tip Travel magazine Croatia 032 (English edition) 06/2025 - 05/2026

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Zagreb

The flavors of the month in Kaptol Restaurant

Mediterranean summer delicacies, warm autumn fruits, rich winter flavors. Every season brings about new specialties, and in Kaptol Restaurant you can discover which ones are your favorite. From May to the end of the year, enjoy the monthly thematic menus, dedicated to certain ingredients. Our „Flavors of the Month“ are abundant in seasonal ingredients and carefully-created recipes. Find out the current flavor of the month on the hotel's website and social media. Kaptol Restaurant, from May 1 to December 31, 2025.

For reservations and information, please contact: +385.99.2328.039 or hip@westinzagreb.com

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tipTravel magazine is the first Croatian online travel and tourism magazine, which is exclusively in digital format and available to all readers free of charge. It has been issued in Croatian and English since July 2013, and in German as of 2015. It is designed for readers who are avid travelers.

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missed, and first-hand advice and recommendations. The second part of the magazine is dedicated to presenting global destinations and their travel offer.

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A changing trend

From the time we published our first issue of tipTravel magazine back in 2013 to today, travel trends, tourist's habits, choice of destinations, travel priorities, and the global image of tourism have greatly changed. Instead of going on vacation during peak-times, today we prefer to travel in the pre-season and post-season, whereby we avoid the heat waves during the peak season, but also the crowds and the (over)inflated prices. Twelve years ago, artificial intelligence was still a novelty and it seemed like it was in the distant future, yet today we are aware that we don't know where its possibilities will take us tomorrow. Also, just ten years ago, tourism turned even more towards online and digital forms, which is still the trend today, but the novelty is that now we are looking for destinations that offer digital detox and a return to nature even more often. So in the new issue of tipTravel magazine, we bring recommendations for excursions in southern Croatia that offer just that - a holiday in the wild nature of the Mediterranean, in destinations with smaller crowds of tourists and incredible natural and cultural beauty. Although most of those locations have access to signals, there won't be much need for them there, except when you want to

show off to your friends with a selfie from one of the enchanting beaches or hidden coves. Explore Lokrum - an exotic island oasis near the widely-popular Dubrovnik, and the enchanting Elaphite islands, where Dubrovnik's elite used to relax. Get to know all the treasures of Ston, and the captivating smaller and larger islands of the Croatian south. Don't forget - the farther you get away from the mainland, the more exotic things get. In the new issue of the magazine, also discover why the Šibenik region is the prettiest stage in the Adriatic, why you will feel like an emperor in Split, and why you should visit Moslavina. Find out which attractions the Krka National Park hides, and why a fairytale holiday awaits you in Zagorje, why you will find gold on your plate on Krk Island, and the adventure of a lifetime in Omiš... If you would like to step out of the box and truly experience something unique, before heading to your desired destination look for unusual accommodations - you can find out more about them in this issue. While you read and search for inspiration for new trips, we will continue to prepare new travel stories for the upcoming addition to this issue of tipTravel magazine.

Željka and Robert Kunštek

June 2025 - May 2026

ISSN: 1849-059X

Publisher: Tip Kreativa d.o.o.

Dobri dol 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia, EU +385 1 2094301 +385 91 7958016

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Editor in Chief: Željka Kunštek zeljka@tiptravelmagazine.com

Graphic Editor: Robert Kunštek robert@tiptravelmagazine.com

DTP: Tip Kreativa d.o.o.

Translator: Marija Crnogaj

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Photo source: tipTravel magazine archive, archives of Tourist Boards, Shutterstock

Cover page photo: The Korkyra lighthouse on the islet of Vela Sestrica in the Pelješac Channel, between Korčula Island and Pelješac Peninsula, Croatia. © xbrchx / Shutterstock

Transmission of texts, in full or in part, is only permitted with the written approval of the publisher and author. Any type of mechanical, optical, or electronic copying is forbidden. All rights are reserved. Texts and photographs are sent in electronic form. The opinion of the author of the text is not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. The publisher cannot guarantee the permanence of published information, and is not responsible for the content of advertisements.

© Aleksandar Gospić / CNTB

8-17

Issue topicDUBROVNIK AND NERETVA COUNTY: Top 10 excursions in southern Croatia

Lokrum Island: An exotic oasis a stone's throw from Dubrovnik / Cavtat: A town for the elite / The Elaphites: Islands for the aristocracy / Ston: A keeper of world treasure / Neretva Valley: The call of the wild in the empire of nature / The Baćina Lakes: A hot spot for SUPing and kayaking / Badija: A fairytale close to the city / Proizd: Korčula's turquoise heaven / Mljet National Park: Green inspiration in the southern Adriatic / Lastovo Archipelago

Nature Park: An archipelago with crystal stars ©SPOTd.o.o./MetkovićTouristBoard

Boris Kragić / Vela Luka Tourist Board

©

Environmentally Friendly not a single tree has been destroyed in publishing this magazine

Experience Croatia - SPLIT: A royal holiday in the heart of Dalmatia

Experience Croatia - SINJ: At the source of peace and adrenaline

Experience Croatia - OMIŠ: A small town with great adventures

Experience Croatia - BAŠKA VODA: More than a view

Experience CroatiaŠIBENIK-KNIN COUNTY: The prettiest stage in the Adriatic

Experience CroatiaKRKA NATIONAL PARK: A natural gem in the heart of Dalmatia

Experience CroatiaPAKLENICA NATIONAL PARK: Experience adventure, history, and natural wonders

Gastronomy - PLITVICE LAKES: Plitvice's gastro inspiration

Active vacationSLUNJ - RASTOKE: An aquatic paradise perfect for wellbeing

Experience Croatia - OGULIN: Croatia's hiking fairy tale

Gastronomy - KRK ISLAND: Gold on a plate

Active vacation - RAB: At the source of happiness

Interesting facts - ZAGREB

Experience CroatiaKRAPINA-ZAGORJE COUNTY: A fairytale holiday

Experience CroatiaSISAK-MOSLAVINA COUNTY: A weekend in Moslavina's idyll

City break - OSIJEK: A city break next to the Drava

Trends - CROATIA AND THE WORLD: Travel trends in 2025

World - UNUSUAL ACCOMMODATIONS: Cool accommodations for cool experiences

World attractionsVIETNAM: Cát Bà Island in Lan Ha Bay / GREECE: Meteora: Monasteries on "floating cliffs"

1 Touring the heavenly islands of the Croatian south by boat;

Many peacocks reside on the island of Lokrum;

Cavtat;

Šunj Beach on the island of Lopud;

Ston.

Top 10 excursions in southern Croatia

From divine islands and charming towns to mystical valleys and quaint lakes... The Croatian south offers an abundance of stories that invite you to actively explore and have experiences that guarantee enjoyment.

Have you chosen the far south of Croatia as one of your next destinations? Fantastic! Are you planning on resting and exploring your chosen destination through many activities, events, cultural treats, and heavenly flavors? What a great idea! And did you know that the cities, towns, and islands are also the starting point for many excursions in the enchanting Croatian south? Here we bring you ten ideas for excursions that are worth adding to your itinerary.

© VelaL

6 A photo safari in a Neretva lađa boat; 7 Cycling around the Baćina Lakes;

An exotic beach on the island of Proizd;

Mljet Island is a paradise for cyclists; 10 Enjoying the viewpoints on Lastovo.

Get your ticket to the Lokrum Reserve before your visit at the Dubrovnik City Harbor, at the same place where the ship is boarded.

1. Lokrum Island: An exotic oasis a stone's throw from Dubrovnik

All it takes is a ten-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik's old city port to an absolutely idyllic empire of nature, peace, and quiet on the island of Lokrum, a favorite excursion site for the people of Dubrovnik. As soon as get off the boat, you will have the feeling that you have walked into the garden of paradise since Lokrum truly boasts a divine landscape. The island has been named a nature reserve and special reserve of forest vegetation, and its botanical garden with exotic plants from all parts of the world and its impressive collection of eucalyptus, cacti, and succulents will empty the batteries of your phone or camera. Walk down the paths of Lokrum all the way to the ruins of the Benedictine monastery, hike up to the Fort Royal fortress (the highest point of the island), pass by the Lazzarettos... During the warmer months, don't miss out on swimming in the Dead Sea - a natural saltwater lake, and try to find Buža, a large hole in a boulder that offers a view of the open sea. Find out why mysterious Lokrum is uninhabited today, and hear the legends of the Benedictine curse and the shipwreck of English King Richard the Lionheart. Find out why Lokrum is called the "island of love", but also the "cursed island", and also why a visit to Dubrovnik without visiting Lokrum would be second-rate.

© Zoran Jelača / CNTB

11 The idyllic greenery of the island of Lokrum; 12 Buža - the natural stone arch is one of the island's attractions; 13 A view of Dubrovnik and the island of Lokrum.

2. Cavtat: A town for the elite

Twenty kilometers southeast of Dubrovnik is a charming town located on the forested Rat Peninsula. Although it's relatively close to its neighboring internationally-famous travel destination, charming Cavtat has a much calmer and more leisurely lifestyle. Its impressive past is just as interesting as Dubrovnik's, it's also known as a destination for those with refined taste, and in 2024, it was named the most exclusive destination in Europe. It's no secret that it is also loved by sailors, and in the summer months, megayachts owned by celebrities and billionaires from all over the world are seen daily in the Cavtat harbor. Still, you don't have to be an international superstar to enjoy walking through the medieval stone streets or down the palm-lined promenade while discovering the city's attractions. As the urban center of rural Konavle, Cavtat is a great place to head out from to discover the beauty and tradition of the southernmost region of Croatia that is often compared to Tuscany.

3. The Elaphites: Islands for the aristocracy

The island paradise near Dubrovnik is also on the list of favorite excursion destinations for visitors to the Croatian south. The Elaphite islands, immersed in the azure sea, include eight islands, five islets, and many reefs and rocks, which make them a true delight for sailors. The three largest Elaphite islands, which are the only ones that are inhabited, are Šipan, Lopud, and Koločep, and they can be visited in an organized one-day fish picnic excursion, which departs from Dubrovnik, Slano, or Cavtat. In the summer months, swimming and diving in their crystal-clear coves is a must-do activity for every visitor, and when you step away from the heavenly bays and beaches, there is also a lot more to experience. Take a walk alongside little churches, monasteries, stone villas, and old summer estates that were once owned by Dubrovnik's aristocracy, who adored spending holidays on these islands. The trails will also take you alongside vineyards, olive groves, citrus groves, and aromatic Mediterranean forests. A visit to the Elaphites is pleasure for all the senses.

14 Cavtat's promenade and moored yachts;

15 Taking a break on the promenade in Cavtat; 16 17 Old stone houses, villas, and churches on the island of Šipan; 18 19 Šunj Beach on the island of Lopud is one of the favorite beaches in the Elaphites.

4. Ston: A keeper of world treasure

One of the most attractive excursions in the Croatian south is the one that takes you fifty kilometers northwest of Dubrovnik, to Ston - a city of world treasures and great experiences. There, at the very entrance to the Pelješac Peninsula, you will find an unexpected view of the impressive 5.5 km long Ston Wall, which is, after the Great Wall of China, one of the longest preserved fortification systems in the world. It varies in height from five to ten meters, is fortified with towers, connects Ston and Mali Ston, and represents a true miracle of medieval construction. The wall also offers a million-dollar view of the sea, city, and the pools of the Ston salt works, the oldest active salt works in Europe, and possibly in the world, but are also the largest preserved salt works in the Mediterranean. With the help of the sea, sun, and wind, the so-called white gold was first produced and exported there by the ancient Romans, and sea salt and fleur de sel is still produced there today in the same natural and traditional way. Besides hiking up the walls (which is worth every drop of sweat), walking on them and visiting the Ston salt works, there is another activity you shouldn't miss out on in Stontasting oysters from Mali Ston Bay, which are known as the most delicious in the world. No, that's not something we made up; it has been confirmed by the most refined taste buds worldwide - true gourmets, but also famous international chefs. Although oysters are an endless source of inspiration for local chefs who create imaginative gourmet creations, shell fishers say that oysters are most delicious freshly harvested from the sea (raw), drizzled with a few drops of lemon and served on ice. Simplicity reigns! Sparkling white wine from Pelješac, a peninsula with world-renowned wine, will enhance the enogastronomic experience while also being a great invitation to return to enchanting Pelješac and discover some new stories.

The Ston Wall was built by the former Dubrovnik Republic, whose goal it was to protect the Ston salt works from attack and theft of salt.

20 Ston, the Ston Wall, and the pools of the Ston salt works; 21 A view of Ston and the wall; 22 Harvesting salt; 23 The treasury of the Bishop's palace in Ston; 24 Oysters are Ston's gastro brand.

5. Neretva Valley: The call of the wild in the empire of nature

The fertile Neretva River valley offers a completely different story of southern Croatia. In order to experience "the valley of life" first-hand, jump into a Neretva lađa boat that will take you on an exciting photo-safari through the marshy labyrinth. While sailing through the narrow canals and arms, you will enjoy views of endless groves of citrus and other juicy fruit, listen to the croaking of the frogs and the songs of the choir of birds (there are more than 300 species of birds recorded in the valley), which is the reason why fans of birdwatching from all over the world come there. See traditional fishing methods, listen to local legends, find out why the Neretva delta is an adventurer's paradise and favorite kitesurfing destination, and then follow the traces of culture. Visit the Narona Archeological Museum - the first in situ museum in Croatia, and the Natural History Museum in Metković - home to the secondlargest ornithological collection in Europe. Towers, fortresses, stećci... there are many more stories in "the mandarin orange valley", which you shouldn't leave without trying the eel and frog brodet.

