IRRESISTIBLE RURAL OASES IN THE EAST OF OUR BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY!
Miraculous corners of the Croatian East have been unjustly neglected for years on the itinerary of domestic and foreign visitors.
In accordance with the increasingly popular rural tourism trends, rounded up with a selection of quality rural households and authentic domestic cuisine, the Vukovar – Srijem region slowly but surely conquers its place on the ever-growing map of the splendid rural tourism offer.
For instance, well-known Vukovar restaurants found their place even on the demanding TripAdvisor, where they are ranked with high grades along with many epithets.
Gondola Sotin
Excellent food, great fish soup, great value for your money...are merely a few of the complimenting reviews concerning gastronomic experiences in Vukovar - Srijem region. But, since the food is hardly the only advantage of this area, which boasts many additional attractions, we bring you a short guide to what to see and explore, and let you choose the activities according to your own preferences.
And you can expect about a lot: a variety of gastronomic and wine pleasures, fishing, walking, cycling, swimming, tennis courts, landscaped routes, Danube cycling trails, Liska and 'Sultan's trail' hiking trails, boating, or taking advantage of the unique opportunity to enjoy a river ride and the calm reflection of the Danube.
Let's start from Ilok
If you decide to visit Ilok, you will be greeted by marvelous Danube from one side, and by the romantic vista of the old town from the other: there are church, monastery, walls, park, old wine cellar, Turkish monuments. There are stairs under the fortress leading from the Acropolis, and there is also a path towards the Danube and the small Danube stream called Dunavac.
For more information about this package tour, visit hoteldunavilok.com.
Active tourism - riding and tasting superb local food
For all of you who love the feeling of wind blowing through your hair, your next destination is Županja, more precisely the Equestrian Center „Županjski kas“. They offer horseback riding (therapeutic and recreational). You can opt for a classic walk on horseback, riding, grooming and taking care of the horses, riding school, training courses, or a day trip where you can even watch the horse shoeing.
Another equestrian center is yet one more destination worth the search - Equestrian Club 'Eohippus'. It is located only 3.5 km from the center of Vinkovci and surrounded by the idyllic atmosphere of the Slavonian plains. In the barn, there are six horses of various breeds - Haflinger, Holstein and a Croatian Warmblood – specially trained to work with children, adults, and people with special needs. In addition to horses, visitors can play with pets and see other domestic animals.
RURAL HOUSEHOLD JANKOVIĆ IN VRBANJA
This idyllic object has 4 beds in a two-room apartment with the possibility of food services, pouring drinks and beverages from domestic production. It also offers the possibility of riding, enjoying the tranquility of the rural landscape, and absolute relaxation.
OPG DUNAVSKI RAJ (DANUBE PARADISE FAMILY FARM)
Impressive estate, located near the archaeological site of Vučedol at the elevated Danube river bank, in the area characterized by spacious Vukovar plain and slopes of Fruška Gora richly lined with vineyards. Located in a pleasant natural environment of Srijem fields and vineyards, it offers the enjoyment of a good snack, even better wine drops and numerous options for an active holiday.
Expect a location of unpolluted air, the absence of noise and vibration, and preserved nature - the perfect place to spend a short, active and anti-stress holiday.
OPG Dunavski raj
The ability to perform a range of fun activities on the property - from old games, through workshops in traditional manufacturing, to the various entertainment options - makes Dunavski raj a perfect place for active vacation.
Photo: Tourist Board of Vukovar.
For more information about this site, go to the web address dunavski-raj.com
ACIN SALAŠ
If you visit this object, you will be welcomed by an irresistible display of eco-ethno beauty. You will see all of the traditional objects: barns, blockhouses, pigsties, horse stables, sweeps, bread ovens, smokers, Ovčarnik.
The food is prepared in a traditional Šokac way. The joy next to the cauldron for brandy distilling, traditional pig slaughter and many other Slavonian customs, complete the experience of living in a traditional Šokac household.
SNAŠINI KUĆARI
Near Županja, there's an old family house, one of the oldest in the village, equipped with authentic, 150-years-old furniture and various utensils.
In addition to its historical value, the house is designed for vacation of tourists, whether they are chance travelers, or their arrival is previously organized. Ethno house has a living room, two bedrooms, a bathroom, a souvenir shop, a showroom and a large courtyard, which has a covered terrace with tables suitable for reception of larger groups of visitors.
In Snašini kućari, antiquity lovers will discover many artifacts within the souvenir shop that offers local products: winter food stores, fruit juices, jams... Guests can also watch zucchini decorating, and participate in making of gold embroidery (available for small and large groups).
Bošnjaci – opt for the path of excellent tasting rooms and rural households with wonderful homemade food
When it comes to anything in Slavonia, there is always too much and never too little. Here is our selection of quite a few ethno attractions, that will take you back in time, to the carefree childhood days.
OPG JUZBAŠIĆ – MATKOVA PECARA (JUZBAŠIĆ FAMILY FARM)
In their tasting room, richly decorated in rustic style, in addition to brandies and liqeurs, you can try some homemade Slavonian meat products and pastries. They also offer plum and quince brandy, apple schnapps, elderberry, quince, cherry and walnut liqueur.
