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lequipage-production · 7 years ago

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Balkan Road Trip #5 : Sur la côte Adriatique, de Dubrovnik à Korcula

Après être restés presque deux heures dans les bouchons à la frontière croate, nous arrivons en début de soirée dans notre Airbnb à Dubrovnik. Le temps de poser nos affaires, et nous voilà repartis pour découvrir la ville de nuit. Il est tard pourtant il y a encore beaucoup de monde et d’animations en ville.

Le matin, nous repartons en direction du centre ville. Le logement étant cher à Dubrovnik, notre Airbnb est un peu excentré. Heureusement le chemin jusqu’aux portes de la ville est jalonné de petites ruelles, d’escaliers et de fleurs en tout genres. Après un super restaurant qui nous offre une vue magnifique les toits de la ville, nous découvrons la ville de jour. Nous ne sommes pas seuls : les rues sont bondés de touristes ! En effet, Dubrovnik, classée au patrimoine mondial de l’Unesco est une des destinations les plus touristiques de la zone méditerranéenne.

Si vous ne le saviez pas, la ville est un des principaux lieux de tournage de la série Game of Thrones. C’est vrai qu’avec ses remparts, ses palais, ses forteresses, ses fontaines, Dubrovnik offre un décor naturel taillé sur mesure pour ses aventures médiévales. Nous n’avons pas résisté à l’envie de retrouver quelques lieux emblématiques de la série.

Même si l’architecture de la ville est incroyable, nous sommes contents de reprendre la route pour un endroit plus calme. A quelques kilomètres de Dubrovnik, nous découvrons le petit port de Trsteno. Après une petite baignade au coucher de soleil, nous installons notre tente : ce sera notre unique nuit de camping lors de ce roadtrip !

Le matin, nous visitons l’Arboretum : un jardin historique qui nous permet de contempler des arbres centenaires et d’admirer des vues sur l’Adriatique. C’est un endroit simple, qui mériterait un peu plus d’entretien mais où règne un esprit de bien-être.

Après cette matinée en pleine nature, nous repartons vers Ston et Mali Ston. La première ville est connue pour sa muraille longue de cinq kilomètres que nous avons gravie sous la chaleur. Heureusement, en haut, une magnifique vue sur les marais salants nous attendait ! La seconde ville est réputée pour sa culture des huîtres, on s’est arrêtés en manger quelques unes et c’est vrai qu’elles étaient excellentes.

En route vers Orebic où nous allons prendre un ferry pour nous rendre sur l’île de Korcula. Nous nous trouvons sur la presqu’île de Peljesac, la route des vins de Dalmatie. C’est la principale terre du Plavac Mali, un cépage dont sont issus de nombreux vins rouges croates comme le Dingac et Postup. Nous en profitons pour visiter quelques caves, déguster et acheter quelques bouteilles.

Après quinze minutes de traversée en ferry, nous arrivons sur l’île de Korcula. Cette île est connue pour sa jolie ville fortifiée dans laquelle serait né Marco Polo ! On a profité de nos deux jours sur l’île pour se baigner, se promener en voiture dans les nombreuses vignes, bien manger (et boire !) et découvrir la vieille ville de nuit : illuminée et majestueuse.

#dubrovnik #game of thrones #trsteno #arboretum #ston #mali ston #orebic #peljesac #plavac mali #wine #korcula #croatia #carnet de voyage #balkan road trip

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gertsenoakley8-blog · 6 years ago

