This is a completely different experience

Involving one of the most beautiful places in Croatia: the unspoilt island of Cres, with over a thousand plant species and more than 100 breeding bird species across the island. The most famous of these is the Eurasian Griffon Vulture around which the island’s entire biodiversity revolves.

The Eco Centre is the vision of one man who believed that by saving the vultures from extinction, the island’s traditions and heritage will also be preserved. The Centre rescues and rehabilitates the vultures when injured. In addition to the largest vulture sanctuary of this kind in Europe, there is an educational programme for children focused on nature, labyrinths in the forest and eco-trails of differing durations across varying terrain.

Located in Beli, an exquisite little hilltop village in the north of the island with around 25 permanent residents this is a tranquil place, all the more beautiful for being a little isolated.

Living the volunteer experience: Volunteers come from all over the world. The house is set in a beautiful spot and meals are taken in the main house. Volunteers also have a toaster and tea/coffee making facilities. There are a few well appointed yet simple air-conditioned log cabins in the grounds, sleeping two to four people, with shower and toilet.

Volunteers receive three meals a day and duties may include clearing and marking the eco-trails, helping clear ponds, feeding animals, showing visitors the exhibition, rescuing a griffon somewhere or working in the small gift shop. Individuals, couples and families are all welcome. Children’s tasks usually involve feeding smaller animals or tending to the butterfly garden or children’s labyrinth. Usually volunteers work up to six hours with the rest of the day free to explore the island or visit Pod Beli, a beautiful beach, ten minutes walk away. The amount of free time varies but every 7 days there is a day off.

There is a taverna-bar next to the Eco Centre and the nearest shops are in Cres Town, about 25 minutes drive away. A car is essential.

Getting there: We offer the volunteer experience for periods of 7 to 21 days from 1 May to 15 October and include return flights, the volunteer stay including accommodation, full board and self-drive car. We provide driving directions and ferry times. You need to buy ferry tickets at the port. If you wish to extend your stay in Croatia after the volunteer experience, we can arrange this.

The Eco Centre relies entirely on donations and for every booking, we will give €50 to the centre.

7 night prices from £499 per person based on two adults sharing on full board, with a Group A hire car and flights from Gatwick to Pula.