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Spotlight on: Galesnjak, Croatia’s heart-shaped island

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What could be better for Valentine’s Day than an actual island in the shape of a heart? I mean, imagine gifting that to someone! Technically you could, for a heart-shaped island exists in Croatia – the island of Galesnjak. And what’s even more impressive is that this island is naturally heart-shaped – no man-made interference here. Let’s learn more about Galesnjak, where it is and whether it’s possible to visit it.

The heart-shaped Galesnjak island in Croatia
Aerial view of the heart shaped Galesnjak island

The island has of course existed for a long, long time – but it was in 2008 when it became famous, “discovered” as it was by Google Earth and subsequently quite a bit of fanfare in the global press. And fair enough – it’s a good looking island, and what could be more charming than one in the shape of a heart?

About Galesnjak

Also referred to as the Island of Love or Lover’s Island, Galesnjak is actually located very close to the mainland in North Dalmatia. It lies in the Pasman channel, only 600 metres away from the mainland, in front of Pasman island and slightly north of the popular holiday town Biograd na moru. It has a total size of 132,000 square metres.

It is a privately-owned island and there is, essentially, nothing on the island by way of visitor facilities, amenities or similar. The island is largely covered by shrubs which gives it its appearance. A few years ago, part of the plant life was raised with the aim of beautiful olive trees being planted to improve the general romantic nature of Galesnjak.

The island has of course existed for a long, long time, and there is even evidence of life having existed on the island many centuries ago. It was first recorded on maps in the 19th century; however, it was in 2008 when it became famous, “discovered” as it was by Google Earth and subsequently quite a bit of fanfare in the global press. And fair enough – it’s a good looking island, and what could be more charming than one in the shape of a heart?

Here is what Galesnjak looks like on Google Earth now:

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Visiting Galesnjak

As a privately-owned island, Galesnjak is closed to visitors generally…unless you are able to organise a private (in other words, rather expensive) trip of some sort. There have been rumours that celebrities such as Beyonce and Jeff Bezos have visited and held parties on Galesnjak because…well, if you have that level wealth, why wouldn’t you?

You are of course permitted to sail near to the island to view it – although, again, you would need to do so on a private tour which would also see you visiting other small islands and nearby locations. Take a look at some of the following private boat tours from Zadar that are available:

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Okay, what about…owning Galesnjak?

Part of Galesnjak was up for sale a few years ago. You could have bought 40,000 square metres of the island for a cool €13 million. Understandably, it’s unknown whether the sale went through or not.

Location of Galesnjak, the heart-shaped island in Croatia
A view of Galesnjak (you can see where parts of the island have been razed) and its location close to the mainland

More info

You can discover more about Croatia’s heart-shaped island on the website of Pasman Tourist Board

Given its shape, Galesnjak gets a fair amount of press. Have a read of some articles: Is This the World’s Most Adorable Island? (Conde Nast Traveler, September 2014); Perfect Valentine: Part of Croatia’s heart-shaped island up for sale (Reuters, February 2023)

Spotlight on: Blue Lagoon, Dalmatia

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If you’re visiting the central part of Dalmatia – in and around its main city of Split – you may have come across the possibility of visiting somewhere called the Blue Lagoon. While this sounds rather spectacular, it’s not the only Blue Lagoon in the world – you may have heard (or visited) that amazing geothermal spa that’s located just outside Reykjavik in Iceland. (I have and that place is magical! But I digress…) Let me first tell you that the Blue Lagoon in Croatia is nothing like the Icelandic version and secondly, it still is magical in a slightly different way! Here’s a guide to why you should visit the Blue Lagoon and what you can see and enjoy when doing so.

Ariel view of popular Blue Lagoon – Krknjasi near town Trogir, in the Adriatic sea, Croatia

About The Blue Lagoon and its features

Croatia’s Blue Lagoon is located just off the tiny island of Drvenik Veli, a sister island to Drvenik Mali. (Veli and mali meaning big and small!) The lagoon is located in Krknjasi Bay on the eastern side of the island. It is referred to as the Blue Lagoon because of its stunningly clear blue and turquoise waters atop a sandy seabed and next to a white pebble beach.

The sea area here is remarkably still and shallow – helping to produce this gorgeous blue effect – protected as it is by two further islets, Krknjas Veli and Krknjas Mali. (There goes those veli and mali names again. Now you know what they mean!)

This whole experience is one of paradise, with some even calling it akin to the Caribbean. Whilst I have no personal experience, let’s just stick to admiring this slice of heaven in the Mediterranean, shall we?!

