Copy My Trip: Exploring the Scenic Dalmatian Coast of Croatia

Aoife Breslin, Dinogo Planet's publicity and marketing coordinator, recently journeyed through Croatia's Dalmatian Coast. Here, she offers tips and insights for those planning a similar adventure.

After visiting some of Croatia’s iconic spots like Split and Dubrovnik, I was eager to delve deeper into the country and discover experiences beyond the tourist trails. While I wanted to see highlights such as Diocletian's Palace and Split's Old Town, I also sought a true glimpse into Croatian culture. From charming rural villages like Žrnovo to almost-hidden islands like Vrnik, I enjoyed home-cooked meals at family-run tavernas, explored ancient sites and natural wonders, and learned about local traditions from residents.

Here are some highlights from my journey.

What was your accommodation experience like?

During my travels along the Dalmatian Coast, I had the pleasure of staying at three remarkable hotels, each offering a distinct ambiance. My adventure kicked off in Split at the Briig-Boutique Hotel. This stylish four-star hotel was perfectly located just steps from Split’s Old Town, making it an ideal base.

Next, I spent time at the Aminess Liburnia Hotel on the island of Korčula. My room boasted breathtaking views; standing on the balcony, I could hear the soothing sounds of waves and gaze at the stunning mountains. The hotel's location, just a 10-minute beachfront walk to Korčula’s Old Town, added to its appeal.

Finally, I saved the best for last with my stay at the Bluesun Berulia Hotel on the Makarska Riviera. This luxurious five-star hotel features an exceptional spa and wellness center, along with top-tier dining options. My ground-floor room came with a swim-up pool, and other rooms offered beautiful sea views. Situated on the pebbly shore in Brela, the hotel is perfectly placed for exploring the scenic Makarska Riviera, with a picturesque boardwalk connecting Brela to Makarska town.

What was the most unexpected activity you enjoyed?

There's something magical about discovering a hidden gem, and that’s exactly how I felt during my visit to Eko Škoj, an eco-farm that specializes in olive oil production in the village of Žrnovo on Korčula Island.

Nestled among mountains, vineyards, and olive groves, this family-run operation is perfectly situated. Eko Škoj offers olive oil tastings, and I savored delightful organic dishes under the cool shade of olive trees. The guided tour of the groves and pressing facilities offered fascinating insights into the olive oil production process, a highlight of Croatian culture.

What was the best dish you enjoyed?

As someone with a sweet tooth, I must highlight torta makarana, a beloved Croatian dessert from Makarska. The team at Tavern Kalalarga urged me to sample it, and I'm so thankful they did. With origins tracing back centuries, torta makarana is a cake-like treat featuring almonds, citrus, rose oil, and vanilla, resulting in a delightful sweet and tangy flavor.

The fresh scorpion fish at Konoba Ivandica Dvori is also worth mentioning, enhanced by superb service and a stunning sunset view over the mountains. This charming restaurant, located in the historic part of Brela, resides in a building dating back to 1880, recognized as a historical monument.

What was the most touristy activity you participated in?

I’m conflicted between a guided tour of Diocletian's Palace in Split and the Skywalk in Biokovo National Park in Makarska—both are touristy yet remarkable experiences.

On a previous visit, I explored Diocletian’s Palace on my own. This time, I joined a tour led by local guide Dino Ivancic, who deepened my appreciation of the site’s fascinating history, making it feel entirely new. Dino shared stories about Diocletian's life and the palace's evolution, including its role in the TV series Game of Thrones. The vibrant palace, seamlessly integrated into Split’s Old Town, feels like a living museum, where you can enjoy Croatian folk music performances in the Vestibule and discover indoor markets, cafes, and shops nestled within its ancient walls.

The Biokovo Skywalk is a must-try for anyone seeking an adrenaline rush. This glass bridge, soaring 1228m (4028ft) above sea level, isn’t for the timid, but the sweeping vistas of the islands and, on clear days, even Italy, are absolutely rewarding. It’s accessible by foot, bike, or car from the entrance of Biokovo Nature Park, about 6km (3.7 miles) east of Makarska, leading to Sv. Jure, the highest peak at 1762m (5780ft). This road is Croatia’s highest paved route and offers some of my favorite views in the area.

What was your favorite activity from the trip?

Kayaking with Korčula Outdoor was definitely the standout experience of my journey, blending sightseeing with a touch of history. The crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, framed by majestic mountains, created a stunning backdrop for our 30-minute paddle to Vrnik Island, known for its picturesque pebbled beaches and hidden sea coves. During our trip, we paused to hear from a local archaeologist about a recently discovered submerged Neolithic stone road off Korčula, believed to be around 7000 years old.

As we reached the rocky shores of Vrnik, the island felt almost deserted, inhabited by just a handful of families. On a guided tour, we delved into the island’s quarrying past before stopping at the Vrnik Arts Club for lunch. This charming guesthouse, one of the few on the island, seemed like an ideal spot for a truly secluded escape.

Aoife Breslin visited Croatia at the invitation of the Croatia Tourist Board. Dinogo Planet does not accept freebies for favorable coverage.