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Yahoo
6 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
Why the Balkans should be your next summer destination
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). A complicated region with an extraordinarily rich cultural heritage, Europe's beautiful Balkan lands have been passed through and fought over by civilisations including the Romans, Greeks and Ottomans for more than a millennium. As a result, the term 'Balkans' is one of the slipperiest geographical descriptions in Europe. Broadly speaking it applies to the peninsula that stretches throughout southeastern Europe and ends in Greece. But where it begins — like many things in the Balkans — is a question of politics and perspective. Mainstream travel has been slow to take root in many of the region's countries, but things are gradually starting to change. As beach-holiday destinations go, this coastline is hard to top, offering a winning combination of crystalline coves, ancient settlements and delicious Mediterranean cuisine, all set before a backdrop of craggy mountains. The clear waters of the Adriatic and Ionian seas have been drawing admirers to these shores since ancient times, as demonstrated by the remains of sumptuous Roman residences positioned on some of the most beautiful bays. The most famous of these is Emperor Diocletian's retirement palace, which now forms the heart of Split, Croatia's second-largest city. Some of the Balkan peninsula countries are already firmly on the tourism radar, notably Slovenia, Croatia, Greece and, increasingly, the coastal parts of Montenegro and Albania. The famous walled towns of the coast — such as Dubrovnik in Croatia and Kotor in Montenegro — continue to charm, despite now being crammed with tourists in July and August. But the Balkans offer far more than just sunny beaches and crowded coastal cities. Head inland and you'll find a corner of Europe where it's still possible to access real wilderness, with bears, wolves and lynx roaming remote ranges and forgotten forests. To beat the crowds and chase adventure, plan a trip to the smaller, less-explored countries of the Western Balkans. Combined, the five we've highlighted below are roughly the same size as England. With two weeks to spare you could easily get a taste for each. Alternatively, pick just one or two for longer stays. Best for: urban explorationWith idyllic settings in river valleys ringed by mountains, Bosnia and Herzegovina's capital Sarajevo and historic centre of Mostar are two of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the Balkans. Both suffered dreadfully during the 1990s wars and are still divided along ethnic lines, but the historic mosques, churches, synagogues and markets have now been restored and the streets once again hum with life. Sarajevo's old Ottoman core, Baščaršija, is back to being one of the region's most memorable and enchanting city neighbourhoods, where narrow lanes wind past old bazaars and pigeon-filled squares, and the scent of grilled meat, strong Bosnian coffee and shisha smoke swirls in the air. Mostar's famous 16th-century bridge — destroyed in 1993 — has been rebuilt and once more arcs elegantly over the green waters of the Neretva River. It forms the centrepiece of a heritage quarter of stone houses punctuated by the pencil-thin minarets of Ottoman mosques. (How to spend a perfect weekend in Bosnia & Herzegovina.) Best for: adventureMontenegro may be small, but Kosovo is smaller still. Since declaring independence from Serbia in 2008, this little landlocked nation has started to gain a reputation as an active-holiday destination for intrepid travellers. The pretty town of Peja — with its Byzantine and Ottoman architecture — is at the centre of the action. There's excellent hiking, caving and zip-lining in the surrounding area, as well as a vertigo-inducing via ferrata course in Rugova Canyon — but it's all still very off the beaten track for most travellers. Peja lies at the base of the formidable range known as the Accursed Mountains (Bjeshkët e Nemuna in Albanian, Prokletije in Serbian), which forms the border with Montenegro and Albania. This remote area is one of Europe's true wildernesses. It's now possible to take a multiday hike through the rugged terrain, traversing all three countries, on the 119-mile Peaks of the Balkans track. Trekkers stay in a mixture of family homes and mountain huts. This off-the-grid adventure can also be broken into bite-sized chunks, but shouldn't be undertaken lightly. It's best to enlist the services of a local operator such as Undiscovered Balkans or Balkan Natural Adventure to help with guiding and logistics, including arranging the correct permits for the border crossings. (Europe's newest adventure scene is blossoming in southern Kosovo.) Best for: diverse landscapesMontenegro is tiny — smaller than Northern Ireland — but it crams a lot in. The 'black mountain' that it's named after rises precipitously from the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, creating a spectacular backdrop to the medieval walls of Kotor town. South east of here, Montenegro's Adriatic coastline stretches barely 62 miles as the crow flies but still manages to pack in three more picture-perfect walled towns: Budva, Sveti Stefan and Ulcinj. Inland it's mainly mountains, punctuated by deep river canyons and glistening lakes. These range from the tiny glacial depressions known as gorske oči (mountain eyes) that are a feature of rugged Durmitor National Park, to the largest lake in the Balkans, Lake Skadar, which is an important habitat for wetland birds including giant Dalmatian pelicans. The everchanging