Dubrovnik to Ljubljana

Dobro Dosli! Welcome to Croatia. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. You can arrive at any time during the day as there are no activities planned until this important meeting. Although it experienced devastation during the war in the early 1990s, Dubrovnik’s old town is the undisputed jewel of the Dalmatian Coast. With its tiled roofs and white stone buildings, the old town remains as charming as ever. Extensive restoration has taken place to return it to its original splendour, and even today repairs are still being undertaken. With the sparkling water of the Adriatic in the background, Dubrovnik is picturesque, full of character and can easily be covered on foot. If you do arrive early, why not head out to one of the Elafiti Islands? There's Lopud, a quiet island with lovely hikes, clean beaches and a ruined castle. Kolocep is a sleepy enclave that boasts walks for every fitness level and Sipan, which is the most populated of the isles and reputedly has the most hospitable inhabitants. Alternatively, you might choose to simply laze about on one of Dubrovnik's beaches and people-watch for hours.

Start the day by beating the crowds with an early morning walk along Dubrovnik's famous 2-kilometre-long city walls surrounding the old town. Enjoy views of the sea from the fully intact medieval structure, then enjoy all that Dubrovnik has to offer with the remainder of the day free for you to explore. Visit Big Onofrio's Fountain, a masterpiece built by famous European architect Onofrio della Cava. This 15th-century landmark was built to supply water to the city, flowing from the spigots into the collection trough surrounding it. Be sure to check out the Franciscan monastery with one of the world's oldest, continuously functioning pharmacies, founded in the 13th century. If you still feel energetic after a day exploring the city you can take the switchbacks leading up Srd Hill behind Dubrovnik for spectacular views of the city and the Dalmatian coastline. Otherwise, the newly restored cable car can whisk you to the top in no time. The hill is topped by a castle of Napoleonic times, which now houses the Museum of the Croatian War of Independence. (B)

Journey to Korcula today, along the narrow and scenic Peljesac Peninsula to its very tip. The last stretch to Korcula will be done by car ferry. For the next two nights, stay with generous hosts – locals who rent out their rooms in the summer season. The rooms, while simple, are the best way to put money back into the local economy. When you arrive, head out for a sunset hike to Zrnovo village. Wind through old villages next to olive trees and soak up the view over Peljesac Channel. End your hike when you arrive at a family-owned restaurant in Zrnovo village and sit down for an included dinner of local ingredients, including traditional Dalmatian meat loaf or pasticada (traditional stewed beef) and some fresh grilled vegetables with olive oil, usually served with fresh goat and sheep cheeses (and maybe some smoked ham to tie it all together). Return back to Korcula via private vehicle and use the evening to relax. (B/D)

Today, head on a day trip to the stunning Mljet Island. Mljet is Croatia’s greenest island, with a large section of the north western shores part of a national park. The island is well known for its two salt lakes – Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero (big lake and small lake) – that are located at the north end of the island. With some of the clearest waters in the world, any of the Adriatic islands shimmer in the sunlight, but Mljet is extra special. Start Mljet's exploration with a short hike into the island's interior, followed by a ferry ride to St Mary's Benedictine Monastery, located on an island in one of the lakes. Spend the day discovering its tiny towns dotted around the island, the weaving and winding coastline full of nature walks and scenic lookouts and, of course, the sandy beaches, tranquil inlets and turquoise blue shores calling out to be explored. Mljet is a little further away and less visited than the tourist hotspots of Brac and Hvar, so you’ll be able to stray away from the crowds and have this peaceful paradise to yourself. Head back to Korcula in the afternoon for a relaxing evening, hopefully full of delicious food and some great local wine.

A hydrofoil ferry takes you to the neighbouring island of Hvar this morning. . Beautiful Hvar has an air of Venice about it and is known as the 'Queen of the Dalmatian Islands'. When you arrive, get to know the town with its wonderfully preserved Renaissance facades on an orientation walk. Later, you can enjoy your included hop on hop off taxi boat pass that departs every half hour to the nearby Pakleni islands – largely uninhabited and often described as being among the most beautiful in the world. All three islands have gorgeous beaches and walking trails to explore and also boast plenty of bars and restaurants, so you'll have no shortage of lunch, aperitif and dinner spots to choose from!

Today is a free day to explore this island at your leisure. Maybe take a bus to the interior of Hvar Island where you can take a leisurely hike through the abandoned villages of Velo Grablje and Malo Grablje, gently descending all the way down to the sea at Milna Bay. On the way you can witness what remains of the typical Mediterranean life that flourished on the Croatian islands in the 18th and 19th centuries. Hike past dramatic jagged limestone cliffs and slow your pace to enjoy the undulating farms, fields of lavender and rosemary, and ancient olive groves. Cool down in the shimmering waters upon arrival into the little town of Milna where the hike ends. Alternatively there are plenty of other options for exciting activities in town. If you’re not feeling super energetic today, spend the day lounging at one of the island's many quiet beaches and enjoy a sunset stroll along the harbour promenade.