6. The Bacina Lakes: A hot spot for SUPing and kayaking

They are called "the pearls of Illyrian Queen Teuta", and today they are a somewhat hidden gem that offer peace and plenty of adventure for those who discover them, even during the peak of the tourism season. The Baćina Lakes are only a few kilometers away from the city of Ploče, and of the seven lakes there, six of them are connected with cyclingwalking trails that meander through that empire of biodiversity. Besides cycling and walking, another great way to spend an active day at the lakes are panorama tours with a traditional lađa boat, kayaking, or SUPing. If you have never tried SUPing, after taking the short SUPing course there, you will quickly learn the skill and head out on an attractive SUP trip around the lakes.

25 The Neretva River valley; 26 A spotted crake (Porzana porzana); 27 Eel and frog brodet; 28 The Narona Archeological Museum is the first in situ museum in Croatia; 29 30 31 32 An active holiday on the Baćina lakes.

33 The monastery and the church on Badija; 34 A fallow deer; 35 36 37 The islet of Proizd is famous for its incredible beaches splashed by the turquoise sea.

7. Badija: A fairytale close to the city

If you are spending your holiday on enchanting Korčula, Marco Polo's island, set aside at least two days for excursions to its attractive surroundings. Let one of them be the islet of Badija, which you can reach by taxi boat from the city of Korčula in just twenty minutes. The first to welcome you there are tame fallow deer who freely roam the green island, which is covered in pine forests, and they express their curiosity as they spend time with visitors. If you share an apple or carrot with them, you have made a lifelong friend. The trademark of the uninhabited island are incredible beaches splashed by the turquoise sea, and the church of Our Lady of Mercy and the Franciscan monastery of the Assumption of the Mother of God, which is open to the public from May to November. On a hill above the monastery is the church of St. Katarina, and near the monastery is a restaurant (open in the summer months), where you can try carob liqueur and schnapps made with island herbs.

8. Proizd:

Korcula's turquoise heaven

On Korčula's west side, around half an hour away by taxi boat from Vela Luka, is an exotic island paradise that invites you to enjoy thousands of shades of turquoise. The islet of Proizd, famous for its breathtaking beauty of wild nature, smooth white stones, enchanting beaches and clean, clear turquoise sea is regularly on the lists of the most beautiful beaches in the world according to leading international media outlets. There are trails that lead through islands forests to the most famous beach on the island, Bili Bok, with signs that encourage you to relax, savor the moment and enjoy the positive energy that pulsates through the island. The trails have been named an energy park so you will reach the beach full of energy, which will come in handy for swimming, diving, and enjoying the turquoise paradise. There is no natural shade on the beaches so take an umbrella or tent, a hat, sunglasses, water, and high-SPF sunscreen with you. Make sure to also toss a diving mask into your beach bag, you won't regret it!

You can visit Mljet National Park as part of an organized boat excursion from Dubrovnik, Korčula, or Orebić, or you can also reach the island on your own by ferry or catamaran.

9. Mljet National Park: Green inspiration in the southern Adriatic

Another green island paradise, immersed in the emerald sea, embellishes the southern Adriatic and beckons you to take an inspirational journey into divine nature. It is special for many reasons, it's somewhat mystical, and even mentioned in Greek mythology... Have we intrigued you? The island of Mljet, or Odyssey's island, is the greenest and most forested island in Croatia, and its northwestern part was recognized for its incredible beauty and natural phenomena back in 1960 when it was named a national park, which makes Mljet the oldest maritime park in the Mediterranean. With great respect to nature, actively explore it - on foot, by bike, canoe, or kayak. Its main natural attraction are two saltwater lakes - the Large and Small Lake, connected by a shallow, narrow channel, which allows sea currents through, depending on the tides. Row a canoe or kayak through that beauty, and in the summer months don't miss out on swimming and diving in the lakes. While in the calm Large Lake, the picturesque islet of St. Mary, which is on every postcard from Mljet, will capture your attention. With its 12th century church and Benedictine monastery, it is a true cultural and spiritual treat, and a very inspirational place, and can be reached by solar-powered catamaran. You can also explore the park on foot or by bike along an 11 km trail that encircles the Large Lake. If you would like to have a bird's-eye view of the park, head up to Montokuc peak which, in nice weather, offers not only a view of the park, but also of the islands of Korčula and Lastovo, as well as the Pelješac Peninsula.

38 Prožurska Luka; 39 Sea fishing traps on Mljet; 40 The islet of St. Mary in the Large Lake; 41 Odyssey's cave; 42 Day-trippers on Mljet; 43 Sandy Saplunara Beach.

10. Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park: An archipelago with crystal stars

As the cherry on top, we present another fantastic destination for an excursion (for several days) in the Croatian south. It takes the longest to sail there, but it is worth every minute and every wave crossed. Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park, made up of 46 islands (the largest of which is Lastovo), islets, rocks, and reefs, is likely the last preserved corner of the Mediterranean as it once was and perhaps the best place for a digital detox you can imagine. There, far out in the open sea, instead of the rush, mass tourism, noise, and stress, you will find attractive wilderness and the scent of adventure, peace, and quiet that is only disturbed by the occasional sea gull, loud crickets, or the song of a Mediterranean shearwater (Puffinus yelkouan) , a Robinson Crusoe-style holiday, and the endless beauty of island settlements. Discover Lastovo, the largest and main settlement on the island of the same name and pass up and down its stairs - you will feel as if you have entered a historical movie. Old stone houses, sulari, churches (a total of 46 on the island), and fumari, chimneys that were built using specific techniques that are an embellishment to and trademark of the island of Lastovo, will all fight for your attention. Head down to Lučice, a picturesque narrow bay that is home to the last preserved example of a Baroque fishing village in that part of Dalmatia, and have been protected as a cultural heritage site. In the summer months, don't miss out on swimming in the pearly bays you can paddle into with a kayak or paddle boat. The thriving underwater world is attractive for divers, the rugged coastline for sailors, and the kilometers of walking and cycling trails for all those who want to actively explore the beauty they have had the privilege of finding. Discover the stories of old stone lighthouses, find out everything about Lastovo's carnival, and rest under the prettiest starry sky in Europe (according to many astrographers). While watching that starry show, you will surely see a shooting star and, we're sure, wish to return to beautiful southern Croatia as soon as possible. 

44 The starry sky above Lastovo; 45 A diver; 46 Lučica - a narrow bay protected as a cultural heritage site; 47 The Lastovo carnival; 48 Skrivena Luka Bay.

Pelješac

Dubrovnik and Surroundings

Lastovo

Korcula

Mljet

Neretva

tips4you

Šibenik Dance Festival

This summer, Šibenik is once again becoming the prettiest dance stage on the Adriatic. The Šibenik Dance Festival (July 14-19, 2025) brings a plentiful program to well-known locations that add a special charm to every performance. sibenikdancefestival.com

Ultra Europe Music Festival

More than 250 world-famous performers and a true musical spectacle await you in Split. ULTRA Europe (July 11-13, 2025) will be held in Split's Park Mladeži, followed by the Destination ULTRA trip to the Croatian islands of Brač, Hvar, and Vis.

ultraeurope.com

INmusic festival

The largest open air festival in Croatia and one of the best outdoor European music festivals - INmusic festival (June 23-25, 2025) will be held on Jarun's Otok Hrvatske Mladeži in Zagreb. inmusicfestival.com

RetrOpatija

This year's RetrOpatija (June 26-28, 2025) brings three days of great music, dance, and a culinary spread to Opatija, along with unforgettable experiences that will take you on a nostalgic trip to the past, to the "golden days" of the 20th century.

facebook.com/ RetrOpatijaOfficialPage

Korčula Festival of Knight's Games

The Festival of Knight's Games (September 2-10, 2025) shows off the skills of eight knight's associations from the island of Korčula that perform attractive sword dances that date back to the early 17th century. visitkorcula.eu

World Ice Cream Day

Every year, on the third Sunday in July, World Ice Cream Day is commemorated, and it celebrates the favorite cool treat of many and the most popular summer dessert. We are well aware of the flavors and textures of ice cream, but did you know who is responsible for that great celebration of ice cream? In 1984, American President Ronald Reagan announced July as National Ice Cream Month, and the third Sunday in the month as National Ice Cream Day. Both Americans and the industry delightedly accepted the decision, which isn't unusual considering the fact that the nation takes first place for ice cream consumption in the world (80 l per person annually). Wherever you are, relax that day and enjoy your favorite flavor of that frozen treat.

Visit Poreč from June 27-29, 2025 and Olga Ban Park for the "Gelato Park - World of Ice Cream Wonders" ice cream festival. Enjoy the abundant selection of ice cream and the plentiful program for visitors of all ages.

A royal holiday in the heart of Dalmatia

This year, enjoy your holiday like an emperor - come to Split!

1

UNESCO recognized the incredible value of Diocletian's palace back in 1979 and inscribed it on its prestigious list of cultural heritage sites.

There are few places on the planet that at first glance manage to charm with their impressive appearance and relaxed lifestyle that suggests just one thing - you will enjoy your stay here with all your senses. That is the impression left by Split, a city in the heart of Dalmatia, and not just the first time you visit, but also every time you return. The first impression becomes reality as soon as you step into the old heart of the cityDiocletian's impressive palace that presentday Split was built around. Captivated by the location and pleasant Mediterranean climate, it was there that Roman emperor Diocletian decided to build his majestic palace to spend his free time there more than 17 centuries ago after leaving the throne. He likely never imagined that centuries later his palace would continue to enchant the people of Split and their guests, thousands of tourists from all over the world who walk through that stone beauty every year. While walking through

Text: Željka Kunštek

The old city center of Split with the Riva (seaside promenade) and Marjan Mountain; 2 Peristylethe central square in Diocletian's palace.

the palace, which harmoniously combines tradition with a modern lifestyle within its strong walls, try to find its four gates (Gold, Silver, Iron, and Brass), tour the Saint Domnius cathedral and climb up the bell tower that offers a fantastic view of the city, bear witness to the game of light and shadows in the old empirical foyer - Vestibule, duck into Jupiter's temple, take a break on Peristyle - the palace's central square and a favorite instagramable place in Split, and then take a walk through the mystical cellars of Diocletian's palace.

Gather your impressions from your dose of history and culture on Riva, Split's outdoor living room, where you can best feel the pulse of the city and the relaxing, Mediterranean lifestyle. For the people of Split, Riva is much more than a promenade. It is the best place for their favorite daily ritual - drinking morning or afternoon coffee in the company of friends or colleagues. Riva is the heart of Split's most important events, and the place you will best feel the pulse of the city, especially in the summer. Enjoy that backdrop, between the southern façade of Diocletian's palace, the row of tall palm trees and the line of cafés, lounge bars, and restaurants on one side and the enchanting view of the sea on the other side, and order your favorite coffee. You'll see, it will taste even better when you drink it on Split's Riva.

Split's active side

After you manage to leave Riva (which often isn't easy), get your pulse racing and discover the outdoor side of the "city beneath Marjan". Head from Riva on foot towards the green oasis above Split - Marjan Mountain and

3 Trg braće Radić (Fruit Square); 4 The Golden gate and Grgur Ninski statue; 5 Narodni trg (Pjaca); 6 The bell tower at the St. Domnius cathedral; 7 Croatian National Theater Split; 8 Trg Republike (Prokurative); 9 Riva; 10 The cellars in Diocletian's palace.

Experience Croatia SPLIT

Thanks to the pleasant Mediterranean climate, you can enjoy outdoor activities all year long in Split.

11 A viewpoint on Marjan Mountain; 12 A view from Perun Mountain of the sea;

13 Recreation in Marjan parkforest; 14 Hikers on Perun's trail; 15 Kašjuni Beach; 16 The beach in front of Villa Dalmacija; 17 Firule Beach.

park-forest, and after a short, ten-minute incline you will reach the first viewpoint. Don't worry, it's easily conquerable and you won't even break a sweat by the time you reach the top, but you will be rewarded with a milliondollar view - of Split and the surrounding islands. Marjan is a true treasure trove of culture, biodiversity, and recreation, so while there you will come across many churches and viewpoints, surrounded by lush vegetation (and impressive agaves), but you will also see many recreational athletes. Marjan is adored by cyclists and walkers, and there is also a trim trail on the mountain, an outdoor gym, and a futsal and basketball court. Marjan also has a new, 19-meter-tall viewpoint, as well as a newly renovated Botanical Garden - visit them. If you are amongst those who are more attracted by the experience of wild nature and the scent of adventure off the beaten track, the Perun trail is the one for you. The trail is actually a combination of six thematic walking trails and promenades that meander alongside the Žrnovnica River, along the coastline, at the foot of the mountain and on the slopes, all the way to the peak of Perun Mountain. The trails pass through a heavenly landscape, alongside olive groves and orchards, while revealing historical and cultural treasures on the way, accompanied by bulletin boards with a lot of interesting facts, resting spots, and viewpoints. Ancient fortresses, pre-Christian sanctuaries, ruins of ancient villas, medieval churches and necropolises... Perun is perfect for exploring. The 360-degree panoramic view the mountain offers is included in the experience. The view from Perun also stretches to the beaches, the sandy and pebbly beauties the people of Split and their guests can't get enough of in the summer months, and one of them is also often visited in the winter.

