The Cetina River Spring (Vrela Cetine) is a breathtaking natural marvel in Croatia and serves as the origin of the Cetina River. Nestled near the village of Cetina, just 10km from the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina, this site offers unmatched beauty and serenity.
Flowing over 100km, the Cetina River eventually meets the Adriatic Sea at its mouth in the town of Omiš.
Also known as the "Eye of the Earth" or the "Blue Eye", this spring is an essential source of drinking water for thousands of residents in Split-Dalmatia County and Šibenik-Knin County.
With its vibrant blue hues and crystal-clear waters, the spring has become a favored spot for photography enthusiasts, particularly those with drones, and is a unique destination in Croatia.
Here’s a complete guide to help you plan your visit to this stunning site:
The spring is situated on the outskirts of Cetina village, close to the Bosnia and Herzegovina border. It’s a 15-minute drive from Vrlika and about 30 minutes from Knin.
Positioned at the base of the Dinara mountain range, the spring lies along the edge of the Pag Fields, approximately 100km inland from the coast where the Cetina River flows into the sea at Omiš.
Although divers have explored depths of 115m (approximately 508ft), the bottom has yet to be reached, leaving the true depth of this enigmatic spring unknown.
Yes, entry to the spring is free of charge. There are a few parking spaces available right beside the site, and parking remains free.
The Cetina River Spring spans an area of 29.81 hectares and comprises several karst springs. The three main springs are:
Veliko Vrilo
Vukovića Vrilo
Batića Vrilo
Formed at the foothills of the Dinara Mountain Range, the spring emerges where permeable marl meets impermeable limestone, creating its distinct blue-green shades and crystal-clear waters.
A raised wooden viewing platform provides visitors with a spectacular vantage point. An information board outlines key details about the site, and steps lead down to the edge of the spring for a closer view.
Nearby, the Pravoslavna Crkva Vaznesenja Gospodnjeg, a picturesque, adds charm to the surroundings.
Swimming in the spring is prohibited due to its importance as a primary drinking water source for local communities. Signs around the site clearly indicate this restriction. Please respect these rules to preserve the spring’s pristine quality.
While professional divers have explored the spring in the past to study its geological structure, diving is not currently permitted.
The best way to reach the Cetina River Spring is by car. From Split, the drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Šibenik, it’s roughly an hour’s journey.
Using Google Maps is straightforward; simply search for “Cetina River Spring Blue Eye” or the nearby “Pravoslavna Crkva Vaznesenja Gospodnjeg” for directions.
Trains from Split to Knin take about two hours. From Knin, a 30-minute taxi ride is required to reach the spring.
There are no direct buses to the spring. Travel by bus would involve multiple changes, making it a lengthy option.
If you’re passionate about nature or travel photography, particularly drone photography, the Cetina River Spring is a must-see.
However, note that apart from the spring and its surroundings, there isn’t much else to do on-site. Visitors typically spend around 30 minutes exploring and capturing its beauty. For those traveling without a car, the journey may feel long and complex.
This spot works best as a detour if you’re traveling between Split and Plitvice Lakes and can include it in your itinerary with a private transfer.
On cloudy days, the vivid blue and green colors of the spring may appear less vibrant unless viewed from above, where the magic of its hues truly comes alive.
Drone photography offers the best perspective for capturing the spring's vibrant colors. Additionally, the nearby and the surrounding mountain range provide excellent photo opportunities.
The Cetina River Spring is a remarkable hidden gem, perfect for adventurers with a love for nature photography or off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Although reaching it without a car can be challenging, its stunning beauty and unique setting make it a memorable addition to any Croatia itinerary.
Diver Explore Stunning Cetina River Cave (Underwater Exploration)
Video by Caters Clips