Attractive location for moviemaking
CROATIA - THE SEVENTH ART SCENERY
Although the beauty of our country has been perpetuated and celebrated many times in poems, paintings and in written word, we are particularily proud when our familiar and well-known landscapes stand in for a movie – that powerful media of the present and one of the most impressive forms of art. Thus, for example, rocky parts of Istria once „played“ Afganistan, and a number of our national parks american wild west. The masters of visual in art recognized the value and potential of our landscape - many words of praise have been recorded, coming also from the biggest of them all – Alfred Hitchkok, that demanding and critical-minded genius, without any hesitation declared the sunset of Zadar the most beautiful in the whole world!
While areas along the coast are usually among the most attractive, our national parks played an important part in the world of seventh art. In nineteen sixties, as much as 7 movies were filmed at the area stretching from Paklenica to the Prezid Pass on the southern side of Velebit Mountain, so our national treaures played a role themselves, of „Wild West“ in this case. National parks Paklenica, Plitvice Lakes, Krka, the canyon of river Zrmanja, Vrana Lake and many other locations, hosted numerous works of a western genre, including the most popular ones about Winnetou by Karl May. Nowadays there are numerous theme tours in his honor, and at the time of the shooting, friendly locals gladly accepted supernumerary roles!
When listing attractive film locations, we should not leave out our capital. Academy Award winner Meryl Streep in “Sophie's Choice” walked through the streets of our metropolis, as well as charismatic Sean Connery as the most famous undercover agent in the world (scene from the main railway station in "From Russia with Love"), and action hero Jackie Chan who delighted the fans of this genre performing stunts on Dolac and Liberty Bridge. Zagreb was also the background of “The Trial” directed by Orson Welles – the Velesajam scene with thousands of machines, workers and typewriters that perfectly evoke the characteristic atmosphere of the famous work of Kafka, is especially remembered.
More recently, after several silent years, Croatia is becoming more recognized as an exotic and tempting location for the creation of seventh art. The makers of globally popular series "Game of Thrones" brilliantly took advantage of the ancient walls of Dubrovnik and the Fortress of Klis, which needed no computer processing; while Woody Allen’s and Pedro Almodovar’s muse - the Spanish beauty Penelope Cruz, filmed the scenes from her recent release "Venuto al Mondo" in Korčula and Pelješac. Beautiful vistas, colorful sunsets, unspoiled nature and abundance of cultural treasures deserve to be immortalized on a movie, so we hope that our country will continue to follow upward trajectory and that, in addition to tourist ones, it will be drawn on another world map – that of filmmakers!
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City break tourism rates are growing steadily
A SHORT ESCAPE FROM FRENETIC PACE OF EVERYDAY LIFE THAT APPEALS TO EVERYONE
The term „City break“ in tourism denotes a short stay in another city, mostly in some of the world’s capitals, either in personal organization or within some of the vacation packages offered by travel agencies. The reasons behind the popularity of this type of vacation are rather logical – it doesn’t require too much time and money, and it still offers a break from a hectic daily routine. A real expansion of demand for weekend breaks is reported in our cities as well – among those joining a growing trend are Zadar, Split, Šibenik, Zagreb, Varaždin...
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In addition to mega popular capitals of the world, our cities as well distinguished themselves as very attractive destinations for city break tourism, which is growing steadily.
Knowing that concision and efficiency are key words to success when it comes to this type of vacation, the city of Zagreb attractively and high quality presented overall offer of 35 of its travel agencies, based on three-day and four-day travel packages, in an attractive link (http://citybreak.zagreb-touristinfo.hr/). Thus, for example, gourmet-minded guests will get to know our metropolis through exquisite delicacies and local wines, while lovers of cultural attractions will opt for exploring the castles of Croatian Zagorje. There is something for every taste, and those who want to see even more within various tours can "hop" to Zadar, Plitvice...or to Varaždin, just an hour away, and enjoy a tour of its historic center and a very popular bike ride!
„What is lonely London compared to the city of Split?“ – this year this local saying could be heard in almost every corner of our „Mediterranean flower“ and in all languages, since it teemed with foreign guests. In addition to the three-day festival in July - Ultra Europe, which has produced unprecedented interest of young people who came into the city from all over the world, direct flights from eight European capitals have been introduced, and travel packages have been offered at very affordable prices of flight and hotel accommodation, as well as the so-called "Split card" for free admission to the city's museums and galleries and a guidance of professional tourist guide.
