With Croatia’s location to the Adriatic Sea, much of Croatia’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the Mediterranean. Nestled between Hungary, Slovenia, Bosnia-Hercegovina, and Serbia, Croatia also derives much of its fare from its surroundings. Since Italy is very close to Croatia, you will also notice an Italian influence on Croatian cuisine.
Croatian cuisine can best be defined into five regions: The Slavonia region, the Hrvatsko Zagorje Region, Middle Croatia, Istria, and Dalmatia. The Dalmatian region includes the area of the Adriatic Coast. The coast is extremely fertile and the Dalmatian Coast is known for its distinctively delicious gourmet treats. It is on the coast of Croatia, where you will discover that the cuisine has a strong Mediterranean characterization and is very similar to that of Greece, Italy, and other Mediterranean cultures.
The Croatian Dalmatian Coast is also known for its distinctive Olive Oils, Vinegars, Spices, Figs, and Capers. Today, Croatia is well known for its high quality Olive Oil, as growing conditions are more favorable in Croatia then in surrounding areas such as Italy, for growing olives.
Additionally, you’ll find an abundance of fish that is carefully prepared according to Croatian methods that have been passed from generation to generation. Fish may be served grilled in exquisite gourmet Olive Oil, or in brodetto, a fish soup. Fish à la gregada, a fish stew referred to as: riblja čorba. Other seafood and shellfish that are used in abundance in Croatian coastal cuisine include squid, calamari, oysters, octopus, cuttlefish, tuna fish, clams, and mussels.
Some of the most exquisite delicacies found along the Croatian coast include: Pršut that is dried ham that has been sliced paper-thin. In Italian culture it is known as Prosciutto. Pršut is typically served with olives and goat cheese and is a staple that you will find in any Dalmatian coastal restaurant.
In addition to the abundance of seafood, the Croatian Coast has also proved to be suitable for cultivating grapes and wine has become an important feature in Croatian life. Wine is generally served with meals and the best Dalmatian Red wines are said to come from Plavac Mali. Some of the other wines that are revered throughout the region include: Dingae, Vugava, Pharos, and Grk.
Moving inland, the Slavonia region is where Croatia meets Hungary. Most notably, Hungarian goulash is replaced by gulaš, in Croatia and is a very popular stew. In addition, there is a spicy stew, made with fish, in the Slavonia region known as: fiš-paprikaš. Some common types of stews and goulashes include chicken, rabbit, and venison.
Throughout Croatia, you will enjoy a variety of delicious pastas, soups, and vegetables. Mushrooms are grown in abundance, as are cabbage, onions, dry beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, and garlic. In addition to these vegetables, there are certain foods that are enjoyed throughout various regions of Croatia. No matter what region you are visiting, or your choice of restaurant, you are sure to find these dishes added to the menu.
Pag Cheese is very popular throughout all of Croatia. It is made from domesticated sheep’s milk, on the island, Pag. It is served as a delicacy with olives. The cheese is revered for its fermenting process, and is identified by its firmness. When you pick up Pag Cheese, and hold it in the center, the cheese will remain firm on both sides. Sometimes, Pag Cheese is grated and used as a topping on other dishes, however it is generally considered as an appetizer.
Cevapcici is made of ground meat and spices. It is the equivalent of the American burger only they are rolled into a small sausage shape. The ground meat (typically beef and lamb) are blended with spices then kneaded into a sausage shape. They are then grilled or boiled and served with sautéed onions, tomatoes, ajvar, and on Pita bread.
Trakoscan is an ancient beautiful castle, found in Croatia. It is most meticulously preserved castle of the world. Sources say that this castle was actually a fortress, which served as the defense observation point of the nearby cities. The original fortress is believed to have been a very simple structure, which was developed over the years, by many of the families, which took hold of the castle.
History of the castle:
In the initial years of its existence, the castle or rather the fortress was under the possession of a patrician family. Later, it passed through the hands of many families for several generations only to be taken into the Royal Treasury of Croatia. The king handed over the castle to the Croatian viceroy Juraj Draskovic, who held it until the World War II.
