Lunar plane
Mjesečev plato or “Lunar plane” is about an 1h15 drive from Opatija or about an hour from Rijeka. The beginning of the trail is located on the southern part of the island, above the village of Baška, the summer residence of partygoers and tourists.
What is particularly attractive about this tour is the authenticity of the environment in which this trail is located. If I were to give a rating for authenticity on a scale of 1-5, where 1 is the worst and 5 is the best, this tour would have a rating of 5. It is so authentic.
This trail provides a glimpse into the distant history of this region. It reveals how people lived, how demanding and difficult a challenge the Croatian coast was for its inhabitants, and how people managed here.
At the same time, this trail is a living museum because there are well-preserved tools and stone systems that people still use today when gathering and shearing sheep. Stone systems that were separating sheep of different owners.
Amidst all this, there is spectacular nature and fantastic views to enjoy all over the place.
You will learn about the history of the island of Krk, learn about some landmarks, see and touch the mrgari and ages-old dry stone walls, step into history and experience something authentic.
After that, we go for lunch or dinner.
Here’s a question for you. A herd of sheep sometimes mix with someone else’s flock. In this situation, a sheep can give birth to a lamb. How do the owners of the now two mixed flocks know to whom the lamb belongs? The lamb has no markings. Think about it.
When I was discovering this area, I liked every section of the trail from the beginning; the neat path, the serpentines, the small church and the parking from which the course starts. A forest, the smell of pine trees, clean, beautiful air and views of the rugged coast battered by the sea.
The first section of the trail is easy. It’s a gentle upward slope with soft ground. Rocky terrain comes later. You’ll need balance, a stable step and a quick reaction, especially if you want to wander off the trail. I love going off track; going off the path owns something adventurous and exciting.
Suddenly, I stepped up on the flat, elevated, rocky terrain: the Lunar plane. Obviously, the surface of the Moon inspired the one who gave the landscape its name.
I did not get that impression, though, because, although very harsh, the terrain is full of life and fantastic, impressive forms. Indeed, the landscape is like landing on a new planet; everything seems incredible and leaves a deep impression on the observer.
I found a lot of bushes along the way; blackberry and rose hip. I gathered a couple of handfuls of rose hips, which are now drying in a bowl, for tea. Blackberries have long been dry and shrivelled, but it seems there is an abundance of them in the season. I kept to the marked trails and beaten paths this time because I was here for the first time. I intend to explore all other tracks and off-trail routes in the coming period.
Off-trail walks often provide exciting scenes.
Season: All year except in summer. The summer heat makes walking in the open rocky world unpleasant.
Equipment: Ordinary walking equipment. During hot summer days, sun protection (caps, hats, eyeglasses, UV cream) is highly recommended.
Difficulty: Uneven rocky ground requires a steady step. Despite the signs, the tour is more challenging to carry out in the fog.
It can get uncomfortable against a mighty wind in the open air for people not used to gale-force winds.