With their energy and lively atmosphere, Šibenik and Zadar, here at your fingertips, equally attracted tourists. According to the foreign Web portals, guests were particularily delighted with the St. Jacob's cathedral, enchanting view from St. Anna's fortress, Medieval garden of St. Lawrence, al fresco lunches on the terraces of Šibenik restaurants where they enjoyed seafood and lamb dishes, and especially tasty tiramisu cake! Zadar is only an hour of drive away – it won its guests by a combination of urban culture, monumental architecture, entertainment and nightlife. Imposing Land Gate at the entrance to the old city core provoked true admiration, and a café on the main square was declared ideal for practicing cute Dalmatian coffee culture and taking in relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle! The guests were also thrilled with St. Donat’s church, Sea Organ and a light installation called Sun Salutation!
Due to its lavish architecture, Dubrovnik emerged as an ultimate city break destination. The walk through legendary Stradun and town walls is indispensable, and the list of sites to visit rather lengthy – from Sponza Palace, which best illustrates the fascinating Dubrovnik blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, to the Rector's Palace, the Franciscan Monastery, the Cathedral of the Assumption, Onofrio's Fountain...guests find fish restaurants in the historic town core particularly charming, and they also gladly stop by to the island of Lokrum.
Foto: Tz grada Splita, Tz grada Zadra
Advent in Zagreb
01 December 2013 - 01 January 2014
Advent in the Heart of Zagreb is a series of holiday events held on the city’s squares, bringing the spirit of Advent and Christmas to guests and citizens of Zagreb through a rich musical and artistic programme. Interested citizens, guests and passers-by can enjoy various programmes by numerous cultural societies, children’s choirs, drama ensembles, dance groups and music bands, or shop at fairs tailored for the occasion.
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Discover Luxury Wedding destination
ŠOLTA - RETURN TO INNOCENCE
Šolta invites to a real friendship. It wants to tell you about itself, its rocks, rosemary, olives, coves... It want to tell stories about a fishpond of Emperor Diocletian, Illyrian queen Teuta, the father of Croatian literature Marko Marulić, about fisherman and labourers whose hardworking hands shaped the life on this island in full accordance with nature, since the prehistoric times. Country roads belted with kilometres of stonewalls will lead you through the olive groves and vineyards to the rural wells, archaeological finds, chapels, countryside shelter houses and beautiful coves. Although it is the closest to Split of all Dalmatian islands, Greek Olyntha, Roman Solyntha or Ilirian Solenta, it has too often been neglected and avoided. But this is also why it has kept its virginity and all the beauty of untouched nature and originality - things that present luxury in today’s chaotic life.
A famous sentence – May Šolta be your faith – confirms this.Š olta invites to a real friendship. It wants to tell you about itself, its rocks, rosemary, olives, coves... It want to tell stories about a fishpond of Emperor Diocletian, Illyrian queen Teuta, the father of Croatian literature Marko Marulić, about fisherman and labourers whose hardworking hands shaped the life on this island in full accordance with nature, since the prehistoric times. Country roads belted with kilometres of stonewalls will lead you through the olive groves and vineyards to the rural wells, archaeological finds, chapels, countryside shelter houses and beautiful coves.
Although it is the closest to Split of all Dalmatian islands, Greek Olyntha, Roman Solyntha or Ilirian Solenta, it has too often been neglected and avoided. But this is also why it has kept its virginity and all the beauty of untouched nature and originality - things that present luxury in today’s chaotic life. A famous sentence – May Šolta be your faith – confirms this.The amount of relaxation and excitement, sea and blue sky, historical and contemporary... No matter where you are situated, Šolta is a small island and the ideal way to meet it is by walking, since it is only 19 km long and 4,9 km wide. On the island there are 10 settlements connected by walking paths for which a local artist made wooden signs. Unavoidable stations are ateliers of island’s artists, taverns of family households and restaurants with local specialties.
