The masters of craft

1. The potter: Marino Milicic (Riton Ceramics, Hvar)

Marino Milicic is the founder of Riton Ceramics, a studio known for producing exquisite contemporary ceramics and tableware in his atelier on the island of Hvar, the perfect stop on an island-hopping trip along the Dalmatian coastline. Come and explore his workshop, spend time with Marino and admire his Mediterranean-inspired pieces. You can even get your hands messy with a private pottery class with the master himself, or commission your own bespoke dinnerware or ceramic pieces. Leave Marino’s studio with a few beautiful mementos – and a new appreciation for pottery.

2. The oenophile: Ante Sladić (Ante Sladić Winery, Skradin)

Meet Ante Sladić, the owner and winemaker of Ante Sladić Winery, located near Krka National Park in the wild hinterlands of inland Dalmatia. Ante’s vineyard specialises in the continuation and development of solely indigenous local grape varieties, including debit, maraština and plavina. A small-batch producer, your experience here will involve discovering their ancient viticultural traditions, like how they hand-harvest grapes plus a private tour and tasting of limited-production wines. If you’re taken by Croatian wines, which many of my guests are, we can arrange for your favourite bottles to be shipped to your address, so you can enjoy a taste of your vacation back home.

3. The sommelier: Branimir Vukšić (Restaurant Pelegrini, Šibenik)

I’m lucky enough to know a number of talented sommeliers who are deeply passionate about bringing great wines to the table. My friend, the sommelier Branimir Vukšić, presides over all things wine at the Michelin-star Restaurant Pelegrini in Šibenik. Dining here is always exceptional, and through Journey2Croatia we can secure those hard-to-get reservations. The absolute highlight here is enjoying Branimir’s pairings alongside the restaurant’s critically-acclaimed (and completely delicious) tasting menus.

4. The private chef: Chef Ruđer Jelavić 

With a portfolio that spans three prominent establishments – Port 22, Orsan and Zuzori – Chef Ruđer Jelavić is the man to know for world-class, Mediterranean-inspired dining. Experience his gastronomic flair at one of his restaurants, or for something really special, my Journey2Croatia team can bring Chef Ruđer to your villa for a showstopper-celebration, or to whizz up a culinary feast for you in an incredible outdoor location.

5. The artists of Dalmatia 

I’m lucky enough to know some of the finest creators across Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar and Brač, and love arranging visits to get to know them and purchase unique pieces. Take the Hvar-based artist Darko Šoša, where a visit to his gallery reveals how his brushstrokes are inspired by nature and the sea. To get an inside take on Dalmatian heritage, spend time with the Jakšić family in their atelier and galleries on Brač island and Split; they have been combining traditional stone masonry with contemporary sculpture and design since 1903. If you’re a fan of uniquely-crafted jewellery, we’ll lead you to the enchanting workshop of Clara Stones in Dubrovnik’s old town to admire one-of-a-kind works created from sustainable red coral. 

To find out more, please contact the team at Journey2Croatia