This is certainly one of these places where words can’t fully do it justice, and photos can only go so far. Why not experience it for yourself when you next visit this part of Croatia?

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Getting to the Blue Lagoon & Visiting

By excursion

In almost all cases, it would be easiest to join an organised tour if wanting to visit the Blue Lagoon. Tours from local towns and cities exist, such as from Split and Trogir. These tours generally include visiting the Blue Lagoon as just part of the day – often, you will also get to visit other small islands in the region, or historic gems such as Trogir. In all cases, you will have at least an hour or two to enjoy in the Blue Lagoon itself for swimming and snorkelling. (Snorkelling equipment is normally always provided by the excursion company.)

Take a look at some of the options for tours from Split…

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…and some of the excursion options from Trogir:

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Local Trogir agency Bura Line also offers a 10-hour tour from Split that includes stops in Trogir, the island of Ciovo and the island of Solta as well as the Blue Lagoon.

By ferry

You can otherwise opt to take a public ferry from Trogir to Drvenik Veli. Jadrolinija operates this route, sailing three times a day, year-round. (The boat in fact then also sails on to Drvenik Mali.) Should you utilise this boat, it would give you a full day on the island as the latest return boat departs 7 and a half hours after you’re first dropped off. (Do check timetables carefully so you’re not stranded by missing the return boat!)

The boat docks at Drvenik Veliki, the main settlement on Drvenik Veli. This is around a 45-minute walk away from the Blue Lagoon bay.

Should you wish for more time on the island and to enjoy the Blue Lagoon, there is a small handful of accommodation in Drvenik Veliki. You can search and book using the map below:

Opening Hours and Price

Well, seeing as it’s a natural bay in the sea, it’s open all the time! But you are of course restricted to the hours that you can reach the area by boat.

As for the price – the lagoon itself is free, but you are again dependent on the cost of the excursion or ferry!

When is Best to Go to the Blue Lagoon

As you can perhaps imagine, the Blue Lagoon can be a popular place to visit – sometimes too popular. Obviously summer is the best time to come here to get the full effect of sunshine and warm Adriatic waters, but you’ll be joined by a good number of other day trippers.

Consider visiting outside of the peak summer period – let’s say early June or mid to late September – when you’ll still be able to enjoy swimming here but alongside fewer visitors.

What to See and Do

Relax! Enjoy the gorgeous blue waters and the tranquil surroundings of where you are. If you visiting from somewhere as bustling as Split, it will be quite a contrast.

If you have access to snorkelling equipment, absolutely give it a go. You’ll be able to view the marine life in the calm waters, and snorkelling itself is such a calming activity.

More info

Unfortunately, Drvenik Veli appears not oto have a tourist board website, so online information is somewhat limited. There’s a small slice of info on the Visit Trogir website.

Travel question: the best places to stay from Zadar to Dubrovnik

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Hi, we are planning to fly into Zadar in late June for approximately 14 nights, working our way to Dubrovnik and flying back from there. Looking for about 6 or more places to stay over on our way down, we will be travelling by bus so don’t want long bus transfers, so could you give me some ideas of some nice places where we could stay or when travelling down, please?

J.P.

14 nights from Zadar to Dubrovnik sounds truly wonderful, lucky you! That’s a great amount of time to see Dalmatia. Travelling by bus is no problem, and I would also actually add some catamarans (or ferries, where applicable) into the mix as this trip would also be a good chance to see and experience some islands. However, I’ll also give you an option to stick to the mainland only if you prefer.

Zadar to Dubrovnik - Trogir
Trogir

Zadar to Dubrovnik – Travelling on the mainland, by bus, only

  • Start in lovely Zadar with so much to explore and enjoy here!
    …1 hour 30 minutes by bus to…
  • Sibenik – a charming old town, with its two UNESCO World Heritage sites (definitely visit the fortresses!), and a lovely harbourfront 
    …30 minutes to…
  • Skradin to visit Krka National Park, a gem of a national park with its gorgeous waterfalls and lakes, plenty to explore on a day or two here
    …just over 1 hour to… (N.B. Only one bus a day at 17.30 with Best Line)
  • Trogir – a gorgeous little town, lots of tiny cobbled streets, good restaurants and cafes
    …only 30/45 minutes to…
  • Split – Croatia’s second city, a must-visit on your way down from Zadar to Dubrovnik! So much to see and do here, plus excellent restaurants, bars, shopping, beaches…the list goes on!
    …just over 1 hour to…
  • Makarska – another highlight on this part of the coast, a popular holiday destination with great amenities and rather impressively loomed over by Mount Biokovo
    …2 hours 30 mins/3 hours to…
  • Dubrovnik – the pearl of the Adriatic!

