Croatia's popularity as a holiday hotspot has soared in the last decade. It seemed almost every other person walking in the door wanted to visit and brochures were flying off the shelves...now I know why.
With the perfect balance of city and beach, Croatia offers a diverse type of holiday suitable for anyone, any age.
My journey started with an early morning flight from Bristol. The check in queue was as expected following the recent media attention for how busy our UK airports are at the moment. I would certainly recommend to anyone travelling in the not-too-distant future to book their fast track security passes as this saved us a lot of time.
Just a short 2- and a half hour flight and we arrived in Split. A stark contrast to the busyness of Bristol! We headed to our awaiting transfer and onwards to a charter yacht for lunch. This yacht would usually depart from Split, across the stunning Adriatic coast taking in visits on the islands of Omis, Hvar and Korcula to name a few before disembarking in cosmopolitan Dubrovnik.
We stayed the night at the beautiful 5* Le Meridian Lav, approximately 7km away from the centre of Split. A perfect hotel for lazing around the indoor or outdoor swimming pool, paddling in the sea or indulging in their highly acclaimed Spa.
The following day, we headed to the main Port in Split and embarked on a ferry to take us across to Hvar. The ferry only took around an hour before we pulled into the marina in Hvar. I was completely struck by how beautiful it is. Dominated by a large fortress overlooking the Island, you’ll find cobbled streets, quaint bars and restaurants and hotels with views to die for!
We looked around the Adriana Hotel, a very modern hotel in contrast to the old world beauty outside. We stayed the night at the Amfora Hotel, a much larger complex with a huge sweeping swimming pool overlooking the bay. Lazy, relaxing days here lead the way for the streets coming alive at night.
The ferry back to Split was just as comfortable and quick as the way out and another wonderful sunny day only added to the beauty of the City. Here we checked in to the stunning Hotel Park. A 100-year-old building that has recently undergone a renovation adding modern touches but retaining the splendour of the hotel. Large spacious rooms have either a city view or a sea view with the largest and sandiest beach in Split just a stone’s throw away. A prime location for best of both holidaying.
We took a walk around the old Palace which makes up the centre of Split, now bustling with restaurants, shops and bars. A must visit restaurant would be Bokeria which locals deem the best restaurant in the city. A trip next door to the local Gelato kiosk is also a must!
For anything thinking of visiting Croatia, I would definitely suggest a B&B basis as there is so much on offer outside of the hotels and this is the best way to immerse yourself in the destination. If you have the time, a twin centre with Split and one of the Islands would be a fantastic option and something I can very highly recommend.
Croatia, you have my heart, I will most definitely be back.
