World
Europe’s incredible island ‘shape of a perfect heart’ and nobody lives there
Between the islands of Pašman and the town of Turanj on mainland Croatia you will find the island of Galesnjak.
The beautiful region gained notoriety in 2009 when Google Earth captured its unique shape.
An almost perfect heart shape is what has beckoned couples and hopeless romantics to flock to the region to experience its heartfelt adventures.
Despite its popularity, the island is quiet, isolated and mostly private, making it an ideal spot for uninterrupted romantic moments surrounded by beauty as far as the eye can see.
And with a region dubbed the Island of love and Island of lovers, it’s easy to see why it’s popular among tourists and loved-up couples.
The region’s peaceful allure sets it apart from many other Croatian spots that are often heaving with tourists.
The island is privately owned requiring permission in order to access however permission is only really required for those who are choosing to camp.
Galesnjak is surrounded by a crystal clear blue sea with the mainland having minimal vegetation and not one tourist facility.
There have been rumours about developing tourist attractions on the island but so far no concrete plans have been made.
Galesnjak boasts a stunning beach with roughly 1.5 km of a tropical paradise and is adorned with two peaks, one reaching as far as 36 meters above sea level.
Since ancient times, the island has been inhabited with remembrance of a human presence dating all the way back to the Neolithic period.
The lighthouse is the island’s only architectural feature, standing as a testament to its maritime heritage.
You can visit Galesnjak by travelling to either Zadar or Pasman.
From there, either a boat or a cruise will take you to the islands which has become a hotspot for couples or those looking to propose.
Once there, leisurely strolls along the beach, a dip in the turquoise waters, basking in the sun or an array of boats and cruises can all be enjoyed.
“No one lives on the island, but it is quite interesting and worth a visit and a swim,” wrote one TripAdvisor review.
If visiting the island, it’s advisable to check with tour operators and local authorities for the latest information regarding visiting.