Levrnaka
Levrnaka: A Sailor’s Sanctuary in the Heart of Kornati
Located deep within the heart of Kornati National Park, Levrnaka Island is a place where the Adriatic reveals its raw, unspoiled charm. Often overlooked in favor of more famous coastal towns, this modest-sized island offers a powerful reminder of why Croatia remains one of the world’s premier sailing destinations. Surrounded by the quiet splendor of the Kornati archipelago - a maze of over 140 islands, islets, and reefs - Levrnaka stands out for its unique combination of natural beauty, protected anchorages, and serene atmosphere.
Levrnaka is completely uninhabited, with no permanent settlements or infrastructure, and that’s precisely what makes it so appealing. For sailors in search of escape, it represents the pure essence of life at sea. There are no crowds, no cars, no tourist traps - just the sound of waves lapping against your hull, the scent of sea salt in the air, and the sight of limestone cliffs glowing golden in the late afternoon sun.
This island is more than just a scenic stop; it is a destination where sailors can truly slow down and immerse themselves in the rhythms of the natural world. Whether you're anchoring for the night in one of its calm bays, swimming in the glassy shallows of Lojena Beach, or hiking to the island’s rugged crest to admire panoramic views across the Kornati chain, Levrnaka invites you to take a breath, unplug, and savor the simplicity of sailing life.
Its geographical position - well sheltered yet centrally located - makes Levrnaka a perfect waypoint for sailors weaving through the Kornati Islands. It offers protection from prevailing winds, reliable mooring options, and just enough seasonal hospitality in the form of a konoba, allowing for a touch of comfort without losing the feeling of solitude.
For those who appreciate wild beauty and the quiet elegance of the sea, Levrnaka is more than just another island - it's a Kornati sanctuary.
Natural Beauty in the Kornati Wilderness
Levrnaka may be only the fourth-largest island in the Kornati archipelago, but it embodies the very soul of this unique nautical landscape. Stretching just under two kilometers in length, the island manages to pack a remarkable diversity of terrain into its modest size. On its western flank, steep limestone cliffs rise directly from the deep blue waters, showcasing the stark, dramatic geology that defines the Kornati National Park. These sculpted rock faces glow with hues of grey and gold under the changing sunlight, creating a dramatic contrast with the sea below.
In stark opposition, Levrnaka’s eastern side is softer and more inviting, with sloping hills and tranquil coves that offer natural shelter from the open sea. These bays, shaped by millennia of wind and water, have become ideal anchorages for sailors seeking calm overnight moorings or peaceful midday swim stops. The transition from rugged cliffs to gently curving shoreline is what makes Levrnaka so visually striking - and so well-suited for exploring by boat.
Despite its wild beauty, Levrnaka remains completely uninhabited year-round. There are no permanent homes, no paved roads, and no modern developments. The only signs of human presence are a few simple seasonal structures, including a rustic konoba near the main bay and a beach bar that operates during the peak summer months. These facilities are built in harmony with the surroundings and disappear just as quietly as they arrive when the season ends.
This lack of permanent development has allowed Levrnaka to retain a rare purity. Here, the landscape is untouched, the air is filled with the scent of salt and wild herbs, and the only sounds are the cries of seabirds and the rhythm of waves. It’s a setting that invites stillness, reflection, and an appreciation for the elemental beauty of the Adriatic wilderness.
Whether you arrive under full sail or cruise in with a gentle hum of the engine, the first glimpse of Levrnaka from the water is unforgettable. The contrast of its jagged western cliffs against the soft, green slopes on the opposite side offers a visual metaphor for the Kornati region itself - a balance of strength and serenity, harshness and hospitality.
Lojena Beach: A Rare Kornati Treasure
On the southwestern side of Levrnaka, Lojena Beach is one of the few true beaches in the Kornati archipelago - and undoubtedly among its most beautiful. In a region defined by steep limestone cliffs and rugged, rocky coastlines, Lojena is an unexpected jewel. With its smooth white pebbles mingled with fine sand, this beach offers a rare opportunity to enjoy the kind of soft, walkable shoreline that is so uncommon in the Kornati wilderness.
The bay that cradles Lojena is shallow, perfectly protected from strong winds and open seas, and glows with a stunning spectrum of blues - from crystal-clear aquamarine in the shallows to deep cobalt further out. This brilliant palette, contrasted by the stark karst hills that rise behind the beach, creates a visual harmony that feels both dramatic and tranquil. It’s a setting that compels you to linger - to swim, to sunbathe, or simply to sit and absorb the silence.