So, the above is actually only 5 places to stop off at when travelling down from Zadar to Dubrovnik. I think this is a good amount as you can base yourself in any one place and then make additional bus trips to nearby locations.

I would have liked to add in an extra place between Makarska and Dubrovnik for you, but this part of the coast thins out a little in terms of towns to visit. One place to explore would have been somewhere on the Peljesac Peninsula e.g. Ston but it is only possible to travel there from Makarska (if travelling by bus) via Dubrovnik, which wouldn’t make much sense.

The GetByBus website will help you look up bus timetables and book tickets.

From Zadar to Dubrovnik - Korcula Town
Korcula Town

Zadar to Dubrovnik – Mainland by bus to Split and then by catamaran down to Dubrovnik

Now for the second option. The start is as the above itinerary, for the Zadar to Split portion, and then from there: 

  • Split
    …1 hour by catamaran…
  • Hvar Town on Hvar – a popular island town with great restaurants and interesting sights (the Spanjola Fortress on the hill is a must-see); taking a taxi bro to the Pakleni islands on a day trip is also recommended
    …1 hour 10 mins by catamaran to…
  • Korcula Town – a mini-Dubrovnik, a delightful place
    …just under 2 hours to…
  • Dubrovnik

Or two other islands you could do instead would be Brac (home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach) or Mljet (with its beautiful greenery and nature). Or any combination of two – Hvar and Mljet, Brac and Korcula…

Kapetan Luka and Jadrolinija run these catamarans; there are quite a few sailings on these routes (some – e.g. Split to Hvar – more than others) so the best advice would be to look up tickets on the ferry company websites to see what time the sailings are.

Enjoy your travels from Zadar to Dubrovnik!

September press coverage on Croatia round-up

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In the first of a (perhaps) semi-regular series, I thought I’d round up some of the recent rather special UK press coverage on Croatia. There have been some great articles appearing in various newspapers and magazines this month!

A road trip from Split to Dubrovnik

One of the best articles this month is featured in the latest edition (October 2023 issue) of the UK version of National Geographic Traveller magazine. In an article titled “A Land of Stories” in the magazine, the author Adrian Phillips undertakes a road trip from Split to Dubrovnik, making use of the new(ish) Peljesac Bridge.

Press coverage on Croatia - National Geographic Traveller

Adrian is particularly impressed by some of the eccentricities of Split – Froggyland, Gregory of Nin’s big toe, “Diocletian” making his way through the streets of his palace – before heading down to the former pirate HQ that is Omis. This part of Croatia is adventure central and that’s indeed what Adrian does – enjoying both zip-lining over the Cetina River and rafting before backtracking to Podstrana to try horseriding. A stop-off to explore Biokovo Skywalk is also on the cards, where Adrian nervously watches children jump up and down on the glass to see if it cracks!

Of course, it’s the Peljesac Peninsula where Adrian spends a fair amount of his time. He sets sail on the waters near Mali Ston to experience oyster and mussel farming, particularly enjoying freshly harvested mussels. The next day he meets with the team behind Edivo Winery, who seal and store Plavac Mali wine in amphorae underwater for two years. (Yes, really!)

You can read the article online here: A Croatian coastal odyssey: why road-tripping from Split to Dubrovnik is easier than ever although it’s really worth picking up a copy of the magazine for some glorious images of the Dalmatian coastline.

Family fun and adventure in Croatia

Another one of my favourite articles from the past few months is one written by Ben Machell in The Times. Ben and his family (him, his wife and his two kids) normally holiday in an all-inclusive resort (not in Croatia) and spend their time lazing by the pool. Wanting something different this year, he gambled on a two-week adventure itinerary in Croatia, starting off in Zadar and ending in Dubrovnik.

Ben and his family seem utterly delighted by Croatia and everything the country offers. As well as exploring the cities of Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik and the sights these cities have, his family try kayaking on the Zrmanja River (near Zadar), boating in the Kornati National Park, whitewater rafting on the Cetina River (as above!) – where the kids also embark on some cliff jumping – relaxing on Korcula and making use of everything the Sun Gardens Dubrovnik resort has to offer. This includes sea kayaking, where Ben and his son gained access to a hidden sea cave by swimming underwater two metres of solid rock.