Architecture:
As mentioned before, the original castle was not what as it stands today. It was a simple defense post. Many families, which took possession of it, made many new changes, such as the construction of additional towers. Such changes were made to fortify the castle for military purposes. From the 19th century onwards, the castle was largely used for residential purposes and it was remodeled for the same purpose. German architecture and style was used for this. Also an artificial lake and park were developed to enhance the scenic beauty of the castle on the whole.
Nowadays, the castle serves as a museum displaying many of the artifacts related to war times such as knight’s room, hunting room. The other collections include portraits of the generations of the Draskovic family. The furniture dates back to 19th century, which were restored from the castle.
Interiors:
The ground floor:
It includes a kitchen, a workshop, the servant quarters and such structures of lesser significance.
The first floor:
This floor is the most luxurious one. The architecture indicates that the royal people mostly occupied it.
The second floor:
This region of the castle is relatively less luxurious. The rooms served as lodgings for guests and visitors
The Park and the lake:
The gardens and the park located near the castle are the best preserved. They have the best of the vegetation. The spot is very exciting for tourists.
Tourism in Trakoscan:
The castle attracts a lot of tourists on account of its rich culture and picturesque landscape. There are many activities available for the tourists here such as:
- Visit to the forest.
- Entrance of the castle
- Visit to the museum
The hotels in Trakoscan, provide the best of the services for the tourists. The hotels range between two star and five star statuses.
The city of Croatia maintains the rich and ancient heritage, and attractions such as the Trakoscan castle prove the fact. It is a visual treat for the tourists and a place that reflects the culture of the early Croatian times.
The city of Sibenik is a small town in Croatia. It is of historical importance. Venetians till the I World War first ruled the city. Later, after the war it came under the control of Yugoslavia. During World War II, the Nazis and Fazis occupied the town and after the war, it was again clubbed with Yugoslavia. The city is the house of many tourist attractions, however the most important and beautiful one is:
The St. Jacob’s Cathedral:
The Church is one of the listed places in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The plan of the Church began as early as 1298. However, the construction was started only by 1402. The main person behind the construction of this Cathedral was Juraj Matvejev Dalmatinac. He was elected unanimously as the architect of the Cathedral. He constructed the church almost up to its end. His exquisite ideas over the construction of the Church, however changed the concept of the church and it became more of an architectural piece. He developed many schemes for the construction and built up a huge network of associates, who followed his style and guidance to contribute their share in the construction. After the death of the master, the associates continued their work and completed the project. The Cathedral was finally consecrated only in 1555.
Architecture:
Venetian craftsmen built the Church. It is based on the Gothic style of construction.
The Cathedral consists of a main dome. The other structures include many chambers, apses. Stone sculptures are found aplenty. These include many decorations and human figures. The Baptistery and other sides on the outer region are all made out of stone. The parallel galleries and sanctuary add beauty to the whole Cathedral. However, it has to be mentioned that the construction of different parts of the Church took place in phases by different constructors, under the supervision of very many architects.
In 1991, the dome was badly damaged by shelling. However, within a span of few years, the damage had been rectified and the dome rebuilt.
Interiors of the Cathedral:
The Cathedral is built on Gothic and Renaissance ideas. The inside is divided into two areas. While the anterior part is dedicated for churchgoers and worshippers, the posterior part of it opens out into two galleries and shrines. The anterior part has high ceiling and semi circular stone roof. The posterior part delights the visitors with intensive lighting and almost occupies the entire Cathedral.
The Cathedral houses the tombs of many bishops. The tombs too consist of artwork and engravings. The tombs signify the important roles played by these Bishops in the development of the Cathedral.
One significant feature to be noted about this Cathedral, are the sculptures. All of the sculptures are made of stone and they involve intricate ornamentation. The sculptures are based on human figures, angelic and Godly figures. The shapes of these structures create many moods and are capable of moving the visitor.
The Cathedral forms the main attraction of the Sibenik town. Thousands of visitors pour in throughout the year. Many events take place during the International Children’s Festival. All in all, it is a sight of holy vibrations and a gallery to expose the most beautiful architectures of the world, telling stories about the meticulous and creative artists and craftsmen of the region.