Their brandies and liqueurs were displayed at numerous trade fairs: PHS, Croatian village products in Zagreb, Autumn in Lika, Eco-Ethno, Slavin, Osijek Fair, and they always make a remarkable appearance at the National exhibition of fruit brandies and liqueurs in Vinkovci. Any such performance is usually followed by a medal, so see for yourself why this is the case.
Visit OPG Juzbašić - Matkova pecara, and all information can be found at the link www.visitvukovar-srijem.com/hr
It is impossible to be in Bošnjaci and not to visit the Forestry Museum, founded in 2007. Oak is synonymous with this area - tall, strong resistant, steadfast, just as the inhabitants of this region.
Visit the museum that preserves the memory of a part of our national history and forestry.
OPG ŠARČEVIĆ (ŠARČEVIĆ FAMILY FARM)
We invite you to the plum brandy and fruit (walnut, cherry, hawthorn, pomegranate, quince and elderberry) liquer tasting in authentic Šokac ambience in Bošnjaci, at the Šarčević family estate. In the courtyard there is also an antique sweep for extracting water from a well. OPG Šarčević has won many awards for superior quality products, produced in the spirit of Šokac traditions and ways of life as a part of everyday life, festivities and customs. The building has three rooms and six beds. More information can be found at: www.visitvukovar-srijem.com
MUNICIPALITY OF NIJEMCI: Experience a very special river attraction!
If you've always wanted to sail along the forest river, this is an experience tailor-made for you. Dense oak forest and Spačva river have a special story to tell.
Nijemci bird watching center is connected with Srijem bicycle route, so you can combine the two activities; cycling and enjoying the rich birdlife. If you want to take a peek at the old and the more recent history of this picturesque village, visit the Luka Natali Heritage Museum in the very town center, within the pastoral center of the Nijemci parish. Everything can be found here: from the formation of the village, through the Middle Ages, up to the modern history and the Civil War. Within the museum there is also Bakina soba (Grandma's room), decorated in traditional style with details from the past which nostalgically take you back in time.
OPG BIČANIĆ (BIČANIĆ FAMILY FARM)
Distillery and Budimka apartments are located in the heart of Ilok vineyards and orchards, overlooking the mighty blue Danube.
Budimka provides its visitors with a tour of the distillery, vineyards and orchards, and with the possibility of brandy tasting and buying homemade products.
Overnight stay with a homemade breakfast prepared according to the old, almost forgotten recipes, is available in 7 apartments with interesting fruit-inspired names. Apartments are equipped with a double bed, with the possibility of an extra bed or cot, en-suite bathroom, air conditioning and LCD TV. More information is available on the web: visitvukovar-srijem.com.
DANUBE – Europe's second largest river. For lovers of river rides and of such quiet only a river can offer!
After sailing Spačva through the woods, you can also sail Europe's second largest river, the Danube, within the excursion of your choice.
VUKOVAR BAJADERA WATERBUS – THE MAGIC OF A SUPREME PLEASURE!
Take this electro - solar panoramic tourist boat for a walk along DANUBE - enjoy a panoramic ride along the Danube, its backwaters and views of the sandy islands - Adas. Indulge in the scent of the river and in the view of Vukovar from another perspective.
A river fairy tale - take a ride in Danubius and enjoy the calm reflections of beautiful Danube.
In Ilok you can experience a true, challenging, somewhat luxurious ride, following the desired route, whether it is a short panoramic ride under the bridge, right to the border or Šarengradska Ada, or it is a longer one that leads to Vukovar, Osijek and Novi Sad.
Tours are organized for groups of up to approximately 50 people. It is possible to arrange catering on board, tastings of Ilok wines, to have a nice drink and enjoy the Danube waves standing on the prow of a boat or in a cozy bar, with music and a view through the window!
Explore the call of the wilderness in a calm plain - visit a Cerna Zoo in the middle of Slavonian plains!
This zoo welcomes visitors since 1994 and currently there are about 50 species of animals in it. Here you can see bears, jaguar, lynx, foxes, monkeys, a 4.5 meters long anaconda, horses, eagles, parrots...
If you are into exotic experiences and tastes, there's no need to go to Africa – just visit Cerna on the Ilija Rimac's OPG (Family Farm). If you want a unique experience, don't wait - it is waiting for you!
SRIJEM WINES
There are many wineries in Ilok that are, in addition to the wine growing, also focused on wine tourism. Each visitor can choose between visiting some of the typical Srijem wine cellars dug into the hill, or experience the modern winery. Everywhere you will be able to learn about the process of wine making and enjoy the warm family atmosphere. Did you know that viticulture and wine production in the region of Ilok have an uninterrupted tradition of almost 1800 years?