One of the star quotes of the article:

…my first full dose of Croatia’s ridiculous natural beauty, , which — I would come to understand — could often seem almost hyper-real in colour and texture: bright-blue water, emerald-green forests, rugged, silver-grey mountains and gorges that sparkled in the sun.

Ben Machell, The Times

And overall? “We loved Croatia and we loved our adventures there.” A wonderful conclusion!

You can read the article online here: The adventure holiday that cured my family’s all-inclusive habit.

Wellness on Losinj

You magazine – The Mail on Sunday’s supplement – recently published a travel issue which featured an article titled “Welcome to wellness island” about the island of Losinj. Written by Rachel Johnson (yes, sister of you-know-who), I was initially amused to read that she had “never even heard of” Rijeka, to where she flew in Croatia to reach the island.

Press coverage on Croatia - You magazine

But once on the island, Rachel thoroughly enjoys partaking in something called a “Sea-Tox” at the Hotel Bellevue. Undertaking a full body analysis to better target a treatment programme for her, on the following days Rachel embarks on treatments such as massages and cryotherapy and activities such as hiking around Losinj.

The Sea-Tox is also supposed to include a limited diet, normally restricting carbs and sugar; rather amusingly, Rachel not only doesn’t partake in this aspect of the programme but also indulges in meals at the Michelin-starred restaurant in the neighbouring Hotel Alhambra.

After four days, I felt bursting with health, vitality and energy. I slept deeply, with the windows wide open, swam every day and never felt hungry.

Rachel Johnson, You magazine

Sounds idyllic and let’s face it – many of us would also indulge in meals at a Michelin-starred restaurant if we could!

For more press coverage on Croatia, take a look at our Articles on Croatia section.

Marco Polo Challenge

12th edition of Marco Polo Challenge on Korcula this Sunday, 24th April

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This Sunday, 24th April 2022, the 12th Marco Polo Challenge triathlon will take place on the gorgeous island of Korcula – the reputed birthplace of the famous explorer after whom the triathlon is named.

Marco Polo Challenge, Korcula

About The Marco Polo Challenge

The middle distance triathlon, which will cover 1.9 km, 90km and 21km of swimming, cycling and running, takes place over the whole island of Korcula. This main event is to be held alongside a sprint distance triathlon, a sprint team relay and a 5km charity-fundraising run event.

The Marco Polo Challenge marks the opening of triathlon season in Croatia, and the event also hosts the middle distance Croatian championships. It is being jointly organized by Triathlon Club Split, Korcula Tourist Board and the town of Korcula in cooperation with Vela Luka and Smokvica municipalities and their tourist boards.

The organisers have prepared cash prizes and athletes will also have the opportunity to raise money for charity.


Nika Silić Maroević, Korčula Town Mayor, says:

“Welcome to Korcula – the island of Marco Polo that will enchant you with its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Discover our beautiful island; enjoy wandering around streets shaded by old stone houses, the most romantic sunrises, beautiful beaches and unique sword dances. Discover the taste of traditional local seasonal food and the finest Korcula wines and the extra virgin olive oils. Korcula is an ideal year-round triathlon holiday destination, as you will see for yourself during the competition.”

Hana Turudić, Korcula Town Tourist Board Director, says:

“Croatia has more than a thousand islands, and Korcula is different because of its wide range of activities. Korcula has been declared the safest Croatian island for a paradise vacation by Forbes magazine, which placed it on a list of the 12 safest islands in Europe. Get your bikes, running shoes and wetsuits ready for the challenging race and have a great time in Marco Polo’s home town. We invite you to extend your stay on Korcula and enjoy everything a warm springtime in the south of Dalmatia can offer.”

Korcula

Korcula – an ideal location for a triathlon

Korcula offers good weather conditions all year round, with open water swimming without wetsuits possible for most of the year.

Additionally, as the race is taking place in early season, the event’s accommodation sponsor, Aminess Hotels & Campsites, is offering participants top-of-the-line accommodation at extremely affordable rates.

Ivan Pavić, Race Director and General Secretary of Triathlon Club Split, says:

“We are thrilled to be bringing the championships in middle distance triathlon to this beautiful island of Croatia, and we are confident that athletes will have not only a great race experience but also a wonderful weekend in Korcula at the end of April.”

More info

All the details about the Marco Polo Challenge triathlon can be found on the official website: www.marcopolo-challenge.com. Learn more about Korcula on the Korcula Tourist Board website.