Due to Croatia’s location, the music of Croatia is a distinct reflection and merging of its neighbors. It is best said that the music of Croatia could be divided into three distinct regions of influence: the Mediterranean Region, the Balkans Region, and Central Europe. The Mediterranean influence on Croatian music may be seen in one type of Folk music in particular, Klapa.
Klapa Croatian Music is greatly revered and treasured by those who live along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. The word derives its meaning from “Klapa” and signifies a group of people. The focal point of Klapa Croatian music is to celebrate the love of country, the sea, wine, and love.
Klapa music emphasizes harmony and involves many members of the group. First tenor, Second Tenor, Baritone and Bass make up the standard Klapa group, however now female Klapa groups are emerging in Croatia.
Featured in festivals, Klapa music has been beloved for many generations. It is very common to hear Klapa music being sung in the streets of the Croatian coast when strolling through town or dining at an outdoor café.
An example of Croatian music that has its origins in the Balkan regions, or is of Balkan influence is Gusle. The Gusle is a single stringed instrument that has been used in Croatia, Serbia, and in the Balkan regions. In some areas of Croatia, the Gusle may have two strings, but typically it has one. The Gusle is played with a bow made from horsehair. It almost resembles the sound of a low-pitched violin.
Gusle music is a style of folk, where the Gusle accompanies epic poetry. Gusle music isn’t revered only in ancient days, either. There are many modern day Gusle musicians that incorporate current political events in their poetry as well. The narrative epic poems are usually quite large, and the vocalist must commit them to memory. The music holds national significance, as it was used in days past as a way of passing down information from generation to generation. When it comes to famous Gusle musicians, there is one that is most notable, Mile Krajina. There are many folk festivals in Croatia year wide, and it is very common to hear Gusle music during these festivals.
Croatian music with Central European influence is plentiful. Tamburitza is a very popular style of Croatian folk music that uses the Tamburitza instrument. The Tamburitza is a stringed instrument that resembles a guitar or a mandolin. There are several types of Tamburitzas that are used. The first is the Bisernica; this is the smallest Tamburitza and has five strings. The second is the Brač. The Brač also has five strings and is slightly larger than the Bisernica, giving it a lower tone. The next type is the Bugarija. The Bugarija is very similar to a guitar but only contains three or four strings. This is often used as a rhythmic or percussion instrument. Like the Bugarija, the Čelo is often played for dyanamics, or the softness of loudness of each note. Finally, the Bajs is the largest sized Tamburitza and is often used to play bass lines.
Tamburitza music often depicts true love or living a happy village life. It became increasingly popular during the 1800’s and is still a mainstream form of Croatian music.
Other forms of popular Croatian folk music include folk music from the Zagorie region and Medimurhe region folk music. Other styles of Croatian music include the blues, classical, pop, rock, new wave or Novi Val, dance, rap, and jazz.
Most of the music forms cross the Croatian border and are enjoyed by neighboring countries. There are many festivals including dance festivals, foklore festivals, and open air festivals.
The city of Porec is located in Croatia. In the ancient days, Romans possessed the city and in the later centuries, it came under the control of Yugoslavia. It is found on the seashore as a peninsula, the main occupation of the people being fishing and food processing. The landscape is rich with a variety of vegetation ranging between pine trees to olive trees. The city provides vast scope for tourism and holidaying.
The Basilica:
The beautiful city is the house of the St. Euphrasius Basilica. The Bishop Euphrasius built this famous monument in the 6th century. What had been a very basic structure was developed massively with a plethora of artistic and architectural innovations.
The layout of the Basilica:
The basilica is built based on the pre-Euphrasian architecture. It is now a part of a large complex, which has developed by the construction of many other structures. There is a presence of a Memorial Chapel within the Basilica. The baptistery is found at a close proximity. The structure of the Basilica itself is octagonal and the walls of the Basilica are made up with splendid mosaics.
Architecture of the Basilica:
•Floors:
The floors of the Basilica are mainly made of mosaic and they reflect the rich art of the region. There are motifs of brilliant hues and engravings. The floor also bears the carvings of the names of the donors, who had contributed liberally for the construction of the Basilica. The floors themselves serve as the references for the study of the changing times and the adaptations of the different inhabitants of the region. It also reflects the practices of the Christian community in Porec.
