Pakoštane rests comfortably between the lake and the sea, the two bodies of water that have shaped its history. The locals lived closely connected with the fertile lands surrounding Vrana Lake, which fed many generations. As tourism developed, they turned to the sea and it gifts, but agriculture always remained in people’s hearts. The story of Pakoštane begins in Bužak, the heart of the village, a small area that was home to the first inhabitants of Pakoštane.
Drage is a village situated along the main road, coexisting peacefully with its natural surroundings. Pebble bays and rocky coves basking in the shade of a lush pine forest, fig trees leaning against the stone walls of old houses, and vibrant yellow broom in spring create a breath-taking tableau. The locals have resolutely turned to tourism, while preserving their bond to the past and tradition.
The island of Vrgada is half an hour away by boat from Pakoštane. Nature has blessed Vrgada with a beautiful coastline and 13 magical islets. The gardens of its stone houses are infused with the delightful aromas of lavender, bay leaves, basil, and rosemary. In the summer, the song of cicadas is welcoming visitors to Vrgada. Life on Vrgada is peaceful and relaxed, as the absence of cars makes boats the sole mode of transportation.
The village of Vrana, located in the hinterland of Vrana Lake, is surrounded by the remains of a glorious past, reflecting both ecclesiastical and secular authority from the medieval era. Situated between the sea and the well-inundated hinterland, surrounded by fields, Vrana attracted numerous influential figures of its time, and changed hands quite often. Escaping the Ottoman conquerors, a part of the residents emigrated to nearby islands, primarily Murter, whereas others left for Venice, and formed a colony there.
