...Trip idea

Croatia in Style

Journey from Split to Dubrovnik, passing through two of the Adriatic’s most sensational islands Hvar and Korčula where you’ll experience the historical legacy and immersive culinary traditions of southern Croatia. Sail between islands by private yacht, stay in exceptional hotels and enjoy knowledgeable private guiding – a unique escape for couples.

Highlights

  • Explore Croatia’s cultural cities as well as experience island life on this hybrid trip on land and sea
  • Discover Split’s remarkable diversity of architecture on a guided tour
  • Sail through the idyllic Pakleni Islands on a  private yacht
  • Get to know Croatia’s islands including gorgeous Hvar and Korčula
  • Spend time in Dubrovnik, enjoying exclusive foodie experiences

What:

A two-week trip exploring southern Croatia, linked by private yacht including tours with private guides and luxurious hotel stays.

Who For:

Although this trip could be tweaked for families, we think this would make a sublime getaway for a couple, immersed in the romance of gold-tinged Croatian cities and surrounded by the turquoise Adriatic.

When:

Sadly, Dubrovnik gets uncomfortably busy in high summer, with cruise ships also adding to the crowds. To get the best out of southern Croatia we recommend visiting in spring and early summer; September is also still warm with fewer crowds.

Ancient palace built for the Roman Emperor Diocletian – Split, C
Split, Croatia. View of Split – the second largest city of Croat
Ancient palace built for the Roman Emperor Diocletian – Split, C
Lion at Diocletian Palace, Split – Croatia
Split. Ruins of Diocletian’s palace and port

DAY 1 - 2: SPLIT

Be welcomed to the ancient, gold-tinged city of Split, set alongside the iridescent blues of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast.

Wandering around its cobbled streets polished smooth from centuries of passage, peruse boutiques and enjoy boats coming and going from the harbour. A private guide really brings Split to life and you’ll discover Diocletian’s Palace and the remarkable diversity of Roman, Gothic, Romanesque and Renaissance architecture.

 

Tourists enjoy a sunny day as they eat at sidewalk cafes and win

Stay: Vestibule Palace

Be immersed in history with a stay at the Vestibule Palace which is in the heart of the Diocletian Palace. The perfect fusion of modern decor within an antique setting, wrapped by Roman walls, the rooms are pared-back to allow historical details to shine through.

Aerial view of Paklinski Islands in Hvar, Croatia.
Yachts on the water surface from top view. Turquoise water panor
Picturesque Hvar waterfront panoramic view
Island paradise in Adriatic Sea of Croatia
ISLAND_LIFE_NikolaRadovani_04
Sculpture of Renaissance playwright and poet Hanibal Lucic (Luč
Korcula

DAY 3 - 6: HVAR

On route to Hvar your private boat will visit the Pakleni Islands, a chain of rocky islets which make up a mesmerising archipelago just off the coast, perfect for sailing around.

Find a deserted cove for a swim, stop at a beach club or restaurant for lunch and soak up views of the encircling glassy waters.

Hvar has a cosmopolitan ambience and a wealth of culture, as well as scented lavender fields and rolling vineyards further inland from its picturesque harbour. Uncover a 17th century theatre, a cathedral, a hilltop Venetian fortress, Benedictine monasteries and gleaming piazzas by foot on a guided walking tour.

With a UNESCO recognised culinary tradition, take a cookery class and create time-honoured recipes to be savoured with local Croatian wine, the famed Medvid

MaslinaResort_VillaLitica_28_KateSevo
MaslinaResort_VillaLitica_43_KateSevo
MaslinaResort_INTERIOR_NikolaRadovani_01
25.04.2022. Food 2022 @ Maslina Resort – Stari Grad-7432
DSC_5391
MaslinaResort_Panoramic Suite_03_KateSevo

Stay: Maslina Resort

Set among shady olive groves and aromatic pine trees, Maslina Resort is a stylish retreat just a short stroll from the beach. With a swimming pool, spa, wine club and library you can effortlessly spend days at ease.

The spacious suites have a chic and simple aesthetic, and the gorgeous rooftop gardens and refreshing plunge pools sit perfectly against breath-taking Adriatic Sea views.

