Hidden islands of Dalmatia

1. Ancient olive groves and empty coves

A private boat and skipper will whisk you off at the start of your journey, setting sail from Zadar and stopping at deserted beaches and snorkelling spots in the Zadar Archipelago. Sitting alongside the rugged northern shoreline of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, the island of Ugljan stretches out like an elongated finger and is a great first stop. Known as the “green island”, Ugljan is dotted with ancient olive trees that contribute to the island’s 2,000-year-old oil industry, while its coastline is dotted with idyllic bays. The Journey2Croatia team can include an exclusive visit to a historic olive oil mill for a private tasting and introduction to Ugljan’s age-old cultural traditions.

2. Inland lakes and secret caves

One of the largest islands off the coast of Zadar, Dugi Otok, which means “long island”, faces a glorious expanse of turquoise Adriatic. Its long coastline means you get all sorts of wide-open sea panoramas and scenic spots, while Sakarun beach is a beautiful sweep of white sand and smooth rocks, ideal for a swim and a sunbathe. Make time to sail around Telašćica Nature Park, its dramatic cliffs, forested islets, intriguing caves and saltwater lake are perfect for a day’s adventuring. End the day with a seafood supper in a traditional harbour village, accompanied by the gentle lap of the sea against bobbing fishing boats.

3. Limestone cliffs and white-pebbled beaches

Sail around Kornati National Park on your way to Brač with the wind in your hair and a blissful sense of freedom. The rugged topography, made up of over 80 rocky islets, is where limestone cliffs and ancient UNESCO-protected drywalls meet aquamarine waters and peaceful, people-free anchorages. Arriving in Brač, admire its sublime white-pebble beaches before joining our expert guide in a culture and food tour. Take in the shimmering white stone the island is famed for and stop by a traditional stonemasons for a workshop with a local artist. Enjoy sampling the island’s delicious produce, from “old tree” olive oil and wild-grazed lamb, to herb-infused sheep’s cheese and sweet desert wine, grown on the hillsides.

4. Sea caves and Venetian history 

Car-free and peaceful Lopud, part of the Elaphiti Islands, is close to the mainland, yet retains a quiet, sleepy ambience. On land, delve into Lopud’s heritage with our knowledgeable guide, learning about the island’s weaving and maritime heritage, or tour the Franciscan monastery and its medicinal garden. Explore Lopud’s mysterious sea caves and secret swimming spots with your private yacht or take an easy hop to nearby islands. The forest isle of Mljet, with its jade-green waters, is a short sail away, while a little further north, Korcula is known for its grand Venetian walled city, offering a dramatic arrival by sea. Once moored, explore the old town’s artisan shops, ice cream stalls and upmarket seafood restaurants. From Lopud, it’s a short journey to Dubrovnik, where Journey2Croatia will spirit you on to your next adventures. 

If you’d like help planning an island-hopping trip to Dalmatia please get in touch with the Journey2Croatia team.