Travel Like A Local Through Dalmatia

Olives, indigenous aromatic plants, the brilliancy of white stone against the verdant vegetation, and the towering mountain massif of Biokovo whose spurs reach all the way to the sea – yes, this is indeed an exceptional part of the country, and its beauty is made all the more enchanting by numerous historic events and monuments. When, in the year 305, the Roman Emperor Diocletian, who ruled the entire world at that time, decided to build his leisure time abode - in which he intended to spend the rest of his life - he had no doubt as to exactly where build to it. In the very heart of Dalmatia, in the bay of Aspalathos (Split), well protected from the sea by the islands of the Split archipelago, and defended on its landward side by high mountains, Diocletian created a special point on the map of the Adriatic: the future city of Split. There’s no doubt Diocletian’s Palace is the top must-see attraction in Croatia’s second-biggest city –Split. This UNESCO protected World Heritage Site is actually the heart of the whole city – almost two thousand years old, the enormous palace exists today as a “living monument” – meaning it’s dotted with quaint shops, galleries, cafes, restaurants, and people actually live and work within its old walls. And that’s what makes it really special – it’s an ancient Roman palace absolutely integrated into the everyday life and doings of Split and its people. The Riva, a marble-white and palm-lined connection of Split and the Adriatic is everyone’s favorite spot for socializing, coffee-drinking, or just idle sitting on one of the comfy benches which face the sea. Riva is full of life throughout the day, especially during the summer, and you’ll always find people strolling along or sitting in one of the cafes. So, if you want to get a feeling of the local every day “buzz” be sure to grab your spot and you’ll soon experience firsthand how important and irresistible is the coffee culture in Croatia. Marjan Hill often referred to as the “green lungs of the city”, is a big forest park located close to the city center and fully equipped with walking, hiking, and jogging trails. It’s a great choice for everyone who prefers less crowded, wild beaches and thick pine tree shade. Moreover, if you’re looking for a picture-taking paradise, Marjan is your place! It offers stunning views of both Split and the surrounding islands. Marjan also hides some interesting historical sites such as the old Jewish cemetery and15th-century monasteries which are actually built into the hill. And finally, maybe not the most important but certainly the yummiest must-do activity of all – food! Split, especially the Old Town, is literally dotted with colorful food stalls, konoba (a type of traditional Dalmatian tavern), and quaint little restaurants. Don’t miss local delicacies, such as fish prepared na gradele and pašticada. Street food culture in Split is also pretty strong and you can never go hungry since there’s always some inviting bite-sized treat waiting for you around the corner. Itinerary

• Arrival to Split, meeting with your chauffeur for a private transfer to your hotel
• Meet your Tour Escort
• Time at leisure and an overnight in Split
• Accommodation in Split 4* Hotel, double room, BB basis

Itinerary

• Meeting with your driver/guide for a full day Game of Thrones Tour (Included: Walking tour of Diocletian’s Palace & Klis Fortress filming locations with admission
• Visit the water mill filming location)
• Traditional Croatian peka barbecue meal with local wine and homemade bread at the water mill, round-trip, air-conditioned transfers
• Local expert guide, Endless photo opportunities)
• Accommodation in Split 4* Hotel, double room, BB basis

Omis is a small town and harbor in Central Dalmatian located between Split and Makarska, situated in the mouth of the Cetina river and surrounded by massive gorges. In the past, Omis was notorious because of the pirates of Omis whose ships were a centuries-long symbol of retaliation, courage, and strength. The evidence of the proud and turbulent Omis history can be found on every corner of the Omis Riviera. Omis churches and Omis fortresses are silent stone reminders of the power and the might of infamous Omis pirates. Today, Omis is one of the most beautiful places on Croatia's Adriatic Coast. For thousands of years, the Cetina River has been flowing persistently through the canyon, creating magical shapes in its bed. Crystal clear and pleasant for swimming, the Cetina River today represents the genuine experience of intact nature with its 180 meters high cliffs, wild rapids, basins, lakes, and subterranean tunnels. A full 3 hours of pure fun and a healthy dose of adrenalin to satisfy even the most demanding thrill junkies. Zipline is an adrenaline activity where guests descend through the canyon down the steel rope, secured with a belt. The adventure also includes training and a short walk in nature. Zipline is located 3 km from Omiš, in the canyon of the Cetina River, and consists of eight wires with a total length of 2100m. Depending on the size of the group you will experience an unforgettable three hours of fun and beautiful nature. Each group is followed by two guides. Before the beginning, the group goes to the training ground and each guest receives equipment. There are two short cables, length 25m, where guides show you how to brake and act on the cable. Follows a short walk to the first cable, during which you can enjoy almost untouched nature and beautiful views of the canyon of the Cetina river. Before each cable, one of the guides attaches you and gives you instructions. On the other side, there is another guide who descended first and who will get you off the cable. In this way, you will pass all of the eight cables. Itinerary