Legendary Bačvice is the best-known city beach, located in the heart of the city, next

Perun Mountain is paradise for hikers, and it located just a half-hour drive southeast of Split by car. It stretches 17 km from the Žrnovnica River near Split to the Cetina delta at the city of Omiš.

to the city harbor, and can accommodate more than ten thousand bathers who love the feeling of warm sand between their toes. As the spring tides arrive, Bačvice becomes Split's Copacabana, and its official sport is picigin, which is also played there in the winter. During the day, Bačvice is a favorite promenade for all generations, and as night falls it becomes party central for the younger crowd. Firule, Žnjan, Kašjuni, Trstenik... there are plenty more beaches in Diocletian's city that guarantee relaxation and enjoyment worthy for an emperor.

Experiences for all the senses

A true regal feast for all the senses awaits you in traditional taverns and fine dining restaurants, on gastro tours, and the ever-more popular cooking classes. For a total experience, first head down to the Pazar (city market) and Peškarija (fish market), must-visit places to get seasonal fruit and vegetables and fresh fish and seafood, which is the foundation of Dalmatian and Mediterranean cuisine. Combined with extra-virgin olive oil, a glass of local wine, and the creativity of Split's chefs, those ingredients are transformed into a true gastronomic sensation on plates. To whet your appetite, choose a Dalmatian travarica or lozovača (herbal or grape brandy), after which traditional delicacies will be even more appetizingDalmatian prosciutto, salted sardines, or local cheese in oil. If you prefer meat, choose the roasted lamb or pašticada with homemade gnocchi. Famous Dalmatian red (Dingač, Postup) and white wines (Pošip, Maraština, Grk), will enhance the gastro experience, while rožata, Dalmatian kroštule, and prošek dessert wine will add the final sweet note. If you choose the Mediterranean menu, you can enjoy your meal without any guilt whatsoever as Mediterranean cuisine is considered to be the healthiest in the world and is part of UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage. Split is an excellent place to depart from on excursions to nearby enchanting islands, national and nature parks, as well as to traditional villages in Split's hinterland. Don't miss out on visiting the neighboring town of Solin (ancient Salona), home to Croatia's largest archeological park, and near Split there are also places where you can go on exciting rafting and canoeing adventures. Round off your stay in the city by visiting some of the many events. The Split Summer Festival (July 15 - August 14, 2025), the dynamic ULTRA Europe music festival (July 11-13, 2025), the ancient Diocletian's stories (August 28-30, 2025), or something else? Just like the emperor, choose what suits you best in Split. 

18 In the city, swimming season lasts from early May to late October, and on Bačvice it lasts even longer; 19 Picigin; 20 The city has an abundance of fantastic restaurants; 21 A typical Mediterrean appetizer: prosciutto, cheese, olives, salted sardines, and fruit; 22 Mediterranean dishes are enriched with superb olive oil.

Dalmatian prosciutto

Whichever part of Dalmatia you find yourself in, one thing is for sure - the locals will offer you Dalmatian prosciutto as an appetizer. The most famous cured meat product in Dalmatia is made of fresh pork butt that goes through the phases of being salted, smoked on dry alder smoke, and drying on bora - a strong, dry, and cold wind. It matures in a room with a stable microclimate, with constant airflow, and so the meat doesn't become too dry, it is exposed to jugo, a warm, southeastern wind. It takes about a year of drying before the prosciutto is ready for consumption, and the meat must be of a uniform color. It is served sliced into thin slices, with cheese, olives, and homemade bread, along with a glass of dry white wine such as Graševina, Rhine Riesling, Debit...

Prosciutto has a spot on the table in Dalmatia on a daily basis, but also for special occasions. Every year in March, the local delicacy is celebrated in Sinj at the National Prosciutto Fair, which gathers prosciutto producers from Croatia and abroad, gourmets, and all those who appreciate the superb delicacy that you can't leave Dalmatia without tasting.

At the source of peace and adrenaline

In Sinj, test your boundaries and get to know yourself.

After a short, pleasant 40-minute drive northeast from Split, you will reach Sinj, a city in the heart of the Dalmatian hinterland. The proud guardian of a rich history and tradition, famous for its alkar knights, the Sinj Alka knights' competition, and Our Lady of Sinj, is tucked away in absolute idyll - the valley of the clear Cetina River, next to the fertile Sinj plain, at the foot of an old fortress, and embraced by three mountains. To start off, actively explore it - by walking, hiking, cycling, and horseback riding in the area that has been tied to breeding and

training horses since ancient times. Those who need more adrenaline can try paragliding or parachuting (the recreational airport, Piket, is the base), and have Sinj "at the palm of their hand". Off-road quad rides on local roads will also surely get your pulse running, but canoeing on the Cetina River or walking down thematic trails, especially the Our Lady of Sinj Trail, will calm it with ease. The trail will take you on an inspirational spiritual journey, and on the way it will reveal ruins of old fortresses and bridges, stećci, viewpoints, churches... The pilgrimage trail, which comes from many areas, has been used for centuries to reach Sinj, which is the largest Marian shrine in southern Croatia. While in Sinj, don't miss out on seeing the Picture of the Miraculous Lady of Sinj, the protector saint of the city, which is housed in the basilica on the central city square. Plan on hiking up to the church on the Grad fortress, with 14 Stations of the Cross, which have been made by the most famous Croatian artists, leading to the top. Upon arriving at the peak, your heart and soul will be fulfilled,

and you can recharge your body by heading down to one of the cities' taverns or restaurants. Homemade prosciutto and cheese, Sinj arambaši (a traditional beef dish wrapped in sauerkraut leaves), dishes made with frogs, crayfish, Cetina trout, Sinj rafioli and donuts, with refreshing drops of Hrvaština wine, will make a true feast of traditional flavors for your taste buds and a complete experience of Sinj. 

1 The Our Lady of Sinj Trail; 2 4 Hiking and cycling in the Sinj region; 3 The Our Lady of Sinj sanctuary; 5 Horseback riding; 6 Relaxing with local delicacies.

A small town with great adventures

Should you embrace adventure, just relax, or combine the two? Find the answer in Omiš.

1 A view of Omiš, the mountains, main city beach, and the place where the Cetina River joins the sea;

2 3 Rafting on the Cetina River;

4 Hiking on Mosor Mountain.

Click here to see a promotional movie about Omiš, "Operation 4", which received many awards:

Omiš's fantastic tourism slogan: "Try it all. Or just relax.", tells you that the lively Dalmatian city at the Cetina River delta, located just 25 km southeast of the largest city in Dalmatia, Split, offers plenty of options, but also beckons you to relax. In its unique landscape, at the enchanting place where the sea, river, and mountain meet, you will find one of the Adriatic's most beautiful travel stories. Omiš is known as Dalmatia's active heart, and it beckons you to enjoy adventures at sea, in the river, mountain, or in the air. Don't worry, age and fitness level aren't a prerequisite for adventure, all you need is good will and a bit of an adventurous spirit.

Try it all...

You can start your morning in Omiš with a leisurely bike ride through the city and the hinterlands and through the Cetina river canyon, or, if you are looking for a greater adrenaline rush, you can head to the mountain bike trails. Omiš Evergreen, the River of

Sighs, Omiš Serenade... choose the trail that attracts you most. An alternative to cycling are the many thematic trails that meander through untouched nature and beckon bold walkers and hikers to ascend to the peaks of the surrounding mountains and discover old pirate fortresses, viewpoints, picturesque villages, and other surprises. Avid hikers won't miss out on walking up Omiš's ferata - a hiking trail that leads to Fortica fortress, which offers a spectacular view of Omiš and many islands. In the afternoon, you can, for example, reserve a spot for a zip line adventure above the Cetina river canyon, where you can count on three hours of rushing

down 2 km of lines and a large dose of adrenaline. Rafting on the Cetina River also guarantees a first-class adrenaline adventure. If you would prefer to slow down your pulse, head down another path that includes light rowing through wild nature, which is loved by all generations. To explore the most hidden corners of the canyon, choose kayaking, and if you choose a route with more adrenaline, head out to battle the rapids accompanied by a professional guide. Canyoning is a perfect activity to fully experience the Cetina, as it combines walking alongside (and through) the Cetina, swimming under the falls, and conquering river rapids. Diving, windsurfing, paragliding... there is no activity you can't try in Omiš.

Or just relax...

If you prefer the "just relaxing" option, Omiš also offers unlimited ways to relax. During the summer, swimming and sunbathing on Omiš's beaches is a favorite pastime for most tourists,

and the only worry they have is which beach to choose. The selection is truly vast - from long sandy and pebbly beaches that offer an abundance of fun entertainment to small, hidden coves on the Omiš Riviera. When you get hungry, treat your taste buds at Omiš's taverns and restaurants. Choose dishes that offer a taste of tradition, such as Dalmatian prosciutto, grilled fish, dishes roasted under a bell, and the famous Poljica soparnik. Olive oil, superb Dalmatian wines and songs, which often fill the air of the taverns, but also the streets of the city, are an integral part of the experience.

While at the table, the locals will share interesting facts about Omiš's dynamic history, which dates back thousands of years in time. You will discover that the people of Omiš used to be pirates that ruled the sea from Split to Dubrovnik and that the area around the city used to be the Republic of Poljica, and is now a group of quiet villages with a rich history that line the slopes of Mosor Mountain. Did you know that

Omiš is also home to the Happy Man House? Those are all stories that will make you want to extend your stay in Omiš. Depending on the time of year you visit, pay a visit to some events - the Omiš half-marathon (May), Omiš Summer Frei (June-October), The Dalmatian Klapa Festival (July), Dalmatia Ultra Trail (October), the Omiš Christmas Fair (December)... Omiš is also a great place to head out from on excursions to nearby Dalmatian cities and islands, where the doors to new stories will open...  5

Octopusa treasure of the sea

Roasted under the bell, on a salad, in a stew, braised, in wine... there are several ways to prepare octopus, which was previously food for regular folk, and today is a delicacy that is more highly regarded than ever. You can enjoy octopus dishes throughout Dalmatia since it is an obligatory part of the menu in Dalmatian taverns and restaurants, and you can also try to prepare it on your own. It is most often prepared in combination with potatoes, olive oil, lemon, parsley, olives, capers, cherry tomatoes, arugula... Well-prepared octopus will be tender and so delicious you will ask for seconds. A glass of red Dalmatian wine will pair perfectly with octopus dishes.

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More than a view

Find treasure seemingly hidden from view in the popular Dalmatian

town.

There, where the blue sea meets the impressive mountains, where the sea and mountain air, infused with the aromas of Mediterranean herbs, create a healthy and aromatic rhapsody, is the charming destination in central Dalmatia that will win you over at first sight. Baška Voda, one of the gems of the Makarska Riviera (often called the "Croatian Cote d'Azure"), will delight you with its lively, picturesque Mediterranean lifestyle, long, pebble beaches lined with Mediterranean pines, and plenty of things to do to keep you active. It's all the same whether you want to lounge on sunny beaches, walk or cycle next to the sea, head down trails that run through olive groves and vineyards, go on guided tours to get to know the impressive Biokovo Mountain, feel an adrenaline rush during a buggy safari through wild nature, swim and dive in the sea that is all shades of blue, discover the treasure in the malacological and archeological museum, or head out on an attractive excursion - to the Cetina canyon, Blue and Red Lakes, neighboring islands, majestic waterfalls on the Krka River, or

to famous Dubrovnik. In Baška Voda, you will enjoy yourself with all your senses. Make sure to also visit nearby towns - Promajna, which owes its name to the sun peeking out over Biokovo, on whose slopes the picturesque, traditional villages of Bast and Topići are tucked away. As Biokovo joins the sea, you will come across Krvavica and Bratuš, peaceful places with beautiful beaches. The wellness centers at many of Baška Voda's starbearing hotels beckon you to relax, which, just like the camps and suites in the family homes of hospitable hosts, guarantee great rest after an active day. A feast for your taste buds awaits you in fantastic restaurants and taverns, while great entertainment can be found at concerts and fishermen's evenings. Don't wait to discover why Baška Voda attracts all generations and profiles of guests - from those looking for a healthy and active holiday to families with children, couples, and filmmakers. Find out why More than a view is one of the slogans of the Makarska Riviera, but also of enchanting Baška Voda... 

To find out more information about Baška Voda, download the Guide in .pdf format and the Google play or App Store application with an audio guide, translated into several languages:

Board "Sense of the sea, sense of the mountain."

view of Baška Voda and Biokovo Mountain; 2 Bratuš Beach;

The village of Topići; 4 Cycling;

SUPing along the coast; 6 Promajna.

Tourist

The prettiest stage in the Adriatic

1 Šibenik's old city center; 2 A view of Vodice, a popular travel destination; 3 In the Šibenik area, the tradition of marenda is preserved from falling into oblivion.

The Šibenik-Knin region is like a large stage where cultural, entertaining, active, and food and wine experiences constantly switch places, which is while you will fall in love with that part of Dalmatia at first sight.

ŠibenikTouristBoard©BranimirGrubišić

Text: Željka Kunštek

Experience Croatia

10 reasons to visit Šibenik

1. Explore Šibenik's fortresses

In order to completely experience Šibenik's lifestyle, first you have to get to know more about the history of the city. Šibenik's four fortresses and protectors of the city's history: Barone, St. Michael, St. John, and St. Nicholas will, with the help of modern technology, take you through an interactive and entertaining adventure of discovering Šibenik's past.

2. Get to know the gems of UNESCO heritage

Did you know that Šibenik is the only city in Croatia and one of five cities in

the world that boasts two UNESCO sites? The St. James Cathedral and St. Nicholas Fortress are true architectural, historical, and cultural wonders. Klapa singing, which often fills the stone streets and squares of Šibenik, and whose harmonious melodies will easily win you over, is also part of UNESCO's cultural heritage.

3. Duck into the old city center

sibenik-tourism.hr

Šibenik's stone center is a labyrinth of historical streets connected by 2851 stairs, and it includes 24 churches, six monasteries, 17 palaces... Explore the cultural heritage of the city that was architecturally visualized by Juraj Dalmatinac, one of the greatest European builders and artists of the time.

