Croatia: Dalmatian Coast & Islands… (trip)

Croatia: Dalmatian Coast & Islands Multisport

  • Dubrovnik Airport, Dubrovnik, Croatia
  • Active & Adventure
Croatia, Europe

from $3,695* per person8 DaysMay-July, October
Comfort accommodations Exertion level: 3
Operator: Freewheeling Adventures 12 people max
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, the Homeland War kept Croatia isolated, but since declaring independence and with accession into the EU scheduled for 2013, 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 1990’s during the Homeland War of Independence, 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!

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Locations visited/nearby

Croatia, Europe

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Special information

  • This is a custom departure, meaning this trip is offered on dates that you arrange privately with the provider. Additionally, you need to form your own private group for this trip. The itinerary and price here is just a sample. Contact the provider for detailed pricing, minimum group size, and scheduling information. For most providers, the larger the group you are traveling with, the lower the per-person cost will be.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival
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
Hotel Marko Polo, Korĉula,  

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: Cycling 26.5km; more riding available for advanced cyclists
Spend the day cycling 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. BL
Same lodging

Day 4: 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. 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. BLD
Hotel Indijan, Orebić

Day 5: Cycling 30km
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 regions 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. There is an optional bike ride through the local fishing villages, for those who prefer self guided cycling today rather than guided hiking. BLD
Same lodging

Day 7: Sea-kayaking 3-4 hours
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. You will kayak from the brackish lakes, to the islands wild beaches and pristine coves that were 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

Day 8: Farewell
This morning you will be transferred to Dubrovnik, full of tiny cobbled streets, squares, and antique shops. B

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