Croatia
Short Break in Croatia
When you think of Croatia, the first thing that springs to mind is the sparkling blue sea, peppered with picturesque islands and framed by the rugged mainland. Dubrovnik is one of the Mediterranean’s most appealing towns, its ancient cobbled streets, medieval fortifications and distinctive terracotta roofs contrasting with the turquoise waters of the Adriatic. This tour is the ideal mix of islands and historic towns, allowing plenty of time to both explore the many tiny alleyways and enjoy plenty of downtime at the beach. On one day you will take a bike ride around the beautiful Korcula island, on others you’ll be white-water rafting. kayaking or simply grabbing ice creams and relaxing.
Highlights
Exploring ancient Split
White-water rafting on Cetina River
Cycling & kayaking on Korcula
Discovering Dubrovnik
Relaxing on the beach
9 days from £2,700 pp
Plus international flights from £200 direct.
A 9-day highlights holiday in Croatia for a family of four costs from £10,800 plus flights depending on the type of accommodation.
Short Break in Croatia day-by-day itinerary
Day 1, Omis
Welcome to Croatia – Dobrodosli! On arrival in Split, you will be met by a Stubborn Mule representative and transferred to your accommodation in the town of Omis. Set against dramatic cliffs at the end of a picturesque canyon, the historic and charming port town of Omis is compact and relaxed – the perfect introduction to Croatia. Famous for its pirate history, ancient fortresses and the myriad of adventure activities on offer, Omis attracts a friendly mix of families, locals and laid-back visitors. The rest of the day is free to wander the Old Town or relax at the hotel.
Day 2, Cetina River white-water rafting
A day of adrenalin today, as you take a white-water rafting excursion on the Cetina River. The rafting here is relatively easy, so it is perfect for families. The river valley is very beautiful, with the river weaving between the cliffs, over rapids and into tranquil green pools. Some sections are quiet, as the river meanders slowly along, and you can enjoy the peace and quiet. Other sections are more adventurous, and you will be ducking under branches, whizzing down rapids and generally enjoying the excitement. You will be able to stop and take a dip along the way.
Day 3, Omis – Korcula, via Split
Transfer to Split, with some time to enjoy looking around the city before continuing to the island of Korcula. Split is the second largest city in the country (after Zagreb), and a beguiling mix of ancient and modern, sandwiched between mountains and sea. The old town centres around the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace, built in 305 AD but the Roman Emperor Diocletian. Surrounding the palace is a lattice of narrow cobbled streets, peppered with attractive street-side cafes. Wander through the picturesque streets of the city, stopping for a drink or a gelato along the way.
Afterwards, take the ferry to Korcula (pronounced Kor-choo-la), the sixth-largest island in Croatia and one of the most beautiful. The hills here are covered with pine forest, vineyards and olive groves and the coastline is dotted with quiet coves and sandy beaches. Quieter than its more well-known neighbours of Brac and Hvar, it has a lovely feel that makes it perfect for families. The main town of Korčula is exquisite and known as ‘Little Dubrovnik’ because of its medieval squares and likeness to its famous namesake.
Day 4, Korcula
A free day to either relax or head out and explore the island. Korčula town itself is gorgeous, as is Vela Luka on the west of the island. Here there is also an organic olive oil museum which is great fun to visit and receives rave reviews. Alternatively, spend the day on the beach at Lumbarda, drop into a vineyard for some wine tasting or hire kayaks to explore some of the quieter parts of the island. You might also like to take a boat tour.
Day 5, Korcula cycling and tasting
Head off on two wheels pedalling through small farms and villages, with Mt Saint Ilija in the distance and the occasional ancient vineyard offering a magical glimpse of the past. Discover the eastern side of the island, home to wonderful beaches and famous for its wine-making tradition dating back earlier than the Greeks. Drop into a fabulous family-run winery for some wine and food tasting. Afterwards, continue to one of Lumbarda’s beaches, genuinely one of the loveliest areas of the South Adriatic. There will be time for refreshments and relaxing before riding back to town where the day ends.
Read More Day 6, Korcula kayaking Day 7, Korcula – Dubrovnik Riviera Day 8, Dubrovnik You have the day to explore the town. Follow the weaving pedestrianised streets past medieval buildings and walled fortifications with the shimmer of the Adriatic a constant backdrop. The secret is to go slowly, following some of the backstreets and stopping frequently in a pavement café to watch the world go by and soak up the scene. In the late afternoon, a walk around the city walls is highly recommended. Day 9, Departure
Today head out on a kayaking excursion along Korcula’s coastline. For millennia, people have sailed here to explore, conquer and trade. These days, this beautiful corner of the Adriatic attracts adventure-seekers looking for little pebble beaches, Roman quarries, Franciscan monasteries and secluded coves. After introductions, you’ll paddle out around the archipelago and islets near the Old Town, once the scene of famous battles and the capture of Marco Polo. Thankfully these days it’s all about fishermen, sailing and appreciating the views! You’ll typically stop a couple of times for refreshing swims, snorkelling, and a delicious local lunch. At the end of the day, transfer back to your hotel.
Take the ferry to Dubrovnik, from where you will transfer to your hotel located within easy reach of Dubrovnik itself. The coastline between Dubrovnik and the border with Montenegro is peppered with charming Dalmation villages. It is a wonderfully pretty here, but without the crowds found in Dubrovnik.
Today you might like to take a day trip to Dubrovnik. Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is impossibly, improbably pretty. It is surrounded by the azure waters of the Adriatic, which contrast strikingly with the terracotta roofs and imposing city walls. The polished, white, limestone streets of this UNESCO world heritage site have been walked by countless visitors, who marvel at how well the ancient buildings have been preserved, even after attacks and earthquakes.
Today you will be picked up and transferred to Dubrovnik airport for your flight home.
Croatia in pictures
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