Hike, Bike & Paddle Croatia

Arrive in the small port village of Starigrad Paklenica. Built on the foundations of an ancient city, Starigrad is where the mountains meet the sea at the gateway to Paklenica National Park. Nestled in a unique panorama consisting of up to 1,700m high rock walls and flatly sloping into the sea beaches, Starigrad promises a fantastic start to your active holiday in Dalmatia.

You stay at Villa Vicko.

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Villa Vicko, Starigrad Paklenica

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Perched on the shores of the beautiful Velebit Channel in the town of Starigrad Paklenica, Villa Vicko is a hidden oasis between the sea and mountains. Sun loungers and shimmering waters await you on the pristine beach located just below Villa Vicko. You can also relax in the private garden with more loungers scattered around. A generous breakfast buffet is served at their restaurant, providing an extensive range of dishes prepared from fresh produce on a daily basis.

Extra nights: Please contact us for details.

One of Croatia's eight National Parks, Paklenica is breath-takingly beautiful. With two dolomite limestone canyons named Velika (big) and Mala (small), this is Croatia's largest mountain range and part of the Dinaric Alps which run from Slovenia through Albania, culminating at it's highest point in Bosnia-Herzegovina. The mountains rise sharply from the sea, and while the park initially looks very rocky, you'll be surprised to find out that 75% of the National Park is primarily beech and black pine forest.

Paklenica is a walkers paradise with over 150km of trails take you from rocky canyons to lush green meadows and mountain peaks. On the well signposted hiking trails, you can experience the impressive flora and fauna, which is home to Griffon vultures, brown bears and lynx.

Our chosen walk takes you deeper into the canyon, ending at Ramica Dvori Hut. Owned by a local family for generations, Dvori Hut offers options for lunch alongside their homemade 'rakija' drink. You can also incorporate the slightly more challenging ascent to Manita Cave*; here, you can discover the 'secrets' of the underground world of Dinaric Karst.

*Among 115 speleological objects so far known in the Paklenica National Park, Manita is the most famous among the visitors, as it is the only cave made accessible to the public through guided visits. Open limited days and hours each season - details provided in our customer documentation.

Your first of two wonderful sea kayaking tours! Today you''ll paddle the clear waters of the Velebit channel with stunning views across the great Velebit mountain.

Setting off from Jaz Beach in Starigrad, you'll paddle to a small town called Vinjerac where we recommend stopping for a pleasant walk or leisurely lunch. From here, you'll head towards a small beach before going back towards Seline; there are plenty of swimming opportunities throughout the day. Total duration is approx. 4 - 6 hours.

Transfer from Starigrad Paklenica to your next destination (approx. 1hr), the picturesque riverside village of Skradin. Famous for being the gateway to Krka National Park, Skradin is surrounded by vineyards and wineries including the highly acclaimed Bibich Winery in nearby Plastovo village.

Explore the quaint town centre with its 18th and 19th century pastel-coloured homes alongside the charming Marina dotted with waterside eateries - perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Skradin Clock Tower, dating to 1872, is the towns most iconic sight and is easily visible when viewing Skradin from afar. Unusually, it is built into the base of the nearby hill instead of right beside the church.

A few minutes' walk east of Skradin town centre, you'll find a lovely stretch of pebbled beach along the river. The water is very clear here, making it the most relaxing place to lounge in the summer sun.

You stay at Hotel Skradinksi Buk.

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Hotel Skradinksi Buk , Skradin

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Close to the stunning Krka National Park and famous Plitvice Lakes, Hotel Skradinski Buk features a lovely terrace and garden for guests to relax in. The hotel terrace welcomes guests to enjoy the Dalmatian atmosphere, live music and regional specialties, such as wine, and fruit (žižule), rose and walnut brandies; the hotel also has a smaller terrace on the third floor, with a breath-taking view of the canyon and the Krka River. Typical Dalmatian specialties are served in the restaurant, accompanied by fine wines.

Extra nights: Please contact us for details.

The most popular attractions in Krka National Park include Skradinski Buk, a large pool of extremely clear water with a collection of 17 waterfalls flowing into it. Similar to the Plitvice Lakes National Park, the waterfalls found in Krka are karstic with cascading waterfalls weaving their way between ponds, vegetation, mini-islands, and even a tiny village.

Our chosen walk here takes you from your hotel to this wonderful area of waterfall networks, bridges and watermills. Circle these extraordinary waterfalls, taking your time to appreciate the natural beauty of this spectacle with magnificent views around every corner! Return by boat to Skradin (included).

Transfer from Skradin to Trogir on Ciovo Island (approx. 1hr). The largest of the Trogir archipelago, Ciovo Island is home to some beautiful beaches and quiet villages, all with a rich cultural heritage. Inhabited since prehistoric times, Ciovo has a big squid fishing community, celebrated in style each year with a popular festival.

Today's bike ride follows the islands pristine coastline, heading slightly inland through lush vegetation with incredible far-reaching views. Stop to explore secluded beaches and enjoy some fabulous restaurants before admiring one of Ciovo's spectacular sunsets.

You stay at Villa Sikaa.

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Heritage Hotel Villa Sikaa, Trogir (Ciovo Island)

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A small, family-run hotel located within a 300-year-old building offering breath-taking views of the historical centre of the old town of Trogir. Preserving its original charm while providing modern comforts, Hotel Vila Sikaa resides in a building dating back to the 19th century and is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage register. Begin your day with a delightful continental breakfast served in the bright dining room, offering mesmerising views of the town centre.

Extra nights: Please contact us for details.

Beginning at the old Pantana mill near the UNESCO city of Trogir on Ciovo Island, you'll paddle along the channels of Pantana River towards sandy lagoons and the open sea. Pantana was declared as a nature reserve for fish and bird life with more than 160 bird types and 32 fish types registered.

Paddle through the marsh channels to a beautiful Venetian watermill while watching the birds and the fish swimming through the water. There are plenty of swimming opportunities throughout the day. Total duration is approx. 2.5 - 3.5 hours.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, Trogir is home to several fascinating historic sights, perhaps the most notable of which is the Cathedral of St Lawrence. The cathedral's bell tower was built between the 14th and 16th centuries and can be climbed to see fantastic views from the top.

We also recommend visiting Kamerlengo Fortress located on the southwestern tip of the island of Trogir - you will see it looming over this part of town. You can climb up to the height of the walls for spectacular views over the Old Town and out to sea.

Wave goodbye to Trogir with fond memories of your Croatian adventure.