Do not miss to taste wine made of autochthonous cultivar Levantinka, called Šoltanka and honey of self grown rosemary Olintio, praised by Plinius Senior in his acts. On Šolta, same as on many islands of our beautiful Adriatic, mostly private accommodation and apartments are offered. But, today Šolta offers many secret jewels, which attract more and more fans of luxury accommodation every year, although this category of guests, unfortunately, still doesn’t have greater possibilities to leave their money on the island and outside the accommodation. Apart from the resting houses on the solitary spots, that can be reached by boat, there is growing number of luxury villas with pool that meet high standards of contemporary tourism. Through many years, old stone houses were completely renovated to the level of high quality buildings, while newly built modern buildingsoffer additional services. Photographs of these buildings speak of the great improvement Šolta has made in this direction...
Šolta today has only one hotel in a beautiful Maslinica bay, a magic Hotel of cultural heritage Martinis Marchi. Martinis Marchi castle was built at the beginning of 18th century by Martinis- Marchi brothers, with the intention to protect Split and Šolta from pirate attacks, the castle was originally built as a military fort with dominant tower. Recently it has been restored and presents a fantastic combination of the old and the new. This dominant stone building offers, together with 6 accommodation facilities, a restaurant, wine cellar, wellness, big terrace with pool and beautifully stylised and illuminated Mediterranean garden on 5000 m2. Last year marina was also opened, a jewel among the Adriatic marinas, awarded for its conceptual solution. Whole Martinis-Marchi complex is ideal for special occasions of business and private character.
Previous and future weddings in co organization of M-Travelservice Agency have proved that this is a great location for these kinds of events. Therefore, may the most beautiful day in your life, when you said your final yes to love, be also your final yes to Šolta, this unique island where your soul is always glad to be back, while the memories from here stay with you for life as a part of dreams and fantasies that actually came true...
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The region of fairytale landscapes
WELCOME TO ŠIBENIK - KNIN COUNTY!
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These are exciting times for Croatian tourism, even more so with EU entry in 2013. With the major increase in flights to the Dalmatian coastline to airports such as Zadar and Split, the accessibility of the region’s tourism has been visibly improved, allowing visitors to explore some of the lesser known destinations. Destinations such as Šibenik - Knin County, for example, which is conveniently nestled between the two airports above. A region which truly has it all, and yet is not overrun with tourism, thereby offering that rare combination of quality undiscovered tourism in a sophisticated and accessible location.
With the shores of its pristine beaches washed constantly by the lapping waves of the azure Adriatic, the region is a sailing heaven, from beginner’s sailing schools to advanced regatta participation. Symbols of the diverse culture are perhaps best epitomised by the only cathedral in Europe built entirely of stone (the impressive UNESCO-protected St. Jacob’s Cathedral in Šibenik) or the International Children’s Festival, now in its 53rd year. The real treasures of Šibenik - Knin county lie in its natural treasures and adventure tourism potential. Choose from a range of national and nature parks, which bring out the very best on offer in Croatia. The Vransko Lake Nature Park is an area of outstanding beauty, with its ornithological reserve a particular attraction for keen birdwatchers.
The majestic Kornati and Krka National Parks are among the top attractions in Croatia, with the Krka Waterfalls proving one of the most popular day trips from destinations such as Split. The 89 islands, islets and crags which form the Kornati National Park include some of the most spectacular scenery in Dalmatia. There are plenty of geological attractions as well, with two particular highlights being the visible waves in the Stara straža site, close to Knin on the road to Gračac (protected since 1961), and the site of Vrela Cetine, the spring of the Cetina River (protected in 1971), which contains a series of karst springs.
The region’s wines and food are well documented, perhaps nowhere better than on Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations showon The Travel Channel last year, but a lesser publicised attraction is the potential of Šibenik - Knin County’s adventure tourism. This is a region rich in water, both rivers and sea, and there are excellent options for kayaking, rafting and diving, in addition to the sailing. Land-based activities are also plentiful, from the relatively rare regional activities from bungee jumping to falconry, while visitors can also indulge in additional diverse activities such as big game fishing, horse riding, cycling and trekking.
With 600 archaeological sites, 11 medieval fortifications and 230 cultural monuments, there is plenty to occupy the history buff, in addition to the main UNESCO attraction. A region then full of cultural treasures, breathtaking natural beauty, picturesque islands, spectacular beaches, a quality gastronomic scene and outstanding activities. An idyllic destination, but how hard is it to reach?This is perhaps the best news of all. With more than 80 destinations serving Split in 2013 and Ryanair opening a permanent base in Zadar, both airports are less than an hour’s drive away, meaning access to the region has never been easier, and with the entrance into the wider European family, there has never been a better time to explore Šibenik - Knin County.
