Hotel Pinija, Petrčane

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Tag: Congress & Event Center Zadar

Sustainable Tourism in Practice: Hotel Pinija Combines Comfort and Care for Nature

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In a time when the world faces the challenges of climate change and a growing need to preserve natural resources, Hotel Pinija in Petrčane near Zadar demonstrates how sustainability can successfully merge with a top-quality tourist experience. Here, sustainability is not just a concept but a way of doing business and living — implemented through everyday practices, investments, and collaboration with the local community.

Year-Round and Balanced Tourism

For years, Hotel Pinija has been successfully contributing to the goals of the Croatian Sustainable Tourism Development Strategy 2030. Located in the heart of the Zadar region, the hotel promotes year-round and regionally balanced tourism through a diverse offer of themed programs and activities.

Seasonally tailored packages — including wellness in winter, sports programs in spring and autumn, and family and recreational packages in summer, complemented by seasonal gastronomy and cultural-entertainment activities — create a unique experience for every guest.

Specialized forms of tourism, such as wellness, sports, cultural, and enogastronomic tourism, further enrich the destination. Meanwhile, the Congress & Event Center Zadar enables the development of business and congress tourism throughout the year — from seminars and team building to incentive trips.

The hotel also organizes private events such as weddings, baptisms, and various receptions with customized packages and professional support. This approach fosters strong synergy with the local community by connecting guests with cultural routes, wine roads, and excursions available year-round.

Environmental Care and Innovative Solutions

Waste Management and Recycling

Hotel Pinija has implemented the advanced Orwak MULTI 9020S system for sorting and baling packaging waste (cardboard, plastic, aluminum), significantly reducing waste volume and increasing recycling rates.

According to a case study by Orwak, “Orwak baler creates mini recycling station at Pinija first-class hotel in Croatia,” Hotel Pinija is one of the few hotels in Croatia that uses this system as a mini recycling station within the facility.

Thanks to its own food composter, Hotel Pinija prevents food waste and closes the sustainability loop. Food from buffet meals is used for staff, while surplus is composted. The resulting compost is then provided to local farmers, creating a true example of a circular economy and minimizing waste.

Energy Efficiency and Innovative Systems

Hotel Pinija uses one of the most innovative heating and cooling systems in Croatia — heat pumps that draw energy from the sea.

According to the article “Sea as an Energy Source: Energy-Efficient Hotel Pinija with Daikin Heat Pumps” published on Dom na kvadrat, Daikin heat pumps at Hotel Pinija extract energy from the sea, providing optimal climate control without noise or visible units, with maximum energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact.

The system provides heating, cooling, ventilation, and hot water across more than 10,000 m² of hotel space, combining comfort and sustainability. In addition, the hotel uses a biological wastewater treatment system, further demonstrating its commitment to environmental protection.

Elimination of Single-Use Plastics and Eco-Friendly Alternatives

The hotel is gradually phasing out single-use plastics and introducing eco-friendly alternatives, from biodegradable materials to reusable products. Consistent application of these practices reduces the environmental impact of tourism and raises awareness among guests and staff.

Sustainable Gastronomy and Local Suppliers

Although the scale of operations requires a wider network of suppliers, Hotel Pinija actively collaborates with local farmers and wineries to support the regional economy and offer guests authentic Dalmatian flavors.

The menu at Lanterna Restaurant features products from renowned local producers:

  • OPG Butić – traditional Dalmatian prosciutto
  • OPG Gligora – premium island cheese from Pag
  • Kraljevski Vinogradi, Velebna, Degarra, and Fiolić – local wineries representing the richness of Zadar’s wine region

This approach reduces the carbon footprint of transportation while providing guests with an authentic gastronomic experience — a perfect blend of tradition, freshness, and sustainability.

People and Education as the Foundation of Sustainability

Hotel Pinija believes that sustainability starts with people. Employees regularly undergo training in sustainable practices, energy efficiency, and waste reduction. Guest feedback is carefully analyzed and integrated as a tool for continuous improvement of service quality.

This approach fosters a culture of awareness, responsibility, and motivation, where every employee actively contributes to the goals of sustainable business. The human factor is what distinguishes declarative from genuine sustainability.

