Croatia
We’ve been to Croatia a couple of times - our first trip was before our son was born so I was 6 months pregnant, enjoying 2 weeks of adult only, cultured island hopping - flying into Split, then moving onto Brac and Hvar before finishing in Dubrovnik. Croatia has a few more islands that you can explore so it’s a great destination to island hop at your leisure. The 2nd time was for one of our best mates wedding in Dubrovnik, so 4 full days of pure fun and making up for not being pregnant! Whilst the wedding was STUNNING, the boat trip the next day will forever live in my memory as one of the best days ever!
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is perfect for a weekend break! Only a few hours from London where you can properly get away from it all and combine the best of both - city and sea!
Did you know that the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site?! Its an amazing city to explore - check out the Forts and Cathedrals, get lost in the numerous paths of the Old Town and definitely walk the famous City Walls - its a classic tourist spot but really lovely - views galore and the odd place to stop off to admire the view and take in a cold beverage!
If you love a view - get yourself on the Cable car which takes you up to Mount Srd for a sundowners to see epic views of the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea!
If you’re more of the active type you can SUP or kayak from here too the waters are insanely clear and calm. Or take a boat trip out to one of the local islands - Lokrum or the Elaphiti Islands.
Lastly, if you’re looking for some beach time head over to Copacabana or Banje beaches and get amongst the beach bars!
Hvar Island
We LOVED Hvar! Again, a perfect mix of going for a wander through the streets, having a beer in the bay, heading to the beach for a chill out and enjoying a cocktail watching the sun set. I couldn’t ask for more!
Hvar is 105 minute ferry trip from Split, arriving in Stari Grad to a gorgeous bay where you will find numerous restaurants and bars. One of the must do’s is to walk up to the Fortress - Tvrdava Fortica. A really gentle walk where once at the top you will be greeted with stunning panoramic views looking down on Hvar and out to the Pakleni Islands.
Walking around the island be it East or West from Stari Grad you will find numerous swimming spots and little beaches/inlets to chill out on - I will mention here that they are mainly rocky and pebbly so either let your feet brave it or find some attractive footwear that will protect you/stop you from hopping from foot to foot! BUT the water is so clear, so its defo worth it!
Split
Split was a great starting point for us to go and discover the islands, so give yourselves a night or two here to ease yourselves into the holiday!
Split is known for its historical sites and waterfront bars and restaurants. It also has a centre which is protected by Palace Walls. Very photographic and a good mix of options for that afternoon holiday beer.
If you fancy stretching your legs a bit further then go and have a wander up Marjan Park. It’s lined with pine trees and once you reach the top, make sure you turn around and check out the most awesome view look down into Split. As you descend the other side you’ll see some lovely inlets of beach and clear waters in you fancy a paddle!
Split is also a great location to do some day trips - one being Plitvice Lakes - another UNESCO World Heritage Site for its stunning nature - scenery, caves, lakes and spectacular waterfalls. A must!