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Meeting with your driver for a private transfer to Omiš.
• Your instructors/guides will take you zipping your way across the magnificent Cetina River 150 meters above the canyon suspended by a wire! We have 8 wires running a total of 2100 meters.  The highest one is 150 meters above the river canyon.  The views from up here are incredible—a bird’s eye experience of some of the most magnificent nature in Croatia and the nearby seaside village of Omis is the perfect ending to an amazing day!
• The experience ends in Kaštil Slanica restaurant where you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the traditional three-course lunch (drinks are not included)
• A return boat ride from the restaurant to Omiš
• Upon arrival to Omiš, time on your own to explore the town and the area
• The most beautiful climb to the top starts in Omis and leads first to a fortress Starigrad (Fortica). This part of the route is very attractive but steep and strenuous as it is actually cut into the rock. but the view from the top is worth the effort, you can see all the islands of middle Dalmatia.
• Return drive to Split (meeting point TBC with the driver), time at leisure, and an overnight in Split
• Accommodation in Split 4* Hotel, double room, BB basis

The lavender island that Conde Nast's signature travel magazine called "one of the “best 10 islands in the world”. A vacation on the lavender island of Hvar means extraordinary experiences every day - from visiting an ancient olive grove and learning about what Homer called “liquid gold”, taking a Jeep safari to discover hidden inland Hvar to exploring a castle, visiting the oldest theatre in Europe or tasting spectacular wine and local delicacies at an award-winning vineyard. Itinerary

• Breakfast at the hotel and check out
• Assistance with your luggage and fast ferry tickets from Split to Hvar
• Upon arrival, accommodation in your hotel
• Meet your guide in the afternoon to depart on a special wine tasting tour of Hvar. Taste Croatia’s first and only wines that won the Paris World Wine Contest and the Decanter World Wine Awards in London! Our Taste of Hvar, the island of wine tour introduces you to two of Croatia’s most distinguished winemakers, including wine tastings and a unique culinary sunset dinner in an olive grove with views of historic UNESCO-listed fields of Stari Grad. Return to Hvar town in the evening
• Time at leisure and overnight in Hvar
• Accommodation in Hvar 4* Hotel, superior double room, sea view, BB basis

