The sale of the small Croatian island of Scoglio Grande (Veli Školj) has raised interesting discussions about environmental protection and real estate. Listed for over 3.25 million euros, this island spans more than 21,000 square meters and contains a fresh water spring nestled in the bay of Stagno. However, the island falls under strict protected area regulations that only allow a minimal structure for aquaculture activities; this limits the potential for private use or luxury development, ultimately dissuading buyers. This situation contrasts sharply with ongoing pressures in nearby Albania, where activists are rallying to prevent the transformation of the island of Sazan into a luxury resort. In Croatia, despite market pressures, the adherence to environmental protection policies has kept the island from becoming another property for wealthy buyers looking to develop for personal or commercial gain. The regulations in place allow public access to the beach area, ensuring that the natural beauty of the island is preserved for both locals and visitors. The lack of interest in the sale highlights the broader implications of environmental stewardship in the region, where the balance between development and conservation is increasingly significant. While the Croatian government continues to uphold environmental protections, the contrasting situation in Albania serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle against the commodification of pristine natural landscapes in Southern Europe.