Marjan Forest Park is a green oasis in the city of Split, Croatia. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists who want to enjoy nature, recreation, and culture. The park covers a large area of the Marjan peninsula, which rises up to 178 meters above sea level and offers stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
To visit the Marjan Forest Park, you can enter from different locations. One of them is the Marjan Stairs, next to the monastery and church of St. Francis on Riva, the main promenade of Split. Another option is the Spinut Door, on the street Šetalište Marina Tartaglie. You can also access the park from Šetalište Ivana Meštrovića, a street that runs along the south side of the peninsula.
You can explore the Marjan Forest Park by foot, bike, or tourist train. There are many trails and paths that lead you through the pine forests and rocky cliffs of the park. You can also find outdoor exercise equipment, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
One of the main attractions of the Marjan Forest Park is the Telegrin peak, where you can see a 13-meter high cross that was built in 2013. From there, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Split and its surroundings. You can reach the peak by climbing 314 steps from Vidilica, a viewpoint where you can also find a cafe.
Another attraction of the Marjan Forest Park is its cultural heritage. There are several churches and chapels dating back to medieval times, such as St. Nicholas, St. Jerome, and Our Lady of Bethlehem. You can also visit an old Jewish cemetery, cave dwellings once inhabited by Christian hermits, and a museum dedicated to local sculptor Ivan Meštrović.
If you want to relax and swim, you can go to one of the beaches near the park, such as Kašjuni, Bene, or Ježinac. They are clean and pebbly, with clear water and shade from the trees.
Some tips and prohibitions for visiting the park are:
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sunscreen.
- Respect the nature and do not litter or make noise.
- Do not feed or disturb the animals that live in the park, such as squirrels, rabbits, or birds.
- Do not light fires or camp in the park.
- Do not pick flowers or plants.
Marjan Forest Park is a great place to spend a day or a few hours in Split. It offers something for everyone: nature lovers, sports enthusiasts, history buffs, or beach goers. It is a place where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature.