4. Sail to the islands of the Šibenik archipelago

Hop aboard an excursion boat or set sail and head to the charming islands of the Šibenik archipelago. On Prvić, visit the Faust Vrančić Memorial Center and find out which international inventions were designed by that great Croatian innovator and inventor. On Zlarin, the island of corals, visit the Croatian Coral Center Zlarin and discover the story of the red treasure from the depths of the sea. Kaprije, a favorite island amongst sailors,

4 The St. James cathedral and old city center of Šibenik;

5 St. Nicholas' fortress is Šibenik's only fortress at sea; 6 Barone fortress at sunset.

which got its name from capers, has a special story, and Žirje, the largest island in the Šibenik archipelago, is special for its many coves and 39.2 km of coastline.

5. Relax on Šibenik's beaches

Take a break from walking and exploring on Šibenik's legendary beaches. Banj Beach offers a unique view of the old city center so the beach is also a favorite hot spot for photographers. Another legendary beach for the people of Šibenik, ever since 1921, has been the Jadrija city beach, recognizable for its colorful changing cabins. Martinska Beach, located on the peninsula that includes a view of the old city center, can be reached with a boat line. For more peace, quiet, and privacy, sail to the hidden coves in the Šibenik archipelago.

6. Find treasure in museums and galleries

The city museums and galleries are an important part of the city's cultural scene. If you don't manage to visit them all next time you come, try to visit at least two: the Šibenik City Museum with collections of incredibly valuable historical exhibits, and Civitas Sacra, a unique museum that reveals interesting facts about Šibenik's cathedral in an interactive way.

7. Discover Šibenik's hidden secrets

Discover Šibenik's hidden secrets and less-known interesting facts through

a thematic tour by members of the Mihovil Tour Guide Association. Stone Guardians, Šibenik's Dark Side, The Girl from Šibenik, Šibenik's Green Side, Quiz Tour, or something else? The choice is yours.

8. Taste local delicacies

Šibenik's gastronomy is a mix of influences from Ottoman and Venetian conquerors. Local, high-quality ingredients, combined with fish, shellfish (mussels and oysters), and other seafood, are an endless source of inspiration for Šibenik's chefs who have positioned the city high on the international gastronomy map. While in Šibenik, try marenda (a traditional meal between breakfast and lunch) and superb local wines made with the traditional sorts of Babić, Lasina, Debit, Maraština...

9. Visit the best festivals on the Adriatic coast

Songs and music have always been deeply imbedded in the soul and identity of the city, as well as every person in Šibenik, and thanks to the many festivals and events, Šibenik has positioned itself as the top stage in the Adriatic. The International Children's Festival, Šibenik's Klapa Evenings, Animated Film Festival, Šibenik Dance Festival, Croatian International Film Festival, Festival of Dalmatian Chansons Šibenik... every year, they attract thousands of fans of music, dance, culture, and art. And every year, Šibenik's fortresses, the

7 A timeline of Šibenik's past at St. Michael's fortress; 8 The island of Žirje in the Šibenik archipelago; 9 Šibenik's gastronomy is a magnet for gourmets; 10 The Croatian Coral Center Zlarin; 11 The stage on St. Michael's fortress; 12 Krka National Park.

irresistible stages under starry skies, host many eminent Croatian and foreign performers. Have a look at their program: tvrdjava-kulture.hr/en/ events/2025

10. Tour national parks

Šibenik is fantastic place to head out from on excursions to national parks. The Adriatic's nautical paradise - Kornati National Park - is a stone labyrinth of 89 islands, islets, rocks, and reefs immersed in the blue sea that beckon you to go on a sailing adventure. Make sure to also actively explore Krka National Park, its amazing waterfalls, and many attractions.

Experience Croatia ŠIBENIK-KNIN COUNTY

13 A view of Vodice; 14 Cycling along Vodice's lungomare; 15 Cycling through Vodice's landscape; 16 The Faust Vrančić Memorial Center on the island of Prvić; 17 Kayak tours to the island

Active in Vodice

If you head 11 km northwest of Šibenik, you will reach Vodice, a favorite summer destination in Dalmatia, stretched out in a wide bay. Lively Vodice is the perfect place for an active holiday, where you should first focus on cycling. Vodice's road and mountain bike trails, varying in levels of difficulty, offer more than 350 km of pure cycling pleasure, and they pass through a picturesque Mediterranean landscape. Recreational cyclists will choose easier trails that guarantee a relaxing ride, while fans of mountain biking and adrenaline will choose the dusty red slopes, difficult inclines, and challenging "Orlov krug", where the C2 for the International MTB Cup is held. Each of the 14 set and marked bike trails that meander through Vodice has a theme of its own, including the Secrets of Prokljana, Prvić - Faust's Island, Prižba, Labyrinths of Srima, Gabro's Marathon, and the Green Trail. For a start, choose the one that attracts you most, and then check the difficulty level, whether it's appropriate for you, and what you can expect on it. Some of the most beautiful promenades in the Adriatic pass through Vodice, including the newly-completed lungomare in Vodice, six kilometers long, which beckons you to take a walk for all the senses. Besides being a form

of outdoor aromatherapy, during the walk you will enjoy views of the sea and Mediterranean greenery that relax both your body and soul.

Kayaks are an absolute hit

Over the past few years, a favorite activity amongs tourists has beenrowing kayaks. It is a great form of recreation, and it is easy to row into every cove with the narrow boats. It's possible to rent them and head out to explore the Vodice archipelago on your own. It's an even better idea to join an organized kayak tour and row to the nearby island of Prvić accompanied by an experienced local guide. The island is just two kilometers away from the lively Vodice coast, and it lures people in with its special calm aura, the charm of its stone streets and houses, beautiful beaches splashed by the clear sea, and the true experience of the Mediterranean as it once was. The island was a source of inspiration for famous Croatian inventor, linguist, and bishop, Faust Vrančić, who left the world a lot of his inventions - the parachute, bridges, sundials, a grape press, an olive mill... His ingenious inventions, drawings, models, and records can be seen in the Faust Vrančić Memorial Center in Prvić Luka. In Vodice, other active experiences also await you - windsurfing, SUPing, »

© Andrija Carli / Vodice Tourist Board

© Franco Cogoli / Vodice Tourist Board

of Prvić.

sailing schools, big game fishing, parasailing, sea scooters, diving to enchanting underwater gardens and sunken ships, sailing... In the summer months, don't miss out on visiting Vodice's beaches, swimming in the clean sea, and enjoying the joys the sea offers. Pebbles, sand, or concrete... Vodice has a beach to suit everyone's taste, and many of them are enriched with plenty of things to do - entertainment, sports, and restaurants and cafés.

The epicenter of fun

From Vodice you can head out on many excursions to the surrounding area, as well as on interesting thematic tours organized by local travel agencies. Tasting tours have become extremely popular, and there you will (with advance notice) visit tasting rooms with superb local wines and supreme olive oils. Discover how those heavenly natural nectars are created and why they are so healthy, taste them, and, if you'd like, buy them. You can also taste them in many taverns and restaurants in Vodice that offer an abundant selection of local, traditional meals, as well as international dishes. Focus on Mediterranean dishes made with fish and seafood enhanced by the superb olive oil made by Vodice's oilmakers. Those light, Mediterranean

dishes are perfect for dinner, after which Vodice awakens once again. Once the sun sets, Vodice's streets and squares become an outdoor living room. In the evening hours, you will best feel the rhythm of the city that vibes to the frequency of many events and great entertainment for which Vodice is known for far and wide. Tired, but satisfied, drift off to sleep in one of the great city hotels, camps, or suites, and then do it all again the following day.

18 Srima Beach is located 3 km from the center of Vodice; 19 Vodice is especially lively in the evening hours; 20 Vrulje Beach is designed as a lagoon; 21 22 Fresh fish, fantastic olive oil, local prosciutto, and cheese are an integral part of Vodice's gastronomy; 23 Concerts and festivals are an integral part of summer in Vodice.

lCenter / Vodice TouristBoar

vodice.hr

Experience Croatia ŠIBENIK-KNIN COUNTY

The "Taste like... Marenda" gastro event promotes a traditional meal - marenda, but also fantastic wines and other local products from the Šibenik-Knin region, all accompanied by Dalmatian songs.

Taste like... Marenda

You will best get to know the locals, their lifestyle and culture, as well as the history of the destination and everything that surrounds you when you are at the table. Gastronomy has always told many stories, and in the Šibenik area, a special story is told by marenda - a traditional meal eaten between breakfast and lunch, or between 10 AM and noon, during a work break. Marenda would give workers, especially those in factories, shipyards and fields, the energy they desperately needed for physical labor, which would help tide them over until the main meal - lunch. So, it had to be nutritious and filling, but also delicious. In order to preserve the long tradition of gastronomic values and traditions entwined in marenda, it has today become an attractive and recognizable gastro brand not only amongst the local people, but also amongst visitors to the Šibenik region.

The idea to additionally popularize marenda launched the "Taste like... Marenda" project, which unites six gastro events during 2025, starting in April, at seven different locations. The gastronomic stages where marenda plays the main role this year are Šibenik (April), Primošten (May), Skradin (June), Pirovac (July), Zlarin Island (August), Murter Island (September), and Oklaj - Promina (October). Every month is in the sign of certain gastro theme, depending on ingredients typical for that time of year and region, and marenda is prepared by local chefs. It is traditionally accompanied by local wines and song, so local winemakers present themselves at the events, and performances are held by klapa groups, folk dance associations, and other musicians. Gastro events dedicated to marenda are also a great opportunity to buy local products and crafts made by local producers and artists, as great souvenirs, but also to participate in educational workshops for children and adults. Interesting gastro theatrical performances are also part of the experience, as are guided gastro tours that reveal many interesting facts about local gastronomy. 

2 UNESCO sites| 2 National Parks | 11 Medieval Fortifications

2 UNESCO sites| 2 National Parks | 11 Medieval Fortifications

230 Cultural Monuments | 300 Islands | 600 Archeological sites

230 Cultural Monuments | 300 Islands | 600 Archeological sites

Source: HTZ, Photo: Ivo Pervan

Izvor: HTZ, Photo: Goran Santar

Source: JUZPŠKNŽ

Source:

Source: HTZ Photo: Darko Krešnjer

Source: TZŽŠKN, Photo: Miranda Trklja

Source: TZŽŠKN, Photo: Valerio Baranović

A

natural gem in the heart of Dalmatia

Discover

1 Skradinski

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K3

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rka National Park is located in the heart of karst Dalmatia, alongside the Krka River, famous for its unique limestone waterfalls and rich cultural and historical heritage. The park is easily accessible and is located near the A1 highway. It stretches over a large area so it is recommended you plan your visit well. Spring and summer are the ideal times to visit as that area is one of the sunniest parts of Croatia. That time of the year is the best time to sail through the Krka River canyon. So, from April to November, Krka National Park organizes boat excursions from Skradinski buk to Torak Lake, Visovac Island, Roški waterfall, and the medieval fortresses of Nečven and Trošenj. The boat ride from Skradin to Buk is included in the ticket price, as is the bus trip from Lozovac, the main entrance to the park, to Buk.

Skradinski buk , Krka's largest and best-known waterfall, is a true natural masterpiece. It is the longest limestone barrier in Europe, and offers an incredible panoramic view. Near Buk is an ethno-village with a depiction of traditional trades and the way people lived before the industrial revolution. While there you can also see the remains of the Krka

buk is the most famous waterfall on the Krka River;

The necklaces, a series of small cascades at Roški waterfall;

Sailing on a boat down the Krka;

The Franciscan monastery with a church on the island of Visovac on the Krka River.

hydro power plant, the second-oldest hydro power plant in the world that produced alternating current, and was first opened in 1895.

Actively explore the Park

The Park offers fans of active holidays 47 km of walking trails and 388 km of cycling trails. At the "Krka" Eco Campus in Puljane, along with a lot of educational content, nature buffs can also find accommodations at the Titius hostel. It is also very near Manojlovac, the tallest waterfall on the Krka River. The newly-opened Krka Nature Interpretation CenterThe Well of Life in Kistanje emphasizes the importance of conserving water. The Krka River is home to more than a thousand plant and animal species

The Krka is one of the richest European rivers for its number of fish, and due to the more than two hundred species of birds recorded there, Krka National Park is one of the most important ornithological areas in Europe. The Krka's seven limestone barriers are a karst phenomenon formed over a long process of limestone deposits. Along the Krka River banks, there are many historical sites, amongst which are the Roman military camp Burnum, with a preserved amphitheater, and the island of Visovac, which is home to the Franciscan monastery

of the Mother of Mercy, one of the most famous Croatian cultural and historical monuments. In Oziđana pećina cave, an archeological site above Roški waterfall, which offers a spectacular view of the waterfall and river canyon, there is an archeological collection in situ that bears witness to the continued presence of man in that cave from the late Neolithic era, around 6000 B.C., to approximately 1500 B.C..

Krka National Park is open all year long, except on December 25 and 26. Visitors can buy the "Friends of the Krka Club" ticket, which enables an unlimited number of visits throughout the year. Information on working hours, admission tickets, and events in the park are available on the official Krka National Park website and via social networks. 

5 6 Walking trails reveal many natural attractions and the park's abundant flora; 7 The park is paradise for cyclists; 8 The ruins of the Burnum amphitheater; 9 The Krka Nature Interpretation Center - The Well of Life; 10 The Krka hydro power plant; 11 12 A depiction of traditional trades.

