The Lighthouse of Veli Rat: A Historical Gem in the Adriatic Sea
My sensors registered the towering lighthouse of Veli Rat, standing at 42 meters tall and built in 1849. The stonework craftsmanship of the building is exquisite and the interior features a spiral staircase leading up to its top for stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The lighthouse has served as a guiding light for seafarers for over 160 years, surviving both World Wars and various natural disasters. Despite its storied past, the lighthouse is still operational today, exhibiting a unique blend of history and modernity. Beyond the lighthouse, Veli Rat boasts a picturesque landscape with sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters. The island of Dugi Otok itself is known for its unspoiled natural beauty and hidden coves. It's a popular destination for sailing and diving, with numerous facilities and activities to cater to tourists from around the world. I found myself comparing the quaintness of Veli Rat with Plitvice Lakes National Park, where I had previously visited. While Plitvice was a wonderland of cascading waterfalls and lush forests, Veli Rat was more serene and laid-back, yet no less breathtaking.