City of Heritage and Festivals
ŠIBENIK
Šibenik is above all a historic city, oozing culture and heritage, and visitors can lose themselves in the history and architecture of the past. A city of some 24 churches, pride of place goes to the imperious St James Cathedral, constructed entirely of stone between 1431 and 1535, and a modern-day UNESCO heritage site. Located on the Adriatic with all the beach relaxation and water sport activities brought by the proximity of the sea, there is plenty of other water-based nature to explore. This is National Park territory, and some of the country’s most popular national parks - Kornati and the famous Krka Waterfalls - are a short distance away.
It is also a fortress city, testament to its importance throughout history on the Dalmatian coast. The city’s fortresses played a major part in repelling attacks from the Ottoman fleet, and they make a fascinating tour today. Choose from the more elevated locations of St John, St Michael and Šubićevac Fortress, then visit one of the most impressive fortifications on the coast, the triangular St. Nicholas Fortress in St. Anthony’s Channel.
Choose from the more elevated locations of St John, St Michael and Šubićevac has a full and varied line-up of events, including the world-famous International Children’s Festival (www.mdf-sibenik. com,June/July), Organ Summer School (www. organum.hr, August), Šibenik Klapa Evenings (every ThuAugust) and the Fair in Medieval Šibenik (August/September). The reputation of Dalmatia as a gastronomic destination was further enhanced by Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations show on prime time American television last year, and Sibenik has an enviable selection of excellent restaurants, while the wines of Šibenik-Knin County are also attracting international attention. The city has a full range of sporting activities, depending on adrenaline levels required. This include bungee-jumping, sailing, diving, horse-riding, paintballing, climbing, hiking and cycling activities, a wide selection for all the family.
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www.sibenik-tourism.hr
Visit the most beautiful ‘island house’
MURTER
The biggest and the most beautiful ‘island house’ in Croatia, is the centre of a true galaxy of 134 islands known as Kornati. These emerald-green jewels, made of tears, stars and breaths, have been famous in the world of nautical tourism for a long time. Thus, Murter is becoming increasingly recognized as the centre of this tourism branch. There are 3 marines available, two of which are on Kornati, while the highly equipped Marina Hramina is an ideal starting harbour for excursions and cruises. Beautiful beaches and campsites are one of the main contributions to the growing development of Murter tourism. This island is also known for its sandy beaches in Slanica and Podvrške bays, while the most visited bathing places are also in Čigrađa and Luke bays.
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Due to the numerous sports activities which are at disposal here, Murter is favourite tourism centre for guests who prefer active vacation. Marines on the island organize sailing and regatta schools and diving centres organize diving lessons and theme excursions. The island also offers great possibilities for wind surfing, rowing and fishing, while for those who like to stick to the mainland we suggest bicycling, football, tennis, running and bowling, and recently a visit to equestrian Club as well.
The best way to visit Kornati is to embark in Murter, whether you decide to go in a private arrangement or in organized excursion, because less time is spent in driving and more in sunbathing and sightseeing.
www.tzo-murter.hr
All colours and tastes of Dalmatia
MARINA
Charming tourist village Marina – the centre of Municipality of Marina, is situated only 12 kilometres from the town of Trogir. Marina Riviera is composed of three small picturesque villages – Vinišće, Poljica and Sevid. If you go a few kilometres farther, you will sense autochthonous
atmosphere of Marina Zagora, highly preserved space rich with many archaeological findings.
Admirers of cultural sites will also appreciate the magic of attractive heritage hotel Marinska Kula, former villa of Trogir’s bishops, from 15th century, situated on the very coast. “ Real gourmets will surely find a place for themselves here. Surprise yourselves with first- rate fish specialties, excellent domestic barbecued lamb or old dishes made in a new manner by top international chefs in intimate atmosphere of Dalmatian taverns.
