STAGE 7 KRK CAMINO - Baška - to Kornić (with a bonus walk to Krk)

The final stage of the Camino! It actually ends in the small village of Kornić but because I am staying in Krk I added the bonus section to finish there, so an extra 5km or so. I think this is fitting so the Camino is a full circle, Krk to Krk.

We saved the best ‘til last. This is probably the most demanding stage of the 7, but in my opinion it’s the most impressive of them all, with fantastic views. The main difficulty is the very steep climb from sea level up to 500m, to reach the karst hill tops above Baška. But I actually prefer this intense boost rather than a slower uphill trudge, it’s easier for me to climb it in a quick flurry of activity (make sure you start early, I would not want to do this part in the afternoon sun).

You start in the lovely seaside town of Baška, nestled in a green and verdant valley between high karst hills, the sides prettily covered in pine and deciduous trees, and notable for its large beach crescent beach and harbour, with views of rocky islands across the water. From here you head inland following the river until you start the very precipitous climb up to the peaks above. You will go up through grassy and woody rocky paths, dappled with shade. But as you get higher the trees gradually thin out and the landscape slowly changes into barren limestone karst cliffs and crags. Keep going. This is steep and exhausting. Pause, catch your breath, and enjoy the views that reveal themselves.

Once at the rocky and windswept top you are rewarded with stunning vistas, Baška and the islands near it are laid out before you. Carry on along the ridge line and as you reach the very tallest summits you can wonder at a full 360 panorama - Baška, Kvarner Bay, neighbouring islands Rab, Cres and Lošinj. The highest summit is the tallest point in Krk - Obzova at 569 m. Amazing stuff, the whole island is laid out before you to admire.

The plateau is karst and so uneven and rocky underfoot so be careful. After a long walk over the tops and plateau, admiring the stone walls and structures for sheep herding, you will begin a long stone-strewn descent to the bay around Punat and the distinctive circular Košljun island, and beyond this Krk town clearly visible. The path is not so clear at points so be careful in picking your way through and down.

Eventually after a long winding descending route you will emerge on the coast. The Camino trail takes a diversion to Punat (to be honest, rather underwhelming following the previous fabulous views on the tops), and then you will follow the bay round and then up to Kornic. The Camino officially ends here, at a church on a hilltop, there is a bar next to it for refreshments!

I added an extra walk along a boring road to get to Krk town, unfortunately there doesn’t seem to be a proper walking trail so I had noisy traffic as my company for the very final plod to the finish in Krk town!

I would categorise this walk as demanding. Quite tiring, and long. The initial climb is not for the faint-hearted, with sheer lung, muscle and willpower required. But I feel it is all worth it, what a hike!!! A fitting Camino climax.