Hiking in the Heart of Croatian Treasures

Upon arrival at Split airport, pick up your rental vehicle to begin your adventure.

Head towards Starigrad, admiring the stunning coastal landscapes of Dalmatia along the way.

Once you arrive in Starigrad, let yourself be charmed by this peaceful little town, renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and proximity to Paklenica National Park.

Visit its picturesque harbor, stroll along the sea, and savor local specialties in a waterfront restaurant, where fresh fish and seafood dishes are among the must-tries.

To continue this park visit, you have the possibility of climbing Sveto Brdo, a summit of 1752 meters located in the Paklenica National Park.

It is one of the most popular summits in the park, but you need to be prepared for a moderate to difficult hike.

The trail starts from the Velika Paklenica gorge (980m elevation gain) and climbs through forests and rocky areas.

Estimated duration: 5-6 hours of hiking, with significant elevation gain. Although the trail is marked, it can be demanding, so prepare good shoes and plenty of water.

This trail will allow you to discover a spectacular view over the entire Velebit region, as well as the Adriatic Sea in the distance.

This morning, set off on a hike to Vaganski Vrh, the highest peak in the Velebit massif.

Hike to Vaganski Vrh (1200 m elevation gain) :
Conquer this summit standing at 1757 m altitude. This demanding hike, lasting approximately 5-6 hours, offers spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding mountains. You will traverse alpine meadows and steep ridges, in a wild and unspoiled environment. This route is recommended for experienced hikers due to its significant elevation gain and difficult level.

After this day rich in discoveries, head to the exceptional Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Upon your arrival, settle into your hotel in Plitvice and enjoy a moment of relaxation in preparation for exploring the natural wonders of the park the next day.

Join the Plitvice Lakes National Park and explore its 16 lakes and waterfalls that make it an emblematic location. This unforgettable stroll will amaze you with the breathtaking beauty of the waterfalls and natural landscapes of the park.

Enjoy the superb Veliki Slap waterfalls and admire the spectacular views of the turquoise lakes. Surrounded by lush forests and crystal-clear waters, the park is ideal for a complete immersion in nature.

In the evening, head towards Istria to reach the charming town of Opatija, nestled between the Adriatic Sea and Učka National Park.

Today, set off to discover the Učka Natural Park, near Opatija, for a hike in the mountains.

• Hike to Vojak (600 m elevation gain) :
  Take a moderate trail of 10-12 km to climb the Vojak summit, the highest point in Učka Natural Park. This route will take you through beech forests, alpine meadows and rocky ridges.

• At the summit, a spectacular panoramic view of the Adriatic Sea, the Kvarner region and the surrounding islands awaits you. The hike lasts approximately 3-4 hours, with an elevation gain of 600 m.

Afternoon: Return to Opatija Back in Opatija, enjoy the soothing atmosphere of this seaside resort.

• Walk along the Lungomare :
  Stroll along the famous Lungomare promenade, which runs along the coast and offers magnificent views of the sea. Take time to explore the gardens, historic villas and terraces of the town, perfect for a relaxing break with a view of the Adriatic.

Today, set off to explore the north of the Velebit Nature Park.

Hiking to Zavižan (800 m elevation gain): begin the ascent towards the Zavižan mountain refuge, perched at 1594 m altitude. This 13 km trail crosses spectacular landscapes: alpine meadows, pine forests and impressive views of the mountains and sea.
Spend the day hiking along wild ridges and admiring breathtaking panoramas. The effort expended is amply rewarded by an unmissable view of the Dalmatian islands and mountain reliefs. This hike, of difficult level, is suitable for experienced adventurers.

At the end of the day, join Starigrad by following the exceptional landscapes of the Velebit massif, a perfect conclusion to this immersion in nature.

Head to Zadar.

Embark on a ferry heading to Dugi Otok island, a natural gem off the Dalmatian coast. The crossing offers spectacular and unforgettable landscapes.

Hiking in Dugi Otok Natural Park (500 m elevation gain): upon arrival on the island, take a trail crossing the island. Along the way, explore the Mir Lagoon, a must-see for its shallow waters and migratory wildlife. The trail winds through forests and steep coastlines, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the Adriatic Sea.

Saharun Beach: After your hike, head to Saharun Beach, famous for its fine sand and crystal-clear waters. Take advantage of this idyllic setting for a swim, a moment of relaxation in the sun or a well-deserved picnic.

Coastal Hike: If you wish to extend the adventure, explore the wild coastline. Discover secluded coves, spectacular cliffs and breathtaking views over neighboring islands. This moderate-level hike, with approximately 500 m elevation gain, lasts 4 to 5 hours.

In the afternoon, take the ferry back to Zadar.

Take advantage of the evening to stroll through the old town. Visit the Roman Forum or the archaeology museum, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this charming city before returning to your hotel in Starigrad for the night.

After breakfast, depart for theKrka National Park

• Explore the lakes and waterfalls of Krka, famous for their natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. Admire the impressive Skradinski Buk waterfalls, one of the largest in Croatia and follow the marked trails in the park, accessible to all levels.

• Weather permitting, take a boat to reach Visovac Island, a small verdant islet nestled in the middle of Visovac Lake. On the island stands a 14th-century Franciscan monastery, a peaceful place steeped in history, perfect for a moment of contemplation.

• Urban option: Split and Trogir - If you prefer urban exploration, you can skip Krka and head directly to Split. Discover the Diocletian's Palace, stroll along the Riva, and explore the picturesque streets of the city center.
  Then continue to Trogir, a medieval city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its cobbled streets, visit the Saint Lawrence Cathedral, and discover the Kamerlengo Fortress for a dive into history.