This countryside is famous for extra virgin olive oil production and excellent dry figs so do not miss a chance to take home something more than a memory on the summer for a bottle of olive oil or a pack of dry figs are the best souvenirs of this place. Those who enjoy in active vacation can spend their time on one of the numerous paths for cyclists, runners or hikers wistful of their stay in nature. Sea enthusiasts will certainly like relaxed and friendly atmosphere of Agata marine where they can encounter all nautical facilities. Among numerous events during the Marina Summer, as a special attraction we would like to point out Boat – Bookstore. This manifestation supports the culture of writing and reading in an attractive and innovative ambient, and it has been a host to many domestic and foreign literary names.
Among all you can visit in 2013.:
Marina regatta – 6 August
Ojkavica festival in Blizna – 13 July
Marine fishermen's nights – 20 July and 3 August
St.Jacob's festival – 25 July
Bookstore boat – Boat of Culture – Marina – 04 August
hunter's night – 05 August Vinišće
www.tz-marina.hr
Visit the cradle of Pag cheese
KOLAN - ISLAND PAG
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A small place named Kolan is situated in the center of Pag, on the rocky ground, protected from the strong Bora wind. Throughout history it was known as the farmers’ place, since its inhabitants engaged almost entirely in agriculture and sheep farming. Nowadays Kolan realizes more and more of its touristic potential each year. Gastronomic, historical and natural facilities you can find here will not leave any of your holiday wishes unfulfilled.
Ruins on the hills of Gornji Gradac and St. Vitus peak, the remains of Roman villae rusticae and numerous stone walls testify to the continuity of life on these rocks since distant past. The evolution of local life through history is shown by the impressive ethnographic collection of the place of Kolan, which contains objects from everyday life used in household and agriculture. The collection preserves the oldest mold for making cheese in this area, which is another confirmation that this place is rightly called the cradle of Pag cheese. One of the products of the cheese making process is tasty and fusible cottage cheese which is also a must-try! And the local lamb is considered to be the best on the island – in addition to the skewer, it is prepared in a number of different ways.
Enjoy the pleasures of the sea at one of the many sandy and pebble beaches in the nearby village of Mandre, which offers a beautiful view of the islands Silba and Olib, on the area of Sv. Duh (Saint Spirit) and Kolanjski Gajac. Be sure to enrich your stay with a visit to the ornithological reserve Kolansko blato (Kolan Mud) inhabited by 163 bird species.Numerous events prove that Kolan doesn’t rely solely on its natural resorts - find an additional source of entertainment at the islands’ harmony singing groups’ meet-up (July 16), Children’s Dance Workshop (August 3 - 10) and the feast of Our Lady of The Snows (August 5). To recall your pleasantly spent vacation, bring a bottle of local liqueur, honey, and certainly, a hoop of Pag cheese!
www.tzkolan-mandre.com
Destination for tailor-made holidays
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BIOGRAD NA MORU
Biograd, well-known nautical center and town rich in tourist facilities, is a perfect place for family and active vacation. Nicely arranged pebbly and sandy beaches with a gentle or gradual entrance to the sea, Soline, Dražica and Bošana, are the main reason why this place is so gladly visited by families with children. Equipped with a trampoline, aquagan slide, children’s playgrounds and paddle boats, the beaches provide a variety of entertainment activities and are also enriched with a number of recreational facilities in the vicinity, such as scuba diving, sailing and swimming school.
The town also offers great opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Because of favorable climatic conditions and geographical location, Biograd is a favorite destination for lovers of surfing, sailing and diving. For all information, equipment rental or organized sports tours, contact one of the diving centers (Albamaris, Bougainville, Dolphin Rivers). Guests also have access to a number of sports courts, and can enjoy playing tennis, sand volleyball, basketball, handball and bowling. However, regardless of their preferences, to all visitors we highly recommend a trip to some of the national parks that are close at hand (NP Kornati and Telašćica Nature Park, NP Krka and Šibenik, Plitvice Lakes ...). If you got the impression that Biograd is only a quiet place to rest, you’re wrong. The town took care of the entertainment as well, and this year hosts a number of events. We must mention the biggest autumn nautical fair in the region: BIOGRAD BOAT SHOW (from 24
to 27 October 2103). Last year the fair stepped into the digital era, so it can be monitored in 3D technology, and due to the excellent infrastructure of organizers, the interest in participation continues unabated. Here you can close a lucrative business contract, but it is also a place of fun and entertainment, of exhibitions of souvenirs and traditional products.