ILOK WINE CELLARS – A SYMBOL OF ILOK AND VUKOVAR-SRIJEM COUNTY
But, what would lovely Ilok be without its famous wine cellars, a true symbol of this area? It is the millenia-old tradition of wine growing and high-quality assortment wine making, from vineyards that descend to the mighty Danube in the wavy plateaus of western slopes of Fruška Gora. They produce wine from 990 hectares of vineyard locations (330 ha of their own, and 660 ha of purchase), with a total annual wine making production of approximately 4 million liters.
In addition to the basic activities, viticulture and wine production, they also develop authentic and unique tourist and gastronomic offer, by connecting tourist destination attractions, with wine-making and viticulture.
Visit the Ilok Old Cellar (Stari podrum) - information and booking on tel: 032 590 088. And if you want to stay in touch with news related to their high quality wines, feel free to visit and like their Facebook page, and in this way support superior local enological production!
In recent years, Ilok wine cellars intensively work on the development of a network of their own retail stores across Croatia. You can taste the Vukovar wines in a well-known Vukovar wine producing association Vukovarska vina, which brings together all the wine producers from Vukovar. Feel the charm of the joint of rural and urban, and be revived by a glass of this divine potion.
Since all objects prepare fresh homemade meals according to the original recipes, it is recommendable to promptly announce your arrival.
On the website of the Tourist Board of Vukovar – Srijem County, find out all about the best rural households, which attractions to visit and why is the cuisine of this region so special. Learn all about the possibilities of active tourism and best ways to experience all the natural beauties of the area, enjoying the river scenery, culinary paradise and of course, excellent wines.
Photos of the wine: Vanja Vidaković
If you want to book a room in a cozy and comfortable hotel, it is not a problem either, because in Vukovar - Srijem County you will find a rich selection. Excursion sites, wineries, bike trails, river sightseeings, rural households, cultural and historical heritage... all of these, spiced with irresistible cuisine, make a great invitation to experience at least some of these treasures already this fall!
Welcome!
Photos: Courtesy of Vukovar – Srijem Tourist Board and archives of rural households, archives of Tourist Board of Vukovar
Photo of wine; Vanja Vidaković
Cover photo; Ilok wine cellars
Discover the culinary magic of Continental Croatia
DISHES THAT TASTE AS GOOD AS THEY LOOK
Nice English sayings “What you see is what you get”, fits completely to luxurious gastronomy of our darling Slavonija. Namely, the visual identity of its dishes announces a journey to a true empire of tastes! And the flavours are absolutely divine, for Slavonian kitchen is based on two key words: fresh and homemade. Fresh picked vegetables, homemade milk and meat prepared by traditional recipes and numerous tasty spices guarantee memorable gastronomic experiences.
Then how can you resist cheeses, cream, sausages…The answer is simple - don't even try! Meat products like kulen, ham, bacon, čvarci, belong to traditional food and can most certainly be found, even today, on the rich Slavonian plate, which in past was even more luxurious. Ask your kind hosts about the forgotten Slavonian delicacies, and if you are lucky, you might get a chance to taste cicvare with potatoes, sekeli-goulash, ljeljini dukati, utvajski spit, aspic or lučevine and the Slavonian satrica! Life by Sava, Dunav and Drava rivers accustomed Slavonians on dishes based on river fish which is traditionally prepared in the open, while fruitful forests offer a wide choice of tasty game animal dishes.
Main courses are therefore really rich and abundant, and together with famous kulen, čobanac or fish stew are offered as appetizers, and they present almost a symbol of this area's cuisine. There is also a wide choice of river fish dishes (specially popular is carp baked on fork) and meat specialties: barbecue and steaks stuffed with Slavonian ham, cheese, mushrooms, and game animals in various ways. Favourite condiment to dishes is the hot chutney! For the dessert try the unavoidable poppy-seed cake or walnut loaf. Traditional Slavonian cakes are also spice cakes, honey cakes, paws and breskvice. Of course, in all meals you can include various types of bread from the Slavonian granary!
Special chapter to this tasty story belongs to wines. Complete your meal with some of white, rosé and red wines, of which Grasevina wine is certainly most popular and has made this area famous in the whole world. Other quality white wines are Chardonnay, Pinot white, Riesling Rhine, Silvanac Green and the Müller Thurgau, and of red wines Frankovka, Zweigelt, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Croatian Zagorje
In almost every Zagorje home, right at the door you will be greeted by aromas and warmth of seductive flavors. The specificity of Zagorje cuisine is that it hasn’t lost its traditional charm.
Miles of wine roads, thousands of wooden cellars and rustic farms guarantee to the visitor for the best possible refreshment.
Zagorje turkey with homemade dumplings, the famous Zagorje strudel, Zagorje soup or pork tenderloin paired with Zagorje wines...the selection of specialties is more than sufficient for a solid snack if you are traveling or in a guest visit, or you just decided to go on a trip to this place.
Game, set, match for the Bol tourism!
THE RETURN OF TENNIS TO BOL!
The best sports story of the tourist season – Bol's ITF Futures tournaments!
