Croatia Family Vacation

We meet in the morning in Split before we ferry to beautiful Hvar Island, disembarking at the quaint harbor town of Stari Grad, home to the fortified Tvrdalj castle, the impressively restored Bianchini Palace and a Dominican monastery. Mount up and pedal to Jelsa, admiring the octagonal Renaissance Church of Saint John and the turquoise, pine-fringed waters of Mina Bay and Grebišce. Continue on to Vrboska, also known as “Little Venice” for its plethora of small bridges. Explore the 16th-century church of Saint Mary of Charity and the Renaissance works of Veronese and Bassano at the Church of Saint Lawrence. Finish your ride in Hvar, whose long waterfront promenade, yacht- lined quays, traffic-free marble streets, and tasteful harbor-front bars and cafés offer the perfect retreats for relaxing and people watching. Explore beautifully ornamented Gothic palaces, a Franciscan cloister, and a historic arsenal before climbing to a Spanish fort for spectacular views of the city at sunset. This evening we gather for a festive welcome dinner.

About Hotel Adriana

Perched on a marina overlooking the city center of Hvar, the Hotel Adriana is Croatia’s first and only member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World. Deluxe rooms, a rooftop salt-water pool and spectacular lounge, garden terraces, and the Sensori Spa make the Adriana a perfect place to unwind after an active day.

This morning we set off to explore the peaceful Pakleni Otoci Islands by sea kayak. Scattered off the southwest coast of Hvar and blanketed in low pine forest, the archipelago originally derived its name from the native paklina, a pine resin once used as a ship sealant. Paddle the idyllic bays of Marinkovac Island and savor the ubiquitous scent of pine, lavender, and rosemary as you coast along the sandy beach at Sv. Klement Island. This evening, enjoy a cooking class and dinner at a local restaurant and try your hand at a Croatian specialty such as ćevapčiči (spiced sausages) with ajvar sauce, mussels and black risotto.

Travel by private boat from Hvar Town to Vela Luka on Korčula Island for a day of biking. Set on a tiny peninsula on the Pelješac channel, Korčula was first home to Slavic pirates who used the island as a base from which to attack passing ships; in the year 1000, it was taken over by Venice, marking the start of an 800-year on-and-off Venetian rule. Today, the island is renowned for its gorgeous white quarried stone, countless secluded bays, small, uninhabited islands, and breathtaking views. Make a stop in Smokvica to enjoy lunch as a group. Explore several small villages on today’s ride, which culminates in the medieval walled town of Korčula, whose Old Quarter boasts a harmonious mix of 15^th century Gothic and 16^th century Renaissance trimmings. Visit the home of Marco Polo, Saint Mark’s Cathedral with paintings by Tintoretto, the Town Museum, and the Byzantine Icon Museum. Feast on some fresh and authentic Croatian seafood tonight at Restaurant Riblji.

About Hotel Liburna

Recently renovated, the four-star Hotel Liburna on the island of Korčula boasts an outdoor pool, tennis courts, wellness center, and fitness center. Spacious, comfortable and a short stroll from the center of town.

Travel by private boat to Pelješac Peninsula, home to two of Croatia’s best wines, the hearty Dingač and Postup reds. Hike the trails and forests along the narrow peninsula, affording fine views of the crystal-clear, blue-green waters of the sea bordered by cypresses. Visit the fifteenth-century Franciscan Monastery and admire the votive gifts which for centuries were donated by sailors after being saved from shipwreck, storms, or pirates. Fuel up at a group lunch in a very special place before descending into the town Orebič for our boat ride back to Korčula. Why not swim in the Adriatic from the beach near the hotel? Dinner this evening is on your own.

Today we start with an exciting buggy safari heading for Lumbarda beach. Follow your guides along the coastal gravel roads above Lumbarda and Žrnovo villages, pausing to admire the spectacular views and to swim and snorkel in two hidden bays. Admire the tranquil waters and look for wildlife as you enjoy lunch on the boat. The adults can enjoy a wine tasting before making your way back to Korčula Town by bike. This evening we gather for a delectable farewell dinner.

Enjoy one last breakfast before you are transferred to the Dubrovnik airport or Dubrovnik town. Most will opt to spend a night in Dubrovnik to explore its picturesque town center which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

*Trip itineraries are subject to change without notice due to road, weather and other factors outside of our control, for the safety and enjoyment of our guests, as deemed necessary and appropriate by Austin Adventures.