scenery makes driving in Montenegro a constant thrill, especially once you escape the crowded coast. The terrain lends itself to myriad summertime activities: canyoning at Nevidio Canyon on the Komarnica River, whitewater rafting on the Tara River and birdwatching cruises on Lake Skadar, to name just a few. For hiking, base yourself in the mountain towns of Cetinje, Kolašin or Žabljak, which are the gateways to three lofty national parks: Lovćen, Biogradska Gora and Durmitor. A fourth range, Prokletije, on the border with Albania and Kosovo, is home to Montenegro's highest peak (8,316ft). (The ultimate Adriatic coastal adventure in Montenegro's Bay of Kotor.) Best for: beachesAlbania's long and lovely coastline stretches along two separate seas: the Adriatic and the Ionian. The Ionian, in particular, has some magnificent beaches, where the turquoise waters of southwestern Albania approach Caribbean levels of intensity. If you were hoping to chance upon uncrowded and undeveloped bays in Albania, that ship has sailed. The Ionian coast is now being touted as the 'Albanian Riviera' and construction can be seen everywhere, especially in popular places like Ksamil. That said, busy spots such as Mirror Beach (Plazhi Pasqyra) are popular for a reason — the juxtaposition of aquamarine waters and dramatic white cliffs is breathtaking. Tucked below canyon walls, Gjipe is similarly spectacular — and the fact that it can only be reached by boat or on foot helps to keep visitor numbers down. Other low-key stretches on the riviera include 4.3-mile-long Borsh and sleepy Qeparo. As appealing as the beaches are, it would be a shame to visit Albania and ignore the interior. The 'museum cities' of Berat and Gjirokastër are fascinating due to their high concentration of Ottoman houses, their elegant wooden upper storeys jutting out over the narrow streets. Tirana is one of the Balkans' buzziest capitals, a lively hybrid of Ottoman remnants, Communist-era blocks painted in outlandish colours and new construction. If you want to get further off the beaten track, Undiscovered Balkans offers multi-activity Albanian holidays which include hiking, rafting, mule treks and village feasts. (Take a journey through Albania's wild, blue heart.) Best for: foodDespite remarkable mountains, lakes and historic sites, North Macedonia is blissfully unassuming and largely untroubled by overtourism. The town of Ohrid is one of the country's biggest drawcards for its frescoed Orthodox churches, boat trips and lake-fronting boardwalks. But the country's rural areas are a real treat — particularly Mavrovo and Pelister national parks, which lend themselves to leisurely drives stopping at village taverns and roadside produce stalls. Five hundred years of Ottoman rule have had a noticeable impact on the food, which is more varied than most other Western Balkan cuisines and less averse to spice. Ajvar is a case in point. This delicious red pepper and aubergine spread can pack some real heat and is found on the menu at many local restaurants. Grilled meats also feature prominently, as they do throughout the Balkans, but the national dish is vegan: a white bean stew known as tavče gravče. Local markets are packed with mountain herbs, local honeys and tangy hard cheeses, which also make an appearance on rural guesthouse breakfast tables. Be sure to try the local tipples, too. These include mastika (a liqueur flavoured with tree resin) and wines from the Tikveš Plain made from lesser-known regional grape varietals such as Smederevka, Vranec and Temjanika. The region is around 90 minutes south east of the capital Skopje; travellers can while away a day or two here, staying at the Popova Kula winery hotel. (A taste of North Macedonia, from flaky burek to rakija and farmhouse cheeses.) To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
National Geographic
7 hours ago
- National Geographic
Why the Balkans should be your next summer destination
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). A complicated region with an extraordinarily rich cultural heritage, Europe's beautiful Balkan lands have been passed through and fought over by civilisations including the Romans, Greeks and Ottomans for more than a millennium. As a result, the term 'Balkans' is one of the slipperiest geographical descriptions in Europe. Broadly speaking it applies to the peninsula that stretches throughout southeastern Europe and ends in Greece. But where it begins — like many things in the Balkans — is a question of politics and perspective. Mainstream travel has been slow to take root in many of the region's countries, but things are gradually starting to change. As beach-holiday destinations go, this coastline is hard to top, offering a winning combination of crystalline coves, ancient settlements and delicious Mediterranean cuisine, all set before a backdrop of craggy mountains. The clear waters of the Adriatic and Ionian seas have been drawing admirers to these shores since ancient times, as demonstrated by the remains of sumptuous Roman residences positioned on some of the most beautiful bays. The most famous of these is Emperor Diocletian's retirement palace, which now forms the heart of Split, Croatia's second-largest city. Some of the Balkan peninsula countries are already firmly on the tourism radar, notably Slovenia, Croatia, Greece and, increasingly, the coastal parts of Montenegro and Albania. The famous walled towns of the coast — such as Dubrovnik in Croatia and Kotor in Montenegro — continue to charm, despite now being crammed with tourists in July and August. But the Balkans offer far more than just sunny beaches and crowded coastal cities. Head inland