• Walls:
The walls of the Basilica contain the stories from Bible, which have been depicted beautifully on the mosaic. It also shows the strong belief of the people and their orientation towards Christianity.
In the 1277, a canopy was built in the Basilica, which rests on four pillars and also houses many other motifs and colours.
The art of the Basilica is mainly of the Byzantine type, which is the art of the Eastern Roman Empire of the 5th Century.
The interiors of the Basilica:
The atrium marks the entrance of the Basilica, which has many columns and arches. There is a square at the center. Some of the mosaics within the Church are very old and date back to the fourth century. The sculptures are supposed to have been imported from Constantinople. There is a wooden stairway with 120 stairs. Once these stairs are ascended, one can have a breathtaking view of the city of Porec.
Events at the Basilica:
The Basilica has been included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. It is entitled to Virgin Mary and the daily masses take place. The other activities include the music concerts during the summer season, where classical music is given preference. The Basilica also houses holy objects, portraits of female martyrs, medallions and other artwork of the Middle Ages and the Byzantine period. These serve as a visual treat for the visitors of the Basilica.
The Basilica is one of the main things listed in the itinery of the Porec tourists, which flaunts off the taste of Roman architecture and religious beliefs.
Pula is the main city of Istria in Croatia. It is one of the ancient cities of the world, invaded and inhabited by many kingdoms and people, such as Croats, Italian, Romans, and Greeks. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage and an ancient touch to its name. The flavour of Pula can be had under the following:
• Location:
The picturesque city is located right beneath seven hills namely Arena, Kastel, Zaro, Pra Grande, Opatija, Mihovila and Modipola. The Fazana channel marks the entrance of the city. The sea is not rough and the climatic conditions are pleasant. The close proximity to the sea, by itself indicates, that the ports bustle with activity.
• History:
The history of Pula shows that it has been a country, which has passed through the hands of many kingdoms. The city was populated as early as the 10th century. Inhabitants, mainly Romans, established their empire for many years. After their fall, there were many invaders such as Ostrogoths and Venetians. In the later centuries, it was sworn in to the Venetian Republic.
In the 14th 15th and 16th centuries, a Croatian-Hungarian army attacked Pula. After the fall of the Venetian empire, it was included along the French Empire during the First World War. By 1918, it became a part of Italy, only to be ceded by Yugoslavia. Since the fall of Yugoslavia, Pula remained a part of the modern republic of Croatia.
• Architecture:
The city houses the most ancient Roman architecture. The most noted of all, however is the Arena or the Amphitheatre, wherein the entertainment for the people had taken place. The maintenance of the structure is always kept upto the mark.
The other significant structures are the Temple of Rome built by the Emperor Augustus and The Arch of Sergii. The essence of the Roman art and architecture are still retained in the streets and the buildings of Pula.
• Culture:
Since many empires and inhabitants occupied Pula, the people are of mixed cultures and languages, ranging from English to Italian. Many aspects of the city such as cuisine and architecture reflect this. Winemaking, shipping, fishing are traditional occupations of the people in this city.
Tradition presides in all forms of art starting from music to dance (folk), poetry and architecture. Even in these changing days of globalization, the artists and the performers in theatres maintain the crux of traditional values.
Economy:
Since the city resides on the seashore, shipping is the most enterprising activity. However, the beauty of the city also lures many tourists and therefore tourism is a busy source of income. Apart from these, the people take upon occupations such as fishing, construction, glass making and wine making.
Tourism:
The city has a wide scope for tourism to flourish. There are many museums, parks and structures, which reflect the tradition of the city and also prove to be a visual treat. The coastal areas on the other hand, offer the beaches to relax and other activities such as sailing.
All in all, Pula is a city of beauty and life. The people are full of spirits and the hospitality provides the warmth and support. As a holiday destination, Pula could be one place, which would stay etched in the mind forever.
Flowing along the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia, the Krka River is revered for its breathtaking scenic splendor, natural beauty, as well as its contribution to the environment. A home to a multitude of flora and fauna, the land alongside the Krka River was declared a national park in 1985.
The Krka River has its source at the foot of the Dinaric Mountains. The water begins fresh, and then turns brackish. One of the most magnificent features of the Krka River is the seven-travertine waterfalls. The waterfalls are a prominent display of the calcification process inherent to the Karst phenomenon.