All ultimate heroes of the white sport began their thorny path at Futures tournaments! Novak Đoković, Rafael Nadal, Croatia's Marin Čilić and many other kings of this noble sport began their path to success precisely at tournaments of this category. And after a rather lengthy 15-year break, from May to September 2015, Bol on the island of Brač - the world-famous tourist resort, will organize the ITF Futures tournaments – Bluesun Cro Circuit for both male and female young tennis players, sponsored by Croatian President Ivo Josipović!
Croatia once again becomes an attractive tennis destination, which represents immeasurable importance and contribution to the extension of the tourist season, and an addition to the value of Croatian sports offerings.
According to the head of the Tourist Board of Bol Markito Marinković, Bol successfully connected two top-notch contents that have always been its trademark. In order to attract an event of such caliber, a small town on an island could only be a place of exceptional tourist potential and recognizable brand.
Therefore, he is extremely pleased with the fact that the potential of the site was timely recognized by the organizers, given that high-quality tennis courts and associated recreational facilities are located only 5 minutes from the hotel room.
This is a great promotion of Bol as a desirable sports destination - in a very short time period, contestants from over 60 countries from Brazil to Australia, achieved 10,000 overnight stays. The Tourist Board of Bol will continue to provide full support to the organizers.
The organizer Felix Lukas and Tennis Club Kaštela
The organizer of this tournament is young Felix Lukas from Kaštela along with the city's tennis club. Lukas, who has extensive experience in organizing such tournaments around the world, pointed out for Croatian Hotspots portal that he has chosen Bol for this tournament because it offers all of the existing infrastructure, i.e. objects that were used for previous tournaments.
The rich tourism potential of Bol as a destination and its incredibly beautiful environment thus perfectly fit into the concept of the tournament, as evidenced by the number of overnight stays, increasing out-board consumption in the pre-season.
The organizer Felix Lukas delivers trophies to the winners.
Tournaments are also held during the early and late season when the weather conditions are ideal, they attract guests, foreign investors, and competitors are happy to extend their stay. One of the famous visitors of this tournament is our well-known tennis player Ivan Dodig, who also gave support to the organization.
Organizers with Ivan Dodig
He added that more than 20 tournaments will be organized till the end of September, making a total of 5% of the world tournaments in this category. Tourist destination development strategy in off season focused on white sport guarantees inevitable success - tennis is back in Bol!
TOURIST ARRIVALS INCREASE – ANOTHER POSITIVE YEAR FOR TOURISM IN BOL
In addition to these innovations, this year as well Bol achieved growth rates which definitely confirm its status of a strong tourist destination that reflects the strategy of its development, continuously working to improve the offer.
The results speak best for themselves:
August
In August, Bol achieved 170,444 overnight stays, or 26,117 arrivals, which is 8% more than in August 2013 (157,052 overnight stays).
In the first 8 months Bol achieved 431,385 overnight stays, or 69,265 arrivals which is almost 5% more than the same period in 2013 (411,837 overnight stays).
Even the “white sport” could not resist natural beauty of Bol
Do you fancy playing tennis this afternoon?
If you are a fan of this sophisticated sport, you should know that playing tennis and refreshing yourself in Zlatni Rat afterwards is the most valuable gift you can treat yourself with in this off-season. At your disposal there are high quality tennis courts, tennis equipment, friendly staff and top tennis schools. Later on, you can always refresh yourself at one of the paradisiacal beaches or wander under the starry vault of warm autumn sky in one of the excellent restaurants in Bol with spectacular views of the open sea.
Tennis center "Potočine" in Bol had 12 tennis courts in 1984. Today, this is an excellent tennis center with over 20 red clay surface tennis courts surrounded by pine trees. The central position is the center court stadium where many exciting finals took place. For precisely tennis tournaments made Bol famous!
In addition to new visual identity of the destination created this year, Bol can boast of new superb videos, recorded for promotional purposes.
Check out the new promotional video - Bol - symbol of the Adriatic
Bol - primeval beauty of the central Adriatic
One of the most visited and most successful Croatian destinations profiled in recent decades as an absolute mecca for tourists and a place which in its essence sums up virtually all the beauty of Dalmatia. Few locations boast such harmony of architecture, nature and numerous beaches that are so beautiful that the first impression about them is are they real or not!
Bol has many beautiful secluded beaches that are sometimes unfairly overlooked in favor of Zlatni Rat. The best thing is that they are all located only a few minutes from the town center. But Bol has a rich historical and cultural heritage as well, that best reveals itself to the visitor in off season, when one doesn’t have to seek shelter from the heat under the cloak of Zlatni Rat, but is able to explore all the treasures of this island.
Bol - an unusual name for a destinaton, and an interesting paradox. Bol really hurts but when, and only when after the visit, you must leave. But separation doesn’t have to be permanent...
We are waiting for you in Bol!
Take a look of Bol through virtual tours
The island of Vir - A glimpse of bright future
A real tourist champion
The island of Vir deserves our congratulations – it is a real tourist champion!
Statistics have shown double bed nights in this island, even in pre-season, while record increase in domestic guests is also recorded.
It is a result of wise usage of tourist potentials and well organised promotion, both in domestic and foreign market that launched one of 300 islets of Zadar’s archipelago straight into the starry sky of the most desirable destinations.
