Kožino

Kožino is a coastal settlement within the City of Zadar, roughly ten kilometres northwest of Zadar’s historic centre and between Diklo and Petrčane. Its character is quieter than that of a large Dalmatian resort: small coves, apartments and modern villas line the shore, while olive growing and vineyards still recall the village’s older rural identity. The local landmark is the 16th-century Church of St Michael, whose silhouette rises above the settlement. Rather than revolving around one broad beach, Kožino’s waterfront is divided among bathing areas such as Kožino Primorje, Peruštine and Bartul, rewarding visitors who explore the coast on foot. Peruštine has particular local significance because its pine wood is regarded as part of Kožino’s natural heritage and is being considered in municipal planning as a green recreation area. Kožino also works without a car: Liburnija’s route 132 links Zadar with Petrčane and serves several stops through the village. This setting makes it possible to swim close to one’s accommodation and still travel into central Zadar for an evening walk.

Although Kožino belongs to the City of Zadar, its low-rise waterfront and village scale feel distinct from the urban centre. The principal historic marker is the 16th-century Church of St Michael, while nearby olives and vines preserve a visible link with the settlement’s agricultural past. Accommodation now consists largely of apartments and villas spread between the main road and the sea. Peruštine pine wood carries special meaning for residents, and the City of Zadar, Zadar County and the local council have identified its long-term protection as one of Kožino’s development priorities.