Highlights of Croatia: Split to Dubrovnik

Breakfast is followed by an inward drive to the Krka Valley, where you'll find a remarkable series of grand lakes connected by a chain of vibrant waterfalls. Thanks to the diffusion of various minerals within the water, you can see spectacular colour variation across the blue-green spectrum. Emerald, teal, cerulean and silver waters reflect the august surrounding mountain ranges and verdant forests - a truly marvellous sight to behold.

You'll take in views of one of the most impressive sections of the river as you walk by a striking layered series of waterfalls that cascade and crash into one another before filling into a sweeping basin. This is followed by a boat journey along the river itself, giving you plentiful time to savour the landscape.

The Dalmatian coastline provides an impressive backdrop for your drive to Croatia's second city, Split. Here, only one point-of-interest dwarfs all others, figuratively and literally: the monumental Diocletian’s Palace. This former Imperial residence comprises the largest part of the city's Old Town and is an incredibly preserved 4th Century Roman marvel. During the morning, you'll be drawn into the fascinating history of this ancient fortress with a guided tour.

You'll visit the charming and alluring town of Trogir, whose Old Town sits on its own island. This little port is brimming with Romanesque and Renaissance buildings which knit together to form an old-world maze of streets. The eclectic Saint Lawrence Cathedral sits in the midst of this maze, acting as a monument to the evolving architectural styles of the city due to its centuries-long construction.

Stroll the ancient avenues, peruse the wares of humble antique merchants, or watch the world pass by as you relax in a side café; there's plenty to do before heading back your hotel for dinner.

We take the Pelješac Bridge which offers fantastic views of the region as you make your way to the historic village of Mali Ston.

The acclaimed scenery of the Pelješac Peninsula, historically known as Illyria, is a picturesque canvas of quaint villages, charming vineyards and traditional fishing ports. Known for their saltworks and oysters, the most prominent of these settlements are the walled medieval village of Ston and its sister Mali Ston.

Tracing its roots back millennia, the production of salt has been a fundamental enterprise for countless civilizations, in fact the Romans used to pay their soldiers in Illyrian 'salarium' (salt) hence the word 'salary'. It was so economically vital that the four-mile wall surrounding Ston was constructed to protect it - a wall whose size is second only to the Great Wall of China.

A taste-tour awaits you on arrival with a visit to a local wine producer. Indulge your palate with some of the traditional flavours of the Stons such as the regional delicacy of Pag Cheese, accompanied by exquisite wafers of sliced prosciutto whilst your hosts serve a selection of flavoursome local wines and anecdotes - this authentic encounter will immerse you in the region's rich culinary legacy anecdotes. Our wine tasting is followed by a delicious traditional lunch at a local restaurant.

From there it's on to Mali Ston proper; wind through the ancient streets, stop to admire the shimmering waters of the bay as you explore this colourful medieval village. Finally, before setting off for the great city of Dubrovnik, you should sample the local speciality of fresh oysters, which have been farmed in Mali Ston since the days of the Roman Empire. 

Once a client of the mighty trade republic of Venice, the city of Dubrovnik broke free from her master to become the grand maritime city-state of Ragusa in the 14th century, being known by both names for centuries. Trading across the Mediterranean, Dubrovnik grew to be a hub of business and culture for the whole of Croatia and the Mediterranean Sea.

The commercial expansion of the Republic across the seas led to the city's rapid growth, becoming the 'Crown of Croatia' or 'Queen of the Adriatic'. The 15th through 17th centuries were a golden age, with the construction of numerous architectural marvels, such as the Rector's Palace or the Sponza Palace, now a museum and a city archive respectively. The entirely marble-paved main throughfare, a spectacle to behold in the early afternoon sun, is a portal to an array of cafés, shops, attractions and historic monuments. Today we’ll explore it all on a guided tour, followed by a cable car journey to the peak of Mount Srđ. With an expansive overview of the entire cityscape, from the Old Town to the coastline of Dalmatia, it's a breathtaking journey to the summit where you can pay a thoughtful visit to the Homeland War Museum or just enjoy the spectacular view with some refreshments.

Later, enjoy free time to continue exploring before dinner at the hotel.  

With a day to yourself, you're free to go where your interest takes you. Unearth the city's Medieval heritage as you explore its ancient walls. Marvel at the artistic spectacles to be found in the many museums, galleries and historic buildings. Relax and observe the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik's inhabitants from a quaint pavement café. Why not see the city from the perspective of its maritime past with a harbour cruise? 

You'll travel south from Dubrovnik's rocky shores through the verdant acres of Konavle's luscious countryside. Settled between Croatia's soaring Dinaric Alps and the sapphire waves of the Adriatic, Konavle is the country's Southernmost region. Serving as the cornucopia of the former city-state, this plenteous land has for centuries provided Mediterranean staples from its many farms, vineyards and olive groves. You can see the agricultural heritage through the region's many vintage estates, which still value traditional farming.

The name 'Konavle' comes from the Latin 'canalis' and refers to the regions many waterways. This abundant source of irrigation resulted in the construction of many water mills, however there are only three still operating today. You'll visit one of these wonderfully preserved mills and see the fascinating traditional methods used in producing woollen cloth. This is followed by tasting of a confectionery treat like candied almonds, figs, sugared citrus peels and handmade liqueurs, in addition to an array of local prosciutto, cheeses, wines and breads which Konavle is best known for. 

Outside of Cavtat, nestled in the warm pastoral scenery, is the farm of the friendly Novaković family, who are delighted show you around their wonderful farm and gardens. Sample a selection of delicious dishes made with fresh seasonal fare from the farm and gardens; with recipes inherited by successive generations, enjoy traditional dishes prepared by hand over a welcoming fire. Make sure to take some time to explore the wine cellar and discover the story of the region and its traditions at the nearby museum. 

Looking like you've stepped into a Cézanne canvas, the town of Cavtat sits in idyllic repose on the coast of the Adriatic surveyed by lush, verdurous cypress and pine trees. The harbour feels straight out of the French Riviera, as palm trees provide welcome shade to the many bistros and restaurants overlooking the gentle, lapping waves. It's the perfect place to take a moment for yourself and just enjoy the world passing by.