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Yacht Charter in Croatia

Croatia is positioned on the Adriatic Sea, opposite Italy, in the Northern Mediterranean. With a background returning over a thousand years, it initially appeared on the political map of Europe in 1992, following the separate of Yugoslavia after a bloody civil war. Climate - The environment is common of the Mediterranean and also offers pleasurable vacations throughout the year. The best season for cruising in Croatia is early summer with great winds in May as well as June generally from the S/SE. Early mornings have the tendency to be tranquil with the wind enhancing later in the afternoon to around 15 - 20 knots. The months of July and August see calmer conditions which is ALRIGHT for those that don't mind car. Summer temperatures balance between 26 to 30 ° C and also the sea temperature level in summer season has to do with 25ºC. Sailing Location - Beginning in the north The Brioni Islands - Officially the summer home of President Tito, these islands were closed to the general public. Today they are open but the facilities are a little bit review, as little loan was spent on their maintenance complying with the death of the President. The group of islands consists of 2 larger ones and also 12 smaller ones. They were offered National forest condition in 1983. The biggest island is Veli Brijun, just is 2km from the shore. It is really environment-friendly being covered with plants. Cres & Losinj islands - Covering virtually 400 square km, Cres is the second biggest island in the Adriatic. It is organized with Losinj as well as an additional 28 smaller sized islands. The harbour of Mali Losinj is said to be the most lovely in the entire Adriatic. Cikat bay, which is popular for its coastline as well as excellent windsurfing, is the traveler centre. While the community of Veli Losinj is much quieter. Cres Community is also prominent and is similar to an Italian village due to the fact that for numerous centuries it was ruled by Venice. The island of Susak is well worth a check out. The population talk their own language, which is not conveniently comprehended by various other Croats. And also the women commonly wear a colourful outfit, a brief, multicoloured outfit, red tights as well as a white blouse. Krk is the largest island in the Adriatic, covering 405.78 square km, and also is additionally among the most heavily populated islands. It is really busy with vacationers being by bridge to the mainland. It is not one of the most stunning or the greenest of the islands. The main communities are Baska, Krk town itself, Malinska, Omisalj, Punat and Vrbnik. Krk Community is renowned for the Basilica of St. Mary. Rab island is among the greenest islands in the Adriatic and probably among the most enchanting. It is has beautiful sandy beaches as well as is covered with pine forests. Rab Town, the primary resort, is full of medieval structures, constructed under Venetian guideline in the 13th century. The old town wall surfaces are still visible in some areas. Pag is the second lengthiest island in the Adriatic. It has little in the way of vegetation due to strong wind of Bora. Even with https://tablecherry43.asblog.cc/2018/11/25/sungold-tomato-and-maple-jam/ has a lot of appeal. It is popular for its shoelace making as well as the Pag Community is wonderfully preserved. Primosten, on the coastline, is one of one of the most popular resorts on the Adriatic coastline and flaunts the best of Croatia from the other day, stroll the narrow, patched roads of the old town centre set on a tiny, uneven peninsula as well as today, the Farmhouse all evening disco is just a 10 minute taxi away. The Kornati islands - 140 islands compose this archipelago and also it covers a location 300 square kilometres. Most of the area is a National Park, assigned so due to it countlesses coves and also crystal clear blue waters. It was defined by astronauts as having the bluest water in the world seen from space.It is truly attractive. George Bernard Shaw said of the island group "On the last day of Production God preferred to crown His job, and thus produced the Kornati islands from tears, celebrities and breath." Most of the area comes from individuals of Murter island who concern look after the olive groves, wineries and orchards. They in remain cottages during the farming season but there is no permanent populace. Hramina is an exclusive marina on Murter Island with great facilities consisting of an option of dining establishments. Dugi Otok is the home of the large, gorgeous bay at Telescica. The small angling town of Sali here is well-known for summer occasions commemorating neighborhood folklore with a fun donkey race as well as a procession of lit up watercrafts. Brbinj higher up on Dugi Otok is a peaceful, protected quit bordered by yearn timbers and also olive groves. The city of Split is a UNESCO world heritage site well-known for the Palace of the Emperor Diocletian. See Skradin on the mainland and venture up-river to the famous waterfalls at Krka. Brac is the largest island in Central Dalmatia and the 3rd biggest in the Adriatic. It is likewise among the sunniest with 2,700 hours annually. Brac is renowned for its agricultural products, figs, olive oil, nectarines, wine and also other