Marco Polo Challenge
24th April 2022, Korcula
www.marcopolo-challenge.com

Sibenik Spring gastro festival

First Sibenik Spring gastro event opens today

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Sibenik Spring, the first gastronomic street food festival of its kind in the town of Sibenik, starts today until 12th June. Held in the lush green Robert Visiani Park, the festival will be open daily 5pm to 11pm (11am to 11pm on Saturday 12th June), and entry is free. There will be tasty food offerings as well as plenty of live music each day, and even a kids corner provided by Sibenik’s Bubamara.

Sibenik Spring gastro festival

The festival opens today, Tuesday 8th June, with live music from famous Croatian saxophonist Jaksa Jordes accompanied by DJ Kresh. Wednesday 9th June will see DJ Matthew Bee perform, whilst its DJ Bakula’s turn on Thursday 10th June. Friday sees local Sibenik legend DJ Bake senior take to the decks, whilst attendees on Saturday 12th will be entertained by Sibenik saxophonist Chuck Borris, accompanied by DJ PaleolitiKa.

Jaksa Jordes, Sibenik Spring
Jaksa Jordes
DJ Bakula, Šibenik Spring
DJ Bakula
DJ Bake Senior
DJ Bake Senior

But what about the food? There will plenty, all from well known Sibenik restaurants and caterers! Festina Lente Restaurant will be providing guests with a choice of juicy burgers, crispy chicken wings and pulled pork sandwiches. Pjat will have amazing-sounding tuna ceviche tacos and porchetta (pork belly) flat breads. Bistro Pucalina will offer up a feast of items including manistra (a Dalmatian soup/stew dish) with cuttlefish, lamb and desserts such as Sibenik gibanica and Skradin chocolates. Karoca will offer healthy juices, frappes, smoothies and cocktails; Konoba Lola will have traditional Dalmatian platters; whilst pastry shop Yum will be selling all manner of innovative desserts. And if you need something cold to wash down these tasty offerings, there will be Staropramen and Grif beers, Wai hard seltzer, Jamnica, Henricks gin and Thomas Henry mixers, Freixenet and Grasevina Kutjevo wine.

Sibenik Spring food
Dalmatian platter
Grill Sibenik Spring

If you’re in the Sibenik area, come down and sample the sumptuous food on offer as well as the refreshing drinks, enjoy the live music and revel in some open air fun!

Sibenik Spring is organised by the S2 Group, with support from the City of Sibenik, Sibenik Tourist Office and Sibenik-Knin County Tourist Office.

Sibenik Spring
8th – 12th June 2021
Robert Visiani Park
Sibenik Spring on Facebook

Island Hopping in Croatia by Car

Travel Question: Island-Hopping in Croatia by Car

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Hope this message finds you well. I am contacting you since I am planning to travel to Croatia in July.  Preparing for the trip, I am planning to visit the islands. The idea is to travel from Split to Brac, from there to Hvar, from Hvar to Korcula and follow to Orebic in order to finish in Dubrovnik. 

Island Hopping in Croatia by Car

Looking for the ferry lines I am not sure if travelling by car will be possible, visiting all the islands using ferries between them. 

Could you please help me with this? It will be great to have the ferry line company connections. I see a lot of catamarans but not sure about the car. 

Regarding the option of leaving the car in Split, and then using catamarans for foot passenger transportation, so it is possible for us to do: Split – Brac – Hvar – Korcula – Dubrovnik, using foot passenger catamarans? If yes, that seems a great alternative. 

When visiting the islands, do you know if it is an extended option to hire a motorbike, quad or similar on each island? That will help us to have more mobility. We did something similar in Greece and if yes, that’s everything solved. 

Thanks in advance for your time.

U.

Yes, what you have found is correct – there are very, very few car ferries that travel from island to island, making island hopping in Croatia by car a little tricky. For the region you’re visiting, you can see what car ferries exist on this Jadrolinija map (the car ferries being shown as a dotted line), the company that operates them.

If you were using foot-passenger-only catamarans then yes, you would be able to hop Split – Brac – Hvar – Korcula – Dubrovnik.

If you do want to visit the different islands you mention with a car, you will almost always have to return to the mainland after each island e.g. Split to Supetar on Brac, then back to Split; then Split to Stari Grad on Hvar, then either back to Split to go to Vela Luka on Korcula OR drive to eastern Hvar (Sucuraj) to take the ferry to Drvenik and then drive down the coast and up the Peljesac Peninsula to get the car ferry from Orebic to Korcula.

