Discover Bilice on Lake Prokljan

Bilice lies on the shore of Lake Prokljan in the lower Krka River system. The waterscape and cultural sites shape the area, including distinctive water conditions, historic buildings and routes offering views of Bilice and Prukljan.

The lake and protected landscape

Prokljan is a cryptodepression: the lake’s surface is above sea level, while its bed lies below it. The water layers also differ: the water below is salty, while the surface water is fresh. Bilice therefore lies beside a lake whose elevation and water composition together define its geographical character.

A narrow channel connects the lake to the sea; it leads toward the port of Šibenik. Vrulje and Stubalj are described as Bilice’s most important bays for mooring boats. The part of Lake Prokljan along the shore of Bilice is included in the protected significant landscape of the Krka River. This landscape has been protected since September 1968. The lake, lower river system and channel are distinct yet interconnected features of the local water geography.

Historic sites from different centuries

At Dedića Punta in Bilice, on the southeastern shore of Prukljan, lie the protected remains of an early Christian basilica dating from the 6th century. On Pomišljaj Hill stands the 15th-century Church of the Assumption of Mary, also known as Our Lady of Pomišljaj. From there, you can overlook Bilice and Prukljan. The two buildings represent different centuries and different aspects of the local cultural heritage.

The island of Stipanac in Lake Prokljan also preserves traces of the past: the remains of an old church dedicated to Saint Stephen are located there. In Bilice and the surrounding area, Stipanac is also known as “Gavan’s court.” The basilica, church and island are different points of interest for anyone interested in the history and named cultural sites of the area.

Walking, cycling and views

Debeljak Hill above Bilice is used for walking and offers views of Bilice and Prukljan. A cycling route follows roads along the lake, passing through fields, olive groves and vineyards before reaching the Pomišljaj viewpoint. The two options differ in their routes: Debeljak is above Bilice, while the cycling route follows the lakeshore and leads to a viewpoint.

If you plan to cycle the route, check the conditions before setting off, as they may change. The destinations described offer different points of reference: the view from Debeljak Hill and the Pomišljaj viewpoint at the end of the cycling route.

Local specialities and getting there

Prukljan specialities include eel, freshwater sardines, canal mussels, sea bass and gilt-head bream. Ribarska noć takes place every summer in Bilice, giving locals and visitors the chance to try freshly prepared Prukljan specialities. The date and format may vary, so check the specific date before your trip.

Bilice is connected by bus to Zagreb, Šibenik, Zadar and Split. As transport connections and timetables may change, check the current timetable for your travel date. This will help you coordinate your journey with the places and events in Bilice that interest you.

Discover more destinations: Danilo, Danilo Biranj, Lozovac, Konjevrate, Raslina, Perković, Grebastica, Zlarin

For the broader travel overview: Općina Šibenik.