Add the attractive Manita peć cave, which has an abundance of adornments, to your itinerary in Paklenica National Park. Touring the cave, which must be in the presence of a guide, takes 30 minutes and reveals many secrets of that underground world. Since the temperature in the cave is around 9 degrees all year round, take appropriate clothing with you if you visit the cave in the warmer part of the year.

Experience adventure, history, and natural wonders

True adventure awaits you in Velika Paklenica canyon.

In northern Dalmatia and Lika, stretched over the slopes of the southern part of Velebit Mountain, is a diamond in the rough - the Paklenica National Park. It is an endless source of inspiration for adventurers, fans of nature and climbers so at Paklenica's climbing spots, popular throughout Europe, you will meet climbers from various countries looking for challenges for their climbing conquests on the solid, cultivated carbonate boulders. For walking and hiking, choose trails that reveal enchanting nature, but also plenty of interesting features. The Paklarić Educational Trail, 550 meters long, will take you from the old Paklenica mill to the Paklarić fortress and a viewpoint with a panoramic view. The Pjeskarica trail, 1.5 km long, takes you alongside the Velika Paklenica stream and offers true refreshment in the summer months as it passes through the forested part of the canyon. The panels alongside the trail reveal a lot of interesting facts

about the national park and Paklenica's mills, which were located alongside the stream in the 19th century. Of the total of 16 mills, not a single one is in use anymore, although one has been restored - the middle Marasović mill, which can be toured. Plan a visit to the Marasović Ethno-House, in the traditional Marasovići settlement, which is a protected Croatian cultural heritage site. Find out how people lived, and died there, which there are many details about at the "Mirila - Resting Places of the Souls" exhibition. Visit the mysterious Paklenica underground city, hidden in Velika Paklenica Canyon. The underground tunnels, known as "The Bunkers", are an attractive visitor's center which tells the story about the natural and cultural heritage of Paklenica and Velebit in an interactive and entertaining way. While there, try climbing an artificial climbing wall, learn how to tie knots, find out how to equip yourself properly for hiking... During

1 The viewpoint on the Paklarić trail that offers a view of the sea; 2 3 Walking and climbing in the Velika Paklenica Canyon; 4 An exhibition dedicated to mirila (measures) at the Marasović Ethno-House;

5 A depiction of mirila in Paklenica's underground city.

the 1960s, the impressive landscape of Paklenica was the filming location for legendary films about the adventures of Winnetou. Follow the tracks of the Indian chief and dive into new adventures. 

Text: Željka

Kunštek

Photos:

"Paklenica National Park" Public Institution

Tulove grede (Tul's Rafters)

Regardless whether you are a hiker, fan of nature and incredible landscapes, or a fan of Winnetou, there is one natural attraction in Croatia you shouldn't miss out on - Tulove grede (Tul's Rafters). The dense group of steep, vertical limestone rocks is located in Velebit Nature Park, and they form a kilometer-long ridge, with the highest peak at 1120 m. The karst phenomenon and embellishment of Velebit is often mentioned in folk legends. According to one, it was a dragon's lair. Another says that Velebit fairies used to live there, and the third says that the impressive rocks were

once home to the Black Queen... Today, the rocks are the destination for many hikers, but also fans of the film about the legendary Native American chief Winnetou, since the rocks were one of the backdrops used when the legendary film was made. Hiking trails lead to Tulove grede, but Majstorska cesta, which is known as one of the most beautiful panoramic roads in Croatia, also leads there. On foot, or by car, bike, motorbike... it doesn't matter how you get to Tulove grede. For reaching the top, you will be rewarded with views of the sea and Velebit's spectacular landscapes.

Plitvice's gastro inspiration

Wild garlic is an endless source of spring inspiration for the chefs in the Plitvice region.

When your legs get tired from walking through the bubbly green fairytale of Plitvice Lakes National Park or from cycling through the green landscape that nature abundantly rewarded that part of Croatia with, take a break in one of Plitvice's restaurants. There you will continue on in the same shade as a green rhapsody also awaits you on the plate, where the leading role is taken by the fruits of Plitvice's preserved fields and pastures. Try the gastro brands of the Plitvice region - Lika soup, lamb roasted under the bell, homemade cheese and bacon, but also dishes enriched with the amazing plant that pops up in the forest - wild garlic, which gives all the dishes a special aroma. The incredibly healthy, therapeutic, and wild plant grows in abundance in Plitvice's forests, blooms in the summer, and has been used as an ingredient and spice since ancient times. Wild garlic ( Allium ursinum ) resembles onions and garlic most closely, especially in flavor and aroma, and pairs excellently

Since it is a true spring forest treat for bears, the plant also known as wild garlic, ramsons, wood garlic, and broad-leaved garlic is also often called bear's garlic.

with various ingredients. It is a mandatory addition to various soups, salads, and sauces, and in restaurants there it will also add a special aroma to pizza, frittatas, and risotto. It also pairs excellently with dishes including gnocchi and salmonids, as well as in other combinations whipped up by the creative chefs, and the plant is also used to make aromatic oil. As a tincture, wild garlic is used to boost immunity, improve digestion, lower high blood pressure, and improve circulation. A great time to taste dishes made with the forest plant is "Wild Garlic Day", which is traditionally held in May in Korenica (in 2025 on May 10th). Besides presentations and

tasting wild garlic dishes, the event also includes an organized hiking trip to pick wild garlic, an entertainment program for children, and plenty of fun for everyone.

1 2 3 4 Wild garlic combined with gnocchi and salmonid, in a frittata, in risotto, and on pizza; 5 Wild garlic oil with basa (fresh, soft cheese), truffles, and bread; 6 A poster for "Wild Garlic Day"; 7 Wild garlic grows wildly in the Plitvice forests.

Plitvice Lakes Tourist Board

Rastoke are also called Little Plitvice, and they are located just 30 kilometers from UNESCO's shiny international gem.

An aquatic paradise perfect for wellbeing

1 Taking a break from walking;

2 Waterfalls, watermills, and traditional houses are Rastoke's trademark;

3 Wellbeing next to the Slunjčica River;

4 A gong bath; 5 Kayaking down the rapids; 6 Exploring Rastoke by bike; 7 SUPing.

slunj-rastoke.hr

Waterfalls, pools, watermills, villas, and absolute idyll... Rastoke has

everything

you need for the perfect escape from asphalt.

All it takes is an hour and a half of driving south of Zagreb to reach the town of Slunj and its enchanting locations that are reminiscent of a large fairy garden. Although it wasn't created by fairies, according to legend, they lived there, and the appearance of the fairytale town was shaped by water, which showed its incredible strength and creativity in a small area there. Thanks to the Slunjčica River that flows and creates waterfalls, cascades, rapids and bluegreen pools on its 500-meter journey to the convergence with the Korana River, the town got the name Rastoke (Croatian: to flow over). Of the 23 waterfalls, the most famous are Hrvojev slap, Vilina kosa, and Buk. Besides the waterfalls, Rastoke also gets its recognizable image from the many watermills and old, traditional wooden houses. Staying in such a place literally beckons you to be active so, for a start, walk through the aquatic paradise. Six walking trails, perfect for Nordic walking, will take you through idyllic nature. Walking will soon be replaced

by cycling, which will take you further into beautiful surroundings, and there are around a hundred kilometers of bike trails, great for both recreational and professional athletes. To explore in an absolutely relaxed way, choose horseback riding, and for an adrenaline rush, choose a quad adventure. Rafting, kayaking, and canoeing on the Korana and Mrežnica rivers are a logical choice, as is swimming in the rivers in the summer months. The area is also popular amongst fishermen, as well as amongst all those who enjoy wellbeing, relaxing, and connecting with nature. A great opportunity for that is at "Wellbeing on water" (June 14, 2025), an event that brings yoga, forest baths, and gong baths to the Slunjčica River. Experience walking as meditation, participate at wellbeing workshops for adults (which are also specially organized for children), try SUPing on the Korana, and in the evening, relax all your senses on the St. Ivan Bridge with a small jazz concert that brings together music, wine, and painting. 

Text: Željka

Kunštek

Photos: © Slunj Tourist Board

Croatia's hiking fairy tale

TFrom

the fairy tale homeland boldly head out to Klek, a mystical mountain with amazing stories.

hey call it the homeland of fairy tales, legends of fairies and witches are a daily topic there, and its landscape looks imaginary. If you are ready for something truly enchanting - visit Ogulin. The city in continental Croatia was built above the 40 m deep Dobra River canyon, and there are a total of 16 km of caves that stretch out beneath it. It has rivers, lakes, and mountains, the largest of which is Klek (1181 m), a uniquely-shaped mountain that rises above the eastern edge of the Velika Kapela range. It's no wonder that the idyllic landscape was an endless source of inspiration for Ivana Brlić Mažuranić, born in Ogulin, and one of the greatest fairy tale writers. Her "Tales from Long Ago" are still read by every student in Croatia, but also by children all over the world (it has been translated into ten international languages), and Ivana's House of Fairy Tales, hidden behind the strong walls of the Frankopan Castle (the Old Town of

Ogulin), pays homage to them. Make sure to visit the attractive home of the wonderous world of fairy tales, inspired by the works of the talented Croatian writer often called the "Croatian Andersen".

While in Ogulin, go on to create your own fairy tale - put on some hiking boots and head over to legendary Klek Mountain, the easily conquerable hiking, alpine, and botanical paradise in Croatia. You don't need to be physically fit to hike up to that empire of dense forests, vast meadows, and springs, or to meander to down forest trails. However, the 200 m tall vertical boulder that dominates the landscape is a challenge reserved for avid alpinists. More than two thousand hikers and nature fans walk along the marked hiking paths every year. The international Via Dinarica path, one of the prettiest hiking trails in the world, passes through Klek. Klek is the guardian of many interesting facts and legends (the most popular of which is about the witches of Klek), as well as protected and endemic plant species. Try to find and recognize some of them. Several trails lead to Klek, the most popular ones being those that start out in Ogulin, the village of Bijelski, and Hreljin. The desired destination of many hikers is the hiking cabin (1000 m), open on weekends and holidays, and the most beautiful reward is - the enchanting view of the Ogulin area and the surrounding mountains. 

1 Klek Mountain; 2 A bird's-eye view of Ogulin; 3 The Frankopan castle; 4 Touring Ivana's House of Fairy Tales; 5 Hikers on Klek.

Klek is known as the cradle of Croatian hiking and alpinism, and the idea of establishing a hiking society was made in 1874 in Ogulin.

Ogulin Tourist Board

Hyatt opened its first hotel in Croatia

In Zadar, on May 15, 2025, the Hyatt Regency Zadar was opened, whereby for the first time, the renowned international hotel group Hyatt Hotels Corporation officially arrived in Croatia, one of the most sought-after European travel destinations. The hotel offers 133 modernly-furnished rooms and suites with a panoramic view of Zadar's sunset, and the interiors include the colors of the sun and sea. The menus at the hotel's restaurants and bars are inspired by Dalmatian and Italian gastronomy, as well as a fusion of Asian and South American flavors. The hotel also offers a spa center of 1155 square meters, with indoor and outdoor pools, and plenty of other facilities, such as a multi-purpose room suitable for organizing conferences, private celebrations, and weddings.

The Isolano hotel opened on Cres

In late April 2025 in the city of Cres, a new boutique hotel was opened - The Isolano, which belongs to the luxury line of Autograph Collection by Marriot hotels. The Isolano is also the first Marriot hotel on a Croatian island, but also the first Autograph Collection hotel in Croatia that is adults-only. The hotel, worth 17 million euros, offers 49 spacious, elegantlydesigned rooms in five categories, two heated outdoor pools, a beach bar, an event hall, and several gastro locations and a modern wellness&spa zone. Hotel guests have exclusive access to the beach that is located only a few steps from their rooms.

A culinary sensation arrived in Poreč

In mid-May 2025, at an attractive location next to the sea, at the Pical in Poreč, Fogo by Bekal, a new restaurant was opened in collaboration between Valamar hotels and two renowned Croatian chefs - Tvrtko Šakota and Marko Turković. It is an innovative culinary concept that brings a unique experience of Istrian gastronomy with emphasis on cooking on an open flame and using superb local ingredients.

Split is becoming a center of culinary education

In early February 2025, Oliva Allegra - the Mediterranean center for culinary arts, which includes the Wallner Private Secondary School, which educated many superb Croatian chefs, announced the construction of a new school building at an attractive location in Split. They announced that by building a new building, they will have more space to conduct classes, and Split will become the national and regional center for culinary education, or the Croatian Le Cordon Bleu. It will also include a school garden spread over around 2000 square meters, which will be tended to by the school employees and students, which will make Oliva Allegra the first educational institution in Croatia that will be self-sufficient in regards to the ingredients that will be used in their kitchens.

© The Isolano / Parlatina.hr

© Oliva Allegra / Parlatina.hr

© Hyatt Regency Zadar / 404 agency

Guinness Record beaten: Lošinj krokant is the largest in the world

In early May 2025, to celebrate 140 years of organized tourism on the island of Lošinj, a new Guinness World Record was set in Mali Lošinj - Lošinj krokant, the largest dessert of its kind in the world. The impressive structure made of almonds and sugar is 2.73 meters high, has 14 tiers, and weighs 57.5 kg. The construction of the krokant was led by Petar Goleš, a pastry chef from Lošinj, with the help of his assistants. After several days of preparing more than two thousand parts, and nearly 200 work hours invested, the process of constructing the krokant outdoors took nearly eight hours. However, it was worth it! The representative from Guinness World Records, Paulina Sapinska, confirmed the record and officially included the Lošinj krokant among the world records.