Similar to the Plitvice Lakes, the Krka River flows over the Karst formed through limestone and carbon. Together the Karst carves a uniquely beautiful and distinctive landscape that is the foundation of the river and park. Limestone mountains, set the backdrop for the coastal settlements found along the river that still retain their ancient cultural heritage. However, it is the beauty of the flora, fauna, and natural structures that have esteemed the Krka River and the National Park to its premiere place of beauty and grandeur.
When at the Krka, you will first behold the exquisite majesty of the waterfalls. The seven cascades: Krčić, Bilušić Buk, Brljan, Manojlovački Slapovi, Rošnjak, Miljacka Slap, Roški Slap, and Skradinski Buk. Visiting the Krka River and National Park, one will want to stop and take time to explore the wonders of Skradinski Buk. Experience a walk along the majestic waterfall while you enjoy presentations and demonstrations that unfold the wonders of the region. You can also tour the Krka River by boat as part of the Park Tour.
Year round visitors to the Park may explore the fall known as Roški Slap. Taking an excursion boat is one of the best ways to view this cascade in all of its glory. While visiting Roški Slap, you will also enjoy viewing the beautiful Među Grede Canyon, in addition to the museum, church, and Franciscan monastery, Krka. The monastery is a site to behold as it was established in 1402; the monastery and church are superb architectural structures that overlook the Krka River, situated on the Isle of Visovac.
There are over eight hundred plant species that call the Krka River and National Park home. From lush water growing varieties, to those that thrive in dry regions, the plants have all grown harmoniously and represent diversity and beauty. Krka River flora is recognized for its scientific value as well and is protected. Due to the abundance of minerals found in the water and cascades, the river’s water is rich and pure and the plant life thrives.
The Krka River is also home to many fish that are not seen elsewhere. These endemic species have also contributed to the importance of the preservation and care given to the Krka River and National Park. Amphibians, mammals, reptiles, and over two hundred species of birds are indigenous to the region and call the Krka River home. Many of these species are endangered and find protection at Krka.
Surrounding the river, you will enjoy the beautiful ancient charm of Romanesque structured aqueducts and fortress ruins. Steeping above lush rolling greenery, the ancient fortresses speak of days past when Princes ruled and the Turks conquered. Today, many of their jagged structures signify the end of Turkish rule and the rebellion that occurred. Archaeological explorations surround the scenic view as Bribirska Glavica, stands offshore. The exploration is uncovering mysteries dating back to the Early New Stone Age. While visiting, you will enjoy more breathtaking scenic views of the region.
Romanesque ruins and medieval structures pepper their way throughout the abundance of flora and fauna, while cascading waterfalls paint the background. The Krka River is truly a majestic site to behold.
Imagine if you will, breathtaking waterfalls, sixteen magnificent lakes, and beautiful densely forested woods and you have a glimpse of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Located between the capitol of Croatia, Zagreb and Zadar Plitvice Lakes National is one of the top picks added to the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) World Heritage List.
The captivating beauty of this National Park rests underneath the surface. You see, the park is built upon a natural structure known as Karst. Karst is created from a mixture of porous Limestone and Dolomotic rock. The mixture allows water to flow through and forms underground streams. This is why Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to 16 lakes connected by exquisite waterfalls. The other secret to this marvelous wonder is Travertine. Travertine (the mineral used to construct the Roman Coliseum) is a sedimentary rock that forms when mineral springs and streams deposit calcium carbonate mixed with limestone. The mixture releases carbon dioxide and causes the calcium carbonate to crystalize. This process takes place over various fauna that lives underwater and the result is a very porous rock. Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to sixteen natural Travertine dams, the foundational structure for the breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls.