and you'll find a corner of Europe where it's still possible to access real wilderness, with bears, wolves and lynx roaming remote ranges and forgotten forests. To beat the crowds and chase adventure, plan a trip to the smaller, less-explored countries of the Western Balkans. Combined, the five we've highlighted below are roughly the same size as England. With two weeks to spare you could easily get a taste for each. Alternatively, pick just one or two for longer stays. From delicious Mediterranean cuisine to historic towns set to a backdrop of craggy mountains, Balkans offer far more than just sunny beaches. Photograph by David C Tomlinson; Getty Images Bosnia and Herzegovina Best for: urban exploration With idyllic settings in river valleys ringed by mountains, Bosnia and Herzegovina's capital Sarajevo and historic centre of Mostar are two of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the Balkans. Both suffered dreadfully during the 1990s wars and are still divided along ethnic lines, but the historic mosques, churches, synagogues and markets have now been restored and the streets once again hum with life. Sarajevo's old Ottoman core, Baščaršija, is back to being one of the region's most memorable and enchanting city neighbourhoods, where narrow lanes wind past old bazaars and pigeon-filled squares, and the scent of grilled meat, strong Bosnian coffee and shisha smoke swirls in the air. Mostar's famous 16th-century bridge — destroyed in 1993 — has been rebuilt and once more arcs elegantly over the green waters of the Neretva River. It forms the centrepiece of a heritage quarter of stone houses punctuated by the pencil-thin minarets of Ottoman mosques. The historic centre of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the Balkans most fascinating cities. Photograph by Lassi Kurkijarvi; Getty Images (How to spend a perfect weekend in Bosnia & Herzegovina.) Kosovo Best for: adventure Montenegro may be small, but Kosovo is smaller still. Since declaring independence from Serbia in 2008, this little landlocked nation has started to gain a reputation as an active-holiday destination for intrepid travellers. The pretty town of Peja — with its Byzantine and Ottoman architecture — is at the centre of the action. There's excellent hiking, caving and zip-lining in the surrounding area, as well as a vertigo-inducing via ferrata course in Rugova Canyon — but it's all still very off the beaten track for most travellers. Peja lies at the base of the formidable range known as the Accursed Mountains (Bjeshkët e Nemuna in Albanian, Prokletije in Serbian), which forms the border with Montenegro and Albania. This remote area is one of Europe's true wildernesses. It's now possible to take a multiday hike through the rugged terrain, traversing all three countries, on the 119-mile Peaks of the Balkans track. Trekkers stay in a mixture of family homes and mountain huts. This off-the-grid adventure can also be broken into bite-sized chunks, but shouldn't be undertaken lightly. It's best to enlist the services of a local operator such as Undiscovered Balkans or Balkan Natural Adventure to help with guiding and logistics, including arranging the correct permits for the border crossings. (Europe's newest adventure scene is blossoming in southern Kosovo.) Montenegro Best for: diverse landscapes Montenegro is tiny — smaller than Northern Ireland — but it crams a lot in. The 'black mountain' that it's named after rises precipitously from the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, creating a spectacular backdrop to the medieval walls of Kotor town. South east of here, Montenegro's Adriatic coastline stretches barely 62 miles as the crow flies but still manages to pack in three more picture-perfect walled towns: Budva, Sveti Stefan and Ulcinj. Inland it's mainly mountains, punctuated by deep river canyons and glistening lakes. These range from the tiny glacial depressions known as gorske oči (mountain eyes) that are a feature of rugged Durmitor National Park, to the largest lake in the Balkans, Lake Skadar, which is an important habitat for wetland birds including giant Dalmatian pelicans. The everchanging scenery makes driving in Montenegro a constant thrill, especially once you escape the crowded coast. The terrain lends itself to myriad summertime activities: canyoning at Nevidio Canyon on the Komarnica River, whitewater rafting on the Tara River and birdwatching cruises on Lake Skadar, to name just a few. For hiking, base yourself in the mountain towns of Cetinje, Kolašin or Žabljak, which are the gateways to three lofty national parks: Lovćen, Biogradska Gora and Durmitor. A fourth range, Prokletije, on the border with Albania and Kosovo, is home to Montenegro's highest peak (8,316ft). (The ultimate Adriatic coastal adventure in Montenegro's Bay of Kotor.) The deep river canyons of Durmitor National Park in Montenegro are well-suited for all manner of adventures. Photograph by FotoGablitz; Getty Images Albania Best for: beaches Albania's long and lovely coastline stretches along two separate seas: the Adriatic and the Ionian. The Ionian, in particular, has some magnificent beaches, where the turquoise waters of southwestern Albania approach Caribbean levels of intensity. If you were hoping to chance upon uncrowded and undeveloped bays in Albania, that ship has sailed. The Ionian coast is now being touted as the 'Albanian Riviera' and construction can be seen everywhere, especially in popular places like Ksamil. That said, busy spots such as Mirror Beach (Plazhi Pasqyra) are popular for a reason — the juxtaposition of aquamarine waters and dramatic white cliffs is breathtaking. Tucked below