Experience the beauty of coastal Croatia

Welcome to Split, home to beautiful churches, elegant streets and some of Croatia’s best restaurants and bars. Having been greeted at the airport and taken to your hotel, sink into that lazy holiday feeling as you head out with your group for a cool welcome beer (try the ožujsko – the nation’s favourite brand). After this light aperitif, get to know your fellow travellers over a few regional specialities – bon appetit.

Fuel up on breakfast at the hotel, then you’ll head out to explore the beauty of the landscape by quad bike. Passing pine forests, rugged shores, villages and towns, pull up for lunch to learn all about the region’s foodie traditions. Feast on fresh Dalmatian produce with your group (no diets welcome here), paired with organic wines from the local vineyards. Then, back in Split, we’ve left this evening free for you. Make your way to the sea-washed promenade to catch a beautiful sunset, before heading out for a few (not-so-organic) drinks.

You’re off to Zadvarje, a small village located in the depths of the Cetina river gorge, for a morning of tubing. Unfamiliar with the experience? Simply picture yourself sitting in a (big) rubber ring, letting the currents carry you downstream through the canyon. Picturesque, yes. As chilled as it sounds? Not quite… After this adrenaline hit, say hello to Dubrovnik. With beautiful fortress walls shielding the Old Town from the sea, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Day 4 means free time, and free time means indulging on the best of Dubrovnik, including its celebrated cuisine – be sure to try the fresh oysters and black cuttlefish risotto. Come afternoon, board a cable car (perhaps a little heavier than you were this morning) to the top of Srjd Hill, with spectacular views of the city and the sea below – the perfect group photo opportunity. Then, it’s onto the city’s vibrant bars. Kick back with an ožujsko, or head down to the harbour for a twilight stroll.

Today’s adventure will see you explore the coast by sea-kayak, paddling out to Lokrum Island. Shrouded in mystery, this island is home to a colony of peacocks and rabbits, and is said to be cursed (don’t get lost…). Learn all about local lore surrounding the island from your kayaking guide, who will show you its hidden coves and talk you through the history of the region. On your last evening, savour the unique atmosphere of the city with new friends as you head out for your final dinner.

After breakfast at the hotel, it’s over to you to make your way to your next destination. Feel like exploring Europe further? Take a look at our Croatia kayaking adventure, which can be combined with a journey into the wilds of Slovenia for an epic Central European adventure.