fruits. However the main export is the renowned Brac stone where numerous buildings on the planet have actually been created, including the home to the presidents of the United States of The U.S.A., The White Residence in Washington DC Bol is said to have the most beautiful beach in the Adriatic. Various other hotels consist of the Golden Horn (Zlatni Rat), Milna, Sumartin, Supetar as well as Sutivan. Hvar is the fourth biggest island in the Adriatic and also is also sunnier compared to Brac. There is nevertheless enough rain to keep the island environment-friendly as well as to preserve the lovely areas of lavender, marjoram, rosemary, sage as well as thyme along with the vineyards. In the springtime Hvar scents like a herbalist shop. The lavender oil is the island's major export. The main hotels are Hvar Town, Jelsa, Stari Graduate, Sucuraj and also Vrboska. Hvar boasts the nation's oldest public theater dating from 1612. Vis - At 24 miles from the mainland this is the most westerly of the larger Croatian islands. Vis is the oldest established town in Dalmatia founded in 397 BC. The island was major base for British troops during World War II. After 1945 it was shut to the public the Yugoslav armed force and reopened in 1990. Several of Croatia's finest wines are generated there, such as Plavac and Vugava. The two main towns are Vis Town and also Komiza. Vis is specifically peaceful and relaxing. Bisevo is house to the renowned Blue Caves as well as this is the ideal snorkelling area Korcula is recognized for its thick forest. Marco Polo, the famous adventurer, was born upon Korcula, as well as his house still there. Korcula called "Little Dubrovnik", Vela Luka as well as Lumbarda are the main hotels. On the mainland, Ston, is among the most gorgeous prepared communities you are ever likely to see. It is famous for its lots of cultural monuments and excellent defensive walls. The regional dining establishments offer tasty dishes of oyster and other fresh fish and shellfish. Invest the mid-day on it's sandy coastline lined with olive trees. Mljet is 23 miles west of Dubrovnik and is the southerly the majority of the bigger islands. The western half of the island is a National Park and also over two-thirds of the island is forested with. Inning accordance with legend, Odysseus loved the island as well as remained there for seven years. You will discover many excellent anchorages and also sandy coastlines on the southern coast, the very best which is Saplunara The Elafit islands - Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan - In old times these islands were house to a big deer populace and take their name from the Greek word elafos, meaning deer. There remain in reality 6 islands in the group and it is deemed one of the most expert seafarers originated from here. Once again the islands are very lovely and are a should visit. Lopud is little bit greater than two hills which are linked by a gorgeous valley. Comply with the walkway through to the bay called Sunj, a rounded white sand beach ideal for a swim. Dubrovnik is an immaculately managed 13th century strengthened city. Old wall surfaces surround the old town enclosing an interesting mix of Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque style. Tall parapets and towering spires increase substantially from magnificent squares loaded with colourful bars, markets and dining establishments. The entire city is a UNESCO world heritage site. Food and Wine - Croatian cooking is usually Mediterranean with fish, shellfish, fresh vegetables as well as olive oil taking centre phase. Selections of fish include pet dog's tooth, gilthead, grouper, mackerel, sardines and also sea bass. You will certainly find cuttlefish, octopus and also squid, lobsters, mussels, oysters as well as shrimps. These exist barbequed or in stews and risottos. The regional smoked ham is great. Lamb is additionally extremely regarded, particularly baked on an open fire. There are some interesting regional meals, some found on specific islands, to be looked for or avoided. Take Vitalec as an example - lamb's offal covered in lamb digestive tract as well as spike-roasted, not everbodys suggestion of culinary paradise. Areas with a numerous supply of fresh water, the Neretva valley, Trilj and also the Cetina basin, are well for their frog, eel and also river crab dishes. Pag and also Dubrovnik generate premium quality lamb's cheese. Pag's is referred to as Paski-Sir, a hard, distinctly flavoured cheese. The special flavour comes from the approach of rubbing the cheese with olive oil and also ash prior to leaving it to develop; additionally, the lamb consume a diet plan that includes several wild herbs such as sage. Dalmatian desserts ready too. One of the most typical active ingredients consist of almonds, eggs, honey, local fruit, dried out figs and also raisins. Try Orehnjaca, a pleasant bread with walnuts or poppy seeds. Palacinke are pancakes generally served with jam or delicious chocolate. Dalmatian wines have actually been concerned extremely since ancient times. Famous wines include Babic from Primosten, Dingac and also Postup from the Peljesac Peninsula and also Plancic from the island of Hvar. There are likewise great regional brandies as well as liqueurs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HnVOKWq57l8

