Page 4 - Flipbook

CROATIA
Dubrovnik, the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ is now the focus of a major restoration project by UNESCO, repairing some of the damage inflicted by armed conflict in the 1990s. Explore the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque palaces, take photos as you stroll around the fountains and enter the incredible churches and monasteries still untouched by time before heading to Zagreb, a medieval capital boasting as many bars and clubs as cobbled streets.
Zagreb in the northwest is one of Europe’s oldest cities, yet undoubtedly one of its most happening metropolises. As the largest city in the Republic of Croatia it is well worth at least a couple of days, but if relaxation is calling, the high-speed train between Zagreb and Split via Zadar is the most convenient way of travelling the 256 kms to the coast and takes just 5 and a half hours.
The Dalmatian Coast offers all the calm and tranquility you desire, plus tourist facilities and a Rivera lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of heading to the South of France. Backed by rugged and majestic mountains, picture-perfect paradises like Brela Beach mean privacy and seclusion are as easy to score as a sun tan.
Warm turquoise waters invite you in for swimming and snorkeling, but to really see what the coast is made of, hire a sea kayak and explore hidden nooks and crannies, and watch as even more spectacular beaches appear on each horizon. There are many companies offering kayak tours around the coast, ranging from half a day to a whole week. Expect to pay about $65 a day, including lunch.
If freshwater kayaking appeals, the Cetina River is one of the best places in Croatia. White water rafting is also popular here, but if you prefer to keep your feet on dry land, explore the surrounding villages for peace, quiet and some stunning architecture.
For nature, beauty and a heritage that dates back to pre-historic times, look no further than the Island of Brac, separated from the mainland by the Brac Channel. Oil, wine, sour cherries and almonds are all farmed here and the quarries of the island of Brac have been a source of stone for building for centuries.
Another Dalmatian island must-see is the rugged Korcula Island, best known for its abundance of olive trees and picturesque Korcula Town. Don’t miss a visit to Marco Polo’s house – legend has it he was born here and it’s best not to argue this fact with the locals.
04 JANuARY 2012
LeFT: ZAGREb - Renovated famous landmark St mark’s Church aBOVe: CROATIAN PENINSuLA - City of Rovinj in Istria BeLOW: KORCuLA ISLAND - The old town of Korcula