St. Stephen's Square - The center of town is this rectangular square, which was formed by filling in an inlet that once stretched out from the bay. At 4500 sq. meters, it’s one of the largest old squares in Dalmatia. The town first developed in the 13th century to the north of the square and later spread south in the 15th century. Notice the well at the square’s northern end, which was built in 1520 and has a wrought-iron grill dating from 1780. Cathedral of St Stephen The cathedral forms a stunning backdrop to the square. The bell tower rises four levels, each more elaborate than the last. The cathedral was built in the 16th and 17th centuries at the height of the Dalmatian Renaissance on the site of a cathedral destroyed by the Turks. Parts of the older cathedral are visible in the nave and in the carved 15thcentury choir stalls. Renaissance Theater Built in 1612, this theater is reportedly the first theater in Europe open to plebeians and aristocrats alike. It remained a regional cultural center throughout the centuries. Plays were still staged here right up until 2008. Although much of the theater is still under renovation, you can wander around the atmospheric interior and take in the faded frescoes and baroque loggias. Franciscan Monastery & Museum - This 15th-century monastery overlooks a shady cove. The elegant bell tower was built in the 16th century by a well-known family of stonemasons from Korčula. The Renaissance cloister leads to a refectory containing lace, coins, nautical charts, and valuable documents, such as an edition of Ptolemy’s Atlas, printed in 1524. Your eye will immediately be struck by The Last Supper, an 8m by 2.5m work by the Venetian Matteo Ingoli dating from the end of the 16th century. The cypress in the cloister garden is said to be more than 300 years old. The adjoining church, named Our Lady of Charity, contains more fine paintings such as the three polyptychs created by Francesco da Santacroce in 1583, which represent the summit of this painter’s work. Fortica - Through the network of tiny streets northwest of St Stephen’s Square, climb up through a park to the citadel built on the site of a medieval castle to defend the town from the Turks. The Venetians strengthened it in 1557 and then the Austrians renovated it in the 19th century by adding barracks. Inside is a tiny collection of ancient amphorae recovered from the seabed. The view over the harbor is magnificent, and there’s a lovely cafe at the top. Arsenal - On the southern side of St Stephen’s Square, the Arsenal was built in 1611 to replace a building destroyed by the Ottomans. Mentioned in Venetian documents as ‘the most beautiful and the most useful building in the whole of Dalmatia’, the Arsenal once served as a repair and refitting station for war galleons. Itinerary

• Breakfast at the hotel and time to explore the town on your own
• Time at leisure and overnight in Hvar
• Accommodation in Hvar 4* Hotel, superior double room, sea view, BB basis

Vis - The furthest island of the central Dalmatian archipelago. It is especially well known for its cultural and historical heritage, but also for its natural beauties. Even the Greek writer Agatharchides in his scripts praised wines from Vis as being the best he had ever tasted, in comparison to other sorts he had tried. Their most autochthonous wine is most certainly Vugava which you can try in numerous restaurants and cellars all around the island. We recommend you try their autochthonous Viška pogača which will definitively go well with their wines. Vis is also known as one of "the forbidden islands" during the communistic era. It was the center of the Yugoslav navy and therefore was forbidden to tourists. Even today there are many hidden tunnels all around the island that testify to that fact. Some of them are now tourist attractions and others are used by the Croatian navy. Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Meeting with your skipper and a full day speed boat excursion  to Vis island, Biševo and upon return via Pakleni islands around Hvar archipelago
• Time at leisure and overnight in Hvar
• Accommodation in Hvar 4* Hotel, superior double room, sea view, BB basis

Korčula was first mentioned as early as the 10th c. in works of Byzantine historians under the name "Stone Town". It flourished under the Venetian government and later on it spread around the town walls. But in spite of all that, it is still the most famous as the birthplace of Marco Polo who was probably born here in 1254, and reminders of him can be seen all around the town, including the extremely interesting Marco Polo Museum which is something you definitively don`t want to miss when visiting this beautiful Dalmatian town. Today it`s a town where you can vividly feel the Mediterranean spirit of people who live and work in this mixture of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Korčula Town is famous for the Moreška, a traditional sword dance once common throughout the Mediterranean. It’s now a major tourist attraction, and its annual performance on St Theodore’s Day (July 29) has been transformed into a regular show. The dance probably originated in Spain and related to the conflict between the Moors (hence the name) and the Christians, although in Dalmatia its popularity was connected with the struggles against the Ottomans. Basically, the dance tells the story of a conflict between the White King and his followers (actually dressed in red) and the Black King. The heroine, Bula, is kidnapped by the Black King, and her betrothed tries to win her back in a ritualized sword fight. The adversaries circle each other and clash weapons several times before the evil king is forced to surrender, and Bula is unchained. The strangest thing about the dance is the seemingly incongruous brass-band music that invariably accompanies it – a sign that the present-day Moreška falls somewhere between ancient rite and nineteenth-century reinvention. Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and check out
• Assistance with your luggage and fast ferry tickets from Hvar to Korčula
• Fast ferry departure from Hvar to Korčula
• Arrival to Korčula and leave your luggage at the hotel (early check-in depends on availability)
• Time at leisure to explore the island on a bicycle (rental available on spot)
• Accommodation in Korčula 4* Hotel, double room, BB basis
• Overnight in Korčula