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primortravel · 3 years ago

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New Post has been published on https://primortravel.com/croatia-singles-vacations-beyond-dubrovnik/

Croatia Singles Vacations Beyond Dubrovnik

Croatia Singles Vacations Beyond Dubrovnik: Croatia is one of the northern most countries that split from the former Yugoslavia in the late twentieth century. It is on the East Coast of the Adriatic Sea. Across from Italy, their history has been intertwined. As a result, they share much of the elegant architecture and style of southern Europe. The majority of the population lives in the second largest city, Zagreb. While Croatia is increasingly popular, it is still being discovered by global tourists drawn by its:

long and complex history

natural beauty and

varied cuisine and local wines.

Solo Travel Croatia-Three Regions to Explore:

Croatia has three distinct regions to visit.

Northern and Central Croatia is comprised of low mountains and highlands.

Eastern Croatia is made up of flat agricultural plains.

Coastal Croatia has an ideal Mediterranean climate and is surrounded by one thousand plus islands.

Top spots include::

The glamorous island of Hvar surrounded by sleek yachts has been dubbed “the new St. Tropez”.

Party enthusiasts will be attracted to the Zrće beach on the island of Pag, the “Croatian Ibiza”.

Kornati islands are known for their wild natural beauty.

Dubrovnik’s stone walls are easily recognized by fans of the Game of Thrones.

Plitvice Lakes National Park’s is filled with waterfalls waiting for selfies.

Motovun is a charming hilltop village, the setting for its annual Film Festival. Its architecture and winged lions of St. Mark reflect its Venetian eighteenth century past.

Rovinj is a top destination for Croatia’s seafood dishes. It is in many ways reminiscent of Venice which for five years ruled the town. While that ended in the eighteenth century, the winged lion of St. Mark can be seen throughout the town. It has much Old World charm with its narrow streets, brightly colored houses, popular balconies topped off by the sixty meter tall St. Euphemia’s tower.

Ston is another tourist favorite. Its winding stone fortress is the longest wall fortress in Europe and second in length only to the wall of China.

Croatia Singles Vacations Beyond Dubrovnik: Haven for Foodies:

Croatia’s climate is ideal to produce an array of top local dishes and wine. (For the latter, try the famous “Plavac Mali”, similar to Zinfandel.)

Specials are seen region by region. For example, try these:

Mainland stew-like meat dishes.

Mediterranean: fish, olives, olive oil and rosemary.

Croatia-Singles Vacations Beyond Dubrovnik:

Sample Itinerary from a Past Tour:

Croatia Express Tour: Croatia Express Tour-Fabled Adriatic Coast HIghlights | Solo Trekker (solotrekker4u.com)

These three day sojourns focus on the fabled coastal area of Croatia. Be sure to ask about combining packages on land and sea combined.

Solo Travel Package Authentic Croatia: Start in the Capital Zagreb:

While this route is based on a past tour, check out options for Croatian custom tailored packages and solo travel deals with no single supplement.

DAY 1: Zagreb

Tour starts at the capital of Croatia, Zagreb, a mix of old and new.

The old city is dominated by its ancient fortifications.

Next stop is the Saint Stephen’s Cathedral and the Church of Saint Mark.

For a change of pace head out to shop at the local market.

Dinner: Sample local dishes and wines.

DAY 2 : Zagreb – Hum – Motovun – Rovinj

From Zagreb, it is on to centuries old Istria, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.

Next is Hum, the world’s smallest town with just seventeen residents!

Motovun provides a view of Venetian architecture along with remaining Roman and Italian influence. Go to Motovun for annual their film festival!

Taste the region’s dishes prosciutto and truffles plus Croatian wines.

Next stop is Rovinj, well-known for its seafood.

Croatia Singles Vacations Beyond Dubrovnik: Beyond Zagreb:

DAY 3 : Rovinj – Poreč – Opatija

Rovinj is a perfect setting for a mystery or other intrigue.

Catch the view from the soaring St. Euphemia’s Tower.

Learn about the seafaring world and boating at the Batana House Eco Museum.

Then make your way leisurely down the Artist Street.

Finish the day in ancient Poreč with its sixth-century Basilica.

Solo Travel Package Authentic Croatia: World-Class National Park:

DAY 4: Opatija – Plitvice Lakes National Park

Begin the day at the Plitvice National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Explore lakes and parks with cascading waterfalls.

