Krk specialities
Our guests often ask where they can buy real wine, olive oil or brandy from the island. Krk has a long tradition: the vineyards of the Vrbnik field, centuries-old olive groves and families who still make what they put on their table. Here we have gathered what we buy ourselves and take to our friends.
Vrbnička Žlahtina – the wine of Krk
Žlahtina is an indigenous white grape variety that thrives best on the Vrbnik field, not far from Soline. This light, fresh wine with a delicate aroma is perfect with fish, scampi and šurlice. Many wineries in Vrbnik offer tastings, and the best place to buy the wine is directly from the winemaker.
Olive oil from the island
Olives have been grown on Krk for centuries, and the harvest is in autumn. The best is extra virgin olive oil from local family farms, bought directly from the producer – that way you know where it comes from.
Travarica – herbal brandy
Travarica is a traditional grape brandy in which medicinal herbs are steeped; on the island it is offered as a welcome drink. Only buy it with the label of a registered producer.
Honey
Honey from the island's plants, mostly wildflower or sage honey, is sold by local beekeepers.
Cheese from the island
Sheep's cheese from the island is firm and aromatic and is usually served with pršut and a glass of Žlahtina.
Where to buy Krk specialities?
Krk specialities are best bought directly from the producer: in the wine cellars of Vrbnik, from family farms with their own olive groves and from beekeepers in the island's villages. That way you get fresh produce, learn how it is made and support the people who keep the island's traditions alive. Vrbnik is about 20 minutes by car from Soline. You can find out more about the town and its wine cellars on the website of the Municipality of Vrbnik.
How to recognise good olive oil
Look for the label “extra virgin olive oil”, the harvest year and a dark bottle that protects the oil from light. Fresh oil tastes fruity, slightly bitter and tickles the throat a little – a sign of valuable nutrients. Keep it cool and dark and use it within a year.
The best time
The grape harvest is in September and the olive harvest in October and November. In autumn you can buy freshly pressed olive oil, and Vrbnik is especially lively at harvest time.
Tasting and taking home
You can also taste Žlahtina in the restaurants we recommend, for example at Restoran Žal in Klimno – you will find all our tips under Recommendations. To see when wine and olive festivals take place on the island, look under Events. If you come by car, you can easily take wine, oil and cheese home; when flying, pack bottles well in your checked luggage.
We are happy to bring it for you
On request we are happy to bring you Žlahtina, olive oil, honey or cheese directly from a local producer – at the producer's price.
Accommodation nearby
Your holiday in Soline – Apartment Carmen
All our recommendations are just a few minutes from Apartment Carmen: two holiday apartments in quiet Soline Bay, the ideal base for your holiday on Krk. We live in the same house and are happy to share more personal tips.
- Beach a 5-minute walk away
- Covered Parking
- Free airport transfer
- Pets welcome