The alluring turquoise lakes are the result of three rivers. These rivers are the Crna, Bijela, and the Rjecica. The Crna is the largest river that leads to the lakes. The lakes flow through brooks, the waterfalls, and eventually make their way to the Korana River. The most striking feature that one notices when admiring the lakes is their color. The colors range from deep Azure or Turquoise to Gray and Blue. The beautifully tinted colors are the results of the various minerals present in the water. The lakes are divided into two main sections: The Upper and Lower. The Upper Lakes include: Proscansko, Ciginovac, Okruglijak, Batinovac, Galovac, Milino, Gradinsko, Great Burget, and Kozjak. When it comes to admiring the mirage of colors viewable in the lakes, Lake Kozjak is noted for being the most visible. The Upper Lakes are also known for their abundance of stunning wildlife. The Lower Lakes are home to various caves and grottoes. The Lakes consist of: Milanovac, Gavanovac, Klauderovac, and Novakovica Brod.
If you are going to stay in the region you will want to choose one of the four hotels that are in the heart of the National Park. The fist hotel is the Hotel Jezero. Hotel Jezero overlooks Lake Kozjak giving you a stunning view of the amazing lake. The hotel also has a restaurant, nightclub, and children’s play room. The next hotel of interest is the Hotel Plitvice. The hotel has 51 rooms. The Hotel Bellevue has 70 rooms and is located near the park as well. Finally, if you really want to be in the core center of the Plitvice Lakes, then you will want to stay in the Villa Mukinja. The Villa is a ten-minute walk from the lakes, and is the stay of choice for the nature lover who wants to leave the modern amenities behind and focus on the beauties of this superb park. With only six rooms, it is the perfect choice for those who wish to enjoy the solitude of this natural beauty.
Amazingly, the Plitvice Lakes National Park is still home to all of its native animals. This has made the effort to preserve the natural environment of the park a priority. Visitors should be aware that the animal life that they will encounter at Plitvice Lakes National Park has been untouched by human hands. Some of the animals that call Plitvice Lakes National Park home include: Hares, the Wolf, the Fox, Skunks, Weasels, Otters, Meles, Pine Marten, Stone Marten, Lynx, Wild Cat, Wild Boar, Deer, and the Brown Bear.
The appeal of the Lakes wildlife doesn’t extend to mammals only. It is also home to over 120 species of birds and they nest in the richly dense forests. The most populous tree found in the park is the Beech Tree, which covers nearly 73% of the entire forested area. After the Beech Tree, the next populous tree is the Fir Tree. The Fir Tree comprises about 22% of the park’s forests. The forests are full of some of the most breathtaking natural sites known to man and combined with the majestic splendor of the lakes and the waterfalls, it is no wonder why Plitvice Lakes National Park is revered as one of the most amazing parks in the world.
One of the leading top European nations, Croatia is truly the dream destination for skiers around the world with magnificient ice-laden mountains and wonderful mountain resorts. Thereby making skiing in Croatia, a great experience for people of all the ages. It has become a most sought after tourist destination after being integrated with the European Union & is extremely friendly on the budget.Budget skiing, great mountains, pretty awesome skii resorts together provide great value to the money you spend on a vacation over there. So if you are one of the many looking for a great vacation among the mountains, make sure you have Croatia in your list.
It’s a little known fact that Croatia shares its borders with Italy. Still, however, it boasts of a very diverse historical background & culture when compared to Italy. The food is extremely exotic and this can be seen from the fact that Croatia is filled with lavish restaurants serving mouth-watering delicacies. Attractive nature is ‘packed’ in a well-designed tourist product that Bjelolasica, given its natural resources, well deserves. Croatia offers an excellent skiing vacation with many ski resorts like Bjelolasica training centre for Skiing located at the Zagreb, which has fantastic facilities & great destination for training on Skiing. This explains why Croatian National team has such great expertise in Skiing.
The Hotels are so cheap that sometimes you wonder how they manage. But still it makes up for an awesome fun filled vacation without having to drain your pockets. One more popular Skiing destination is Platak, located nearer the Adriatic and is remote to Bjelolasica. It is, however, much more expensive. But this doesn’t stop it from being an amazing destination for Skiing. This resort is more for the professional skiier and has a lot more to offer. Platak is situated only 30 km from Rijeka. The resort is still under development & is slowly growing to be a great Skiing destination with truly top class amenities. Platak also plans to launch to launch new ski lifts, and a dozen additional snow cannons by 2010. Platak can be compared with any major resort of Europe & with such a low price it is really great value for the money you spend. The Skiing & the snow boarding centre is also world-class & offers great training in multiple languages, So that you can improve your Skiing skills with all the fun & enjoyment on the vacation. Platak Ski resort also offers prepared ski runs, six cable cars, two mountain lodges and other facilities for visitors.