It obviously depends on how much time you have for your trip overall as to whether you’d mind this extra travel time (going back to the mainland after each island).

(Note: the above regarding car ferries has been the case for the past few years, it is nothing to do with the coronavirus pandemic.)

This year, it is now possible to make a booking for a car ferry for a particular time (before you were not guaranteed a time on the day of travel) for some car ferry routes. However, in peak summer, it is still advisable to get to the port 60 minutes before departure time.

So I would suggest you to consider how much exploring by car you wish to do on each island – do you really need a car for all of them? Perhaps you could visit some islands on a day (or two) trip from Split / another island by catamaran and leave your car behind? Or not rent a car initially, do some day (or two) trips and then return to Split and rent a car for the second half/part of your trip?

Yes, you can definitely do Split – Brac – Hvar – Korcula – Dubrovnik by catamaran. Jadrolinija basically does this exact line – timetable here.

Alternatively, Kapetan Luka has a catamaran that sails Split – Milna (Brac) – Hvar Town – Korcula Town – Pomena (Mljet) – Dubrovnik, timetable here.

Best islands in Croatia - Korcula

You can use the different catamarans AND utilise others too – for example, Jadrolinija have another Split – Bol catamaran (timetable here) that you may prefer to use for that portion of your journey, maybe it departs at a slightly better time for you. 

There is no “flexi-ticket”, “hop-on/hop-off ticket” for these long-range catamarans or similar – you will need to buy tickets for each leg that you do. So this is why it does not matter if you e.g. do Split to Bol to Hvar with Jadrolinija, then Hvar to Korcula with Kapetan Luka, then Korcula to Dubrovnik with Jadrolinija again.

What I would suggest is that you go on both companies’ websites and look up timetables via their ‘book tickets’ facility and then see what catamarans are the most suitable for you.

Just to confuse matters a bit more 🙂 there is also a company called TP Line that operates a Korcula – Dubrovnik catamaran in July and August that you could also use. (Timetable here.)

To answer your other questions – yes, you would definitely be able to hire (more likely) a moped, bike or even a small car on each island to explore for a few hours/a day. Some locations would offer a quad bike e.g. this company on Brac.

Enjoy your island adventures in Croatia!

Brasserie on 7

Brasserie on 7 in Split Reveals Special Spring Menu

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Split‘s acclaimed Brasserie on 7 restaurant has recently launched a Spring Specials menu featuring some special deals that are sure to tempt many of you to its doors on a future visit to Croatia.

Brasserie on 7
(Credit: Brasserie on 7)

Their All-Day Brunch offer includes freshly brewed coffee or tea paired with one of three breakfast choices – French toast, Eggs Benedict or Acai Bowl – for just 60 Kunas. If you’re eating out a little later in the day, there’s the B7 Lunch Special: a choice of main (either a burger, seafood risotto or chickpea salad), served with a complimentary glass of wine or beer, for just 100 Kunas.

Brasserie on 7 Breakfast
Eggs benedict (Credit: Brasserie on 7)
Brasserie on 7 Lunch
Seafood risotto (Credit: Brasserie on 7)

If you want to treat yourself to something sweet as well, Brasserie on 7 has a delicious patisserie menu to choose from – including their signature B7 cheesecake, gluten-free chocolate fudge cake or carrot cake.

Brasserie on 7 also recently announced the appointment of French-American Alexandre Ange as Executive Chef. Alex is classically trained in French cuisine and, having started his career in New York, has spent the last 12 years working at some of the top restaurants in both France and the U.S. including L’Atelier in Paris, run by Joel Robuchon – holder of the most Michelin stars in the world. He has subsequently worked with some of the world’s best chefs, including Thomas Keller and Philippe Tessier at The French Laundry in California’s Napa Valley, Joshua Skenes at Saison in San Francisco, Daniel Boulud at Restaurant Daniel in New York, as well as Marcus Samuelsson.

Brasserie on 7
(Credit: Brasserie on 7)

Alex has now made the move to Split, together with his family, and has an exciting vision on how to expand and improve on the imaginative and innovative menu that B7 is already famous for. Alex will be introducing subtle changes to the menu, whilst also using the very best produce Croatia has to offer.

Alex says:

“I strongly believe in using local ingredients and supporting Dalmatian producers. My vision is to bring our guests an exceptional and memorable dining experience by introducing a renovative food menu that satisfies the taste bud of local and international guests”.