Take a lunch cruise.

DAY 5: Plitvice Lakes National Park – Zadar

Alfred Hitchcock, classic film maker, called Zadar’s sunsets some of the best in the world.

The town is filled with old city walls and streets of marble.

Visit the Saint Donatus church and the ancient Roman forum.

Enjoy the natural scenery, including the mysterious phenomenon, the “Sea Organs”. It features a musical “performance” by the sea!

Solo Travel Package Authentic Croatia: 2 More National Parks:

DAY 6: Zadar – Kornati Islands

Time to cruise through the Kornati National Park.

Glide past its one hundred plus islands and reefs.

Take a quick swim in the Adriatic Sea.

DAY 7: Zadar – Krka National Park – Trogir

Krka National Park is filled with charming mills and traditional houses.

Not to be missed: one of Europe’s loveliest water falls, the Skradinski Buk.

Cruise through the River Krka canyon to Skradin.

Have a real Croatian family lunch at a nearby estate.

Croatia Solo Travel Packages Beyond Dubrovnik: 2nd UNESCO World Site:

DAY 8: Trogir – Split

Begin the day at another UNESCO World Heritage site. Ancient Trogir enjoys the unusual reputation as the city that has not changed in over 2,000 years!

Sample the local markets.

Look at the old fortifications, and check out the view from the steep bell tower.

Move on for a change of pace to Split, the second largest city in the country. The Roman Emperor Diocletian spent his last days there. See his Diocletian Palace, now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

DAY 9: Split – Metković boat Safari – Dubrovnik

Relax in a Lada or traditional boat. Float on “safari down the Delta Neretva. The scenery will take you past farms and plantations.

Check out local vendors along the banks.

Lunch will introduce you to special Croatian fish dishes and specialties.

DAY 10: Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is the most famous of the sights along the Dalmatian Coast. Known fondly as the Pearl of the Adriatic, it is a fabled UNESCO World Heritage site.

Start at the Stradun or main street and move on to the Franciscan monastery and Sponza Palace.

See its storied, fabled city fortifications with more than a mile long seven foot high, well-preserved wall.

Learn more:

See TrulyCroatia for these special interest cruises:

Be sure to ask about options for no single supplement or sharing to avoid single supplement when traveling alone in Croatia.

Past Sample Tours:

Sights of Montenegro – From Dubrovnik

Young and Fun Cruise (Under 29) – From Split

Deluxe Professionals Route (Under 39)

Cruise & Yoga – From Split

Deluxe Dubrovnik Wine Cruise – From Dubrovnik

Bike Cruise – Island Hopping Kvarner Bay

Learn More:

Authentic Croatia

Croatia Cruises

Croatia-Five Top Destinations

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#Backpacking #SoloTravel #SoloTraveling #Solotrekker #Travel #Traveling

#Backpacking #SoloTravel #SoloTraveling #solotrekker #Travel #Traveling #Social Travels #Solo-Traveling

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adriaticpulse · 3 months ago

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Wine tasting in Lumbarda

Lumbarda, located on the eastern tip of Korčula, is renowned for its rich vineyards and stunning landscapes, making it an ideal destination for wine lovers. Famous for its sandy soil, Lumbarda is home to the indigenous Grk grape, which produces a unique and flavorful white wine. The area also boasts a variety of red wines, predominantly made from the Plavac Mali grape, a variety that thrives in…

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aureliasaid · 3 years ago

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Four Dalmations

Croatia June 14-22, 2019

Quick summary - 7 days in the Dalmatian Coast - 2 nights in Spilt, 2 nights in Hvar, 3 nights in Dubrovnik. Weather was incredible with blue skies every day, highs in the 80s and lows in the 70s. Much warmer than I expected as winds were nil. See final thoughts after.

Saturday, 6/14

Landed Dubrovnik after a new direct flight from Philly (which apparently is a big deal as all the Croatians knew about and asked us about it. Maybe the only direct flight from the US.) We were driven to Spilt to start our journey. About a 4 hour drive (and through the odd little stretch of Bosnia, which is a pain for passport checks,) it is very picturesque along the coastline seeing the water the entire time, the oyster “fields,” the agricultural valley, and vineyards all along the way. Also lots of open mouth naps en route.

