From the scent of lavender on the Island of Hvar to the beautiful villages of Rab, Croatia and its islands are incomparable. The diversity of life and culture comes from many influences, yet the towns and villages are all, in their separate ways, typically Croatian.
The Istrian Peninsula
We begin with the North Adriatic and the Istrian Peninsula where the most charming villages are found deep in the mainland. The medieval town Hum, also known as the smallest town in the world, was founded by Mirna River and it has not changed much over the centuries. The narrow stone-paved streets and medieval houses are still there resisting the change. Buzet, the town of truffles offers the best white truffles in this part of the world.
The national park Brijuni, once the residence of Josip Broz Tito is an oasis for peace and tranquillity where many come to unwind from the stressful and hectic everyday life. The place is also a hotspot for celebrities whose yachts can be often seen in the Brijuni Bay during the summer. For the nature lovers there are 2 parks, the Ethno Park and the Safari Park. The Ethno Park is a part of the Safari Park enriched with mainly local wildlife consisting of Istrian Ox and Sheep, donkeys and goats. The Safari Park has an exotic collection of animals, some of which are Blue Antelope from India, Marsh Antelope from Zambia, Somalian Sheep from Ethiopia, Lama from South America, Zebras from Guinea and cattle and Elephants from India.
The Kvarner Riviera
The Kvarner Riviera with its centre Rijeka is the busiest port on the Adriatic. The most famous resort in the area is Opatija, with Lovran, Crikvenica, Kraljevica and Novi Vinodolski also popular. There is a 12km long promenade that runs from Opatija to Lovran. The Kvarner Riviera has a long association with tourism. Opatija in particular was an upmarket resort visited by many aristocratic families in the late 19th century and is still considered as an upmarket resort today.
The Northern Dalmatia
Rab, Cres, Krk, Losinj and Pag are a group of islands located in the northern Adriatic. Cres is the least visited of all Croatian islands. There are colonies of the Eurasian Griffon near Beli, to the north of the island. Conservation of the birds lies with the Eco Centar Caput Insulae. We strongly advise all visitors to comply with the code of conduct whilst visiting the area.
Losinj is known for its lush green vegetation and one of the most beautiful harbours in the Adriatic – Mali Losinj. Other places include Cikat Bay great for windsurfing and swimming.
The legend says a stone cutter called Marin left the island to Italy and founded the republic of San Marino. He was from the island of Rab. The most magical island of all, Rab hides the best sandy beaches and it has a mild climate throughout the whole year. The old town of Rab is dominated by three bell towers and many historical sites.
The island of Pag has a little vegetation due to harsh weather conditions in the area. The strong wind Bura makes the living conditions on the island very difficult. The locals have built numerous stone walls for protection against these harsh conditions as well as to allow for some cultivation. Although the island is very remote and underdeveloped, it hosts the best beach parties in the country.
The island of Krk is the most developed island of all in the Northern Adriatic and it would suit those who are looking for a resort holiday with a wide range of tourist facilities.
The Central Dalmatia
Emerged from a palace bulit in the 3rd century by Roman Emperor Diocletian, Split is the largest city on the Adriatic Coast. Perched on the waterfront, the city has many historical sites most of them nestled within the walls of the Palace. Every year from mid July to mid August the city is a host to the Summer festival, where the palace becomes a large stage where the most famous operas and musicals can be seen.
The island of Vis has only two villages - Komiza and Vis, both on the coast both retaining their centuries old architecture. The island owes much of its preservation to its previous state as a national naval base that barred any foreigners from its shores for 50 years. Komiza, on the south west shore is the home of two outstanding restaurants, rustic but with haute cuisine food.
Hvar, the most visited island of all, offers a vibrant restaurant and café life. Despite its popularity, Hvar has nevertheless maintained its authenticity. Amongst other attractions, Hvar hosts one of the hippest clubs in the region,‘ Carpe Diem'.
The Southern Dalmatia
A thriving independent merchant republic for 700 years, and rival to Venice, Dubrovnik today is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Adriatic. Set on a rugged limestone peninsula, the city enchants with postcard images of medieval walls, a skyline of red roofs and church steeples, marble-paved squares, steep cobbled streets, palaces, churches, fountains and museums. The vibrancy of this Unesco world heritage site – light stone walls towering over the crystal sea reflected in the sky – is at its height in summer with a host of cultural, art and music events.
The most southerly and easterly of the larger Croatian Adriatic islands and also the greenest, Mljet is covered in a mass of pine forests. Of volcanic origin, the island has a number of chasms and gorges including two inland salt water lakes, the 12th century Benedictine Monastery located in the inlet of Lake Veliko Jezero and a National Park in the north. Rich in mythology, Mljet, is the island where it is believed that St Paul spent three months preaching the gospel after being shipwrecked. The legend says that Odysseus also spent time on the island on his return from the Trojan War – a total of seven years - entranced by the island and nymph Calypso’s beauty.
The Elaphiti Islands is the archipelago west of Dubrovnik consists of 3 islands - Lopud, Sipan and Kolocep. Showing evidence of settlements dating back to ancient times, the islands have 30 churches, several monasteries as well as aristocratic summer homes.