Itinerary

• Breakfast at the hotel and time at leisure to explore the island
• Korčula island has a lot of quiet country lanes and scenic off-road routes that make this island an ideal destination for a holiday or short break that includes cycling or mountain biking as a recreational activity. (rental available on spot)
• Although at the present there are no dedicated cycling routes, the whole Island has very good facilities for cycling with lots of small tracks running into the countryside, among vineyards and olive groves, some of them offering nice views, especially ones running along the coast.
• Around all the villages on the island, including Lumbarda, Zrnovo, Pupnat, Racisce, Cara, or Smokvica, if you have time to spend, you will find tarmac as well as asphalted tracks ideal for cycling or mountain biking.
• Overnight in Korčula
• Accommodation in Korčula 4* Hotel, double room, BB basis

Peljesac is a peninsula in southern Croatia, in the Dubrovnik -Neretva County, just about an hour and a half drive from Dubrovnik. It is around 70 km long and is connected with the Croatian Mainland at Ston. The Peljesac Channel divides the peninsula from the island of Korcula. Scattered like breadcrumbs across the foothills of the dolomites, the hamlets and villages of southern Peljesac evoke an ancient past. The rocks, the vegetation, the groves of pine and cypress - everywhere a sense of timelessness prevails. On the hills above the sea, abandoned villas and gardens, stone walls and columns lie crumbling in the sun. Lemon, fig, and almond trees, herbs, and wildflowers surround the village's gardens and fields. The historic sea captains' town of Orebic - with its shops, market, cafes, and restaurants is on the bottom of the Sveti Ilija Mountain. A footpath into the mountains to the summit of Sveti Ilija begins near Viganj too - Croatia's windsurfing capital. There, seaside restaurants and pebbly beaches attract a lively crowd in the summer months. The island of Korcula and Mljet are is just across the channel. Pelješac peninsula is known as one of the best wine-producing regions in Croatia. The Walls of Ston are a series of defensive stone walls, originally more than 7 kilometers (4.3 mi) long, that surrounded and protected the city of Ston, in Dalmatia, part of the Republic of Ragusa, in what is now southern Croatia. The Walls of Ston were known as the "European wall of China". Despite being well protected by massive city walls, the Republic of Ragusa used Pelješac to build another line of defense. At its narrowest point, just before it joins the mainland, a wall was built from Ston to Mali Ston. Throughout the era of the Republic, the walls were maintained and renovated once they were meant to protect the precious salt pans that contributed to Dubrovnik's wealth, which is still being worked today. Demolition work began on the walls following the fall of the Republic. Later the Austrian authorities took materials away from the wall to build schools and community buildings, and also for a triumphal arch on the occasion of the visit by the Austrian Emperor in 1884. The wall around Mali Ston was demolished with the excuse that it was damaging the health of the people. The demolition was halted after World War II. The wall, today 5.5-kilometre long wall links Ston to Mali Ston and is in the shape of an irregular pentangle. It was completed in the 15th century, along with its 40 towers (20 of which have survived) and 5 fortresses. Within, three streets were laid from north to south and three others from east to west. Thus, fifteen equal blocks were formed with 10 houses in each. Residential buildings around the edges. The Gothic Republic Chancellery and the Bishop's Palace are outstanding among the public buildings. The main streets are 6 m wide (except the southern street which is 8 m wide) and the side streets are 2 m wide. The town was entered by two city gates: the Field Gate (Poljska vrata) has a Latin inscription and dates from 1506. The centers of the system are the fortress Veliki kaštio in Ston, Koruna in Mali Ston, and the fortress on Podzvizd hill (224 m). The city plan of Dubrovnik was used as a model for Ston, but since Ston was built on prepared terrain, that model was more closely followed than Dubrovnik itself. In terms of infrastructure like water mains and sewers built-in 1581, Ston was remarkably unique in Europe. Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and check out
• Meet your driver/guide for a private transfer from Korčula to Dubrovnik via Pelješac peninsula with wine tour (a visit to three wineries) and a short hike with lunch at a family-owned, 500 years old konoba/tavern
• Accommodation in Dubrovnik 4* Hotel, double room, BB basis

