Holidays in Croatia

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With seemingly endless beaches, a myriad of small islands, spectacular national parks, ancient towns, Roman ruins, fragrant pine forests - and the sparkling Adriatic Sea (Jadransko More) - Croatia may just be one of the most charming and fascinating places in which to enjoy a family holiday.

Croatia largely remains one of the few destinations where you can experience Mediterranean life as it used to be. Even in the height of summer, you shouldn’t find it too difficult to find a quiet beach or secluded cove; or a peaceful village with a local café or bar largely occupied by friendly locals.

Stretching along the coast of the Istrian peninsula, Croatia offers visitors many popular resorts made famous when this area was part of Yugoslavia. The entire Istrian peninsula was, in fact, ruled from Venice for more than 400 years and, even today, a strong Italian influence exists in both the architecture and the cuisine of the region.

It’s also interesting to note that just about every town here has both a Slavic and an Italian name. For example, the main tourist towns of Porec and Rovinj are also known as Parenzo and Rovigno respectively. Both have picture-postcard Venetian-style ports with horseshoe-shaped harbours surrounded by the glistening waters of the Adriatic.

Porec

Make sure you explore the old town of Porec, with its period houses, cafés and spotless cobbled streets. The surrounding resort also offers ample opportunities for watersports, swimming, cycling and walking. A short boat trip will take you to the beaches of St Nicholas Island.

Rovinj

The Venetian Empire once ruled Rovinj, and the resort’s Italian parentage remains evident in its architecture, particularly the Italianate bell tower of the church of St Euphemia which sits proudly over a peninsula of pretty houses with terracotta roofs. There are numerous shops selling local produce as well as many art galleries to explore. After a day on one of the tree-fringed beaches, an afternoon’s boat trip or an hour or so spent snorkelling, the streets of Rovinj provide a lovely spot to wander and explore.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

One of the most spectacular natural features of the region, and a World Heritage Site, the Plitvice Lakes National Park embraces 16 jade lakes connected by many waterfalls and cascades. There are bridges over the waters at many points along an 18km trail. The deep colour of the lakes is said to be caused by mineral deposits in the area. Excellent fishing as well as boating and swimming can be enjoyed on some of the larger lakes. The levels between the lakes vary considerably, resulting in spectacular cascades of swirling spray.

Baredine Cave, Porec

About 5 miles out of town, Baredine Cave is one of Porec’s top attractions. The cave is a treasure trove of stalagmites, stalactites and natural sculptures created by water underground. A guided tour takes you through the highlights of the cave system and lasts about 45 minutes. The cave is open daily from May to September. As opening times vary throughout the summer, please check locally.

Umag

Umag really is a seaside town of contrasts. Sitting in a wonderful location on a miniature peninsula adjoining a huge crescent-shaped bay, Umag combines modern attractions with an old town complete with 14th Century walls, medieval streets and shady squares. A wide range of activities, including sailing, diving, deep-sea fishing and diving are available here. There are several wine cellars, a local spa, and an equestrian centre is nearby.

Porec

Dating back to Roman times, Porec is today one of Croatia’s most popular holiday resorts. Centred on a picturesque fishing harbour, just 11km from Campsite Lanterna, Porec is also home to the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that just happens to be one of the best examples of 6th Century Byzantine architecture still in existence. The basilica, atrium, baptistery and Episcopal palace are outstanding examples of religious architecture, whilst the Basilica itself combines classical and Byzantine influences.

Buje

The picturesque Buje area is rich in vineyards and olive groves. The town and its surroundings are particularly attractive and provide the opportunity to sample a selection of gastronomic specialities. There are also numerous wineries, which are linked by the so-called ‘wine roads’.