Continuous Investment and Resilience

Since 2001, Hotel Pinija has systematically invested in the renovation and modernization of accommodation, gastronomy, and additional services. By 2008, the hotel had achieved a four-star rating, and the recent construction of the Congress & Event Center Zadar has further strengthened its year-round business offer.

Through ongoing investments, infrastructure improvements, and employee development, the hotel successfully builds resilience to market changes while setting high standards for sustainable business in tourism.

Hotel Pinija – A Model of Sustainable Tourism in Practice

Hotel Pinija proves that sustainability is not just a concept but a practical way of operating with long-term results. From careful resource management and waste reduction, to supporting local producers and responsible gastronomy, to investing in employee education and green infrastructure — every decision is made with the future in mind.

Through this commitment, Hotel Pinija not only contributes to the preservation of natural and cultural heritage in the Zadar region but also inspires other tourism operators to follow the same path toward a greener, more responsible tourism model.

Book your perfect family vacation now: reservations@hotel-pinija.hr

See you at Hotel Pinija!

Congress & Event Center Zadar: Venues, Setups & Technical Support for Your Business Events

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From Space to Technology – Planning the Perfect Event

After discovering Hotel Pinija and its Congress & Event Center Zadar as an ideal destination for business events on the Adriatic coast, it’s time to explore the details – the halls, seating arrangements, and advanced technical features that make every event seamless.

Located right by the sea, just a short drive from Zadar, our congress center combines state-of-the-art technology with an inspiring Mediterranean atmosphere. Whether you’re organizing a conference, gala dinner, corporate presentation, or an intimate meeting, each hall provides a unique experience and a professional setting.

Donat Hall — Glass Walls and a Panoramic Sea View

The spacious Donat Hall (348 m²), located on the first floor of the Congress Center, is ideal for large conferences, gala evenings, and high-end presentations.

What makes this venue truly special are its floor-to-ceiling glass walls that flood the space with natural daylight and open up breathtaking views of the sea and the Zadar archipelago. Even attendees seated at the back feel a connection with the surrounding landscape, creating a bright, elegant, and inspiring atmosphere — perfect for events that call for a touch of prestige and emotion.

But Donat is more than just visually impressive — it’s also technologically advanced. The centerpiece of the hall is a large LED video wall providing crystal-clear visuals and perfect visibility from every angle. An advanced camera tracking system follows the speaker automatically, allowing for high-quality live streaming or recording of any presentation.

Exceptional acoustics and audio clarity are ensured by a professional sound system with wireless microphones and precise speaker placement — equally suitable for speeches, panel discussions, or live performances.

A mobile multimedia station with modern connectors allows for quick and easy laptop or device connections, while an LCD info screen in the foyer displays welcome messages and event schedules.

Using SDVoE signal transmission technology, Donat can be connected to the Forum Hall or external displays in real time — without any loss in image or sound quality. Meanwhile, the technical team operates everything from a central control room equipped with touchscreen panels and multiview screens.

Seating capacities:

  • Theatre: up to 355 persons
  • Classroom: up to 155 persons
  • Banquet: up to 220 persons
  • Cocktail: up to 260 persons

The result is a venue that impresses visually, technically, and experientially — a space where every presentation, conference, or business event gains an extra dimension of professionalism and prestige.

Forum Hall — Flexibility, Connectivity & Multifunctional Design

The Forum Hall perfectly complements the concept of the Congress & Event Center Zadar. Designed as a versatile, modular space, it easily adapts to different types of events — from conferences and workshops to breakout sessions and corporate meetings.

Thanks to its movable partitions, Forum can be divided into up to four smaller meeting rooms, allowing multiple sessions to take place simultaneously or creating a more intimate atmosphere as needed.

Technically, the Forum offers the same high standard as Donat. It’s equipped with a professional projection system, premium sound equipment, wireless microphones, and an integrated lighting and presentation control system. The LAV Projekt technology enables full audio-visual connectivity between Forum and Donat, ensuring real-time streaming and coordination across spaces.

With its excellent acoustics and modular layout, Forum is suitable for conferences, training sessions, cocktail events, and even car presentations, as vehicles can be driven directly into the hall — making it a top choice for automotive launches and product unveilings.

