DISCOVER Croatia
Game of Thrones may have put it on the map as a holiday hotspot, but there’s a treasure trove of reasons why Croatia wears the crown of Europe’s dreamiest destination
LET’S face it, we Brits love the sun. So, when it’s time to start looking for a last-minute summer getaway that ticks all the boxes, it’s no surprise we’ve been choosing Croatia for sun, sea and – perhaps surprisingly – sailing more than ever.
And it certainly delivers when it comes to warm weather; you can enjoy balmy Mediterranean sunshine for 12 hours a day in the summer – more than the likes of Corfu or the South of France.
That gives you more time to make the most of its idyllic coastline, dotted with islands sitting proudly in the glistening, crystal-clear Adriatic Sea.
Whether it’s a family break before the kids go back to school or an adventure shared with friends, everyone will be dazzled by the emerald waters lapping bright white-pebble beaches.
From diving to kayaking, there’s a huge range of watersports for adrenaline junkies to indulge in. And for snorkelling aficionados, there’s the wreck of a Second World War German ship in Zavratnica Bay to explore.
For those looking for a slower pace, you can search out the secret cove of Galebove Stijene, a hidden beach perfect for some unplugged R&R.
ALLURING
HOWEVER, as alluring as Croatia’s coastline is, its mountains are just mesmerising. The Dinaric Mountains are a playground of caverns, canyons and waterfalls just waiting to be explored, packed with exciting additions such as zip-lining, rafting and rock climbing.
After fulfilling your activity quota, Croatia’s historic cities await. Dubrovnik, a medieval masterpiece they call ‘the Pearl of the Adriatic’, proves itself eternally enchanting – and will be familiar to TV buffs as the majestic capital of King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. Head to the old town at dusk, when the setting sun envelops the terracotta rooftops in golden light, and find a tiny bar serving ice-cold Croatian beer, or, for the more brave of heart, a strong shot of rakija in one of the winding backstreets.
After clinking your glass with a friendly local (‘živjeli’ means ‘cheers!’), it’s time to round off a delicious day with dinner.
Sharing is caring in Croatia, so accept local hospitality whenever possible; in the coastal region, such as Dalmatia, you’ll be served huge platters of Adriatic seafood caught that same day, alongside flavoursome tomatoes, peppers and aubergines, all available in abundance throughout the summer months.
Meanwhile, in Istria, you can feast on locally sourced truffles served shaved on top of steaming homemade pasta and asparagus, garnished with a good glug of oil.
Then finish off your evening with a glass of Croatian wine you won’t find readily on the shelves at home; whether a red Teran or a white Malvazija is your bag, it’s time to toast the wonders of a Croatian adventure.
Everyone will be dazzled by emerald waters