canyon walls, Gjipe is similarly spectacular — and the fact that it can only be reached by boat or on foot helps to keep visitor numbers down. Other low-key stretches on the riviera include 4.3-mile-long Borsh and sleepy Qeparo. As appealing as the beaches are, it would be a shame to visit Albania and ignore the interior. The 'museum cities' of Berat and Gjirokastër are fascinating due to their high concentration of Ottoman houses, their elegant wooden upper storeys jutting out over the narrow streets. Tirana is one of the Balkans' buzziest capitals, a lively hybrid of Ottoman remnants, Communist-era blocks painted in outlandish colours and new construction. If you want to get further off the beaten track, Undiscovered Balkans offers multi-activity Albanian holidays which include hiking, rafting, mule treks and village feasts. (Take a journey through Albania's wild, blue heart.) North Macedonia Best for: food Despite remarkable mountains, lakes and historic sites, North Macedonia is blissfully unassuming and largely untroubled by overtourism. The town of Ohrid is one of the country's biggest drawcards for its frescoed Orthodox churches, boat trips and lake-fronting boardwalks. But the country's rural areas are a real treat — particularly Mavrovo and Pelister national parks, which lend themselves to leisurely drives stopping at village taverns and roadside produce stalls. Five hundred years of Ottoman rule have had a noticeable impact on the food, which is more varied than most other Western Balkan cuisines and less averse to spice. Ajvar is a case in point. This delicious red pepper and aubergine spread can pack some real heat and is found on the menu at many local restaurants. Grilled meats also feature prominently, as they do throughout the Balkans, but the national dish is vegan: a white bean stew known as tavče gravče. Local markets are packed with mountain herbs, local honeys and tangy hard cheeses, which also make an appearance on rural guesthouse breakfast tables. Be sure to try the local tipples, too. These include mastika (a liqueur flavoured with tree resin) and wines from the Tikveš Plain made from lesser-known regional grape varietals such as Smederevka, Vranec and Temjanika. The region is around 90 minutes south east of the capital Skopje; travellers can while away a day or two here, staying at the Popova Kula winery hotel. (A taste of North Macedonia, from flaky burek to rakija and farmhouse cheeses.) To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
Forbes
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
A Daytripper's Guide: Where To Eat And Drink In OId Town Dubrovnik
Old Town, Dubrovnik. Ivan Vuković Dubrovnik's Old Town isn't just a living postcard of medieval limestone streets and terracotta rooftops with uninterrupted Adriatic views—it's a UNESCO World Heritage site with roots stretching back to the 7th century. Its iconic city walls, which have protected this marble paradise for over 500 years, have always been a magnet for travelers. But since Game of Thrones premiered in 2011—casting Dubrovnik as the fictional King's Landing—the city has experienced a dramatic surge in visitors. With all that beauty and history comes the crowds, especially during cruise ship season, when daytrippers pour through the city gates like extras from a Renaissance fair. Is it even possible to make the most of a day in Dubrovnik's Old Town and avoid rookie mistakes? I turned to my favorite local guide, Ivan Vuković, whose Game of Thrones tours (no dragons, but plenty of wit) and off-the-beaten-path excursions have earned him cult status among travelers seeking the real, unfiltered Dubrovnik. A view of Old Town, Dubrovnik. Ivan Vuković Whatever you do, respect the 'Walk of Shame' steps, which have been around centuries longer than the show. Their real name is the Jesuit Stairs, inspired by Rome's iconic Spanish Steps—a true 18th-century Baroque masterpiece. Leading up to the grand Church of St. Ignatius, they're one of the city's most dramatic architectural gems. Those iconic steps—immortalized by Cersei's infamous stroll—are newly polished for summer, and I was mortified to learn that people actually strip down for photos here. 'Do not get naked on that infamous walk of shame,' Vuković says. 'And please, do not scream 'shame'; we all have PTSD from it in Dubrovnik.' Crowds and heat can be daunting in peak summer. 'Use Buža and Ploče gates to dodge the cruise ship hordes who get dropped off at Pile gate,' Ivan advises. 'We built tiny gates as nobody had a clue that tourism was gonna be a big thing.' And don't skip a walk around the city walls—a 1.2-mile stretch circling the Old Town. 'Finish your daytripping with a walk around the walls,' says Vuković. 'Best time? Late afternoon. Get your camera ready!' Pro tip: If you want to see Dubrovnik through a local's eyes (and learn more about those infamous steps), book a Game of Thrones tour with Vuković. He offers a variety of tours if GOT isn't your speed. Now that you know how to be a savvy daytripper, here's where to eat and drink inside the city walls even if it's for a few hours only. Peka at Local. Local If you want to experience Dubrovnik like a local, book a reservation at Local—the new outpost of Marija and Zlatko Papak's wildly successful Eat With Locals experience, right in Old Town. It's the first-ever spot where travelers can get a slice of peka—a traditional Dalmatian dish where meat, potatoes, and veggies are slow-cooked under a bell-shaped dome covered in hot coals, resulting in tender, smoky, melt-in-your-mouth perfection. While peka is the star, you'll also find the most perfect charcuterie and cheese spread (all local, of