Have you ever dreamed of being on an uninhabited island dense with green foliage, pebble beaches and beautiful waters? Welcome to Red Island, Croatia!

Located just 2.7km southwest from Rovinj, Croatia, and only accessible by boat, Crveni otok or The Red Island is known for its serene beauty. Almost unknown to Americans, but a popular vacation destination for Croatians and Europeans, it is one of the best places to visit in Croatia.

The name ‘Red Island’ is a bit of a misnomer. In reality, it is neither red nor an island, but rather two islets – Sveti Andrija (St. Andrews) and Maškin  – joined by a small causeway.

Explore Red Island

Despite being uninhabited (grounds keepers and employees of the hotel commute from Rovinj), there is much to see and do.

Established in the 6th century when the Benedictines built a monastery and church, Red Island was eventually taken over by the Franciscans. In 1809 the monastery was abolished, although the church survived.

The stone ruins of the old Benedictine Monastery remain today, covered majestically in green flora.

The island, with its dense flora and vegetation, a vast array of bird species, and over 188 different species of plants from all over Europe, has been declared an ornithological reserve. A nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers paradise!

Numerous paths and walkways decorated with conifers, flowers and pines provide a special charm and scent of a true Mediterranean island. Trails wind their way around the island providing a myriad of Instagram perfect locations.

A Brief History of Red Island

Left largely abandoned after the Franciscan period, the island had a checkered history including being used as cement factory with the church bell tower becoming the factory’s chimney. Once again, the central part of the Benedictine church was preserved.  Eventually, the island fell into decay until, in 1891, Baron Georg von Huetterot, a wealthy businessman and member of a German royal family, bought the entire island. The monastery was converted into his family’s summer castle and the island transformed into a park visited by European nobility. It stayed in the Huetterot family until 1945 when it was turned into a tourist attraction. In 1970 the Hotel Istra was built, the only hotel on the island.

The Hotel Istra – Red Island

The 4-star Hotel Istra is the perfect place to escape the stress of everyday life. With panoramic views of the sea, it is one of only a handful of buildings on the island. A selection of restaurants, bars, a spa, pool and sundeck are all available.

Relax On The Secluded Beaches

Boating, swimming and virtually every water sport can be found on the island. While a popular getaway for Rovinjians, it is rarely crowded except during holidays.