But, Vir won’t stop here – construction of new hotel facilities is being considered, as well as fantastic initiative for opening a university centre, which would, by dislocating certain studies from the nearby Zadar, include Vir in educational-scientific flow and encourage its excellent development!
This destination has begun its tourist story as an excellent destination for family vacation, due to its beautiful beaches enriched with whole-day animations.
Wide choice of suitable contents ensures constant entertainment, specially appreciated by the young ones!
But not only light forms of recreation are available here; there is also a great offer of active vacation for the demanding ones – during the whole year!
EVENTS, SPORT ACTIVITIES AND RECREATION
Sport activities enthusiasts can participate in serious competitions like Vir’s marathons, cycling races and sailing regattas, and in very joyful quarter finals of Adriatic Games, on 11th August. For those who are creative we recommend photo workshops at the beginning and the end of July.
It is also necessary to mention Vir’s Night (13th August), Vir’s Festivity (29th of August), that unite all the people, no matter the preferences, in a carefree summer party.
ELITE TOURISM
Vir gave its special contribution to domestic elite tourism, with attractive historical building redecorated in exclusive complex for guests, which is possible to rent only as a whole.
Off course, it is the famous lighthouse from 1881!It is located in a solitary place, with its own attractive beach and whole range of exclusive contents – from ordering food from top-quality local restaurant, to hiring Dalmatian klapa for better dinner atmosphere.
It has brought to Vir a scent of luxury and modern, very personalised approach to guests.
Nautical tourism - Šibenik - Knin county
PARADISE FOR YACHTSMEN
The Šibenik-Knin region is the region with the best intended coast in the Croatian part of Adriatic, whose archipelago today counts 249 islands, islets, cliffs and reefs, among which is also placed one of three maritime national parks of the Republic of Croatia – the Kornati National Park.
The nautical tourism in the Šibenik-Knin region is extremely important at the national level, because the Šibenik region realises a quarter of the total income from nautical tourism in the Republic of Croatia, which makes it the leading nautical region in Croatia.
NAUTICAL PORTS IN THE ŠIBENIK-KNIN REGION
The nautical offer in the Šibenik area consists of 12 marinas and 7 moorings, of the total capacity of 3 480 berths in the sea and 1 320 berths on land.
Besides five marinas – members of ACI, Adriatic Croatia International Club (Jezera, Žut, Piškera, Skradin and Vodice), there are also the marina „Frapa" in Rogoznica, the marina „Kremik" in Primošten, the marina „Danuvius" in Tribunj, two marinas in Šibenik: the „Nautical Center Prgin - NCP" and the marina „Solaris", as well as two marinas on the biggest inhabited island in the Šibenik-Knin region – the island of Murter: the marina „Betina" and the marina „Hramina".
MARINAS WITH THE BLUE FLAG
The Blue flag is a prestige acknowledgment awarded by the International organisation FEE as the proof of the top-quality tourist service, based on clear sea and protected littoral area, as well as on the equipped and organized beaches and marinas. The marinas – the Blue flag holders for 2009 in the Šibenik region are:
• "Frapa" – Rogoznica
• "ACI marina" – Vodice
• "ACI marina" – Jezera
• "Danuvius" – Tribunj
THE CHARTER OFFER
Besides marinas, the basic offer of the nautical tourism in the Šibenik-Knin region includes charter firms, of which there are 82 in this area displaying a rich fleet, where everyone can surely find something for himself.
THE NATIONAL PARK "KORNATI" – PARADISE FOR YACHTSMEN
The Kornati National Park, one of three national parks in the Republic of Croatia to be found on the sea, takes a special place within the Šibenik archipelago. It is located not far away from the island of Murter and it is, concerning life, strongly connected to its inhabitants. The Kornati National Park counts nowadays about 80 islands and islets. The islands of the National park are not inhabited, and there are no sources of drinking water on them. It is possible to visit numerous restaurants on the islands, as well as the marina "Piškera" situated within the borders of the National park.
THE TOWN OF SKRADIN – AN IMPORTANT DESTINATION WITHIN THE NAUTICAL TOURISM
The town of Skradin, situated in the Šibenik hinterland nearby the second national park in the Šibenik-Knin region – the Krka National Park, is especially important for yachtsmen since a marina is located here, and it is the closest one to the famous waterfalls of the river Krka.
Photo: sibenikregion.com
Croatia Hotspots
Sinj Rural Products Fair
31 Jul – 2 Aug 2014
Trg dr. Franje Tuđmana, Sinj
The Cetinska Krajina Region has always provided fertile ground for the development of the rich heritage of the skillfully-made and unique handicrafts and authentic products. For five years now Sinj has hosted the Rural Products Fair. Small- and -medium-sized family farms of the Sinj rural area are given a golden opportunity to acquaint consumers with the traditional homemade products which can hardly be found in any other place.
