Down in Dubrovnik

Croatia has been a very popular choice for many clients this year and we can see why. Apart from having her own currency, a criteria that many took seriously this year, Croatia offers a wealth of beauty, culture and activities as well as 1256 islands to discover! Don’t be fooled, Dubrovnik is not a saving but it is thoroughly worth the visit.

 

Dubrovnik Old City, iconically jutting out into the Adriatic, is as striking as the images depict. With cobbled streets and narrow stepped walkways the Old City houses an 18^th century Cathedral, a 14^th century Dominican Monastery and the Gothic Renaissance Rector Palace. It has survived earthquakes and war and as cities go, is stunning. Dubrovnik offers an idyllic backdrop for cocktails and a relaxed dinner after a day in the sun. By day take a boat trip to local islands, wander through the markets or relax on one of the beaches, where locals spent their childhood years. The cable car, best experienced later in the day will take you up to Srd Hill for breathtaking views of the city, the Adriatic and the islands beyond. Make sure you are there in time to enjoy a cocktail at sunset but beware the queues may be long in high season.

 

Staying on the south side of the city offers the tranquillity of the residential district, away from the bustle of the high rise hotels and cruise ship drop off points. We suggest staying at Grand Villa Argentina, perched on the craggy Croatian coast and just a leisurely 10 minute stroll from the Old Town. For pure unadulterated luxury and seamless style, Villa Dubrovnik is the place to stay. A little further away from the city but still only a 15 minute stroll away, Villa Dubrovnik offers peace and elegance perched above the emerald Adriatic along with gourmet cuisine and Mediterranean glamour.

 

If you are in Dubrovnik for more than a few days take to the Adriatic and explore the Dalmation coast islands. The island of Lokrum, itself a UNESCO World Heritage site along with the Old City of Dubrovnik, is an easy 10 minute ferry ride away and the closest island to the city. The island is a nature reserve offering a plentiful treat of history, monuments, flora and fauna and spots to relax and swim during your visit. There is no accommodation on Lokrum and overnight stays are prohibited however it provides a perfect day trip.

 

Venturing further afield, take day tour of the Elaphiti islands or take the passenger ferry and spend a day exploring just one of them. Lopud for example is perfect for a day trip with a pretty village, botanical garden and beautiful beach on the quiet north side of the island. The larger island of Mljet, the southernmost island along the Dalmation coast, offers an unspoilt haven. Head past the tourist trap of Pomena and the island opens up into a tranquil wilderness, perfect for walkers, culminating in a national park at the western end of the island.

 

A week was enough time to explore the walled city and the coastline and close islands however a two centre with another destination in or around Croatia would have been ideal. Next time we’ll venture to Split and the islands of Brac, Hvar and Korcula knowing there is still more of this fabulous country to discover. Or perhaps venture into tiny Montenegro to discover the enormity of friendly locals, beautiful beaches and majestic mountains.

 

For more information on travelling to Croatia we would be delighted to chat to you. Do call into the Greenstar Travel office or give us a ring on 01372 462226.