course), Marija's homemade bread, fresh salad, and apple strudel. And yes, even inside the city walls, the Papaks pour local wine and homemade grappa like old friends welcoming you home and you'll always walk away with strangers-turned-new friends. Chilly prawns at Above 5 Rooftop Restaurant. Above 5 Rooftop Restaurant Nestled atop a 16th-century building, this spot remains the only rooftop restaurant in Old Town and the 360 views are incredible . It's a climb up five flights to a sleek, elegant rooftop where every bite feels like a mini celebration. The menu blends Mediterranean flavors with modern gastronomy. My personal highlights are chilly prawns served with marinated red cabbage, butternut squash purée, and pickled baby beetroot and the chef's version of surf n' turf—a zucchini roll filled with lobster salad, filet mignon, roasted cauliflower cream, and Bordelaise sauce. And whatever ice cream creation is, order without hesitation. Above 5 Rooftop Restaurant. Above 5 Rooftop Restaurant Bonus: The restaurant is part of a gorgeous 4-star luxury hotel, Hotel Stari Grad, spread across two historic Old Town buildings, complete with Icona spa (a true hidden oasis with standout services) and a cocktail bar where the bartender nails the perfect Americano. Trust me, you'll want to linger. Azur is praised for innovative fusion dishes like pulled pork tacos and seared tuna, balancing bold flavors with fresh Adriatic ingredients and Asian influences—and perfect if you're seeking something off the beaten path from traditional Croatian fare. 'It's owned by a great local chef, Darko Perojević,' says Vuković. It's situated next door to the iconic Bard Buža bar. Vuković notes that Bard Buža bar is still more local than the other Buža bar, where tourists jump off the cliffs. 'It can be spicy and you will get your hands dirty.' It's wise to order the salmon pillows and the CroAsian seafood Laksa. For the best gelato in town, Peppino's is a must. Creamy, artisanal gelato made daily with fresh ingredients, offering both classic and inventive flavors to cool you down after a day in the sun. Flavors range from traditional pistachio and stracciatella to creative combinations featuring local Croatian ingredients. Forty Four. Forty Four Owned by NBA player Bojan Bogdanović (jersey number 44, hence the name) and Damir Bogdanović, Forty Four is celebrated for its exquisite seafood offerings—be sure to order whatever crudo is featured on the menu and the lobster pasta if it's available. The restaurant masterfully combines elevated, modern seafood and pasta dishes and traditional Croatian dishes done right. The wine list is also noteworthy and I fell hard for the Crvik Blasius Malvasija Dubrovačka—an organe wine that pairs perfectly with literally any dish on the menu. Bonus: There's also a hotel attached, Guesthouse Forty Four, and the duo are behind Villa 44—a gorgeous villa in Old Town, in the center of Stradun. Black risotto at Konoba Pupo. Ivan Vuković This wonderland is a combination of family recipes, fisherman's old-style cooking, and local ingredients. Go for the Šporki Makaruli ('dirty macaroni')—a traditional Dubrovnik pasta with a hearty, meaty ragù sauce made with wine and plenty of onions. Konoba Pupo is a hidden gem for authentic Dalmatian flavors, particularly praised for its rich black risotto (made with cuttlefish ink) and hearty pasta dishes. Owner Viktor Kužnin is often around and can pick out the best bottle of Dingač wine (and might even sit down and join you for a glass or three!). Bonus: Just across the way, the team has opened a gorgeous pastry shop with a stellar menu of sweets and plenty of great wine. Don't miss a slice of the typical Ston cake—a pastry where layers of penne pasta are mixed with nuts and sweet cream, named for the nearby town famous for its medieval walls and salt. D'Vino Wine Bar. D'Vino Wine Bar D'Vino is a top spot for wine lovers wanting to explore Croatia's diverse varietals, paired with artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. The knowledgeable staff guides guests through Croatia's unique wine regions, from full-bodied reds of the Pelješac Peninsula to crisp whites from Istria. 'The One With da Boss' tasting is the best, letting you sample rare and small-producer bottles from the owner's archive. The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for people-watching along the bustling Old Town streets, whether you need that essential morning espresso or want to unwind with a cold Croatian beer after exploring the medieval walls. The best part? It's across from D'Vino, so if your group is split between beer and wine, you can happily collide on the patio with your drink of choice. Holy Burek in Dubrovnik's Old Town. Holy Burek This beloved bakery serves up savory pastries that are crispy outside, rich and melty inside. During peak season, thousands of bureks—a flaky Balkan pastry filled with cheese, meat, or spinach—are made daily. Go for whatever's fresh out of the oven and wash it down with ayran, a refreshing yogurt-based drink. It's a traditional sidekick to balance the buttery goodness. 'It's perfect for people watching, a great wine selection, and live music every night,' says Vuković. This café dates back to 1927 and occupies the spot of the former Manon Café, a legendary Dubrovnik gathering place between the world wars. 'It reminds me of my childhood, still tucked in Antuninska street, one of many Old Town side streets,' says Vuković. 'We skipped classes and went there—pssst, do not tell my mum. Lovely simple sandwiches with homemade bread, cheese from oil, and prosciutto.' For a genuine taste of local life away from the tourist crowds, this is a must.