Visitors can taste and buy choosing from assorted high quality food products: a selection of homemade cheeses, honey and other bee products, homemade smoked and cured meats, wines, brandies, liqueurs, oils, eco products, etc. A wide variety of traditional souvenirs, hand embroidery, utensils and decorative items as well as natural material jewellery are also exhibited.
The exhibits and delicacies are of priceless value, which is the result of a great effort invested in order to get a final product of the unique quality and in keeping with an ancient tradition, passed down from parent to child over many generations. In this way, many crafts and the secrets of the master craftsmen are saved from the fate of oblivion.
Exhibited at the Sinj Rural Products Fair, grandma's opanci and embroidered sheets, grandpa's pipe and carved walking stick, mother's uštipci and kroštule, have stopped being a mere remnant of the past to become the keeper of family treasure and identity.
The whole programme is further enriched through the performances of the cultural clubs and the Sinj majorettes, while the spirit of priceless heritage is revived through their selected repertoire.
Foto: Branko Čović
Tekst: Anđela Šuste
Green hotels - whole year business
Interview: Mladenka Dabac, licenced architect, mag.ing.aedif.DWB
Karlsruhe/Zagreb
What is green tourism and what are green hotels?
In context of global and sustainable development green tourism ( i.e. sustainable or responsible tourism) is a new way of thinking, designing and working in tourism in this millennium.
Sustainable development, on all levels of society and economy, generally means the total of procedures by which compatibility of living, management and nature and its surrounding is accomplished. The starting point and the goal of green tourism is a destination which generates determinants and specificities of green tourism, together with its elements, i.e. green hotels or green tourist settlements. By uniting + green concept of Germany and Croatia since 2003, with interdisciplinary networking of experts-specialists, our green group has generated complete solutions for complex projects. The main focuses of these projects are: sustainable development, sustainable architecture, green innovations and green tourism. Synergy of green tourism and Croatian agriculture is creating a new brand, raises it on a new level of whole-year management, which means a new rouse for Croatian economy.
How to project, build and furnish a green hotel?
It is necessary to determine (by means of complete green projecting) all basic, input and newly defined data (for ex. the use of OIE in tourism; research of new, selective forms of tourism; object destination etc.) that in networked, interdisciplinary management result in sustainable green hotel (hotel facilities and its environment) in which reserves for mid-term and long-term sustainable development are included. The basis of green projecting is first-rate, interdisciplinary knowledge and experience, implementation of new knowledge and technologies, tested in EU experience and practice.
Name one good example of this practice in world and Croatia?
First null-energetic hotel built by the EU 2-20-20 guidelines is Stadthalle Wien (since 2009). In Croatia, within the +green group we have acquired energetic independence of Hotel Sv. Križ in Trogir by introducing solar energy system (since July 2011).
What are the benefits for hotels if they become green?
Not only will green hotels, according to EU regulations, have to become null-energetic by 2020, but with the advantages and savings of green hotels one of top goals of green tourism will also be accomplished – whole-year business.
What kinds of guests visit green hotels?
Guests who visit green hotels are environment-aware. The number of these guests is in exponential rise, since it is a key feature of new tourist and tourism profile in new millennium.
Does Croatia have potential to become distinguishing brand of green tourism?
Exactly by creating recognizable brand of green tourism Croatia affirms one of its basic, national potentials.
What are the possibilities for developing green tourism on islands?
Croatia has numerous possibilities for development of green tourism on islands; they are, together with continental Croatia, a reservoir of sustainable development of the country.
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Interior - wellness’ key factor
Wellness tourism is not a mere definition of yet another tourist branch which grows and asserts itself as an imperative due to the Croatia’s desire to become the destination for modern aware tourists of better payment ability. Wellness tourism is not health-related tourism.
That is not only a pool, a sauna and a massage, expensive creams and a few smiles. For those who deal with interior, wellness offer and interiors must be in synergy and have to look like this:
'Life is too important that be taken seriously.' Oscar Wilde
Health is the process, balance of mind, spirit and body. Everyday decisions shape the quality of life and health. The goal of wellness interior is to create space which makes the guest more sensitive for the important aspects of health. In modern tourism and the pace of life it has become important to integrate the values in accordance with true human needs - health and the sustainability, and to promote, in a contemporary way, autochthonous values, materials and principles of formation.
"Health is a condition of complete physical, mental (psychological) and the social prosperity, and not just the absence of illness and weakness.”
(Constitution of World Health Organization,1946)
According to these quotations, when decorating interior of wellness centres or hotel rooms, basic principle of designing must be transformation of routine into rhythm.
The aim is to present the indigenousness which different users will recognise as their own true needs through the tradition and healing factors. Interior of wellness centre or guest rooms is a return to biorhythm and it reflects itself in the effort to approach health through the ambiance. Space must be divided into chapters to teach you and your guest about the cycle.
Entrance is the initiation, the key part of every story which changes the guest's perception of interior. On the very entrance the guest leaves cares and habits, routine stops, rhythm begins. This way the guests recognise the intricacy in the interior, through the light and sparkling of individual parts the trust is built, and the eternally present in the man wakes up – the curiosity.