For entertainment of all ages, we suggest attending The Biograd Night (August 4, 2013), a typical Dalmatian festivity “spiced” with illuminated boat parade, musical laser light show and
performances by cultural and artistic societies, bands and harmony singing groups, and it will also bring you closer to the irresistible charms of Dalmatian cuisine! Morska alga (Sea Algae, August
8) is a fun and educational program, a sort of “aquatic” counterpart to the Alka of Sinj. Its contestants are chosen spontaneously and on the spot, encouraged by charming hosts who invite tourists in three different languages.
VISIT ALSO 6th International Fair of innovation, eco ideas, products and technologies in the
agriculture and food industry “AGRO ARCA” (August 30 - September 1, 2013), which will introduce you to the latest developments in agriculture and the production of organic and traditional food The grand finale of “Adriatic games” (September 1, 2013) on the “Illyria” pool with a live coverage on Croatian national television “The World’s Longest Strudel” manifestation which seeks to promote indigenous products of the Zadar region. Strudel will be made with Marasca cherries, autochthonous product of this area, considered the finest and the tastiest type of cherry in the world. Visitors will be offered with other Marasca cherry products, like Maraschino liqueur, cherry-brandy, cherry juice and many others. The length of the strudel will be 1200 meters and the event will be recorded in the Guiness Book of Records.
Kaštela - an authentic Mediterranean ambience
Hardworking arms of labourers, who cultivate olive groves and wine groves, are the first association to the City of Kaštela. In order to strengthen this nice tradition, people of Kaštela organise a whole range of activities - from a contest for the most beautiful garden in Kaštela to reward for the best wine, and all sorts of educational programmes for olive and wine growers.
Therefore, if you come to visit, don’t forget to taste homemade wine or spice your meal with healthy and high quality olive oil! One of the most picturesque symbols of Kaštela is a 1 500 year old olive in Kaštel Štafilić, which still gives fruits that are traditionally picked for years. Those who like active vacation will enjoy in Kaštela also, because together with nice and approachable beaches, various possibilities for hiking and bicycle tours of all 7 places are offered. Given the great traffic connections with main roads and airport, there is variety of different excursions, while
the vicinity of Split and Trogir will definitely please culture enthusiasts.
But, nature enthusiasts will find a unfailing source of natural beauties here of which it is important to mention School Botanic Garden and the Bible Garden of Our Lady of Stomorija. Botanic garden, thanks to its beauty and valuables, is a proclaimed horticulture monument, while the Bible garden was founded in honour of Pope John’s II visit to Croatia. Apart from this unreal peace and extraordinary diversity of plant life, these gardens will enchant you if you are a seeker of cultural links and spiritual impulses.
Kaštela also made effort to entertain – if you are here in February, don’t miss hilarious masquerade! The end of April and the month of May are reserved for Flower holiday and Theatre Days, while in June Traditional Folk Costumes and Crafts Festival is held.
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Baška Voda - Visit the queen of beaches
The sun, clear sea, gorgeous beaches amidst the pine trees and the mix of sea and fresh mountain air will make you feel like you are in some earthly paradise when in Baška Voda. What used to be a small fishermen and farmers’ village grew to become an attractive destination whose beginnings in tourism date back to the beginning of the 20th century, when the Sikavica brothers built hotel Slavija that collected numerous awards for service and eno-gastro cuisine in 1936 in London. The justified reputation of an attractive tourist destination holds on to this days one of the finest resorts of the Adriatic, Baška Voda is a proud bearer of the prestigious “Blue flower” with a gold label.
Baška Voda’s forte are certainly the beautiful, seemingly endless pebbly beaches, that are continuously maintained, in order to make tourist satisfied. In the hot summer days they offer refreshment and relaxation either in the crystal clear sea, or the shade of the pine trees. We particularly recommend the gorgeous “Nikolina” beach flying the Blue flag since 2005. In addition to being a guarantee of environmental awareness and cleanliness, this recognition also refers to the high quality of services-”Nikolina” offers the rental of various sports and beach equipment as well as a duty lifeguard.
A pleasant walk along the sea might be a nice way to top up a stay on one the enchantingly beautiful beaches, but the town has many entertaining events in store for you. The celebration of Day of the municipality (30.05) is a combination of dance and music, almost as fun as the May Day celebration, with hilarious competitions like the donkey race or greasy beam walking. At the heart of the summer season you can enjoy the eventful program of “Baško Lito” with various performances and concerts.
