 A particularity and the island\'s phenomenon is the fresh water Vransko Lake that covers an area of 5.75 km2 and its surface is above sea level. This lake is the main source of drinkable water on the island and it is unusual that no one knows where the lake is filled apart from the precipitations. This island is one of the rare habitats of the Griffon Vulture, a very rare and endangered bird and it is estimated that some 60 pairs of the bird live on the island. For this reason, an eco-centre for protection, tagging and monitoring the population of these birds has been set up in Beli. The Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus) belongs to one of the largest bird families, with a wingspan of up to 2.80 m and a weight of up to 15 kg, feeding exclusively on carrion and significantly contributing to infections not being spread as they seek and eat dead animals. Further interesting information is that there are no venomous snakes on the island so tourists, mountain climbers and hikers can walk along the numerous signed pathways without fear. The mild climate and the variety of flora and fauna of which many are endemic, make Cres a desirable destination throughout the year.
The respectable British newspaper, The Independent, has placed the island at the top of a list of preferable world destinations in 2008. Besides tourism, islanders are occupied with olive growing, livestock, agriculture and apiculture. Fine quality honey made of salvia is one of the world’s best, whilst the lamb from Cres is known and appreciated far and wide and is the inevitable pleasure of all gourmands. |