Snorkeling at Lojena is particularly rewarding. The shallow, calm waters and high visibility make it easy to observe the Adriatic’s underwater life. Small schools of fish weave through the sea grass and stone crevices, while starfish cling to the rocks below. The lack of urban runoff and minimal boat traffic means the ecosystem here is remarkably clean and vibrant.
For those arriving by sailboat, Lojena is often the perfect afternoon stop. After dropping anchor nearby, visitors can swim ashore or approach via dinghy. A small, seasonal beach bar operates during the high season, offering cold drinks, light snacks, and a laid-back ambiance that feels worlds away from mainland bustle. A few rustic picnic tables shaded by tamarisk trees provide just enough comfort without disrupting the natural setting.
Although Lojena is popular during the summer months, it never feels overly crowded - largely because access is limited to boats and organized park excursions. This isolation helps preserve its wild charm and ensures that the beach retains the peaceful, untouched quality that makes it so beloved among Kornati explorers.
Whether you're looking to relax on shore, explore marine life with a mask and snorkel, or simply float in the gentle, sun-warmed sea, Lojena Beach captures the magic of Levrnaka in a single, unforgettable spot.
Anchoring in Levrnaka Bay
Located on the northeastern side of the island, Levrnaka Bay is one of the most welcoming natural harbors in the Kornati archipelago and a favored stop for sailors navigating the national park. Tucked between rolling hills and rocky slopes, the bay offers excellent protection from most wind directions, particularly the dominant northwesterly Maestral that blows steadily during the summer months. This natural shelter makes it an ideal anchorage for both daytime swims and peaceful overnight stays.
The bay features a field of mooring buoys, which are the preferred option for securing your vessel due to environmental regulations within Kornati National Park. Anchoring is still possible in designated areas, but strict rules apply to protect the fragile seabed and marine ecosystem, so it’s important to consult updated nautical charts and local guidelines before dropping anchor. Be sure to have a valid Kornati National Park permit, which is required for all vessels entering and staying within park boundaries. During high season, park rangers regularly monitor the area and check for compliance.
In addition to mooring buoys, Levrnaka Bay also offers a small restaurant dock, providing berths with electricity hookups - a welcome convenience for sailors who need to recharge batteries or enjoy a more secure mooring experience. The dock is managed by the island’s seasonal konoba, a rustic seaside restaurant known for serving freshly grilled fish, local octopus, and other Dalmatian specialties. Dining at the konoba often includes the option of free or reduced mooring at the dock, though space is limited and advanced reservations are recommended during peak summer months.
Thanks to its combination of natural protection, mooring facilities, and onshore hospitality, Levrnaka Bay has become one of the most reliable and enjoyable stops within the Kornati chain. Whether you’re looking to spend a quiet night under the stars, enjoy a sunset dinner just meters from your boat, or take a short hike to Lojena Beach, this bay offers everything a sailor could want in a remote Adriatic anchorage.
Dining on Levrnaka: Traditional Flavors with a View
Though uninhabited for most of the year, Levrnaka Island comes alive during the sailing season, offering one of the most memorable dining experiences in the Kornati archipelago. Tucked just above the protected anchorage of Levrnaka Bay, Konoba Levrnaka is a seasonal, family-run restaurant that has become a beloved stop for sailors in search of authentic Dalmatian cuisine and a truly unforgettable setting.
The konoba is rustic and charming, built in harmony with the island's natural environment using local stone and wood. With no urban distractions, the ambiance here is defined by simplicity, serenity, and sweeping views of the bay and open sea beyond. As the sun begins to set and boats settle in on moorings or alongside the restaurant dock, the scent of olive oil, garlic, and fresh seafood fills the air - an invitation to relax, dine, and let time slow down.
Konoba Levrnaka’s menu is proudly local and seasonally driven. Fishermen from nearby islands supply the restaurant with just-caught fish, squid, and lobster, which are often prepared over a traditional wood-fired grill. Specialties include grilled sea bream, octopus peka (slow-cooked under an iron dome), and tender lamb chops, paired with homegrown vegetables and crusty bread baked fresh on-site. Meals are accompanied by a thoughtful selection of Croatian wines, particularly whites from Dalmatia that pair beautifully with seafood.