Forum Hall is particularly suitable for workshops, corporate trainings, and panel discussions. In its full configuration, it can accommodate a larger number of participants with a comfortable seating arrangement. The neutral interior tones, acoustic wall panels, and modern lighting design create a professional yet pleasant atmosphere that encourages focus, collaboration, and productivity.

Seating capacities:

  • Theatre: up to 295 persons
  • Classroom: up to 128 persons
  • Banquet: up to 160 persons
  • Cocktail: up to 200 persons

Forum’s neutral tones, acoustic wall panels, and modern lighting create a professional yet comfortable environment that fosters focus, creativity, and collaboration. As with all our halls, a dedicated technical support team is available before and during each event to ensure everything runs flawlessly.

Additional Meeting Rooms in Hotel Pinija

In addition to the Donat and Forum halls, Hotel Pinija offers three more meeting spaces within the main hotel building — ideal for smaller gatherings, workshops, and business meetings.

  • Riva Hall (172 m²): accommodates up to 150 participants in theatre setup; ideal for lectures, training sessions, and mid-sized conferences.
  • Foša Hall (87 m²): intimate and comfortable, suitable for up to 70 people — perfect for presentations and smaller workshops.
  • Business Corner (20 m²): ideal for private meetings (up to 12 people), consultations, or online sessions in a quiet, professional environment.

All meeting spaces are equipped with modern presentation systems, high-speed internet, and flexible seating arrangements, making Hotel Pinija a destination that supports both large-scale conferences and focused business gatherings.

Coffee Breaks, Receptions & Networking by the Sea

In addition to its state-of-the-art halls and technical equipment, organizing a business event at Hotel Pinija also includes thoughtfully planned coffee breaks, receptions, and formal gatherings.

The outdoor terrace of the Congress & Event Center Zadar adds a special touch to every event — an elegant setting with stunning sea views, ideal for coffee breaks, welcome drinks, or evening cocktails at sunset. In warmer months, the terrace becomes a natural extension of the event space, balancing the business agenda with the relaxed Mediterranean vibe.

Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s four restaurants — the main buffet restaurant and three à la carte venues, each offering a unique blend of Mediterranean tradition and contemporary cuisine.

For formal and informal networking, six bars across the property — including the stylish Pine Lobby Bar, Pool Bar, and Bura Bar — provide the perfect backdrop for relaxed conversations after a productive day.

The culinary team at Hotel Pinija customizes each menu to suit your event — from light snacks and refreshing drinks to elaborate gala dinners. Every detail, from service to décor, reflects professionalism and the warm hospitality for which Dalmatia is renowned.

Plan Your Next Business Event by the Sea

Whether you’re planning a large conference, corporate meeting, product launch, or exclusive gala dinner, Hotel Pinija and Congress & Event Center Zadar offer everything you need for a successful and memorable event.

Combining cutting-edge facilities, expert technical support, authentic Mediterranean cuisine, and a stunning seaside location, we create a perfect harmony between professionalism and relaxation.

Let our experienced event team turn your next business gathering into an inspiring and unforgettable experience.

Book your date and plan an event to remember:
mice@hotel-pinija.hr | events@hotel-pinija-hr

Winter Magic by the Sea – Weddings and Christmas Receptions at Hotel Pinija

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Winter in Dalmatia brings a unique atmosphere – calmer sea, quiet sunsets, and a sense of cozy warmth within the hotel’s elegant event halls. As nature slows down, one of the most beautiful times of the year begins at Hotel Pinija near Zadar – a season of holidays, celebrations, and unforgettable gatherings.

This is the perfect period for creating lasting memories – whether you are celebrating love at a winter wedding or rewarding your team’s achievements with a Christmas reception by the sea. Winter months have become increasingly popular for weddings, as the romantic ambiance, sparkling décor, and fairy-tale quiet of the Dalmatian coast provide the perfect backdrop for a dream “I do.” At the same time, December is the time when many companies host special dinners and festive gatherings, and Hotel Pinija traditionally becomes the center of these elegant celebrations.

Whether you are planning an intimate ceremony or a joyful holiday party, Hotel Pinija combines elegance, professionalism, and the warmth of a welcoming host – offering experiences that are remembered for a lifetime.