When in Croatia, however, don’t also miss the bustling city of Zagreb which exhibits the Croatian culture & history. It can turn out to be a great retreat for your croatian vacation. Also don’t miss the Mount Medvednica, and the Sljeme resort in Zagred as it offers both the daytime skiing & skiing at night with the flood-lit slopes which really look amazing. Sljeme resort is a wonderful skii point & has got much to offer like highly technical snow cannons & the superb snow coverage at this high altitude.
No one would argue that you should make Croatia your primary ski destination in Europe. It ain’t the Alps that’s for sure. Still, if you’re a skier and going to Croatia anyway, you’ll find the slopes easy to deal with and dirt cheap compared with other European resorts.
Dalmatia boasts over 2,000 miles of superb coastline. Bordering the Adriatic Sea, this country is rich in architectural history, medieval castles and palaces, and natural splendors such as magnificent beaches and parks. Known as the “Jewel of the Adriatic Sea”, the island of Dubrovnik continues to be one of Croatia’s most visited sites. First settled in the second half of the seventh century, refugees established the area and began building the infamous city walls.
Today, Dubrovnik continues to lead the way when it comes to Croatia and cultural entertainment. With festivals, music, theater, and dance visitors can enjoy outdoor stages full of star-studded performances. Dubrovnik is never lacking in an entertainment or cultural activities. You will be surprised to discover that the streets of Dubrovnik are continuously filled with the sound of joyous song, laughter, and entertainment. You will also be amazed by the abundance of art galleries and studios that make up the hub of this cultural hot spot.
With the gorgeous pristine waters of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is full of water-based activities. In fact, Dubrovnik has received worldwide attention as being one of the top diving spots in the world. With stamps of approval by water buffs such as Jacques-Yves Cousteau, there is no wonder that Dubrovnik continues to attract global visitors to view this Mediterranean paradise. However, it is important to realize that when visiting Dubrovnik, divers will need to obtain a diving license. There are certain parts of the Adriatic Sea that are preserved and considered nature reserves. You must not access these areas. The best way for visitors to ensure that they are abiding by the laws of the land is to prearrange a diving excursion with a tour group. Likewise, you may only take underwater photos or videos with approved permission, so be sure to find out the rules before diving.
Fishing is an abundant activity in Dubrovnik, but like diving, the proper licenses are required beforehand. Tourist agencies, diving centers, and local offices of the Mediterranean Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry all provide licenses. Obtaining your license first is paramount to ensuring that your fishing trip will proceed smoothly and without hinderance. Some of the fishing activities include Spearfishing and Big Game fishing. Scheduling a fishing trip with local fisherman is a great way to make sure that you have a fantastic experience.
Most people agree that viewing the Dalmatian Coast is best accomplished by boat. The Dalmatian Coast is home to over 1,000 islands, and it is a virtual paradise waiting to be explored. One of the best ways to ensure that you view all that the Dalmatian Coast has to offer is to charter a boat. There are numerous marinas, and you can charter anything from a sailboat to a luxury yacht. Skippered charters are also available for those who would prefer to leave the sailing to professionals.
If you feel like moving inland, you will be amazed at the activates that await your further in from the sea. Hunting, hiking, and climbing are just some of what you can enjoy.
Hunting trips are best arranged with a group. This ensures that you are being led through the area with a qualified guide, and that you have all of the pertinent information needed. You will also need to obtain a license before hunting. The Dalmatian Coast is full of mountains, hills, and valleys. Which are home to many exciting European animals. By arranging a hunting trip, you can rest assured that you will enjoy hunting for some of Dubrovnik’s most popular large and small game.
Not only are the mountains of Croatia some of the least explored mountain ranges in the world, Croatia also is home to many caves that will delight any enthusiastic explorer. If the fact that the islands of Croatia are in themselves mountains doesn’t excite you, then maybe you would like to spend the day visiting Dubrovnik’s adventure park, Park Prevlaka. Park Prevlaka features activities such as Paintball, Free Climbing, a Nature Park, Tunnels, and a Beach.