Creska

rožica

- a new gastro souvenir from the island of Cres

On May 10, 2025, in the city of Cres on the island of the same name, the island's new gastro souvenir - Creska rožica, was presented. The uniquely designed cake symbolically combines tradition and modern, and is prepared from carefully selected local ingredients that have been the foundation of Cres cuisine for centuriesdried figs, almonds, honey, and homemade brandy. This special dessert was created to mark a double celebration - 180 years of tourism on the island of Cres and 30 years of sweet tradition for the Slastice Margareta cake shop, which has the cake on its menu so it is available to all those who would like to take a piece of Cres home with them.

Istria and Great Britain connected by flights

Early May of 2025 marked the inaugural flight of the Jet2.com and Jet2holidays on the new Manchester-Pula line. Also, flights took off from Birmingham to Pula twice a week. Flights will fly on those routes all the way to the middle of October. There is also a flight offered to Pula from London Stansted on Saturday, while another absolutely exclusive route is the Jet2 flight from East Midlands Airport, which started flying on May 24, 2025. Jet2 now flies to three airports in Croatia - to Dubrovnik, Split, and Pula, which, so far, is the largest implemented summer program towards Croatia by those companies.

© Ivan Brčić Mali Lošinj Tourist Board

Cres Tourist Board

E1 Octopus carpaccio;

2 Buckwheat soup with asparagus and gnocchi;

3 Handmade ravioli with asparagus and cottage cheese; 4 Octopus bruschettas; 5 Seabass filet roasted in paper.

Gold on a plate

Kvarner's golden island awaits you with a gastronomic journey for all the senses.

ver since ancient times, it has been called the golden island (Insula Aurea) , primarily due to the abundance of sun and its golden sunsets, natural beauty, and sandy beaches, as well as the amazing golden-colored homemade products - wine, olive oil, honey, and cheese. The island of Krk has always been a place where people have eaten well, but also rested, and today the destination enjoys the reputation of being a tourist

becomes even more apparent when the entire Kvarner region, where the island is located, was crowned the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2026 and was officially recommended for winning the prestigious award by the expert committee at the International Institute for Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT). The island of Krk is at the very top of Kvarner's gastro scene, and the taverns and restaurants in seven island destinations are the starting points for many gastro stories that combine indigenous traits and tradition with a modern and creative approach to preparing and interpreting dishes.

Heaven for the taste buds

On Krk you will completely pamper your taste buds, especially if you decide to taste traditional island dishes and desserts. The main roles of Krk's

Try octopus dishes on the island of Krk.

island

Krk is one of the main stars on the gastro scene in Kvarner, European Region of Gastronomy 2026. On the plates there, creative island chefs successfully bring together tradition with a modern approach to preparing dishes.

gastronomy are taken by the renowned Kvarner shrimp (which is known as the most delicious in the world!), island lamb (which was, according to legend, served at Emperor Nero's feasts in Rome), fresh fish, Krk prosciutto (the first Croatian product protected by an EU geographical indication), delicious honey, sheep's milk cheese, handmade šurlice pasta, olive oil - liquid gold that enhances many dishes (also protected by a geographical indication), wild aromatic island herbs, followed by homegrown, seasonal ingredients and wine - the superb Vrbnička Žlahtina. The supreme awardwinning white wine is made with white Žlahtina grapes, which gives the best results in the Vrbnik Field on the island and is protected by a geographical origin trademark. Refreshing Žlahtina pairs excellently with Mediterranean dishes, as does Valomet, a unique sea sparkling wine that is made with the same sort and

6 Handmade makaruni pasta with a beef goulash; 7 Scampi buzara; 8 Calamari stuffed with prosciutto, rice, calamari, and shrimp; 9 Sheep's milk cheese and olive oil; 10 The Island of KRK - 50 delicacies of the Golden Island book is a fantastic souvenir to take home from the island.

aged for months at the bottom of the sea. Once it sees daylight, it delights all with its flavor and quality, and it is also unique for the natural design of its bottle with deposits of coral and seashells. Valomet is also a fantastic souvenir to take with you from the island, as is the book The Island of KRK - 50 delicacies of the Golden Island . The book offers recipes to prepare traditional island dishes in a modern manner so in it, amongst other things, you will discover how to make brodet with polenta, presnac (a traditional island dessert), or šurlice handmade pasta with Krk prosciutto and arugula. It is translated into English, German, and Italian and can be purchased at the Krk Island Tourist Board, where you can also find out a lot of information to make your stay on the island as pleasant as possible. 

The

of

The Island of Krk Tourist Board

Rab cake - more than a dessert

Almonds, zest of homegrown lemons and oranges, and the famous maraschino liqueur are the foundation of Rab cake, a gastro brand of the island of Rab and Kvarner, the 2026 European Region of Gastronomy. The original recipe to make that superb delicacy, written in cursive, has been carefully and secretly kept for centuries in the archive of the Benedictine monastery of St. Andrew in the town of Rab. It was shared verbally amongst a small group of ladies from Rab and today only a few know the secret.

For a perfect cake, you firstly need a lot of patience, years of experience, and several days of work. According to legend, Rab cake was first prepared in 1177 in honor of a visit from the then-Pope Alexander III to Rab. From then until today, the cake has been traditionally prepared for holidays, celebrations, and special events. You can take it home with you as an original souvenir from the island of Rab, and enjoy the opulence of its flavors with your favorite people and a glass of maraschino or prošek (a sweet dessert wine).

At the source of happiness

Release endorphins doing your favorite activity on Happy Island.

You can't buy happiness, but you can truly feel it and experience it if you come to the island of Rab, known as "Happy Island". Although Rab is also known as the island of sun, sand, and emerald coves, the strong feeling of happiness experienced by all those who visit it has become a trademark for that green island in the Kvarner Bay. On Rab you will experience happiness with all your senses and find it in everythingin the views during your walk through the stone streets of medieval Rab, in the melodious sounds

that ring through the streets and squares of Rab, in the cocktail of Mediterranean herbs that aromatizes the entire island, in trying Rab cake, and in returning to the past during the Rab Fjera (July 25-27, every year).

Any activity you enjoy on Rab will release endorphins (happy hormones), and there are plenty of activities to choose from. The more than 300 km of walking and hiking trails, with gentle inclines, that meander through the island landscape are an inspiration for long walks. Three educational trails will take you on a cultural treasure hunt on the island: Capo fronte, Epario, and Frux, great for walkers and cyclists. With a total length of 40 km, the trails lead to 30 sites of archeological, sacral, and ethnographic heritage. If you decide to explore the island by bike, you can expect everything - from riding through oak forests, vineyards, and olive groves to those that lead alongside heavenly bays and beaches, revealing views of the sea, coves, and nearby islands along the way. Stop to go for a swim and dive into the waters of Rab - you won't regret it. To your route, add Juxta Mare, a virtual museum that tells the magical story

of the history and culture of the island of Rab through shipbuilding, sailing, and fishing. A smile will also be brought to your face by rowing in kayaks to hidden coves, windsurfing, SUP-ing, or just lounging on one of the amazing beaches with your favorite cocktail. Happiness is hidden in everything on Rab. 

Explore the Capo fronte trail that passes through the most forested area of the island and hides archeological treasure.

1 The old center of the town of Rab is located on a peninsula; 2 The island of Rab has more than 340 km of bike trails; 3 Nordic walking; 4 The Capo fronte educational trail.

Town of Rab Tourist Board

Zagreb's new attraction: HaHaHouse - the first museum of laughter in the world

Zagreb's cultural scene has become richer with a new, innovative, and unusual museum - HaHaHouse, the first museum of laughter in the world that was, quite appropriately, opened on World Laughter Day, January 10, 2025. Upon arrival at the house of laughter, located in the very heart of the Croatian capital, your face will be smiling. After you pass through the "rinsing zone", you will reach the unique entrance the museum's main exhibit - a slide located in the "life spin cycle", which will symbolically pick up all the negativity you have brought with you and prepare you to enter the zone of pure joy. Bravely go down the slide and dive into an adventure full of laughter. The lively colorful installations and imaginative interactive exhibits will encourage you to be active - sing karaoke, listen to a chicken choir, try your hand at a battle in the sumo area... The museum will also take you on a journey through the history of laughter, present various styles of humor, and remind you that laughter is truly medicine for the soul, but also for preserving mental health.

tipTravelmagazine

Photos: ©Željkaand RobertKunštek

Zagreb ZOO celebrates its 100th birthday

In 2025, one of the most-visited attractions in Zagreb, the Zagreb Zoo, is celebrating its hundredth year of existence. It is one of the oldest zoos in southeastern Europe and the only zoo in the world where you can see the endemic species - the olm. The zoo stretches over an area of seven hectares in the southern part of Zagreb's most beautiful park - Maksimir.

On April 25 and 27, 2025, the spring edition of the already traditional family event, ZekoEko, was held at the zoo. Zagreb's Zoo celebrated its grand birthday with games, laughter, dance, music, children's performances and plays, workshops, quizzes, and plenty of surprises for old and young.

New Medvednica web site and mobile app presented

Medvednica - Beneath the Sky. Above Zagreb. - is the slogan of the new web site and mobile app dedicated to Medvednica (Bear mountain), Zagreb's favorite hill. Both were designed with the aim of offering better information and promotion of the mountain, its attractions and facilities, and they were presented in Zagreb on May 21, 2025. The new digital platform includes the western, central, and eastern part of Medvednica and offer diverse and useful content all in one place: a detailed description of hiking trails and cabins, available accommodations and culinary offer, weather and pollen forecast, recommended activities, interactive maps, and a lot more. Both are simple to use and available in Croatian and English, and the app can be downloaded for free in the App Store and from Google Play. The project was initiated and presented by the Zagreb Tourist Board, and created in collaboration with many partners. The mayor of Zagreb, Tomislav Tomašević, attended the presentation, and at the time announced the continued investment in the development of infrastructure and facilities on Medvednica, such as working on a new four-seat lift, building new flow bike trails, introducing electric buses to the peak of Medvednica (Sljeme), as well as new bus lines that will connect the hiking cabins. Find out more at: medvednica.com

A favorite daily ritual of Zagrebians is drinking coffee in good company. Of course, it can also be another beverage, but whenever they plan on getting together, the Zagrebians make a deal to meet "for a coffee". At least that's what they say. That ritual starts their mornings, helps them relax after a workday, and socialize in the evening. While in Zagreb, don't miss out on that experienceeither in one of the pleasant cafés, on a charming terrace, or in the hidden courtyard of a café.

Discover Europe with Croatia Airlines flights

If you have always dreamed of exploring new destinations, now is the right time to make your dreams come true! Visit many European cities at excellent prices, and Croatia Airlines has fantastic news - starting in July 2025, new direct flights will be introduced from Zagreb to Madrid, Hamburg, Prague, Bucharest, and Milan. All flights on those new lines will be flown on the newest Airbus A220 planes, which offer even greater comfort, less noise, and improved energy efficiency. Modern planes ensure pleasant traveling, and thanks to advanced technology, passengers can enjoy an even better flight experience. For more information, visit croatiaairlines.com or download the Croatia Airlines mobile app. Find out more at: croatiaairlines.com

©CroatiaAirlines

Urban chic under the stars

As of mid-May 2025, Zagreb has gained a new lifestyle hotel - Stellar Boutique Modules, which successfully combines a long tradition of hospitality with a vibrant, futuristic design. The modern hotel for contemporary travelers - located in the center of Zagreb, on the border between the Upper and Lower Town, and within reach of all urban resources - with great ease and speed has gained the hearts of travelers who would like to discover the charms the Croatian capital has to offer, but also those who come to Zagreb on business. It's located a stone's throw away from the pedestrian zone, on the route of several tram lines, and is accessible by car (with outdoor parking available).

A Stellar, Star, Standard, or Balcony Module? It doesn't matter which module/room type you choose, as all 48 have a futuristic design, they all guarantee superb comfort and have quality furnishings. Ceiling frescas and the experience of near weightlessness in the room are included in the experience. Still, if you would prefer a more spacious room with a king-size bed and a living room, choose Stellar. For two guests, the Star Module is ideal, while the Standard single room is perfect for solo travelers. The Balcony room with a loggia that includes a view of the city will delight travelers who want to relax with picturesque views.

The most popular part of the hotel amongst guests is the exclusive rooftop terrace with a view of city rooftops and the Zagreb cathedral, and, on clear nights, the starry sky above Zagreb. Visiting the charming rooftop, which is perfect for relaxing, work, or socializing, is a privilege for hotel guests. The terrace can also be rented for private celebrations and organizing small events. Start your morning in Stellar with a healthy and delicious à la carte breakfast, and you can enjoy coffee, snacks, and creative bites at the Restaurora Borealis bar all day long. The innovative all-day-eatery concept is ideal for even the busiest travelers. Finish off the evening on the rooftop, with delicious snacks, in good company. It can even be your fourlegged pet as they are also, for a small fee, welcome at the hotel. 

Reserve your stay here:

Stellar Boutique ModulesZagreb | Maistra

and enter the code "STELLAR10" for a 10% discount for a stay between June 1 and September 1, 2025.

A fairytale holiday

Hedonism for all the senses hides amongst the green hills of Zagorje.