Yahoo
a day ago
- General
- Yahoo
How to plan the ultimate island-hopping adventure in Croatia
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). The fascination of islands is that they appear to be distinct, self-contained worlds. If that's true, then Croatia is practically its own solar system. From the Kvarner Gulf at the head of the Adriatic to the Dalmatia region between Zadar and Dubrovnik, more than 1,185 islands spray down the coast like a meteorite shower. Whatever you're looking for, you'll find it here — from buzzy resorts for a party crowd on Hvar to towns like Korčula or Rab, their streets an insouciant jumble of gothic and Renaissance beauty. In between are endless pine-scrubbed specks with no firm grip on the 21st century, washed by the cleanest waters in the Mediterranean. Lazy beach days may be the draw, but this is a country rich in history. Grasp that Croatia is all about cultural tectonics and you're halfway to making sense of a destination that's exotic and familiar by turns. It's a nation created where the plates of European history — Ancient Greek and Roman, Austro-Hungarian in the north Adriatic, and the Venetian Republic in the south — have met and occasionally collided over millennia. All have left their mark, whether in architecture, cuisine or culture. Likewise, the people of Croatia mix Central European business head, Mediterranean heart and Balkan soul. Holidaymakers have been fascinated by this destination for more than a century. George Bernard Shaw said of Croatia's islands: 'On the last day of Creation, God wished to crown his work, so he created the Kornati islands out of tears, sand and breath.' Edward VIII, on a romantic cruise with Wallis Simpson in 1936, entertained daydreams of escaping state duties by buying and renovating a little mansion by the sea. After the implosion of Yugoslavia in 1991, Croatia saw a return to form; the dreary accommodation that had sprung up during the Communist era beginning to make way for luxurious small stays. With so many islands to choose from, it's tempting to hop furiously between them — especially as, in season, ferry connections are good and cheap if you travel on foot. However, each destination deserves a few days, at least. Slow down to the islands' pace and you'll find that individual identities slowly reveal themselves. The trick is to select islands whose ferry routes daisy-chain into coherent paths — as they do in these two itineraries. See our highlights as gateways for your own discoveries. The islands off the Dalmatian coast showcase Croatia at its most vivid. They're sunbaked and wild, perfumed by pine trees and herbs, silvered by olive trees and contoured by the grapevines introduced by the ancients. Blasted by the light and heat of centuries, it's a land of living poetry, packed with history, which has elevated easy living into an art form. This route visits Croatia's most celebrated islands — plus one curveball — and is bookended by its most beautiful cities: Split and Dubrovnik, both of which have international airports. After sleepy Šolta comes an archipelagic beauty parade: Vis, bohemian and increasingly upmarket; Hvar, which combines Renaissance looks with a modest club scene; then Korčula Town, one of the finest medieval citadels in the Mediterranean. A car limits your options for this itinerary, so pack light and travel on foot. 1. ŠoltaOne hour from Split harbour by ferry, Šolta is a pipsqueak of an island. It was called Solenta, meaning 'Sun Island', by the Romans. It's now a backwater of olives and pine scrub, whose rich soils produce a red wine so dark it's almost black. Hire a scooter or mountain bike at the port — the island is just 12 miles long — to taste dobričić wine and olive oil at Kaštelanac Agroturizam, discover idyllic harbours Maslinica and Stomorska, and follow tracks to rocky coves on the south coast. Top picks include Stračinska, Senjska, Jorja and Tatinja. 2. Komiža, VisToday Vis's chief claims to fame are Stiniva beach and Mamma Mia! — the 2018 sequel was filmed here — but millennia ago, Caesar described Croatia's furthest inhabited island as 'the most distinguished in the area'. Vis Town's Issa Archaeology Museum has various Roman finds, while the Venetian houses in adjoining Kut village are also worth exploring. Next, cross Vis to set-jet in Komiža, the island's prettiest harbour: ABBA renditions optional. From here, Alternatura runs sailing trips in falkuša (traditional fishing boats). 