When Winter Silence Becomes the Backdrop of Your Perfect Story

Imagine your dream day with the glow of candlelight, the horizon of the Adriatic Sea, and an elegant event hall with breathtaking sea views. Hotel Pinija near Zadar offers a unique winter wedding experience, now with a special 30% discount.

Enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic and stunning sunsets, which take on a dramatic tone during the winter months. Located on a natural peninsula surrounded by a pine forest, the hotel provides a natural setting that enhances every moment of your ceremony.

Winter months are perfect for couples seeking a more intimate yet equally magical celebration. The hotel’s professional team takes care of every detail – from décor inspired by festive tones to exquisite culinary offerings. With various menu options, accommodation for guests – Hotel Pinija has 305 rooms spread across three wings, many with balconies and sea views – and the full organization of the ceremony and celebration in elegant, climate-controlled halls, every wedding becomes a story told with warmth, elegance, and a touch of Dalmatian charm. Love deserves to be celebrated by the sea, under the sunset, in winter’s serene embrace.

Send an Inquiry

Christmas Receptions – Thank Your Team in a Magical Winter Atmosphere

The festive season at Hotel Pinija fills the halls with warmth, laughter, and a celebratory spirit. A Christmas reception is the perfect opportunity to thank your team for their hard work while enjoying an elegant space with sea views and breathtaking sunsets.

Each hall is carefully arranged to create an intimate yet representative atmosphere – perfect for small teams or large corporate celebrations. The professional hotel team takes care of every detail, from layout and décor to music and lighting, ensuring that every moment is perfectly organized and unforgettable.

At Hotel Pinija, a Christmas reception becomes more than just an occasion – it is an experience of togetherness, celebration of achievements, and a moment of gratitude, where every participant feels valued and the elegance of the space, along with the sea view and sunset, adds a touch of magic.

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Experience Winter in Elegance and Celebration

While winter’s quiet reigns outside, Hotel Pinija is filled with warmth, smiles, and the sounds of celebrations.

Reserve your date for a winter wedding or Christmas reception today and let our team turn every moment into an unforgettable experience.

Hotel Pinija, Petrčane – Your winter destination for unforgettable weddings and Christmas events.

Book your winter event today: events@hotel-pinija.hr

See you at Hotel Pinija!

Your New Business Destination on the Adriatic: Hotel Pinija and Congress & Event Center Zadar

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Located on a peaceful peninsula in Petrčane, surrounded by dense pine forests and crystal-clear sea, Hotel Pinija has been a recognized destination for relaxation in Dalmatia for decades. The hotel offers 305 modern rooms, a rich gastronomic experience across multiple restaurants and bars, and facilities that combine relaxation with active leisure. The wellness and spa center, indoor and outdoor pools, and fitness area are perfect for rejuvenation, while sports enthusiasts can enjoy tennis, mini-golf, cycling, and various recreational activities. Thanks to its unique location by the sea and proximity to Zadar and Nin, the hotel is an ideal destination for family vacations, romantic getaways, or weekend retreats in nature.

Continuous Investment and Infrastructure Upgrades

Moreover, Hotel Pinija has long been synonymous for continuous investment and service enhancement. Throughout its rich history, the hotel has undergone a series of significant infrastructural and content upgrades aimed at providing guests with the highest quality experience—from modernizing accommodation facilities and developing wellness and spa offerings to renovating restaurants and other supporting amenities.

One of the latest investments involved the renovation of the lobby and reception, ensuring the hotel welcomed its first guests of the season in style. Among its most significant and valuable investments, however, is the newly opened Congress & Event Center Zadar, marking a step forward in positioning Hotel Pinija as a destination that, alongside top-tier relaxation and leisure offerings, provides modern, multifunctional business facilities.

Congress & Event Center Zadar – The Heart of Business Events

In addition to offering the perfect environment for leisure, Hotel Pinija is increasingly positioning itself in the business tourism sector. Thanks to its proximity to Zadar and the international airport, as well as the brand-new Congress & Event Center Zadar, Hotel Pinija now has the potential to become one of the most attractive congress destinations in Dalmatia.

