We wake to the sound of gentle rain tapping on Vins roof. It is in complete contrast to the almighty thunder that lurks above. Have we missed the storm in our sleep or is the storm about to begin, that is the question? The good thing about our cosy campsite is the fact we have nothing to put away. No awning, chairs or table, so it is on a positive note we depart Slamni.

Foot to the floor as we head up hill and bumble over to the main road. Its not long and we are crossing Krk bridge back to the mainland (no toll charge to mainland).  We take a right and follow the coastal road south bound. The dark clouds are still circling above and occasionally a big blob of rain hits the screen. As we look right Krk island is just across the water and it feels within reaching distance. From the mainland you see the baron and bare rock with zero life or activity. Its hard to believe that the west side of the island is so lush and full of character.

We hug the coast all the way to Novi Vinodokski were we pull over for a fresh croissant and coffee. It looks quite a nice old town for a wander but no sooner had the thought popped in our head and the rains arrived. It bucketed it down with flash floods every where. We finish our croissants and coffee then Craig teaches me Croatian in two minutes. “Its simple” he says. “Just stick ska on the end of everything and if that doesn’t work, try ski”. Even if its not right, it certainly sounds pretty good! 

Novi Vinodokski to Senj is a wonderful coastal drive. Great roads, little traffic and superb views with plenty lay-bys.  Krk island to one side and the mountain slopes of Velebit range to the other. The landscape unfolds in a series of undulating hills intersected by deep ravines carved by mountain rivers that occasionally still roar after heavy rains. The forests slopes are carpeted with wildflowers and provide fodder for tufty haired goats.

At Senj, we stretch our legs with a walk around Nehaj castle. We feel the full force of the cool bora winds as it blasts through the mountain gaps and down the slope. It certainly has a blast.

Another 20 miles along the coast and we pass Jablanac, the depature point for Rab island. There are so many islands just off Croatia that you are spoilt for choice. We opt to spend a few days on the island of Pag, so we skip Jablanac and head for Prizna just a few miles further down. We pull in to the ticket booth, pay 220 kona for 1 motorhome and 2 people. Then at lightening speed to zoom down to the port and on to the ferry (just like hopping on to the Norwegian ferries)! Phew, that was good timing. 

Its a gloriously sunny day and we have a good feeling about Pag…see you in a couple of days folks!