Brasserie on 7 is owned by business power-duo Korana Bucic and Maria Mustapic. Both born and raised in Australia, they returned to Croatia in 2006 and opened the first registered hostel in Split. They then opened a second hostel, Charlie’s Backpacker’s Bar, Zinfandel Food & Wine and then Brasserie on 7 in its prime Riva location in 2014.

Maria says:

“After such a tough 2020 for the tourism and hospitality industry, I am thrilled to welcome Alex as our new Executive Chef. Sparked with passion for Mediterranean cuisine, we are absolutely delighted that Alex is joining our team, thus helping to further develop our culinary story!“

Korana continues:

“Our goal, as always, is to provide a memorable dining experience for each and every one of our guests. And with the addition of Alex, I am confident that Brasserie will reach new heights”

B7 Split
(Credit: Brasserie on 7)

Brasserie on 7 often takes part in community and humanitarian efforts in Split and the rest of Croatia. During the covid pandemic, both the Brasserie on 7 and Zinfandel restaurants cooked for local health workers. The restaurants also recently joined 300 volunteer chefs in cooking for the citizens of Petrinije, who were affected by the destructive earthquake there in December 2020.

Presently, Brasserie on 7 is open daily from 8am to 6pm (kitchen closes at 4pm).

Brasserie on 7
Obala Hrvatskog Narodnog Preporoda 7
Split 21000
Croatia
brasserieon7.com

Marine Sustainability Online Course - Green Sail

Free Marine Sustainability online course offered by Croatian organisation Green Sail

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The Croatian organisation Green Sail, which aims to develop sustainable tourism in the nautical sector, has launched its first ever marine sustainability online course.

The ‘Introduction to Marine Sustainability’ course has been designed by the organisation to raise awareness about pollution in the marine industry and the need for sustainable tourism now and in the future. The introductory-level course – completely free to all users – provides students with a useful insight into what approaches can be used to implement sustainability in tourism and how best to protect marine life. Anyone with an interest in sustainability, responsible tourism and marine protection will definitely be interested in Green Sail’s course.

Marine Sustainability Online Course - Green Sail
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Green Sail has been operating for a number of years in the sustainability sphere, working diligently to shift people’s behaviour and attitudes around sustainability, particularly in the nautical tourism sector. Green Sail has launched its marine sustainability online course as a response to the needs of the tourism industry. The organisation has switched to online learning; its on-site training has, unfortunately, had to be paused due to the coronavirus pandemic.

About the marine sustainability online course

The ‘Introduction to Marine Sustainability’ online course will provide users with an insight into how a sustainable approach to tourism, the environment and marine life is vital for a viable future. In particular, the course will address in detail the unbreakable bond between humans and the earth’s seas and oceans; this encourages a deeper understanding of the interconnection between oceans, the climate and weather.

The course also: covers the factors that impact climate change and its consequences; takes a look at the problem of sea waste and threats from pollution; and focuses on the importance of a sustainable tourism approach in the world we live in today. As mentioned, this course is completely free to all students.

Once completed, students will be able to understand how a sustainable approach to the environment can reduce pollution, climate change, sea waste and more. Students will also be able to discuss and apply the ideas behind these topics to their everyday life.

Marine Sustainability Online Course - Green Sail

Sign up for the course

You can find out more information about the course and enrol in it here: Introduction to Marine Sustainability.

About Green Sail

Based in Split, Croatia, Green Sail is a non-profit organisation that leads initiatives to support sustainable tourism development amongst coastal communities and in our seas. Through its Charter and Marina Programs, Green Sail partners with charter companies, marinas, institutions and environmentally-friendly businesses and individuals by providing informative and educational activities and materials.

For more information, please visit the Green Sail website or contact them on info@green-sail.com.

What's on in Croatia in October

What’s on in Croatia in October

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October may not exactly be prime beach weather, but there’s still plenty to see and do in Croatia in October! Read on below for some of the most interesting events taking place in Croatia this month.

Croatia in October

The CroRace

Formerly known as the Tour of Croatia (and having previously taken place in April in the last four years), CroRace will tour Croatia from 1st to the 6th October. Starting from Osijek and ending up in Zagreb, this year’s race will feature a number of Croatia’s beautiful national and nature parks (fourteen in total!) – including Plitvice, Krka Paklenica national parks, and Papuk, Ucka and Medvednica nature parks. A number of top teams, including last year’s winner Bahrain Merida, will be taking part as will cyclist Maciej Paterski who won the first event in 2015. If you’re in Croatia during this time and near the route, pop along to cheer on the cyclists! If you’re not, you can still view beautiful Croatia on TV – the race will be televised all over the world; in Europe, Eurosport will have coverage.