The Congress & Event Center Zadar, located within Hotel Pinija, offers modern and multifunctional halls suitable for conferences, seminars, gala dinners, and other business events. The center features an innovative circular design and two main halls:

  • Donat Hall spans 348 m² and can accommodate up to 355 participants. Its circular, modern design with large glass walls allows for abundant natural light and spectacular panoramic views of the sea and the Zadar archipelago. Ideal for large congresses and conferences, the hall is equipped with state-of-the-art technical support, including an LED video wall, microphone set, professional sound system, and wireless internet, with the possibility of additional technical assistance as needed.
  • Forum Hall covers 283 m² and can host up to 295 participants. This multifunctional space features movable partitions, allowing flexible adaptation into smaller rooms for meetings and seminars with fewer participants. The hall is equipped with an LED video wall, microphone set, sound system, and wireless internet, with additional technical support available as required.

In addition to the main halls, the center offers smaller event spaces within the hotel:

  • Riva Hall – 172 m², located on the first floor of Hotel Pinija, suitable for lectures, seminars, and other professional events, with a capacity of up to 150 people.
  • Foša Hall – 87 m², situated in the outdoor section of the hotel, ideal for smaller conferences, meetings, or seminars, with a capacity of up to 70 people.
  • Business Corner – a 20 m² space within the hotel, perfect for small meetings, consultations, or online calls, accommodating up to 12 participants.

These spaces combine an intimate atmosphere with functionality, making Hotel Pinija an ideal venue for events of all sizes.

Restaurants and Bars – Perfect for Breaks and Networking

Hotel Pinija, in addition to offering modern conference halls, also provides a variety of restaurants and bars that perfectly complement business events. Restaurants Mediteran, Lanterna, Golden Restaurant & Bar, Kantun, as well as Pine Bar, Pool Bar, Bura Beach Bar, and More Caffe Bar, are ideal spaces for:

  • coffee breaks and inter-meeting pauses
  • private events and parties
  • team building activities and breakout sessions
  • pre-dinner and welcome cocktails

Located within the hotel, these venues provide both convenience and an inspiring setting, ensuring every congress, seminar, or business meeting becomes a complete experience for all participants.

Activities and Destination

Situated near Zadar, Hotel Pinija offers easy access to the historic cities of Nin and Zadar, as well as the national parks Kornati, Plitvice Lakes, Paklenica, and Krka. The location provides the perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions, ideal for business events, team building, and active leisure.

The hotel offers numerous sports and recreational activities, including morning walks, cycling, tennis, mini-golf, and table tennis, as well as organized boat and land excursions throughout the Zadar region, islands, national parks, and nature parks. Guests can also enjoy gastro and wine tours and outdoor adventures.

For team building and entertainment, the hotel offers DJ and party programs, live music performances, and other activities, ensuring every business event becomes an unforgettable experience.

Plan your next successful event with us: mice@hotel-pinija.hr

See you at Hotel Pinija!

August at Golden Restaurant & Bar – Sunset Vibes, Flavors & Live Beats

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August at Golden Restaurant & Bar, part of Hotel Pinija, brings a vibrant calendar packed with entertainment, rhythm, and refined tastes. Set right by the sea, this seaside gem is the place to be for anyone seeking sunset views, signature cocktails, and creative fusion cuisine under the stars.

Every week, from Monday to Thursday, enjoy Beach Lounge Sessions starting at 4 PM and Golden Evenings from 8 PM, featuring live DJs, acoustic sets, and smooth jazz, perfectly paired with refreshing drinks and views of the sun dipping into the Adriatic.

August Weekly Highlights

Right from the start of the month, the lineup is full of flavor and rhythm.

  • August 1st at 9 PM – Groove Mania Show: a high-energy dance performance with funky tunes.
  • August 2nd at 9 PM – Glamour House Project: a classy DJ set enhanced with live saxophone and guitar.
  • August 8th at 9 PM – Noche Cubana: Cuban salsa meets cocktails in a fiery night, with a full Gringos Bar takeover.
  • August 9th at 9 PM – Cabaret Style Dance Show: glamorous, bold, and full of vintage flair.

Pair the music with fresh sushi platters, fusion bowls & bites, and cocktails like our signature Golden Sunset, created to reflect the glow of the evening sky.