In the northwestern part of Croatia, near the Croatian capital, is a region that looks as if it popped out of a fairy tale. Perhaps it sounds like a cliché, but Zagorje truly has everything you need for an enchanting holiday - green hills, valleys and vineyards, therapeutic spas, picturesque churches, castles,

and forts, delicious food, pleasant people, an abundance of stories and legends, plenty of laughter and songs, and many trails that meander through the picturesque landscape. See for yourself and, to start, find comfy accommodations. Amongst the green hills you will find a combination of luxury, tradition, and comfort - hotels, camps (including glamping) and holiday home have become an absolute hit so you often have to reserve a place far in advance. All accommodations are designed to suit the taste and needs of modern travelers, but regardless of the type of accommodations you

Zagorje has plenty of cozy accommodations that combine luxury and tradition and offer plenty to do for a relaxing vacation;

Veliki Tabor castle;

Walking through the forest. Text:

choose, you will find ways to relax in each of them, as well as find ways to enjoy an active holiday. At the hotels and spas you will be pampered with the elaborate selection of wellness and spa treatments, or you can get your pulse racing at the water parks, while you can also find a dose of hedonism in holiday homes - pools, whirlpools, and saunas are an integral part of many accommodations. Along with privacy, peace, and quiet, and an irresistible view of idyllic greenery offered by terraces at many houses, their yards are also attractive as they beckon you to relax under the warm Zagorje sun, while the younger family members can play freely.

Active in Zagorje

You won't spend a lot of time lounging in your home in Zagorje because the enchanting surroundings will entice you

to be active. Walking, hiking, and cycling on the many trails is a logical and alwaysgood choice, and the true jackpot is gathering up the courage to go on a hot-air balloon ride and have the green fairytale at the palm of your hand. Quad rides will fulfil the expectations of adrenaline buffs, while those who prefer peace and listening to nature can choose to go horseback riding in the idyllic landscape. As you awaken to the singing of birds the next day, plan a visit to famous tourist attractions - Veliki Tabor castle, the "Staro selo" Musuem in Kumrovec that is a real-life old-fashioned village, and the Krapina Neanderthal Museum, which are all full of stories and new experiences. In order to better get to know the Zagorje region and its locals, find out more about the traditional flavors as well. Zagorje turkey with mlinci (traditional Croatian pasta) and Zagorje štrukli (traditional Croatian dish) are gastro brands with

8 Cycling through the Zagorje region; 9 Horseback riding through idyllic nature; 10 11 Glamping at the Tuhelj spa; 12 The "Staro selo" Museum in Kumrovec; 13 The Krapina Neanderthal Museum; 14 The Jezerčica spa; 15 The gourmet offer of food in Zagorje is truly impressive.

flavors that win over everyone's taste buds. As far as wine is concerned, taste some old Krapina Belina, a sort that has been grown in the sun on the vines of Zagorje's hills for centuries. Belina is one of the oldest sorts of wine in the world and is the predecessor of many modern sorts, including both Chardonnay and Rhine Riesling. Yes, Zagorje is full of stories... 

© Damir Fabijanić

A weekend in Moslavina's idyll

Discover why the Moslavina region is such a well-kept secret of central Croatia and the perfect place for a weekend getaway.

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Less than an hour-long car drive southeast of the hustle and bustle of the Croatian capital is Moslavina, a unique microregion in central Croatia where you can still hear the sound of

silence. Nature rules there and allows you to get to know more about the marshland empire with dense forests, river valleys, and winegrowing hills that the hardworking locals

view of Moslavina's picturesque vineyards and fields;

A canoe safari in Lonjsko Polje;

generations of people in Moslavina preserve traditions;

vineyard with Škrlet vines.

have been carefully cultivating for ages. Century-old churches and picturesque villages with traditional wooden houses where storks pose on the rooftops add to the idyll. That area, where tradition is favored over modern, where peace, indescribable silence, and birdsongs replace the noise of city streets, and the flavors of authentic dishes and wines win over absolutely everyone's taste buds, you will spend a weekend to remember.

Active through Moslavina

To start off, put on your hiking boots and get your pulse racing on the hiking trails of Moslavina's time machineMoslavačka Gora used to be an island in the Pannonian Sea. What was once blue has now been replaced by endless green that is home to incredible biological diversity, so it's no wonder Moslavačka Gora has been named the first regional park in Croatia. Awaken the explorer within and actively explore the mountain range encircled by three rivers. Try to find the ruins of the former Pauline monastery and church, as well as the ruins of old fortresses such Garić grad, Jelengrad, or Košutgrad. You don't have to be in great shape to tour them or to hike up to the Vis peak (444 m), which will reward you with a view of Kutina and idyllic Posavina. A natural travel gem of the Moslavina region is Lonjsko Polje Nature Park, one of the largest and best-preserved natural marshland areas in Europe. You can explore it on foot, with an electricpowered golf cart, old-timer tractor, canoe, solar-powered boat, tour boat, or - by bike. If you don't have your own bike with you, you can rent one at the Repušnica Visitor's Center and head out on the adventure of exploring that empire of biodiversity. Follow the Park's

"Ptica kosac" watchtower is one of the three attractive watchtowers in Lonjsko Polje Nature Park, and it is located near the Repušnica Visitor's Center.

5 A traditional house with a stork nest on the roof; 6 Horses in Lonjsko Polje; 7 Cyclists on Moslavačka Gora; 8 A bird watchtower in Lonjsko Polje Nature Park; 9 A stork.

bike trails, which guarantee an easy, pleasant, and experience-filled ride, during which you will pedal through a marshland area and forests, alongside the Sava and Lonja rivers, and enjoy views of the Croatian Posavac horse, Turopolje pigs, Posavina geese, cows... indigenous Croatian breeds in their natural habitats. Turn on all your senses, listen to the croaking of frogs and singing of many birds, and get to know more about storks - the hosts of the Park and symbol of the region. Besides on trees, you will also see their nests at nearly every step - on the roofs of old, traditional houses, on electrical poles...

The

© Hrvoje Božičević Sisak-Moslavina County Tourist Board 8

© Zoran Jelača CNTB

Experience Croatia SISAK-MOSLAVINA COUNTY

10 A bunch of Škrlet grapes; 11 The ŠKRLET installation at Trdenić Winery; 12 Škrlet in a glass; 13 A grape harvest in the vineyards of Moslavina.

The story of Škrlet

One of the most beautiful stories in Moslavina can be discovered on the tables of traditional restaurants and farm estates, in wine cellars and cottages in the Moslavina region. The plates and glasses throughout Moslavina present the thousands of years of symbiosis between humans and nature, their harmonious coexistence that also resulted in Škrlet, an indigenous sort of wine. The first vines of that sort of white grapes were planted there by the Thracians, after which the noble drops of that first-class light-yellow wine were enjoyed by the Illyrians and Roman emperors, followed by the Erdödy counts. Unfortunately, that tradition was abruptly stopped in the early 20th century when devastating grapevine diseases attacked the vineyards in Moslavina. After that, many years passed and great effort was invested by the hardworking winemakers to renew them, so breezes once again grace the fertile vines on the sunny hills of Moslavačka Gora and they show their graditude with superb wines. Slowly discover the story of Škrlet on Moslavina's Wine Road, which is home to many wineries, cottages, and farm estates. That light and fresh wine, with a slightly acidic flavor with fruity and floral notes, pairs excellently with seafood dishes, pasta, dishes made with white meat, and spicy dishes. Besides Škrlet, Moslavina is also home to two more indigenous sorts of grapes - Moslavac and Dišeća Ranina (Belina).

Flavors of Moslavina

Experience the diversity of Moslavina through its authentic gastronomic flavors. Carp grilled on a fork, roast duck with mlinci (toasted and boiled flatbread), Moslavina fritters, wild game dishes, štrukli, trganci, white polenta, dishes made with freshwater fish (catfish, pike, perch), sour cherry or apple strudel... The selection is vast and the portions are bountiful. In Moslavina, you won't be wanting for other experiences such as those that are an integral part of many events, often based on tradition and focused on promoting Moslavina's highlights. One such event is MoslaVina Kutina wine festival (May 23-24, 2025), which

celebrates Moslavina's indigenous sorts of wine, promotes the culture of drinking wine, and connects local winemakers and producers of other local products direct with the visitors, wine aficionados, and all those who appreciate the taste of traditions. Wine is also the focus of Voloder Autumn (September 12-14, 2025), which has been held in Voloder in the city of Popovača for more than five decades. It is a great way to get to know more about harvest traditions, visit a wine and must fair, participate in various entertaining and sports events, see a folk dance group performance, enjoy concerts performed by Croatian singers and bands... and have a fantastic time. 

14 Carp grilled on fork; 15 A depiction of a grape harvest at Voloder Autumn; 16 Moslavačka Priča country estate; 17 Ladies of Moslavina at Voloder Autumn; 18 Homemade bread; 19 20 Music and Škrlet are integral parts of many events.

The Prandau Mailáth Castle

Slavonia, a region in eastern Croatia, has an abundance of natural and cultural gems, and one impressive one is located in the tame town of Donji Miholjac, located next to the Drava River, and near the Croatian-Hungarian border. It is a complex of two castles - Prandau (older, from 1818), built in the late-Baroque style, and Mailáth (newer, 1903-1906), in the neo-Gothic style with elements of the English Tudor style. The castles are connected with a portico. Mailáth attracts special attention due to its lavish appearance that is irresistibly reminiscent of fairytale castles (some compare it to Hogwarts from the Harry Potter series of books). Mailáth is also one of the best-preserved castles in Croatia and has an abundance of historical features - decorative chimneys, high rooflines, cylindrical towers, wroughtiron fences, many windows... The castle was built on four floors and was modern at that (and present) time - it had a central vacuum system, its own water supply, and a total of three heating methods. Unfortunately, the castle's interior isn't accessible to tourists as the castle houses the offices of the Municipality and City Hall. However, you can freely walk through the lush gardens that surround it, which used to even have heated lawns, a heated greenhouse to grow tropical plants, and was illuminated and always open to the public.

oBio

A city break next to the Drava

The capital of Slavonia and Baranja is the perfect place for a family city break.

The next time you have a long weekend, come to Osijek. The city in eastern Croatia, surrounded by fertile fields and extended alongside the calm flow of the Drava River, is in the heart of Slavonia and Baranja, a historical region where tradition still lives and harmoniously exists with a leisurely, modern lifestyle. Osijek beats to a special rhythm that easily wins over everyone who visits it, and then delights them with a lot of attractions and content since the city on the Drava truly has it all - from rich historical, cultural, and culinary treasure to natural attractions and great entertainment for all generations. Start exploring from the epicenter of culture - the Baroque Tvrđa, which brings history and legends alive as you walk through

its 18th century streets. Duck into the Osijek co-cathedral, take a ride on the famous Osijek tram, and try to find unique art installations - the wooden Mačkamama statue, Osijek's sphynx, and Fićo running over a tank . For an additional dose of culture, visit the Slavonia Museum and take a walk down European Avenue with its line of Secession palaces. Take a break in one of the many parks. Bike lanes and paths meander throughout the city, and one of the most popular ones is Osijek's Promenade. The 10-km path next to the Drava is perfect for a light stroll, running, and cycling, while for a longer adventure on two wheels, choose the EuroVelo 6 and 13 trails that run through vineyards, forests, and next to the river. Those looking for adventure will be sure not to miss out escape rooms, arcade games, and interactive attractions, as well as the visit to a skate park and modern Opus Arena stadium, while the youngest will enjoy visiting the wild heart of the city - the zoo, which is the largest in Croatia. The zoo is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, it is open every day, and is home to a hundred species, including giraffes, lions, and many exotic birds. Once the temperatures rise, the Copacabana

1 A view of the Drava; 2 The city center; 3 Osijek's Tvrđa; 4 A ride down the Drava; 5 Walking through a city park; 6 A cycling tour; 7 A bridge on the Drava; 8 Advent in Osijek.

city beach, also known as Kopika, becomes Osijek's living room. All year long, the city's squares and streets are the stage for many attractive events adapted to all generations - visit a few. Spice up your stay with the flavors of tradition - try kulen, fish paprikash, catfish perkelt, and dishes made from black Slavonian pork. Wines from Slavonia's and Baranja's famous wine cellars will pair excellently with them, as will Osijek radler. While in Osijek, go on an excursion to Kopački Rit Nature Park, and Tikveš Castle, as well as to other nearby attractions in eastern Croatia. 

Photos:

Osijek

Travel trends

in 2025

Željka Kunštek

Along with some that are already known and have retained popularity, 2025 has also brought about new trends that are inspiring a growing number of tourists and enticing them to try new adventures. We present the "magnificent seven" that are the focus of many travelers this year. Are some of them on your "travel radar" too?

1 The dancing polar lights above the island of Aldra in Norway; 2 There are many polar light watching excursions organized in Norway; 3 The spectacular and photogenic Aurora Borealis in Sweden attracts many photographers.

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1

Night tourism

Up until now, the idea of night tourism has mostly been tied to the growing trend of astrotourism. With the planet warming up and climate change, night tourism has been growing in popularity so, in order to avoid the heat and crowds during the day, tourists have started to explore attractions and gain new experiences at night more and more. In accordance with that, travel operators and hoteliers have expanded their night offer and it has become perfectly normal to tour museums at night, dive in the Red Sea, or head out on a safari in Zambia and Kenya. Considering the fact that solar activity in 2025 has been the highest it has been in the past couple of decades, hunting polar lights has become one of the most sought-after activities. Some of the best destinations to experience the magical lights include Norwegian cities north of the Arctic Circle, followed by Swedish and Finnish Lapland, the Lofoten archipelago and Svalbard, as well as Iceland.

