Those who prefer to avoid the via ferrata can take an alternative trail that rejoins the route coming back from Malin Beach, adding some extra distance. The course then follows a trail that continues until approximately kilometre 25, where the first refreshment station and the first timing checkpoint are located. After refreshments, runners cross the road and continue towards the water reservoir, followed by a long descent into Novalja Field. At the far end, near the Church of St. Anthony, they will find the second refreshment station and the second timing checkpoint. Additional checkpoints will be placed throughout Novalja Field to record participants’ progress and prevent shortcuts. After the second refreshment station, the route climbs in the opposite direction to the medium and long courses. The marathon then joins a section shared with the other races, but marathon runners will cover it in the opposite direction, requiring extra caution and consideration for fellow competitors. The route then descends towards Lusk Cove, before climbing towards the summit of Svetojanj, where the third checkpoint is located. The third and final refreshment station awaits at the foot of the hill. After Svetojanj and the final climb along a gravel road, runners enter the last section of the race: a technical single-track trail leading to the finish line in Stara Novalja.

A route designed for well-trained and experienced runners. This course takes you across virtually every type of terrain, with the distinctive, rugged limestone landscape of Pag being its main challenge. The trail follows the coastline all the way to Svetojanj Fortress, where a checkpoint offers spectacular views of Velebit Mountain and the Velebit Channel. A well-stocked refreshment station awaits at the foot of the fortress. From there, the route descends to Lusk Cove and its beach, before climbing past the Svetojašnica pond. Next comes a rugged trail across rocky terrain, with beautiful views of Stara Novalja, followed by a steep descent. At a sharp turn, the route branches off from the medium course, leading into a longer climb through low vegetation before descending to Boškinac Restaurant. The trail then continues through the restaurant’s vineyards and deep into Novalja Field, where runners complete a loop through the forest and pass a hunting lodge. At the edge of the field, the Church of St. Anthony marks the location of the second refreshment station and checkpoint, where the route rejoins the medium course. Follow the course markings to the seaside promenade. After crossing the road and tackling a short climb, you’ll continue along a gravel track above Stara Novalja towards the finish line.

A route designed for more experienced and well-trained runners. The terrain is mostly gravel, but you’ll also encounter single-track trails through Pag’s rocky landscape, paved sections along the seaside promenade, and even a little dirt and grass. :) The trail follows the coastline all the way to Svetojanj Fortress, where a checkpoint offers spectacular views of Velebit Mountain and the Velebit Channel. A well-stocked refreshment station awaits at the foot of the fortress. From there, the route descends to Lusk Cove and its beach, before climbing past the Svetojašnica pond. Next comes a stretch of rugged trail across rocky terrain, offering beautiful views of Stara Novalja, followed by a steep descent where the route splits from the long course. Another checkpoint with refreshments awaits at the bottom. Follow the course markings to the seaside promenade. After crossing the road and tackling a short climb, you’ll continue along a gravel track above Stara Novalja towards the finish line.

Inspired by the natural beauty and rich cultural and historical heritage of our region, we aim to provide our guests and visitors with an opportunity for a new unforgettable experience. The goal of our trail race is to proudly showcase the beautiful coastal landscapes with stunning sea views, as well as centuries-old olive trees and historical sites. The route traverses various terrains, offering participants a physical challenge, two refreshment breaks, and the chance to learn more about the history and culture of our area.