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Holidays in Stara Novalja

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Stara Novalja is a peaceful village located on the island of Pag, in northern Dalmatia, Croatia. It lies in a sheltered bay on the northeastern coast of the island, just a few kilometers from the town of Novalja.

History
Ancient roots: The island of Pag has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with influence from the Illyrians, Romans, and Venetians. Stara Novalja itself was once a Roman settlement—archaeological sites, including old ruins and amphorae, have been discovered in the area.

Name origin: “Stara” means “old” in Croatian, while “Novalja” refers to the nearby town. The name distinguishes it from Novalja, which became the more modern center.

Tradition: Historically a fishing and farming village, Stara Novalja kept its quiet character even as nearby Novalja developed into a party destination.

Description
Vibe: Calm, family-friendly, and traditional. Perfect for those seeking relaxation, nature, and a slower pace of life.

Nature: Set in a long, natural bay that protects it from strong winds, making the waters calm and ideal for swimming. The surrounding hills are dotted with Mediterranean vegetation, stone walls, and olive groves.

Beaches: The most popular beach is Planjka-Trincel, a sandy beach with a Blue Flag award for cleanliness. There are also many small, hidden coves accessible by boat or foot.

Typical Food
Stara Novalja shares the delicious culinary heritage of Pag and Dalmatia. Some highlights include:

Paški sir (Pag cheese): A famous hard sheep cheese, salty and flavorful, aged to perfection.

Lamb (Paška janjetina): Especially roasted lamb, often cooked under a "peka" (bell-shaped lid covered in coals).

Seafood: Fresh fish, squid, mussels, and octopus—grilled or served as salad or stew (like brudet).

Olive oil and wine: Locally produced and used generously in cooking.

Fritule: Small Dalmatian doughnuts flavored with brandy and citrus.

Activities
Despite its quiet nature, Stara Novalja offers plenty to do:

On the water:
Swimming & snorkeling in calm, crystal-clear bays

Paddleboarding & kayaking

Scuba diving – nearby dive sites include underwater Roman ruins and shipwrecks

Boating – rent a boat to explore hidden coves

On land:
Hiking & cycling: Trails with views of the sea and rocky landscapes

Wine & cheese tasting: Visit local producers

Olive groves & cultural tours: Learn traditional methods of olive oil production

Day trips: Visit the nearby Novalja (for shopping or nightlife) or Pag Town (for history and lace-making)
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