Catch a boat to Split this morning. Situated on a small peninsula on the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea, Split is the second largest city in Croatia. Join a local guide for a walking tour of this stunning seaside town and get to know its history. See the original and fantastically preserved basements under the city, as well as the Cathedral in Diocletian's Peristyle and Jupiter's Temple. Explore the impressive ruins of Diocletian's Palace – Split's most imposing structure and some of the most interesting ruins on the Adriatic coast. Portions of the Palace are over 1700 years old and there’s ample time to walk around. Split grew out from Diocletian's Palace and you can almost see it evolving in a multitude of different ways right before your eyes. Some cultures might have made the palace a museum, but Split is a dynamic and vibrant place, and now the palace houses many businesses and homes. If your feet get tired, why not grab a drink at a cafe on the Riva Promenade and people watch for a while? Be sure get your group together for a harbourside dinner – it’s time for more of a relax!

Take a full day to explore Split further. You might like to take a day trip to the surrounding area and visit the ancient Roman city of Salona, or the sleepy towns of Trogir or Sibenik. There will be a meeting at 6 pm to welcome any new travellers joining you on the next stage of your adventure. In the evening why not head out for some fresh seafood with your travel companions?

This morning, you'll travel by local bus northwest to Zadar. For centuries Zadar was the capital city of Dalmatia, and the city's rich heritage is visible at every step. An important coastal town, the musical steps of the ‘Sea Organ’ on Zadar's waterfront express its important relationship with the sea. Trace marble streets through the Old Town and discover Roman ruins in amongst medieval churches. Enjoy some local food and drinks in a city that’s home to a vibrant café culture. Zadarsko pivo is a light beer with a very pleasant taste, just a little bit bitter, with a rich flavour. After, maybe treat yourself to a gourmet meal at a contemporary Croatian restaurant. Try njoki (lamb in red wine) with Dalmatian ham and rocket salad, or opt for the popular choice of fresh tuna carpaccio or a fillet in scampi sauce. Also try the famous liqueur, Maraskino, made from locally-grown maraschino cherries according to a centuries' old secret recipe. This unique drink was a favourite at European imperial and royal courts and has been produced in Zadar since 1821. (B)

Head out of the city this morning for a special experience at the farm of the Benedictines of St. Mary. This order leads a secluded life, believing that working on the agricultural land brings them closer to God. During your visit, you'll taste some of the award-winning jams, liqueurs and juices produced in the monastery. Sample high-quality olive oils and wines with cheese and bread, then take a tour of the property. As you walk around the orchards, you'll learn about how the nuns live, the fruits grown on the grounds and how their products are produced. After some time to explore, you'll head back to Zadar in the afternoon, where you'll have free time. Maybe try the famous liqueur, Maraskino, made from the locally grown maraschino cherries. This unique drink was a favourite at European royal courts and has been produced in Zadar since 1821. (B)

Travel inland this morning to your next base in Grabovac and visit Plitvice Lakes National Park – an Eden of waterfalls and lakes. Fed by the Bijela and Crna Rivers, the waters tumble from tree-lined ridges through dense forests. Sixteen lakes fed by underground springs are split into the upper and lower lakes. The upper are in the dolomite cliffs, where water weaves in and out of the karst, dropping dramatically down to the lower lakes. This interplay of water, rock and plant life creates a dynamic landscape. Look out for over 120 species of birds, including hawks and owls, and butterflies that transform the park into a riot of colour. After, visit Licko Petrovo Selo – a small village next to the park with a local NGO that focuses on preserving the historical art of woolly men's underwear. Take a short tour of the NGO and hear about how they preserve this important part of their cultural heritage (and maybe even buy a warm souvenir to take home). (B)

Continue to Croatia’s capital and largest city – Zagreb. Full of parks and squares, Zagreb is a laidback place, proud of its coffee culture and the perfect spot to wander. Follow your leader on an orientation walk when you arrive and then enjoy some free time for the rest of your time here. Maybe join one of the many free walking tours in the city and engage with a local here to learn about their daily life or browse the city’s stunning neo-baroque and gothic architecture. You could check out Tkalciceva Street’s lively social scene or head up Medvednica Mountain, where the views stretch as far as neighboring Slovenia on a clear day. To live like a local, maybe head to Zagreb’s open-air markets where you’ll find all kinds of fresh vegetables, nuts, honey and liqueurs. (B)

This morning, take the train and cross the border to Ljubljana. One of the smallest capitals in Europe, Ljubljana makes up for it by also being one of the greenest and most vibrant cities on the continent. Follow your leader on an orientation walk and ride the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views of the city. Dubbed the ‘dragon city’ due its ties to Greek mythology, you’ll likely spot dragon symbols scattered about. Ljubljana, home to 50,000 students, is known for its lively nightlife. Explore Metalkova for an alternative vibe or the Old Town for its historical charm – or ask your leader for their recommendations.

Embark on a day trip to Lake Bled this morning. Your leader will guide you on a scenic walk that passes some impressive 19th century villas, including the residence of the former Yogoslav president ‘Marshal’ Titi – now known as the hotel Vila Bled. The rest of the day is free for you to explore all that Bled has to offer. If you’re feeling active, consider renting a paddleboard and taking a trip around the picturesque island. Alternatively, you can get on a Plenta boat ride – a wooden, awning-covered boat rowed by a special oarsman – and reach it that way. From there, climb the 99 steps to St Mary’s Church and ring the wishing bell. Be sure to seek out the famous Bled cream cake, which isn’t hard – nearly every cafe and cake shop in town claims theirs is the best. Return to Ljubljana in the evening and perhaps round your group together for a final dinner. (B)

There are no activities planned for the final day and you can depart your accommodation at any time. For those who wish to stay in Ljubljana, reach out to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation. (B)