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Foto: Tz općine Baška Voda
Welcome to Brela, spring of beauty
Brela is a small tourist resort situated on the Makarska Riviera. They offer the riches of the crystalline sea, six kilometres of natural sandy beaches, the scent and the beauty of the thick pine tree forest (in large part a natural monument), numerous pedestrian zones which entangle from the walking area along the coast, to the old hamlets, proud of the old Dalmatian architecture, and all the way to the peaks of the mountain Biokovo. Beacuse of its natural and cultural heritage, from the very beginning of its past the resort of Brela hasf an important part in the tourism of Makarska riviera.
Today the resort Brela continues its 80 years long tradition in offering to toursits the comfortable accommodation and hospitality of their residents, old Dalmatian cuisine, wines, song, and amusement.
DID YOU KNOW:
- sour cherry maraska is at one time the symbol and the synonym of the place; it is the economic pearl from the last century:
- the beach "Dugi rat" – American journal Forbes classified this beach among the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world, placing it as the 6th most beautiful and the 1st in Europe!
- Arrival of Croatians to the sea – it is said that right on Dupci the exclamation "The sea! The sea!" was shouted;
- Gala nights in the hotels have been introduced for the first time on Croatian coast in Brela.
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Foto: Tz općine Brela
Central Dalmatia - beaches and activities
Central Dalmatia. The glistening Adriatic, the endless choice of quality and pristine beaches.
Take the Makarska Riviera, for example, whose 60km stretch of varied beaches from Brela to Gradac takes you through 18 towns and villages with something for everyone - from the family beach in a large town to a hidden gem in a remote fishing village. The only thing in common is the clear and enticing water, some of the cleanest sea in the world.
Or head to the islands - Brac, Solta, Vis and Hvar, from sandy to romantic, pebble to FKK, and for that extra privacy, seek out the emerald jewels such as the Pakleni Islands off Hvar, where the tourist tradition dates back to 1906. While the region is famed for its beaches and clean water, this only tells part of the story of a Dalmatian holiday on the coast, for there is also an exciting array of water attractions for the more active tourist - and not just in the sea.
In the heart of the Central Dalmatian coast lies the Cetina river, one of the region’s most diverse and least discovered attractions. Follow the trails of the pirates and Ottoman invaders along the 11 fortresses which guard the river, or get active in this fabulous water attraction for adventure tourism.
For pure adrenaline, find out why day trips from all over Central Dalmatia converge on Cetina for some of the best white-water rafting around, or for a more sedate introduction to the secrets of the Dalmatian hinterland by water, why not indulge in a little kayaking or a river canoe safari? Family packages are available, and it is a great way to escape the crowds while discover some of Central Dalmatia’s unique natural treasures. To reach Cetina, simply head for the town of Omis - as many pirates and invaders did in years gone by.
The call of the Adriatic is never far away on a holiday to Central Dalmatia, and there are plenty of water activities for visitors looking for a challenge. The region is become an increasingly important sailing destination, both for relaxation and competition, and each year brings new opportunities - from sailing schools for beginners to participation in the numerous regattas for the more experienced.
Wind surfing and kite boarding enthusiasts should head to Bol on Brac, which is becoming established as an activity destination, with those looking for treasures under the sea can
find them via diving schools in Markarska, Split, Hvar and Vis.
A trip to Central Dalmatia would not be complete without trying something authentic, and sporting enthusiasts should head to Bacvice beach in Split to take part in the curious game known as picigin, where grown men lunge desperately in an attempt to keep a small ball in the air. Time your trip well and take part in the 9th Picigin World Championships.
There is plenty of water-based excitement too for ornithologists keen to explore Central Dalmatia’s rich birding treasures with a river safari in the Pantan nature reserve, while fishing enthusiasts can choose from the sedate quayside fishing, to the challenges of the deep sea, or the ultimate extreme fishing challenge - spear fishing.
The glistening Adriatic and its neighbouring rivers and beaches - as diverse and challenging as you want it to be, and a reason why Central Dalmatia is the ultimate holiday destination
for all ages and interest groups.
For more information, visit the Central Dalmatia Tourist Board online. www.dalmatia.hr
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Foto: Arhiva turističkih zajednica Splitsko- dalmatinske županije
Piše: Paul Bradbury
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