Aerial view of Gradina bay on island Korcula
Korcula. Historic town of Korcula aerial panoramic view

DAY 7 - 9: KORCULA

Take to the seas again for a sail to the island of Korčula aboard your private yacht, pausing at secluded bays for a dip in the aquamarine Adriatic.

The ancient drawbridge at the entrance to Korčula Town is perhaps the first indication that medieval beauty awaits. The Venetian walled city is perfect for strolling cobbled alleys, absorbing the island’s peaceful, authentic feel while admiring 15th century towers and the splendid St Mark’s cathedral.

Elsewhere on the island, you’ll find dense pine forests, lush vineyards and olive groves which run down to the coast revealing a mix of pebble and sandy beaches.

Dea Botica-Sumatra_residence
Dea_Botica-Kata_boat
02_Marko Sitar – Lesic Dimitri Palace

Stay: Lesic Dimitri Palace

Hidden behind the historic fortified walls of Korčula’s old town are six residences, each with their own private entrance. Created from an original 18th century Bishop’s Palace, you can enjoy the best of both worlds here with secluded privacy alongside luxury offerings including Michelin-star dining and a spa.

Dubrovnik landscape. / Aerial view at famous european travel des
Dubrovnik scenery. / Old stone hole with Dubrovnik scenery in ba
Dudrovnik, Croatia. Aerial view on the old town. Vacation and ad
Adriatic sea bay Dubrovnik. / Marble hidden bay in old city cent
Stadtmauer Dubrovnik mit Blick auf Hafen und Brücke

DAY 10 - 12: DUBROVNIK

The jewel of the Adriatic coastline is undoubtedly Dubrovnik, where its ancient walls greet you on arrival as you sail in on a private yacht. Behind the imposing fortification, you’ll find a 13th century city full of the finest restaurants serving Dalmatian cuisine against a backdrop of astonishing sea views.

With a private guide, explore mysterious caves on a kayak tour, including Lokrum Island known as the “Island of Love”. Paddle around to a hidden beach to snorkel in crystalline waters and back on land, visit a superb family-owned winery with a private driver to sample Peljesac reds or enjoy an oyster and sparkling wine pairing.

2022-11-24 13_12_55-Gallery _ Hotel Villa Dubrovnik _ Official site
2022-11-24 13_13_30-Gallery _ Hotel Villa Dubrovnik _ Official site

Stay: Villa Dubrovnik

Set outside Dubrovnik’s ramparts, Villa Dubrovnik is a contemporary hotel built along the rocky coastline. With a modern presence, not only does it have uninterrupted access to the crystal-clear sea, but also magnificent views onto Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Expect exceptional service, minimalist-chic suites with sea views and a beautiful terraced restaurant shaded by pines.

Summary

Often overlooked for other Mediterranean countries, I think Croatia has a lot to offer from the history-packed streets of Dubrovnik, to the crystal-clear waters of the Dalmatian Coast plus fabulous local dining wherever you go.

Sarah Woodthorpe

Personal Travel Designer

01488 689700 Read Sarah’s profile

Have questions? Our knowledgeable team of experts are on-hand to take your call or if you prefer by Zoom. Talk to us about your holiday dreams or challenge us with your travel conundrums.

Get in touch

Keep Browsing

Enjoy reading our colourful collection of travel blogs, insider journeys and first-person insights. Our articles are designed to fuel your wanderlust. Feeling inspired? Give us a call and our experts can start planning your next travel experience.

Insight
Croatia & Slovenia Exploration

Explore central Europe’s wilderness and appreciate its natural beauty on an active trip around Croatia and Slovenia

Croatia, Slovenia
Booking with Bailey Robinson means access to the finest travel experiences. When planning your holiday we do all the hard work – in-depth research and meticulous organisation. You can be confident in the individual care for your holiday from your dedicated and experienced Personal Travel Designer and Concierge.
Trip idea
A Rail of Three Cities…in Italy
Italy
Highlights
Beyond the Beach in Europe
red houses, Norway
Norway, Italy, Spain
Travel Ideas