3. Hvar Town, HvarA village-sized Saint-Tropez meets Ibiza, Hvar lures superyachts and young holidaymakers with its beach clubs; the best is Carpe Diem — it's on Stipanska, one of the Pakleni islands, easily reached from Hvar. Among all the glitz is Hvar Town's Renaissance core, constructed by the Venetian Republic as a naval base and trade route staging post. Ascend to a 16th-century castle for harbour views, admire art in the Franciscan Monastery and drink in chichi cocktail bars. 4. Korčula Town, KorčulaApproaching this UNESCO-listed town by sea is bewitching. It's a medieval citadel of walls and towers like chess pieces, crammed onto a thumbnail of land and ambered in the faded glory of 400 years of Venetian rule. The gothic-Renaissance cathedral is its highlight, but it's better understood as a tiny city. You'll circle it in 30 minutes yet discover new detail for days: a heraldic crest here, a hole-in-the-wall gelateria there. Pair it with a day trip to Lumbarda village, where you'll find the sandy beach of Pržina and a white wine introduced by Ancient Greeks, Grk — Bire vineyard has tastings. 5. MljetOne third of Mljet is protected by its namesake national park. Swim in interconnected saltwater lakes near Pomena or paddle a kayak to the former Benedictine church but, to escape Dubrovnik day-trippers, be sure to take a five-hour walk around northwest bays, winding up at the village of Govedari. For adventure, visit Odysseus Cave, where the hero was said to have been captivated by Circe. Because Dalmatia hogs the spotlight, the islands of the northern Adriatic are quieter, ferry travel with a car is easier and there's usually more space on the beach. Yet the region offers many quintessentially Croatian holiday experiences. There are semi-wild islands like Cres — roughly pronounced 'tsress', with seductive sibilants — where rare vultures ride thermal winds. Also Pag, which has a singular, austere beauty. On Lošinj — 'losheen' — there are handsome harbours and, in Rab Town, a cat's cradle of historic streets as picturesque as any in the country. Ironically, this region was the first to appear in Croatia's brochures — Lošinj emerged as a wellness destination for Austro-Hungarians in the late 1800s. King Edward VIII, visiting Rab in 1936, so thoroughly embraced the holiday spirit he was moved to skinny-dip. 1. Krk TownPick up a car at Rijeka airport and you're already on Krk island. A bridge to the mainland has introduced development, but you soon escape its excesses in the older part of compact Krk Town. How old? Well, beneath a glass floor in beachwear shop Memento is a Roman temple of Venus, while cafe-nightclub Volsonis incorporates an antique tomb. Pair it with a trip to surrounding settlements: wine village Vrbnik and rustic Dobrinj are the best. 2. Tramuntana, CresWild, rare and spectacularly ill-suited to modernity, griffon vultures seem emblematic of Tramuntana, in the northern part of Cres. Here, Beli village is an Adriatic idyll of grey stone and terracotta and home to a rehabilitation centre for Europe's rarest indigenous vulture. You may see them soaring over sea cliffs while you walk signposted paths into the wooded region. Afterwards, head south to the Venetian harbour of Cres Town; nearby rustic restaurant Bukaleta serves the best lamb on the island. 3. Mali Lošinj, LošinjThis town was destined to be a major port of the Austro-Hungarian empire until its harbour was deemed too small for steamships, which is why it remains a handsome little waterfront with good restaurants in former captains' houses along the quay. Culture comes in at the Apoxyomenos Museum; its star piece is the eponymous 2,000-year-old bronze of an athlete positively twanging with youthful vigour. 4. Rab Town, Rab'Closer to reminiscence than reality,' said Victorian architect TG Jackson of this dream-like old town. Above alleys jostling with gothic and Renaissance mansions, a series of church spires rise like masts on a square-rig sailing ship. If you only ascend one make it the highest, St Mary's Campanile's bell tower, built in the 12th century. Be sure to stop in on 11th-century St Andrew's Monastery, where Benedictine nuns sell herbal remedies, heirs to a tradition dating to the Middle Ages at least. 5. PagThe Venetian Republic cleared this island's forests and the Adriatic's bura wind cold-blasted their regrowth so, today, Pag is as austere and magical as a desert; its bare limestone more lunar than terrestrial. Pag's beaches are hugely varied — from August clubbing on Zrće to wild escapism at Ručica — but among Croatians it's best known for paški sir (sheep's cheese), and lamb self-seasoned by a diet of wild, salty sage. Producer Gligora offers tours and a cheese bar, while rural hotel Boškinac has a fine slow-food restaurant. Published in the June 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Discovering the Science Behind Volunteering