Dining here isn’t just about the food - it’s about the atmosphere. Tables are set under a canopy of stars, with the gentle clinking of halyards and the hush of waves as the soundtrack. The staff is warm and welcoming, often sharing recommendations or stories about the region. Many guests find themselves lingering long after dessert, sipping rakija or a glass of prošek while the moonlight dances on the sea.
For those who dock at the restaurant’s private pier, there’s the added convenience of shore power and easy access from your boat directly to the dining terrace. However, due to limited space and the restaurant’s popularity among sailors, advance reservations are strongly recommended during the busy months of July and August.
Whether you're celebrating a special moment or simply treating yourself after a day of swimming and exploring, dinner at Konoba Levrnaka is a highlight of any sailing itinerary through the Kornati islands - a rare opportunity to experience local cuisine in one of the most untouched settings in the Adriatic.
Hiking and Panoramic Views
Although Levrnaka is best known as a sailing destination, its rocky interior invites exploration for those willing to trade their sea legs for hiking shoes. The island’s uninhabited and rugged terrain offers a surprising change of pace from the water, and a short but steep trail from either Lojena Beach or Levrnaka Bay leads to one of the most rewarding viewpoints in the Kornati archipelago.
The hike winds through scrubby Mediterranean vegetation and ancient karst formations, with occasional glimpses of the glittering sea through breaks in the terrain. It doesn’t take long - usually around 20 to 30 minutes depending on your pace - but the incline can be sharp in places, and the path is made up of uneven stones, so proper footwear is recommended.
At the summit, a panoramic ridge opens up, revealing a truly breathtaking vista: the iconic Kornati seascape in all its wild, minimalist beauty. From this elevated viewpoint, you’ll see a sweeping patchwork of islands and channels, their stark white limestone contrasting sharply with the intense blues of the Adriatic. Many of these islets are entirely uninhabited, forming a surreal, almost lunar landscape that stretches out to the horizon.
The view is especially dramatic in the late afternoon when the sun begins to lower and casts long shadows across the ridges of nearby islands. It’s the perfect time to take photos, soak in the silence, and gain a new appreciation for the raw natural forces that shaped this unique part of Croatia.
Along the way, you may spot wild herbs like sage and immortelle, and if you’re lucky, perhaps a falcon or seabird soaring overhead. There are no facilities on the trail, but the peacefulness of the surroundings and the sense of remoteness make the effort more than worthwhile.
Whether you're looking to stretch your legs after a day aboard or simply want to see the Kornati from a new perspective, the hike to Levrnaka’s ridge is an unforgettable experience, offering a rare glimpse into the unspoiled heart of one of the Adriatic’s most extraordinary island groups.
Perfect for Nature-Loving Sailors
Levrnaka isn’t about luxury or crowds - it’s about embracing the essence of the Adriatic in its purest form. This quiet island, nestled deep within the Kornati National Park, offers a completely different kind of sailing experience: one defined by simplicity, silence, and the rhythms of the natural world. For sailors who value authenticity over amenities, Levrnaka is nothing short of paradise.
There are no flashy marinas here, no beach clubs or thumping music. Instead, you’ll find a modest mooring field, a rustic konoba, and a dramatic, untouched landscape that feels like it’s been frozen in time. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect - from the mainland, from the digital world, and from the noise of everyday life.
Each day begins with sunlight spilling across the deck, the water calm and glassy in the early hours. With a quick dive into the crystal-clear sea, you’ll feel refreshed and centered, your morning coffee tasting better than it ever could on land. The surrounding environment teems with life: seabirds circle overhead, schools of fish flicker through the shallows, and the scent of salt and wild herbs lingers in the warm breeze.
Afternoons invite lazy swims, paddleboarding in the bays, or quiet moments reading in the shade of the cockpit. And when the sun begins to sink, the sky explodes into a palette of soft oranges and deep purples, reflected in the mirror-still water around your boat. Nights on Levrnaka are especially magical. With minimal light pollution and no urban distractions, the stars seem to multiply overhead. You fall asleep to the rhythmic lapping of water against the hull, perhaps with a gentle Maestral breeze cooling the cabin.
Sailing to Levrnaka isn’t about checking off a list of attractions - it’s about experiencing the profound luxury of peace and space, where the island, sea, and sky create a perfect triangle of stillness. For those seeking a break from the busier ports of Croatia, this wild and gentle island offers a soulful retreat, perfectly suited for the sailor who travels not to be seen, but to see.