Golden Vibes Festival (August 14th – 17th)

A standout in the summer calendar, the Golden Vibes Festival delivers four nights of pure seaside magic.

  • August 14th at 9 PM – Festival opens with a spectacular Fireshow by the sea
  • August 15th:
    – Tropical Bongos by Dos Marineros at 4 PM
    – Cabaret Style Dance Show at 9 PM
  • August 16th at 9 PM – Rhythm & Heat: an explosion of sound and movement featuring DJs, dancers, and flames
  • August 17th:
    – Apres Sun Brunch at 11 AM – fresh bites, chilled drinks & soft beats
    – Golden Festival Finale at 9 PM – sunset dancers and deep grooves to close out the vibe

All events are set on our open-air terrace with a front-row view of the Zadar sunset, complemented by Asian specialties from the kitchen and ice-cold signature drinks.

Late Summer Events

The celebration doesn’t end with the festival — August closes in style with:

  • August 22nd at 9 PM – Golden Latin Fusion: spicy beats and a live dance show
  • August 23rd at 9 PM – Glamour House Project returns with new summer sounds
  • August 24th at 11 AM – Apres Sun Brunch by the sea
  • August 29th from 4 PM – Golden Finale: all-day DJ marathon, golden cocktails, and the final sunset goodbye of the season

Taste. Dance. Watch the Sunset.

From colorful sushi rolls and modern Asian flavors to handcrafted cocktails, every evening is designed to delight your senses.

📸 July Moments Gallery
Want a sneak peek of the Golden vibe? Explore our July photo gallery and discover the atmosphere that made Golden the place to be.

See you at Hotel Pinija!

Golden Restaurant & Bar – the new urban hotspot for bold flavors and summer vibes on the Zadar coast

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Terrace – Congress & Event Center Zadar | Grand Opening: July 4 at 8:00 PM

Summer 2025 in Zadar is kicking off in style! The grand opening of Golden Restaurant & Bar, a brand-new seaside destination for exotic cuisine, refreshing cocktails and feel-good energy, will take place on July 4 at 8:00 PM on the spacious terrace of the Congress & Event Center Zadar.

Exciting Evening at Golden Restaurant & Bar!

We are looking forward to a special performance by guest DJ Daddy Cool, an electric violin show by the talented Polina Shooke, a dance performance by Polina Mytko, and an impressive fire show that will light up the night. Enjoy refreshing drinks featuring Astoria sparkling wine, which will also be served as a welcome drink. For extra fun and unforgettable memories, we offer a photo point with an illuminated wing wall, a 360° camera, and a prize game. The evening will end with a spectacular fireworks display.

Join us and experience a unique atmosphere!

Asian-inspired cuisine with a modern twist

Golden Restaurant & Bar also introduces a fresh and contemporary concept with dishes inspired by Asian flavors – perfect for guests looking for something different, light and bold. Highlights from the menu include:

  • Spicy Futomaki Selection – a colorful and daring sushi set for true lovers of intense flavors
  • Miso Spicy Soup – a traditional Japanese soup elevated with salmon, sriracha and sesame oil
  • Dragon Roll – a combination of crispy textures and rich flavors with teriyaki and tobiko
  • Pistachio Cake – a light yet indulgent dessert to round off the evening

Alongside a thoughtfully crafted food menu, Golden Restaurant & Bar offers an attractive cocktail list and an evening ambiance perfect for relaxing with music and sunset views. It’s a place where gastronomy meets good vibes – a spot you’ll want to return to.

Daytime chill, evening entertainment

From July 4 onward, Golden Restaurant & Bar becomes the go-to place for daily DJ sessions and evening shows. Starting at 4 PM with lounge music and continuing from 9 PM with live performances, the entertainment lineup includes local favorites such as DJ Ante Dujić, DJ Filip Rušin and DJ Sandro, as well as themed nights like Noche Cubana, Glamour House Project, Cabaret, jazz evenings, acoustic sets, dance performances and fire shows.

Where cuisine, music and summer emotions meet – Golden Restaurant & Bar is the name of the season. Join us on July 4 and be part of Zadar’s most exciting summer story!

See you at Hotel Pinija!