We arrived to a very crowded Split...can’t imagine July and August. We were staying at the Hotel Vestibul, which is a unique and modern very small hotel carved out of the vestibul of the Diocletian Palace, a huge walled former palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, built around 230 AD and now Spilt’s Old Town. In the Dark Ages, it became a village within the walls and remains the old town today full of narrow passageways and charming nooks and piazzas. You can dodge the crowds once on the interior away from the Dalmatian singers, cruise ship crowds, weekenders, and waterfront. Once inside, you will find a sophisticated and hip world full of restaurants and shops and millions of sobe (rooms.) The Croats are not dumb with every enterprising option possible for travel to the islands, activities, açaí bowls, etc.

Tip - I’m not an AirBnB person, but Europe apparently is a great place to do it as they are all supposed to be quite nice.

A mix of all its past history, Croatian food illustrates this as evidenced on the menu. Lunch was the highlight after long travels and the hotel suggested Uje Oil, clearly a modern enterprising owner (tapas like olive oil bar) where we landed at an outside table for a perfect meal of trying the Croatian favs including Italian-like arugula pesto pasta, sausages showing the Hungarian influence, and pasticada, the traditional stew over gnocchi for a mix of the two. Known for its wines, fun fact is that Croatia has been traced as the origin of the Zinfandel grape. We dove in with a light white from Istria, the Malvasia grape. Perf. nap. Eat again at Brokeria, a very hip, casual buzzy spot inside the palace walls. A sparkling rose from Istria from the Tehran grape, octopus on the grill, pasta with truffles (in season and not crazy expensive like in Italy,) smoked seafood risotto and sea bass over a cauliflower mash. Nice. (Others to consider are Zoi and Paradox.)

Sunday, June 16

Maja #1 (pronounced Maya - 30 letters in the Croatian alphabet with lots of consonants) met us at 10am for a historical tour of the Diocletian Palace and surrounding area which was quite interesting taking you from the evolvement of all of the Croatian history from the late Roman Empire, to the Dark Ages of the Barbarians to the Middle Ages of the Christians to the Renaissance of the Venetians Empire, through to a short stint of the Napoleonic French through the Austrian Hapsburgs. (Oh and home to some of the Game of Thrones filming.)

Afterwards, we went to the Kozjak Mountain slope around the Kastel township for a private lunch. Most interesting was listening to Maja talk about where she lived. Her family was originally from the area, but her parents had left and moved to Sarajevo for better work opps. Their summer home was still in the area. When the war broke out with Serbia in 1992 invading first on the Dalmation coast, they told family to move to Sarajevo. That was poor advice as then the Serbs invaded Bosnia and Sarajevo. Her family escaped Sarajevo back to the coast. In this area, you typically lived in good size homes, but of several apartments with other family members, with your own bit of olive trees, maybe fruit trees (cherries in season now,) small vineyard, etc. Enough to make your own of each (or have small producers make for you.) Lunch setting was in a peaceful (Biblical) park with a vineyard and church backdrop. The weather was gorgeous, but hot. The five course meal was remarkable with local pairings of wine. Most notable was the Zinfandel and various types of posip and plavac mali wines.

Back for down time, which Relia and I spent in Zara before we reworked our plans of going to Dvor restaurant on the coast and hiring a boat to take us to Trogir, Croatia’s Little Venice. An small island about 30-40 minutes by car and the same by 20’ center console boat, it is a large marina area, much like the old town of charming limestone mass of buildings and not quite as crowded. The recommended restaurant of TRS was booked, so we landed at Trogar, our chef of the day’s restaurant. It was marginal at best, surprising given the sophisticated and creative meal at lunch, but Robert made us welcome with his final offer of carob rakija liquor. (Other restaurant options suggested was Alka and Marijana.) Back to Split by Uber, plentiful and cheap and always an unusual sensation to me at home and really strange overseas. To bed.