Practical Tips for Visiting Levrnaka by Yacht
A visit to Levrnaka Island can be one of the most rewarding stops on a sailing route through the Kornati archipelago, but a bit of preparation goes a long way toward ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s what you should know before you drop anchor or pick up a mooring line in this pristine corner of the Adriatic:
Plan Your Arrival Time Wisely: Levrnaka is a popular day-trip destination for cruise and excursion boats operating from the mainland and nearby islands. These vessels usually arrive mid-morning and depart by mid- to late-afternoon. For a more peaceful experience, it’s best to arrive early in the morning, before the tour crowds disembark, or after 15:00, when the island begins to return to its natural tranquility. These off-peak hours offer the best opportunity to enjoy Lojena Beach and the walking trails in relative solitude.
Park Permit Required: As Levrnaka lies within the boundaries of Kornati National Park, a valid park entrance permit is required for all vessels. You can purchase permits online or through authorized vendors, and it’s strongly recommended to do so in advance - buying permits on the spot tends to be more expensive. Park rangers regularly patrol the area, especially during high season, and will ask to see your permit.
Mooring Buoys and Anchoring: The protected bay on the northeastern side of the island is equipped with seasonal mooring buoys, making it the safest and most convenient place to secure your yacht. Anchoring is allowed in designated areas, but you must adhere to Kornati National Park anchoring regulations, which are updated periodically to protect sensitive marine habitats. Always consult the latest official park maps or ask a ranger on-site for guidance.
Dining at Konoba Levrnaka: Levrnaka’s well-known konoba (seasonal tavern) is located near the mooring field and offers a relaxed but high-quality dining experience focused on Dalmatian cuisine, including freshly grilled fish, octopus, and locally produced wine. The restaurant also maintains a private dock with electricity for yachts dining there. Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during July and August, and can be made via VHF radio or phone.
No Fuel or Supplies Onsite: Levrnaka has no grocery stores, markets, or fuel stations, so be sure to stock up before entering the Kornati National Park. The nearest provisioning points and fuel docks can be found on Murter Island or Sali on Dugi Otok. Bring everything you need for your stay, including drinking water, fresh produce, and trash bags, as there are no disposal facilities on the island.
Ideal as Part of a Kornati Sailing Route
Levrnaka Island is perfectly positioned as a key waypoint on any well-planned sailing itinerary through the Kornati archipelago. Whether you're approaching from the northern reaches near Žut Island, crossing from Piškera Marina, or entering the national park from the south near Murter, Levrnaka sits conveniently along the central spine of the Kornati chain. Its location makes it a natural pause point for sailors navigating the narrow passages and scenic channels that define this unique maritime landscape.
For those coming from Žut or Sit, Levrnaka offers a calm and welcoming stop before heading further south into the denser clusters of islets. If you're approaching from Piškera, which offers marina facilities and a small ACI outpost, Levrnaka provides a contrasting experience - a peaceful, uninhabited island with no development beyond a single seasonal konoba and beach bar.
The combination of protected moorings, the picturesque Lojena Beach, and the scenic hiking opportunities ashore make Levrnaka more than just a place to anchor - it’s a destination in its own right. Many sailors find themselves staying longer than planned, drawn in by the calm rhythm of life here and the panoramic beauty of the surrounding park.
Whether it’s your first or tenth time sailing in the Kornati, Levrnaka has a timeless appeal that makes it a highlight of any route - a chance to experience the park’s wilder, quieter side, without sacrificing comfort or accessibility.
Conclusion: Levrnaka—Kornati’s Peaceful Soul
Levrnaka Island stands as a quiet testament to the raw, unspoiled charm that defines the Kornati archipelago. In a region celebrated for its minimalism and stark natural beauty, Levrnaka manages to capture the essence of it all - dramatic limestone slopes, glassy turquoise shallows, and the kind of peace that’s increasingly rare along the Adriatic coast.
This island isn’t about nightlife or luxury. There are no bustling promenades or souvenir stalls - just the sound of the wind over the karst, the gentle sway of boats in the bay, and the shimmer of sunlight playing across the water. For those sailing the Kornati looking to find solitude without total isolation, Levrnaka is the ideal balance. You’ll find a warm meal and a secure mooring, but you’ll also find stillness - space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with nature.
Levrnaka doesn’t compete for attention; it doesn’t need to. Its appeal lies in what it doesn’t have - crowds, noise, or hurry. It offers instead a rare moment of calm in the middle of one of Croatia’s most iconic sailing regions. Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying overnight under a canopy of stars, Levrnaka leaves a lasting impression - an island that, in its simplicity, becomes unforgettable.