Croatia in October – Chestnuts Galore

October is a top month for a number of food-related festivals in Istria. One of the most popular is Marunada in Lovran (close to Opatija), which is dedicated to sweet chestnuts. First held in 1973, this festival is dedicated to a special type of chestnut – ‘Maruni’ – which grows in the Opatija Riviera; these chestnuts are larger, sweeter and can be peeled more easily than other types of chestnuts. Marunada offers the chance to sample all sorts of products made from chestnuts – cakes, pancakes, puree, pies, even chestnut goulash! And if you haven’t even ever tasted roasted chestnuts, you’re really missing out! There’s also plenty of other food to sample at this festival, and other things to enjoy – including live music and sports. Marunada will be helf in Lovran from 11th – 13th October 2019, and then in nearby Dobrec on 19th & 20th October and in Linganj on 26th & 27th October. Ask locally for more details, or see some more info at the Lovran Tourist Board website or the official Marunada website.

Croatia in October – Truffle Season

Istria is rich in truffles and October is the best month of the year for white truffles, which are the most valuable kind. Although events celebrating truffles are held in various locations throughout autumn, it’s in October when you have plenty of choice for different festivals – these include the Zigante Truffle Days held in Livade in inland Istria, close to Motovun. Actually held over ten weekends from the 14th September to the 17th November (which means every weekend in October!), you can sample all sorts of delicacies made from truffles as well as other gastronomic delights from Istria. You can even enjoy a guided truffle hunting tour in the Motovun forest, and on one weekend (19th & 20th October) there’s the International White Truffle Hunt Competition at which you can watch the master (human and dog!) at work, searching for truffles.

Motovun itself hosts the one-day Festival of Teran Wine and Truffles (19th October 2019) which showcases the local Teran wine as well as truffles.

Gastro Delights in Dubrovnik

So, your mouth may be salivating at the thought of all the above mentioned culinary masterpieces…but what if you’re visiting the opposite end of the country to Istria i.e. Dubrovnik? You’re still in luck! The Good Food Festival (14th – 20th October 2019) is now in its sixth edition and will feature a number of tours, lectures, presentations and workshops (for example, on making special Croatian dishes). Numerous Dubrovnik cafes, bars and restaurants will also take part, either hosting special tasting events or offering special menus for the week-long event. One of the main components of the Festival is the ‘Dubrovnik Table’ (usually on the Sunday) in which a table the length of Stradun (!) is used by local restaurants and businesses to show off their gastronomic delights – you can buy a reasonably priced ticket and then sample many of these delicious items!

More details can be found on the Dubrovnik Tourist Office website.

The Dubrovnik Film Festival (15th – 20th October) also takes place in the city at roughly the same time as the above!

Istra & Craft Beer Festival

If you don’t care so much about food and a cold beer is more your kind of thing, the second Istra & Craft Beer Festival will take place in Porec in the first week of October (actually, 28th September to 6th October). The best Croatian independent and craft brewers will showcase their beers; live music and food will also be there for you to enjoy! See the official website for more details: www.istracraftbeer.com.

Boating and Sailing Enthusiasts

Croatia’s largest boat fair (and, in fact, the largest in Central and Eastern Europe) is the Biograd Boat Show, taking place in this sweet little town, famous for its expansive marina, that’s close to Zadar. The 21st Show will be held from the 17th to 20th October 2019 and will likely have over 300 exhibitors and over 300 boats on display.

Outdoor events

If you’re an outdoorsy-activity kind of traveller, you may well be interested in the Baska Outdoor Festival held in and around Baska on the island of Krk, 11th to 13th October 2019. There’s mountain biking, zipling, trekking and more! A full programme of all the events of the Festival can be downloaded from the Baska Tourist Office website.

Other Events in Croatia in October

Here’s a few more events taking place in Croatia in October!

  • International Prosciutto Fair, Tinjan, Istria (18th – 20th October)
  • The 28th Zagreb Marathon takes place in the city on 13th October – pop along to see elite athletes pounding the streets.
  • Close to Zagreb is the town of Ivanic-Grad where the 15th ‘Bucijada’ Pumpkin Festival will take place on the weekend of 4th to 6th October. As well as a fair showing pumpkins and pumpkin products, there’s workshops, music and fun for kids.

Do also check out our Events in Croatia page for more events taking place in the final months of the year!