Monday, June 17

Thomas, the Atlantic Marine outfitter skipper met us at the town port just in front of the main gate and Hotel Vestibul entrance in a 25’ motor boat. A two hour ride to the Pakleni Islands off Hvar Island for sun and fun. First swim spot was Stonica, (loved the circled up catamarans pumping pop music for a week of partying. On then to Palmizana Island that has 3 restaurants - we chose the Langanini Bar for lite bites, cabanas, bean bags, and tree cabanas. Most expensive meal yet! but a great change up of Asian food. We headed for Havr Grad (town) to check into the Adriana Spa Hotel, right on the main harbor riva (promenade.) Quite modern, perhaps OTT and thus lacking in some practicalities and maybe Fodor’s is right that it sometimes misses on the 5 star with just small hiccups.) BUT still very lux, sleek and incredible views. We didn’t spa, but it seemed top notch if you like that. Serious breakfast buffet included.

Met our guide at 5pm for an 11k walk to the abandoned village of Malo Grablje for a special dinner at the “home” of a former resident’s whose son opened a restaurant here 10 years ago. The hike was beautiful along the coastal path, but could be shortened by taking a car to the path rather than walking from the hotel. Also would be cooler at this hour since the road is exposed to the afternoon sun and rather toasty. Eat a snack before you go and it is rocky so sturdy shoes. The village was just left by all the inhabitants in the 1960s and now too many family members own the buildings, so they can’t agree on selling anything.

The meal was spectacular with the traditional one pot dish slow cooked in the coals of Peka made with veggies, meats (ours was lamb and veal) or seafood, house made wine and warm just-made sugar coated almonds with Proshec (carob liquor) to finish. Taxi home for sure.

Tuesday, June 18

We met Filip, +385 99 8097 097, our new skipper who was funny and confident with incredible English learned from gaming on War Craft. Off to the Blue Cave, which is a grotto from the volcanic island of Bisevo of incredible blues from the light seeping in under the rock formations. Beautiful and unique, but skippable. Its crowded, though they move the small touring boats along quickly.

We were ready to escape the crowds and swim, so we toured rugged and cave areas of Vis and then to Stinivia cove for a swim. Fairly crowded and the water some debris since its a cove, but still the Adriatic color and temp is totally refreshing. The bathing suit and nationality watching is unending entertainment.

Though there is a small cafe there, we bailed and headed to the port town of Vis Grad which Filip described as large, but was actually small and rather sleepy. He made quick reservation at Tavern (Konoba) Vatrica, which was perfect. Covered terrace on the waterfront, casual with ham and cheese, grilled prawns, salad with creamy feta, Vis rose...perfect. Back for a few more swims at yesterday’s caves by way of the WWI tunnels and lookout plus the WWII submarine tunnel hideout since it was an allied base. The Yugoslavs took it over as there military areas post war.

Cleaned up and a drink in the Hotel Top Bar for the views, a few hands of cards and then a walk to the sunset and apres beach scene at Hula Hula. Def. a scene with bride tribes and more. Canceled our dinner at Gariful - tired of sit down spots and headed to Filip recommended Lola, a small, back street, alley outdoor cafe of excellently prepared “street food”, action packed with the young and DJ thumping remix 90s tunes. Filip also recommended Passarola, a cool and hip looking restaurant off the town square alley with several terraced garden spaces. Would have been perf if we wanted a less casual spot. Back for a rooftop finale round of cards...can’t get enough of the view.

Wednesday, June 19

Yay! Back in the boat with Filip to head to Dubrovnik by way of Korcula, Orebic, and Ston. Korcula, home of Marco Polo and the Silk Road, is a charming town and would be a great place to stay a night or two. Then onto Orebic, on the Peljesac peninsula, considering the best wine growing region in Croatia. We had a stop for a wine tasting at Korta Katarina, a winery estate and lux hotel started by Americans. It was interesting, but unless you are really into wine, skippable. On to Ston, home of the best oysters in the world. A short boat ride to an oyster farmer’s private island to learn about how the oysters are grown, and then a delightful starter of oysters and huge pot of mussels alla buzzara (in white wine, olive oil, garlic and onions) under the shade by the water. Also homemade wine and myrtle berry infused grappa, a very typical aperitif throughout. D.I.V.I.N.E.

