Croatia Holidays
Resorts

Croatia
All You Need To Know

"With cool clear waters, secluded coves and enchanting towns, Croatia is perfect for a peaceful hideaway. Escape to the sunshine on one of Europe 's prettiest coasts."

All along Croatia 's Adriatic coast, turquoise waters rush to meet dramatic cliffs, pitted with coves that shelter smooth, pebbled beaches. With historic towns that have lost none of their native charm, colourful harbours and lush verdant islands, it's no wonder that people are discovering Croatia 's charming resorts again.

Close to the border with Slovenia, the idyllic Istrian Riviera overflows with wooded valleys that give way to green rolling hills crowned by Medieval towns and Venetian citadels. Small fishing villages look out over glittering waters to pine-swathed islands beyond, while the friendly resorts such as Porec, Rovinj and Umag bustle with pavement cafes and restaurants. In fact, these are some of Croatia 's most developed resorts, though the influx of tourists has done little to detract from their native beauty. The Istrian Riviera's historical ties and close proximity to Italy have resulted in a fusion of cultures - Istrian cuisine and language closely resemble that of its Adriatic neighbour, Venice .

In the south of Croatia lies the stunning Dubrovnik Riviera . This en vogue region on the Dalmatian Coast clings to one of the most dramatic coastlines in Europe . The sublime coastline includes the welcoming resorts of Lopud Island , Cavtat, Mlini and Plat. But without a doubt the ancient walled city of Dubrovnik is the area's crowning jewel. Its fortified old quarter juts out into the azure sea and its steep, cobbled streets buzz with colourful markets that open out into marble-paved squares.

Croatia's checkered history is still in evidence today, making it a fascinating nation, on the one hand as Mediterranean as Italy and Greece, and on the other strongly Central European. There are no end of discoveries to be made, sights to see, and places to visit. Whether you want to sit back on the beach in the balmy climate, ramble through the tranquil countryside or soak up centuries' worth of history, Croatia has a warm welcome for you.

Beaches

Croatia's coastline is riddled with secluded bays and small coves, where pebble and shingle shores are lapped by astonishingly clear waters. The smooth rocks ensure there's no sand in your suntan lotion, and many of the beaches have man-made bathing platforms. Not only are the crystal waves ideal for cooling you off from the sun, but they provide perfect conditions for swimming, snorkeling, sailing and windsurfing. Porec and Ronvinj have countless hidden bays, as does the Dalmatian Coast, looking out over Croatia's myriad of islands.

Beaches on the Makarska Riviera are probably the most beautiful in Croatia. Bol, on Brac Island, is home to the famous Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape) beach, popular with sunbathers and windsurfers. As with the rest of the Makarska Riviera, Baska Voda's beaches are white pebble. Makarska's peaceful bays, with their clear blue water and white pebble beaches, are fringed by pinewoods and set against a spectacular mountain backdrop. Mt Biokovo shelters the area and contributes to the balmy climate. A variety of watersports is available, as are boat trips to nearby islands.

Shopping

Tempting souvenir shops and local crafts are in every resort. Look out for the intricate lacework and embroidered goods typical of Croatia. Many towns produce their own brandies that make a unique souvenir. Rovinj's galleries sell local work and artists paint portraits along the promenades here and in Porec.

Nightlife

As the evening sets in, the cafés and bars become night-time watering holes, serving ice creams and coffee as well as alcoholic drinks. The nightlife along the Croatian coast is mellow and informal, though in festival season, the streets are full of music and merriment. Porec and Ronvinj both host popular Night Festivals, while the Summer Festival in Dubrovnik sees classical concerts and theatrical performances laid on throughout the town – book tickets early. In the resorts, there are a smattering of bars and discos, and hotels provide entertainment. This is definitely the place to sit back, sip a drink and enjoy the evening air.

Sightseeing

The beautifully medieval town of Dubrovnik has a magical feel. This walled city was founded in the Roman era and hallmarks of its long history can been seen throughout the streets. For the best views, walk along the tops of the stone walls and ramparts and admire the city below.

Discover Croatia's rich and varied past. The magnificent amphitheatre at Pula hints at the greatness of the Romans, while the Venetian style architecture in Rovinj tells tales of the Italian presence. Visit the town museum with its collection of antiques, art and archeology. In Porec, the evidence of past can be found with the Roman remains, medieval towers and the glorious 6th-century basilica of St Euphrasius.

Local Specialities

Take a pinch of Italian, a slice of Hungarian, a dash or two of Turkish and Viennese and you have Croatia's cuisine, a delicious blend of the best of the Mediterranean and central European styles. Fresh fish and seafood popular along the coast and meat orientated meals dominate inland. Whichever resort you go to, you will find a pizzeria, but don't miss out on the local flavours! Sample smoked meats, cured hams and sausage, grilled or baked fish dishes or varieties of goulash. Maneora, minestrone like soup, is an Istrian speciality, while on the Dalmatian Coast, try pasticada, beef and bacon cooked in wine and vinegar. Desserts included ice creams and pancakes with coffee. Mealtimes are leisurely in Croatia, and pavement cafés and restaurants are plentiful. Croatian beer is light, and the crisp white and dark red wines grown in each region are consistently good and reasonably priced.

Money Matters

There are 11.17 Croatian kuna to the £1.00 as at 7th September 2005. Banking hours: Monday-Friday 08.30-14.00. Sterling travellers' cheques and major credit cards are widely accepted. Please note that some smaller shops may not take credit cards.

Dress Code

In most hotels and aparthotels gentlemen are required to wear long trousers to dinner.

Please Note

Most hotels or apartments ask customers to vacate their rooms between 10am and 12 midday. For late afternoon or evening flights, late check out rooms may be available. Please see Your Holiday, Your Choice options listed with your accommodation information.

Highlights

Highlights offer endless opportunities to discover, wonder, relax and enjoy - here is a selection...

Plitvice Lakes

A miracle of nature, Croatia's 16 Plitvice Lakes are crystal clear, connected by enchanting waterfalls tumbling down the hillside. Encircled by emerald forests brimming with brightly coloured flowers and wildlife, you'll appreciate the awe-inspiring scenery on an exhilirating walk across bridges and past the lakes - truly a naturelover's dream

Available from most of the resorts on the Istrian Riviera.

Nature's Creations

Let nature truly inspire you with a visit to the breathtaking Postojna Caves, which harbour colossal stalactites and stalagmites shimmering in the shady tunnels, and soak up the mystical ambience as you journey through the colourful grottos on a small train. The remainder of your day takes you to the home of the famous Lippizzaner white horses, trained for the Spanish School of Riding in Vienna, where you'll enjoy an elegant lunch performance.

Available from most resorts on the Istrian and Slovenian Rivieras.

Zagreb

Nestled on the slopes of Mount Medvednica is the cosmopolitan capital of Croatia. Zagreb has beautiful architecture, which reflects the grandeur of the former Austro-Hungarian empire. Enjoy a tour by coach of the city followed by a guided walking tour of the main sights. These sights include St. Marks Square and church, the Croatian Parliament building and the medieval Lotrscak Tower. Visit both inside and out of the centrepiece of the capital the fantastic neo-Gothic Cathedral. You will pass through the colourful market as well as some of the piazzas in the most historic part of Zagreb. Then enjoy time to yourself to explore and browse around the shops and pavement cafes. An excellent day in a wonderful capital..