Croatia: Dalmatian Coast & Islands
Eight days. One day sea-kayaking, two days hiking, and three days cycling, on the hilly coastlines of Korĉula, the Peljesac Peninsula and the island of Mljet.
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast boasts an abundance of lush forested islands and mysterious coves. The seaside ports developed centuries ago are fantastically beautiful, as exemplified by its crowning jewel, the walled city of Dubrovnik. In recent history, civil war kept Croatia isolated, but since declaring independence and joining the EU, it has rapidly become a wonderful place to visit, and we encourage you to do so now, before its coast becomes an extension of the nearby Rivieras of France and Italy.
This part of Croatia is warm and inviting. The region’s colourful red roofs complement the surrounding tropical green waters, and the views are beautifully photogenic. The warmth of the Mediterranean atmosphere and the joyful hospitality of the locals will stimulate you as you revel in tastes including scrumptious olives, unique cheeses, fresh seafood and excellent wines.
You will start and end in Dubrovnik, known as ‘the Pearl of the Adriatic’. Severely damaged in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. Damaged again in the 1990s by armed conflict, it is now the focus of a major restoration program coordinated by UNESCO. Leaving this amazing city, you will first spend three days kayaking, hiking and cycling around Korčula Island, the home of the notable Marco Polo. Korčula is graced with rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves and small villages. You will climb Mt. Ilija for some stunning views over the Adriatic, and at the end of the week take a ferry to the island of Mljet to cycle along cliffs, wild beaches and pristine coves. We hope this exquisite destination retains its charm for many years to come, but urge you to join us now to see why we’re so excited!
The Plan:
Day 1: Meet in Dubrovnik at noon. This famous city of the Adriatic once rivaled Venice as the capital of the old Mediterranean Republic and is home to the legendary sailors of mythology. A scenic transfer along the Dalmatian coastline takes you to the peninsula of Peljesac, often called the garden of Dubrovnik. A short ferry then takes you to the island of Korcula, the home of Marco Polo and your home base for the next few days. D
Villa Castello, Korcula, www.korcula-tours.com/castello/castello_eng.htm
Day 2: Sea-kayaking: 5 hours 8-10km. Sea-kayaking among amazing islets, private coves and pristine waters. The paddling is relatively easy, staying within sheltered waters near the coast. You will have the ample opportunities to stop throughout the day on the many uninhabited islands. Diversions include sublime swimming, snorkeling, and short hiking explorations along coastal trails. Return to your villa to admire the setting sun before dinner. BLD
Same lodging
Day 3: Hiking: 4-5 hours from sea level to 480m. Today’s hike takes you through forests of pine, cypress and oak trees to some of the most beautiful bays on the island. You will meet local people intent on their daily routines, and will have opportunities to taste Korcula’s virgin olive oil and the local white wine. BL
Same lodging
Day 4: Cycling: 55km. Cycle along a series of quiet paths and tracks among olive groves, vineyards and peaceful historical churches. Stop for lunch in one of the many small villages along the route. We recommend you ride with a swimsuit; you will likely take advantage of many opportunities to dip into the clear refreshing water. You will board a ferry in the late afternoon for the short crossing to the Peljesac Peninsula and your villa for the next two nights. BD
Villa Antonio, Orebić, www.castle-antonio.com
Day 5: Cycling: 35 to 55km. Today is a day of hilly cycling across the vineyards of Peljesac. Stop by in tiny little bay of Podobuce and continue along the blue sea shore. For a boost of energy, stop in the rustic ambience of a local restaurant "Konoba" that offers some of the areas best home made prosciutto. BLD
Same lodging
Day 6: Hiking: 4-5 hours. Spend the day trekking in the midst of Mt. Ilija. You will pass through the hidden archaeological site of Nakovanje, dating back to 6000BC. Breathtaking views of the mainland and an archipelago of small islands scattered below precede the rewards of the descent. 42km of independent self-guided cycling is available today for those not interested in hiking. BL
Same lodging
Day 7: Cycling: 50km. A two-hour early morning boat trip takes you to the true pearl of Dalmatia, the island of Mljet. This is the place where lush and verdant forest grows all the way to the rough coastline. Cycle along cliffs and through villages, and descend to the wild beaches and pristine coves, once shelters to the Greek hero Odysseus. In the late afternoon, take the ferry back to Peljesac. Visit the old walls of Ston, which shelters one of the best restaurants in Dalmatia. The black risotto is a must. BLD
Hotel Ostrea, Mali Ston, www.ostrea.hr
Day 8: This morning you will be transferred to Dubrovnik, full of tiny cobbled streets, squares, and antique shops. B
The Details:
| Start: | Dubrovnik, noon, day one |
| Finish: | Dubrovnik, noon, day eight |
| Guided Cost: | $3695 (per person, includes 8 days, 7 nights, 7 breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches, 4 dinners, sea kayak equipment, guide and van support, maps and route notes, luggage handling, taxes) |
| Single Occupancy: | $495 |
| Bike Rental: | Hybrid: $195 |
| 2010 Guided Dates: | Sep 4-11; Oct 2-9. Call 800-672-0775 for guaranteed departures, updates or to add a new departure |
| 2011 Guided Dates: | May 14-21; Jun 18-25; Sep 3-10; Oct 1-8. Call 800-672-0775 for guaranteed departures, updates or to add a new departure |
All details and pricing are subject to change without notice.