Back in the van for an hour trip along the coastline to Dubrovnik. If you thought Spilt was crowded, wow. Though a much smaller city than Spilt, it feels WAY more crowded and much more intense because of being located on the hillside as well as the old city attraction....not to mention the Game of Thrones/Kings Landing magnet.

A reservation mix up which had us for 3 nights at the Excelsior Hotel, switched us to their sister hotel Bellevue. Our Croatian travel agency Calvados Club upgraded our rooms significantly as a result and while it is a 20 minute walk to town vs. a 5 minute walk, it is a smaller hotel, larger rooms and totally renovated on a gorgeous cove that made it feel very private (despite the public beach - all Croatian beaches are public.) Lovely indoor pool, unreal views, very hip and cool. We may have turned out better in the long run.

Poor planning on our fault when we booked the Michelin starred restaurant in Dubrovnik - 360 - for dinner after the oyster and mussels fest. But we were ready and it was quite the gastronomic affair with delightful views and service.

Thursday, June 20

Maja #2, met us to take us to the 3 hr kayak tour from the old city by Fort Lovrijenac around the island of Lokrum and back. Very fun. A few dips and viewing of the nudie beach...a head shaker for me. We walked home so Will could grab a recommended xxxcici sammy while the rest of us ate at the Bellevue beachside cafe and lounged Adriatic style at the Bellevue carved out private beach with umbrellas and chaises, and beach boys while watching the cliff jumpers and reading on the rocky beach. The water temp is just perfect and the water is incredibly clear. I am a huge Adriatic fan.

Maja picked us up at 4 pm for a walking tour of the Old Town concluding with the one mile walk around the city walls for amazing views of the yachts, charming houses, islands and Adriatic. Ready for another break from traditional food and restaurants, we hit a bar on the water built into the walls before having “CroAsian” food at Azur in one of the back/side streets. It was casual and delicious. Highly recommend.

Friday, June 21

Off to the Konavle valley, also known for its wineries and vegetable fields, and fruit orchards to Grude for biking through the countryside and vineyards. Gorgeous backdrop of the stone mountains, cypress trees and once gain crystal blue skies. This area was so named for its system of canals used to irrigate the crops....Roman aqueducts brought water to the area. Very bucolic and well known for its wine and history. A two hour on and off road before meeting Maja to go to a local farm in Cilipi at the home of Marin Vukorep ([email protected]) for a delightful meal very similar to Malo Grablje, but maybe more fun with everything consumed from the farm (prosciutto, goat cheese, bread, olive olive, vegetable purée soup, peka, red and white wine and over 10 homemade rakija varieties with fig, walnut, apricot, etc. Lots of fun - gorgeous setting, relaxing, interesting and another gorgeous day. Debated going to the seaside town of Cavtat, but too full and sleepy!

Back for more Adriatic indulgence and a regroup on dinner (again) after such a large lunch. Bailed on Posat wanting a casual place and discussed Bar Bota for mussels, Kamenice, Tabasco pizzeria, Taj Mahal Bosnian food and Levanat in the Lapad area, but ended up at Mea Culpa pizzeria in the Old Town which was perfect. And that’s a wrap.

Saturday, June 22

Well, not quite as William and I were awaiting the Fort opening at 8am to check it out since we could still use our wall ticket. Check. So long for now.

Final thoughts - We loved everything we did, where we stayed, food and history. The two things we might have changed were the Blue Cave and wine tasting. Everything else was great with enough time to sightsee and yet enjoy the summer time water activities. We might change a few things, but it really depends on one’s MO. We might have stayed in Trogir or Hvar and done a day boat trip to Spilt and Trogir for at least 3 or even 4 nights in the islands perhaps with an overnight in Korcula and maybe just two nights in Dubrovnik. The history is incredible dating back to the Greeks and Romans and throughout right up to modern day with the too recent Yugoslav wars. Mid June is already packed and I would not even think about going in July or August unless you stay on a boat or in the islands. May would be too early for me to enjoy water fun, but Sept should still be very good. Plus July and August would be really hot. Climate is just like NC - hot and humid with lots of the same vegetation. The Croatians are very proud of their country and really do tourism well. It is not a sophisticated 3rd world country like Italy, though there probably is still lots of government corruption and low wages. It is a energized and modern that is savvy about its tourism.

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