Sleeping is the regeneration of organism where safety, comfort and the isolation are necessary. Deep sleep is filled with cleanness and the softness of bed and linen, scents, touches... Did you succeed in illustrating anything from this to your guests so they could really sense the wellness?
Hygiene reflects through the graduation of the interior intimate zones – the guest needs to be offered the distinctiveness of the following terms: wet – dry, smooth – coarse. To include healing factors through baths, make the space more intimate through the furniture.
Rest is contemplation, condition in which body rests, and the mind expands. When we are left with contemplation and the imagination, through the introspection and the meditation weightless feeling is achieved. Body feels the easiness and relaxing – true wellness spaces have the possibility of atmosphere adjustment.
Settlement means occupying the space, and even personalizing it. One needs to become familiar with space and adjust to it through the intuitiveness, flexibility and the modularity – imagine a room, hall… the ambiance like that.
Active holiday through the game and the interaction is the information exchange, trace in the area and the research. It is necessary to familiarise the guests with symbols which allow the game and the awakening of senses. It is necessary to soften the border of the interior and the exterior.
When designing wellness interior the concept story needs to be used. Stories and fairy tales have, from ancient times, served for dynamization and empowerment of our mind. Story about health is told through spatial chapters or zones which mutually intertwine. When entering the room wellness guest leaves everyday cares and habits outside and the process of healing and balancing starts. Herein one of the most important factors is – the interior.
Tatjana Kos 
Maria Theresa wore Pag lace
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Pag lace is a unique handicraft made by valuable and skilled hands of woman from Pag. It is believed that the Pag lace takes its origin from the city of Mycenae. In the town of Pag making lace began in the late 15th century for the church liturgical vestments. Making lace was initiated by the Benedictine convent that had a school of lace. Lace collection that Benedictine nuns kept and collected more than 150 years, the Ministry of Culture declared the Croatian cultural heritage. History remembers the time when women from Pag went to the court of Maria Theresa to make lace for her.
Eventually, lace has become an independent decorative item, decoration for furniture, framed on the walls, carved or sewn into clothing, decoration sheets, pillows, curtains, tablecloths and as decoration on church vestments.
Uniqueness of Pag lace is that there are no templates or blueprints for making lace, the way of making and sampling has been carried forward from generation to generation by word of mouth and practical work.
Word of its beauty and perfection was wide-spread, its production and expansion in world trade boosts after the founding of Lace School in Pag. The school was founded in 1906 and has continuously worked until 1945.
In order to prevent the extinction of Pag lace making, in 1994 at the high school "Bartul Kašić" was organized training for the profession of Pag lace maker.
With school, an important role in the preservation of Pag lace has The Pag Lace Association "Frane Budak."
Nowadays, the Pag lace makers can be seen on the streets making the most beautiful needlework created by woman's hands.
In the city center on the Square Petar Krešimir IV is placed Pag lace Gallery.
He appeared from a legend
TALES FROM RIJEKA
Besides being written in the history and tradition of our ancestors and the skilful goldsmith’s hands, it is also a symbol spreading positive energy as it brings optimism and it is precisely his closeness that guarantees our wishes coming true, our serenity, protection from our enemies and from all evil forces. The Morčić earring was once worn by men too, especially fishermen and their only sons. It is not odd to see it in a man’s ear today nor is it abnormal to find brooches, bracelets, rings and pins in the treasure boxes of every older Rijeka family. Due to its attractiveness and historical importance, the Morčić has achieved enviable world fame acquiring a tourist flyer that describes the importance of this famous symbol in 30 languages.
Numerous stories have been told about the Morčić’s origins, numerous popular songs and legends have been sung amongst which there are two of the most famous ones. The first one is the legend of Zrinski described by the famous Rijeka archaeologist and art historian, Radmila Matejčić. It dates back to 16th century when the Ottomans set up camp in the Grobnik Field, threatening to attack Rijeka. The nobleman, Zrinski, shot an arrow from Gradina (Castle) close to Jelenje that hit the Ottoman pasha in his temple causing the army to run away. During this period of Ottoman occupation, the people of Rijeka, so Matejčić says, looked to the sky and prayed to God to throw stones and kill all the Ottomans. This is exactly what happened when they tried to run away: stones covered the Ottomans up to their necks and in a field only their turbans remained. In memory of this event, Rijeka’s men put earrings of a man with turban in their wives’ ears.
The second legend originates from Pelješac and says that an Italian countess had a black slave who she really liked. She gave her freedom and to remind her of the girl she ordered the creation of earrings depicting her. Morčić’s creation was largely influenced by Venice which, in 17th and 18th centuries, was obsessed with the Orient. Besides eastern spices, perfumes, fabrics, clothes and jewellery, the rich Venetian patricians started to use pages and servants in their chambers – Afro Americans wearing eastern clothes. This inspired numerous Venetian goldsmiths to begin creating decorative pins in the form of a black man with a turban, a golden bust, richly decorated with precious stones, known as a "moretto".
