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IN the northern reaches of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast lies a hip hangout Brits are just starting to cotton on to.
Boasting dramatic architecture, pristine waters and pine-scented beaches, Zadar, is the country’s oldest city.
Dubbed Croatia’s “capital of cool”, its crowd-free, marble streets, chilled Ibiza vibe, and magical, remote islands, add to the list of reasons to visit.
While Germans and Italians have been holidaying there for years, Zadar has been off the radar of the British, who usually opt for Dubrovnik and Split.
Sheltered
Now, thanks to the introduction of budget flights from the UK, and top-notch family-friendly resorts, Zadar is proving to be an exciting alternative.
It has deep historical ties to Italy, and its food bears more than a passing resemblance to the nation across the Adriatic.
The city is stacked with traditional pizzerias and trattorias, but for a special meal out, head for Zadar’s waterfront Restoran Kornat.
Prosecco and some of the best Croatian wines are in plentiful supply, and high quality dishes such as gnocchi with scallops, risotto with truffle, oysters and octopus make your hardest task of the night placing the order.
Hiring a little boat to explore the hundreds of islands to be found off the coast of Zadar is a great way to spend a day.
As the mainland is sheltered from the wider sea by the long islands, the deepening, turquoise water is incredibly calm.
Telašcica, with it’s salt lake, and the beautiful Kornati Islands National Park are popular stop-off points.
A little port tucked deep within Kornati boasts the charming Konoba Levrnaka, which serves gorgeous food in an informal beach location. For those travelling with a family, Premium Residence Senia resort, run by Pierre & Vacances is the perfect retreat.
Located 13km from the city, but just 200m from the beach, the spacious, airconditioned apartments offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with two outdoor pools to enjoy to boot.
Zadar itself manages to possess a great vibe while preserving a quaint charm.
The centre, connected by a bridge to the city’s industrial area, is surrounded by stone walls dating back to Julius Caesar.
Sections of ruins have been preserved to offer an insight into life in Roman Zadar. Just after the Middle Ages, it came under Venetian and Ottoman rule.
The Croats regained control when Venice fell in 1797 and Austro-Hungary took over. But after World War One, Italy was gifted Zadar for breaking its neutrality to support the US and Britain.
This paved the way for Zadar to be heav-