Dubrovnik is a medieval city on the Croatian side of the Adriatic coastline and a treasure trove of cultural, historical monuments that were created throughout its thousand-year existence. In the past, it was a City-Republic, and alongside Venice one of the most famous cultural-economic centers on the Mediterranean. In more recent times, it has become the center of modern cultural and tourist events: a city of summer festivals – an international parade of top musical and theatrical achievements, a city of museums and galleries. These values have turned Dubrovnik into a place that offers a rich selection of various experiences and excitement, and also a complete holiday in a quiet and calming, mild Mediterranean ambiance and wonderful seaside landscapes.   Stradun The main street of Dubrovnik where everyone's walked and also the busiest street where you stroll over marble tiles. Stradun is a great place for everyone where all the shopping can be done, delicious cafes and restaurants, and streets filled with many wonderful shops. Onofrio’s Fountain This drinking fountain is located just at the beginning of Stradun, the main street of the old town. The structure was named after its builder, the Italian Onofrio de la Cava, dates from 1440 and includes 16 sides. The concept is part of the water supply system of the city and brings water from the well in Rijeka Dubrovacka, more than 20 km away, to the heart of the city. Before that, this interest was, therefore, more than a masterpiece of architectural sophistication. Originally the fountain was decorated with a sculpture, which was destroyed in the earthquake of 1667, the Remaining 16 stone masks from which the water flows into a lake. The Clock Tower The Clock Tower was built in the 15th Century right at the other end of the Placa (the main thoroughfare) and represented alongside nearby buildings a free city-state. The tower is approximately 31 meters in height and was built by Grubacevic, Utisenovic, and Radoncic, local masters. Following an earthquake, the structure of the Clock Tower lost its stability and started to lean. In order for it not to fall the Clock Tower was rebuilt in 1929. Orlando's Column was Built-in 1418, then it was the focal point of the city and Government ordinances and punishment carried out. A flag flies above the statue with the 'Libertas' motto. The medieval cult of Orlando (Roland) started here in the 12th century based on the epic poem 'Song of Roland' Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and a private transfer from your hotel to Pile Gate meeting point
• Meeting with your guide for a private walking tour of the Old Town Dubrovnik (a visit to the Franciscan Monastery, Rectors Palace, and the Old Walls)
• Time at leisure and a return to the hotel on your own
• Overnight in Dubrovnik
• Private transfer from the hotel provided in the morning (return to the hotel at your leisure, return transfer not arranged or included)
• English speaking guide for the private walking tour of Old Town Dubrovnik (entrance fees included)
• Accommodation in Dubrovnik 4* Hotel, double room, BB basis

Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and a private transfer from your hotel to Pile Gate meeting point
• Sea Kayaking

Your half-day Sea Kayaking adventure on the Adriatic Sea starts beneath ancient fort Lovrjenac in the small port called Pile, next to restaurant Orhan. Accompanied by English-speaking instructors (tour guides), you will set off to explore caves and beauties of mysterious Lokrum island, also called 'The Island of love'. After paddling around the island you will paddle across the bay until you reach a hidden cave beach called Betina, where you will have a break for snorkeling and sandwiches. The only way to reach this peaceful beach is from the seaside so you will enjoy in private & unique view of the City walls & you will discover the richness of the Adriatic underwater. After a short break on the beach, you will paddle along the coast toward the City walls. Beaches, palm trees, boats, villas, and hotels form part of this tour. Paddling under the impressive city walls and rocks on which they were built on you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Pearl of the Adriatic from a different perspective. Unquestionably the most beautiful part of our sea adventure. Finish paddling toward the initial position in the Pile bay. Distance between the start position and finish point: 7km Duration of the tour: 3 hours Fitness level: A low level of fitness is required. Previous experience: Not necessary. Itinerary:

• Time at leisure
• Snacks and wine tasting at Dubrovnik Wine Bar
• Return to the hotel on your own
• Private transfer from the hotel provided in the morning (not the return transfer to the hotel)
• Accommodation in Dubrovnik 4* Hotel, double room, BB basis

Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and check out
• Meeting with your driver for a private transfer from to Dubrovnik Airport