Croatia has breath-taking coastal vistas, hidden islands, spectacular national parks and incredible food and wine regions. It strikes the perfect balance between relaxation, culture and activity. It’s easy to see why Croatia has become one of Europe’s most popular destinations.
Neighboring Montenegro is blessed with dramatic natural beauty with 45 miles of mountain edged Adriatic coastline and Boka Bay, a stunning fjord. Montenegro is home to some of Europe’s finest hotels rivaling any in the region. We recommend combining the Dalmatian coast with Montenegro for the perfectly balanced vacation.
2019 will be an exciting year for Croatia and Montenegro with new hotels opening, hotel refurbishments happening and direct flights to Dubrovnik from Philadelphia.
Coastal Paradise
Croatia has breath-taking coastal vistas, hidden islands, spectacular national parks and incredible food and wine regions. It strikes the perfect balance between relaxation, culture and activity. It’s easy to see why Croatia has become one of Europe’s most popular destinations.
Neighboring Montenegro is blessed with dramatic natural beauty with 45 miles of mountain edged Adriatic coastline and Boka Bay, a stunning fjord. Montenegro is home to some of Europe’s finest hotels rivaling any in the region. We recommend combining the Dalmatian coast with Montenegro for the perfectly balanced vacation.
2019 will be an exciting year for Croatia and Montenegro with new hotels opening, hotel refurbishments happening and direct flights to Dubrovnik from Philadelphia.
Gourmet Destination
Culinary Center
The Romans called the region of Istria terra magica (magical land) and today you can feel the strong Italian influences in the architecture and food. Truffles and pasta are a focus on many menus, and Istria is considered to be the culinary center of Croatia. Resplendent with Roman ruins, Venetian architecture, and a landscape reminiscent of Tuscany, Istria is nothing short of special.
New for 2019
New Luxury Hotel to Open in Rovinj
The local hotel group, Maistra, is quietly changing the landscape of hotels in the region. The hip Hotel Lone sits alongside the sophisticated Monte Mulini, both offering something for each traveler, while the Hotel Adriatic in old town Rovinj is perfect for couples of any age taking an out of season foodie trip. In Spring 2019 the company will launch what will most probably be the best hotel in the country: The Grand Hotel Park Rovinj which will be the focal point of a stunning new yacht marina in the heart of the town.
Expansion of Idyllic Istrian Retreat
For anyone looking for an authentic local experience that provides an insight into Croatian culture look no further! Romana and Miroslav Plišo renovated the 19th Century Habsburg era Villa Meneghetti, an idyllic Istrian stone mansion several years ago. Now a part of Relais & Châteaux, this boutique hideaway is in Bale which is a short drive from the Venetian inspired coastal town of Rovinj. Eat farm to table food, drink award winning wine and taste olive oil produced on the estate. Learn about the food and wine of the region from the passionate local team of chefs and oenologists. The perfect way to combine learning about the local gastronomic culture with relaxation! Next summer the 24 room retreat will be adding 5 additional villas with private pool.
Idyllic Views
Explore The Only Fjord in the Mediterranean
The Bay of Kotor is unmissable. Nature and architecture combine with history to create one of the most alluring places in Europe that deserves more time than a day trip. Stay in the heart of the bay in Perast a UNESCO protected village has just 200 inhabitants, and perhaps the best views in Montenegro, looking out to the small island with the historic church of Our Lady of the Rocks.
New for 2019
The Iberostar Grand Hotel Perast located in the heart of the bay of Kotor, (otherwise known as Boka Bay) in the idyllic village of Perast opened this summer. The 103 room boutique hotel is made up of three individual buildings: the original 17th century Palace Smekja, built of Korcula stone; the adjacent building which was a garment factory, originating from the 1930’s, and a third new extension designed to blend with the historic surroundings.
We think that this hotel offers the best location for anyone that wants to stay in a historic location with spectacular views.
Enjoy a day or more on a private boat exploring the bay, enjoy a local olive oil or wine tasting, and of course visit the medieval walled city of Kotor itself. Take some time to swim in the bay and enjoy the spectacular views or indulge in a spa treatment before dining by candlelight on the hotel’s piazza.
Extraordinary Experiences
Our Extraordinary Experiences are different and unusual, offering immersive local experiences.
Discover Olive Oil
Croatian Olive Oils were awarded 27 gold and 11 silver medals at the New York International Olive Oil Competition. We can introduce you to artisanal producers all over the country.
Taste Award Winning Wines
Croatia now produces almost 700 wines. The majority, almost 70% are white, and many are award winning, particularly the dessert wines. There are numerous wineries dotted throughout the country, and a visit would not be complete without a visit to one of these unique places.
Take a Fresco Painting Masterclass
Transport yourself back to medieval times, and create your own unique fresco in a tiny fortress town in Istria. The first historical mention of the town dates back to 1064! In the 12th century, Roc became a fortified town, and you will see the original town walls, cannon and watchtower. Later, Roc became the center of Croatian literature, the first Croatian book was printed here in 1483.
Taste Oysters on a Private Islet
Oysters have been farmed in the Peljesac Peninsula since Roman times. We suggest learning about the cultivation of oysters in the area, with lunch prepared by one of the farmers who will prepare and serve oysters so they are as fresh as they can possibly be. Add some sunshine and local wine and you are guaranteed to have enjoyed one of the best experiences in Croatia!
Hunt Truffles in Istria
Istria produces both the black and the highly prized white truffle, the largest ever of which was discovered here! This is a wonderful interactive experience for couples and families. You will meet your highly trained dogs, together with their expert handler and go for a walk of discovery in the local forests close to the hilltop village of Motovun. After your hunt, enjoy lunch in the village, with spectacular views over the countryside.
Explore the Bay of Kotor by Boat
Stay in Boka Bay in the heart of Montenegro and have a private RIB boat at your disposal to explore this jewel of Montenegro.
Extend Your Stay
Slovenia is a picturesque Alpine country with a small coast on the Adriatic. It is one of the cleanest and greenest countries in Europe combining Mediterranean, Austrian and Balkan influences. Its manageable size makes it the perfect place to spend a few days exploring the culture, traditions, nature and food. Slovenia combines perfectly with Istria, and if you have two weeks, consider combining Slovenia, Istria and the Dalmatian Coast.
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia combines Ottoman and Habsburg architecture in a beautiful mountainous setting. A true melting pot of a city. Spend a couple of days exploring Sarajevo’s role in world history and enjoy the abundant cafe culture before visiting Mostar, famous for its ancient bridge. End in Montenegro where you can enjoy a final few days relaxing in a fabulous resort. Alternatively continue on to Belgrade, the cosmopolitan capital of Serbia.