2 JOMO and digital detox

You have probably already heard about FOMO (the Fear of Missing Out) connected to the fear of missing out on important moments and events, but have you ever heard about JOMO? By changing the first letter, an absolutely new, opposite trend was formed - JOMO (the Joy of Missing Out) , which places the unexpected feeling of happiness in focus when we miss out on doing something, of course, when we really want to, and takes away the feeling of guilt that often comes along with missing out on something important. The focus of JOMO is enjoying your own company and things you love, and it developed at the same time the trend of staying at home became popular. As far as traveling is concerned, JOMO means enjoying a slower, calmer way of taking a holiday, in less-known destinations, far away from crowds and stress. JOMO travelers choose vacations in nature and quiet, they stay in remote mountain cabins, lake houses, or on the beach, and they prefer locations that enable digital detox - a holiday with no signals, screens, digital technology, social networks... Aware of the fact that various devices draw attention from true joy and plenty of little things that make their daily life more beautiful, instead of being online, such travelers connect with nature on vacation. "Switch off tech. Tune into nature." - is a slogan that describes it perfectly and is used by some landlords when promoting their cabins and other accommodations immersed in nature, which are in growing demand amongst JOMO travelers.

4 Enjoying nature on the Stockholm Archipelago Trail, a unique 270 km-long walking trail that passes over 20 islands in the Stockholm archipelago (Sweden).

Traveling in the preand post-season

The already-popular trend of traveling in the pre- and post-season continues on, and it is closely tied to the increased frequency of heat waves that affect many destinations during the peak season. Traveling during the pre- and post-season offers a much better option for actively exploring destinations, their beauty and attractions, and an added bonus are the smaller crowds and lower prices at those times.

5 Cyclists next to the Pula amphitheater, one of the best-known amphitheaters in the world and the largest ancient construction monument in Croatia.

Trends CROATIA AND THE WORLD

6 An interaction between a robot and a man in Stockholm (Sweden); 7 ZOEa virtual personal assistant on a cruise powered by artificial intelligence - designed exclusively for guests on MSC cruises.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Logically and expectedly, artificial intelligence (AI) is the technology that has likely had the greatest influence on travel in 2025. Automatization of processes, training staff, and preparing personalized travel itineraries are just part of its tasks, and the fact is that its abilities increase on a daily basis and it is difficult to predict where it will take us. Have you ever heard of virtual assistants such as ChatGPT? For example, if you enter: "Next week, I'll be staying in Barcelona, in the neighborhood of Gràcia, and these are the activities I enjoy doing..." - you will get a proposed travel itinerary, adjusted to your needs. Also, AI will recommend events that are taking place during your visit to the destination.

5 Frontier tourism

Staying outdoors and in nature have remained a favorite thing to do in 2025, a year where we are more attracted to exploring distant, untouched locations. Many travelers, inspired by the popular American neo-western drama show Yellowstone , have been looking to stay in the wild and experience things such as horseback riding through nature, camping under a starry sky, and hanging out next to a campfire. Yes, the return of westerns is a trend.

© The Stockmans Camp/T

8 9 Camping at the Stockmans Camp in Victoria State in southeastern Australia.

Staying at "location doubles"

"Location doubles" is a phrase that has been popularized on social media, especially on TikTok, and it involves alternatives to famous destinations. They are generally more affordable, less crowded, and less popular destinations that are growing in demand and offer experiences similar to what the tourism meccas offer. For example, the Greek island of Pharos is shown as an alternative to Santorini, Brugge as Paris' double, Albania or Montenegro as a substitute for Greece, Guatemala as a good substitution for popular countries in Central America...

10 11 12 The picturesque Belgian city of Brugge is offered as a "location double" for the popular travel destination of Paris.

Set-jetting

According to data from the internationally popular platform Expedia, set-jetting or exploring filming locations for television movies and shows has remained popular in 2025. For many tourists, movies, TV sitcoms, and shows have become the main source of inspiration for travel, and some of the top destinations for set-jetting include the United Kingdom (Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, Outlander, Bridgerton) , Thailand (The White Lotus) , New Zealand (Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit) , Croatia (Game of Thrones, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Mamma Mia! 2, Winnetou) ...

13 In the movie Mamma Mia! 2, young Donna and Sam rowed a boat in front of Stiniva cove on the island of Vis. That amazing Croatian cove was named the prettiest beach in Europe in 2016.

1 Watching the sunrise next to a treehouse on the exotic island of Nusa Penida near Bali (Indonesia);

Staying in a bamboo house in the middle of the jungle.

for cool experiences accommodationsCool

A fairytale house, forest cottage, opulent summer home, treehouse, old church, school bus, glass igloo, windmill, or something else? We bring you some of the most unusual accommodation units.

If you would like to experience a truly unique and extraordinary holiday, step out of the box and forget about standard hotels, suites, and holiday homes. Choose your destination and then find the most unusual accommodations that offer a different dimension to your holiday and guarantee an abundance of new experiences and memories for you and your travel companions.

Text: Željka

Kunštek

A fairytale home

A 16th century stone house with a thatched roof and a bubbling creek flowing through its idyllic country garden sounds like a page from a fairytale, doesn't it? But such a place truly exists in Hartland, England, not far from the rugged coast in north Devon. A blooming green garden with a little house with a rustic interior infused with modern elements is perfect for a truly cool and relaxing holiday, immersed in nature. The house is a great place to stay while exploring the coastal towns, walking through overgrown forest trails and alongside rugged cliffs, while also rowing next to deserted sandy beaches.

Water Cottage / Coolstays com

ter Cottage / Coolstays com

A glass igloo

While some will enjoy the spectacular dance of the polar lights, midnight sun, or falling snow outside in incredibly low temperatures, others will watch those magical sights from bed in a heated glass igloo. The enchanting village of glass igloos is hidden in the wild of Finnish Lapland, around 250 km north of the Arctic Circle. The classic igloos have a bed and a ©

toilet, while the more luxurious cabins offer a kitchenette, open fireplace, and private sauna. Those chasing the magical Aurora Borealis should plan to stay in an igloo sometime between late August and late April, during its season. And of course, make reservations in time :)

A house built into a hill

A unique holiday home, seamlessly immersed in the green hilly landscape, is located on a remote estate in the rural beauty of Wales. The house with a sod roof is literally built into a hill and surrounded by green fields. The modern and cozy interior, combined with the surrounding greenery, peace, and quiet will delight fans of nature, animals, and the idyllic countryside. Seeing a badger, fox, deer, or otter there is a daily occurrence, especially for those who take a walk to the nearby lake.

A glamping tent next to your own beach

An incredible glamping experience can be found on Hvar, Croatia's sunniest island. In the beauty, peace, and quiet of the wild Mediterranean landscape, there are five glamping tents, each with their own bathroom and terrace. The remote glamping oasis also has its own beach splashed by the crystal clear sea. Experiences to not miss out on include relaxing and enjoying the joys of the sea, exploring the island of Hvar, but also the nearby, exotic Pakleni islands, whose hypnotic beauty is equally attractive to sailors, excursionists, and true hedonists.

Unique cottages

The fact that human imagination has no bounds is proven by three unique, handmade cottages on a picturesque meadow in Wiltshire in southern England. That great haven in the heart of nature boasts a unique style on the exterior, with a natural green roof that changes throughout the year, and with a pleasant interior. Meadows, streams, an abundance of wildflowers and trails that meander through the enchanting landscape are an inspiration for long walks and true food for the soul. Nearby the cabins is Longleat Safari Park, and famous Stonehenge is also located just a halfhour away to the southeast by car.

A spa house in the canopy

A true treat for fans of nature and spa experiences are spa treehouses just like the ones immersed in the forested landscape between Toulouse and Bordeaux, in the Montcuq-en-Quercy-Blanc in southern France. Wooden houses, surrounded by canopies, have whirlpools and saunas and harmoniously blend nature and a chic style. After relaxing in the spa house, the hosts recommend you explore the medieval villages of Lot and Tarn-et-Garonne departments and walk or cycle through the enchanting landscape.

© Krka Fairytale Village © Krka Fairytale Village

A village inspired by fairytales

In the village of Rupe near the town of Skradin, just a stone's throw from one of the most beautiful aquatic fairytales in Croatia - Krka National Park, there is, absolutely appropriately, a fairytale village that evokes smiles from all generations of visitors. Still, the youngest visitors will be the ones whose eyes are the biggest and hearts are the happiest to see the large mushroom, pumpkin, and picturesque castle where you can, of course, stay the night. The charming and cozy houses, which look as if they have come out of the Smurf village, are equipped with beds, a kitchenette, and bathroom, and can sleep four to five people. They are surrounded by an organic garden and orchard and the village's guests can enjoy the juicy fruits for free. At the village there is also a children's playground and outdoor kitchen, and nearby there are walking and cycling trails, waterfalls, viewpoints, and plenty of other attractions in the enchanting region.

An American school bus

When an American school bus arrives in Sussex in southeastern England and is transformed to a cozy eco-friendly haven, where you can stay any time of the year, it is a unique glamping experience. The handmade interior, which retained original elements, modern technology, natural materials, solar energy, sheep's

» wool insulation, and water saving technology... it can all be found in the yellow school bus from Florida parked on a private field at a farm at the foot of a hill in South Downs National Park. Near the bus are the picturesque villages of Thakeham and Amberley, as well as castles, museums, and pleasant pubs that will enhance your stay.

© Skoolie Stays

Coolstays.com

A Georgian villa

For those who want to feel the royal treatment while on holiday, the opulent Georgian villa, surrounded by gardens, parks, and a lake in the picturesque village of Frampton-on-Severn (in the Cotswolds region in England), is a hit. The nearly 300-year-old house, located on the Frampton Court estate, with a history that dates back to the 11th century, is perfect for special occasions and celebrations with family and friends. The majestic rooms with fireplaces and portraits, grand piano, movie room, games room, spacious kitchen, green gardens surrounding the villa... absolutely everything is dedicated to hedonism. Those who would like to get away from that lavish oasis for a bit can enjoy long walks and cycling through the picturesque landscape, as well as exploring the charming villages nearby.

An active windmill

The restored and active windmill, located just a few-minute walk from the incredible Norfolk coast (England), is truly a cool place to stay and a favorite amongst couples.

The modern interior, private garden and spectacular 360-degree view of the surrounding fields and coastline, along with the vicinity of beautiful sandy beaches is perfect for a unique, romantic vacation. Walking through the coastal Victorian village of Mundesley, exploring the wild flora and fauna of Norfolk and the coast - on foot, by bike, kayak, or boat will fill your days with new experiences.

© Stow Mill / Coolstay

© Stow Mill / Co

Designer villas

Just like Alice in Wonderlandthat is how those who walk into the enchanting resort in Keemala jungle on the Thai island of Phuket feel. The incredible location is home to uniquely designed villas of various sizes and styles, each of which has a private pool. The four various kinds of villas also differ in the views they offer so you can choose from a view of the jungle, ocean, mountains, or a combination of all three. In order to completely relax in that hedonistic oasis, be sure to try the various spa treatments, yoga, meditation, shiatsu, and even Tibetan chanting.

A chapel near the beach

Staying in a room of a former church? Yes, even that is possible, and it can happen in Liverpool, England! On the second floor of the church that dates back to 1877, located on the outskirts of busy Liverpool, near the beach, is a designer apartment that successfully connects original restored details and modern, elegant furnishings. The impressive stained glass windows are the first thing to catch your attention in the carefully decorated apartment, where special attention was paid to every detail. The apartment's surroundings beckon you to explore the lively city center, but also to lounge of famous Crosby Beach, walk through the marina, enjoy water sports or do a bit of everything.

Cát Bà Island in Lan Ha Bay

Cát Bà, the largest island in Lan H ạ Bay, located in northeastern Vietnam, is home to long, white, sandy beaches, spectacular karst limestone and dense forests, and has, absolutely deservingly, been named a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Fans of nature, adventurists, divers, and hikers adore it, as do avid kayakers, who in the calm waters south of the island enjoy rowing, magnificent landscapes, and exploring the many islets, lagoons, and caves. It is also a special experience to sail through the emerald waters around the island all the way to the fishing village of Việt Hải, located in Cát Bà National Park, where it is possible to stay with locals in pleasant, sustainable accommodations. It's also worth paying a visit to the ancient fishing village of Cái Bèo, which is more than seven thousand years old! There you can spend a peaceful afternoon by renting a boat, visiting a local fisherman's floating house, hearing their fishing stories, and seeing traditional fishing techniques. .

Shutterstock©PHOTOGHRAPHER83

Meteora: Monasteries on "floating cliffs"

They call them the "Greek miracle" and the "floating cliffs", UNESCO included them on its prestigious list of world heritage sites back in 1988, and they are undoubtedly one of the greatest tourist attractions in Greece. They are Greek Catholic monasteries, jointly called Meteora, which were built on tall and hard-toaccess cliffs that rise above the plains in the Thessaly region. One of the most important communities of monks in Greece was formed in that impressive landscape, on top of the limestone cliffs, some of which are more than 600 meters high. Of the total of 24 monasteries built, only six remain today: The Great Meteoron, Varlaam, Rousanou, St. Nicholas Anapafsas, St. Stephen, and Holy Trinity, which can be seen on the photograph here. Perhaps you recognize the Holy Trinity monastery if you watched the James Bond movie "For your Eyes Only", where Roger Moore climbed a high cliff. Of all of the monasteries in Meteora, Holy Trinity, which dates back to 1458, has the most dramatic location, and it was home to many treasures that were, unfortunately, mostly stolen during the Second World War. Today, 145 stairs carved into the cliff lead to the monastery.

T ourism

UN

World Tourism Day

Every year since 1980, World Tourism Day is celebrated on September 27 all around the world. That date coincides with an important milestone in international tourism - the anniversary of the adoption of the Statute of the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) in 1970. The date is also suitable due to the fact that it marks the end of the high season in the northern hemisphere and the start of the season in the southern hemisphere. Every year, World Tourism Day is dedicated to a special topic related to the global challenges and goals of the tourism sector, and this year's topic is "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation".

Touring the Temple of the Sacred Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in Bangkok (Thailand).