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Foto i tekst: www.visitrijeka.eu
Dalmatia in my suitcase
What should be in every tourist’s bag on his way home? A grain of salt, a drop of lavender... a piece of dessert should certainly not be forgotten... On Pag lamb must be tried, same as you should not forget to bring back with you a piece of famous Pag’s cheese. There is also famous Pag’s lace made of firm thread according to the tradition which is transferred to younger generations by older lace makers. In every bag there should also be paški biškoti, delicious biscuits which are made for over 300 years by nuns in Benedictine monastery.
In Zadar, Museum of Antique Glass is a must see. There you can buy interesting dishes, bottles, glasses and jugs made in a fusion technique. It would be unforgivable not to taste famous sweet liqueur Maraskino, made of cherries that are grown in the city area. It is made by the recipe discovered by Dominican monks at the beginning of the 16th century. Ground coral from Zlarin is a summer must have jewellery for every woman. Therefore, when on this island, invest in buying these eternally modern coral earrings, rings or bracelets.
In Skradin, in front of the very entrance to National Park Krka, in one of the lovely cafes, try famous Skradin cake, or as the locals call it – natural viagra.
Pag’s lace makers While walking on Pag during summer months you will encounter ladies who make lace in front of their homes. Empress Marija Terezija also liked Pag’s lace and she had
her personal lace maker brought from the island.
Casanova drove his strength from Maraskino. The list of famous people who enjoyed Maraskino is a rather long one. Famous Napoleon enjoyed it, European emperors and kings adored it, English Queen Victoria, Casanova, Alfred Hichcock...
UNESCO’s city of Trogir offers rafioli, traditional dessert which you have to order in advance, you can do that in Tourist Association biro. Split has an ace up its sleeve as well – Nadalina – one of the most famous chocolatier where you can find, together with all sorts of spices, chocolates with dry figs, prošek, almonds, carob, lavender, cinnamon, red pepper, olive oil or honey. Pučišća on Brač offer souvenirs from highly appreciated Brač stone which can be found in Masonry School. It would be also a good idea to stop by Dol where you can enjoy hrapaćuša cake, which has to be ordered in advance with one of the local housewives.
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Hvar has its hidden treasures; apart from famous wines and oil, there is also soft lace made from the thin agave leaves by Benedictine nuns. Not far from the monastery, on Hvar’s waterfront, stop by one of the numerous stands and buy a spray of therapeutic lavender, scented pack or lavender oil, so you can be reminded for a long time of the beauty of the Dalmatian island of sun. Imotski, apart from the visits to karst phenomena Blue and Red Lake, offers famous dessert known as Imotski cake, a dry cake which you can also put in your bag. Dubrovnik has its small treasures as well, like broštulani menduli (almonds in caramel) or orange peel in sugar which can be found in small packages in some of the numerous souvenir shops.
Sweet Korčula cherishes one popular location where numerous tourists wait in lines during the summer - Cukarin pastry shop- where you have to try cakes called klašun, amareto, Marko Polo bombica, harubica or broštulane mindole.
Croatian products – 6 views on the room
Tourism trends are changing, and the project “Six views of the room” enables the tourism sector to adopt this change more easily. The designers came up with, and reputable local manufacturers have produced, six different types of hotel rooms for the new tourism in Croatia.
In the creation of hotel rooms price range is recognized as an opportunity rather than limitation, and thus solved the eternal prejudice that the design must necessarily have a high price. In six categories, there are six price classes – from the lowest, but the broadest category of apartment furniture, to the rooms for elite guests who are looking for a new luxury.
Croatian interiors are joint producers of furniture and equipment that offer a complete service of designing and furnishing your space. Here in a single place you can find many different providers of complete equipment for interior decoration. In this way we save your time, but also facilitate the choice.
We invite you to contact us with complete confidence in our competence, so that together we can reach the realization of the idea that hotels and other accommodation facilities reflect a strategy also by their interiors.
Hrvatski interijeri d.o.o.
Pavla Hatza 12,
10 000 Zagreb
t: +385 1 6238 050
f: +385 1 6265 262
m: +385 91 5579 723
[email protected]
www.hrvatskiinterijeri.hr
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Smokvenjak
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Smokvenjak – traditional dalmatian fig cake is a real nutritional bomb prepared according to the traditional recipe from dried figs. It is enrich with fruit and picant flavours. Perfectly balanced fig mix enriched with ground paper or citrus, is a real gourmet bites. It is served to you with an aperitif in most taverns and restaurants.
INFO:
Tel: +385 (0)98 196 34 78
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Pepper cake
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Starogrojski paprenjok – pepper - cake souvenir
Starogrojski paprenjok is an original souvenir made as a homage to a traditional biscuit which the women and girls of Stari Grad on the Island of Hvar lovingly prepared since 1167 for their sons and husbands, packing them in sailor's chests before their loved ones' departure on long and faraway journeys. These cakes are prepared according to a carefully preserved recipe of the old island women and retained the traditional shapes of amphora, fish, heart, clover and other imaginative forms lined with sweet stripes and playful dots.
Anel - tbt d.o.o.
Vrisna bb
Jelsa, otok Hvar
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