Mastercard Loaded with microscopes, robots and VR headsets, Croatia's 'STEM on Wheels' mobile lab weaves its way from tiny mountain villages to Adriatic islands, giving kids the hands-on science skills they need to get ahead. From tips on investigating insects to using underwater drones, taking the van on the road gives the nonprofit Association Bioteka's educators a chance to show kids in often under-resourced locations how to apply science to solve problems. Its lively sessions have proven hugely popular, with more than 10,000 kids joining its STEM labs, workshops and camps. But that has left Bioteka President Jelena Likić and her three permanent staff little bandwidth — or opportunity to learn business development skills — to grow the nonprofit. Plans to build a center for STEM and sustainability in the Croatian capital, Zagreb, have repeatedly stalled because of limited capacity and resources. That's why Likić jumped at the chance earlier this year to join Mastercard's Launch for Social Impact Challenge volunteer program, aiming to tap into the company's deep talent pool to help make her STEM center a reality. The challenge is designed to encourage graduates hired for Mastercard's 18-month Launch rotating job program to volunteer their time to help other organizations grow. 'Exactly those skills that Mastercard was offering were the ones we lacked,' says Zagreb-based Likić. 'We have so many world problems that no individual can solve — we have to collaborate.' The Mastercard/Bioteka affiliation is part of a growing shift toward nonprofits building deeper relationships with companies. These partnerships are valuable to both, enabling nonprofits to access critical skills and resources while giving companies an opportunity to connect with communities and gain real-world insight into their challenges. It's also helping companies attract talented staff, as research shows Gen Z is more likely to choose to work for a company that offers them the chance to do pro bono projects where they feel they can make a difference. 'This kind of program goes beyond traditional volunteering,' says Yasmin Mesbah, a senior program manager at Pyxera Global, a nonprofit that designs and delivers cross-sector programs to solve systemic social challenges. 'It's leadership development in action.' Pyxera Global partnered with Mastercard to shape the Launch for Social Impact Challenge into a transformative experience for both employees and communities. 'It's these kinds of experiences that grow globally minded leaders who can navigate complexity and act with agility,' Mesbah adds. Krisztina Varsanyi, who joined Mastercard's Launch program in Budapest last year, was one of about 200 people from across Europe accepted for the challenge. She hoped the experience would give her a chance to make an impact and expand her network. When the monthlong program started in February, Varsanyi threw herself into the activities by leading a five-person team of Launchers, as they're known at the company, tasked with devising a road map for Bioteka to finance, build and launch its STEM center. Slotting the volunteer work around her job as an associate consultant, she found that meeting with Bioteka for feedback on her team's proposal to host events and camps was a hands-on way to build up her project management skills. 'It's changed the way I think of volunteering,' says Varsanyi, 22. 'It's made me realize I can apply my knowledge and technical skills, and volunteer with my brain.' Finding ways to create a collaborative team culture and steer volunteers toward tight deadlines also tested Barbara Kocsó's management skills as the Launcher led another team in building a communications strategy for Bioteka. She found that her previous experience volunteering for HiSchool, a Hungarian NGO that supports high school students in choosing careers, gave her team a head start as they strategized a four-point plan to promote Bioteka's programs and build relationships to support its fundraising. 'It fosters our 'doing well by doing good' company culture,' says Kocsó, 27, who, like Varsanyi, is an associate consultant in Budapest. A few months down the track, Bioteka is already using the ready-to-implement plans drawn up by the Mastercard Launchers to fine-tune its communications strategy and highlight its science and sustainability work. The challenge served as a catalyst, helping Bioteka move closer to launching its STEM center and expanding access to science and sustainability education for more children — especially girls. (A 2024 UNESCO report showed that women made up only 35% of STEM graduates despite comprising more than half of university enrollment.) For both Vasanyi and Kocsó, pulling teams together to resolve complex problems has shown them new ways to approach everyday workplace issues and gotten them hooked on working pro bono. As programs like this expand, they're defining what it means to volunteer — not just offering time but contributing insight, building systems and shaping what inclusive innovation looks like on the ground. 'Volunteering gets us out of the bubble we all live in,' Varsanyi says. 'No matter how small you start, how little you volunteer, it really does make a real-world impact.' Originally published by Mastercard Follow along Mastercard's journey to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere. Visit 3BL Media to see more multimedia and stories from Mastercard
