About the Croatian Odyssey
At a glance...
Country: Croatia
Duration: 14 days/ 13 nights
Activity: Trekking and sightseeing
Travel style: Guided
Difficulty grade: Moderate to strenuous
Comfort: 3*-4* hotels
Price: Based on double occupancy. See booking page for single supplement upgrade.
Embark on a life-changing, 14-day journey from the bustling capital of Zagreb to the picturesque coastal gem of Dubrovnik, immersing yourself in the natural wonders and cultural riches of Croatia along the way. Traverse the diverse landscapes of this country, from the tranquil Istrian countryside to the sun-kissed shores of the Dalmatian coastline, as you embark on a series of exhilarating treks through some of Croatia’s most scenic regions.
Begin your adventure in Zagreb, where historic charm meets modern vibrancy, before venturing into the Istrian countryside. Explore rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves, sampling traditional culinary delights along the way. Journey southward to the amazing Dalmatian coastline, where rugged cliffs plunge into the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea.
You’ll spend a day at the remarkable Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty. With its network of sixteen cascading lakes interconnected by a series of stunning waterfalls, Plitvice is a true gem of the Balkans. You will take in the park’s emerald-green waters, lush forests, and diverse wildlife, including rare bird species and elusive lynxes (if you’re super lucky)! Wooden walkways and hiking trails meander through the park, offering immersive experiences amid its pristine landscapes.
Each day brings new adventures and unforgettable experiences as you immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Croatian culture and natural beauty. From savoring freshly caught seafood in quaint coastal villages, participating in the regional tradition of dog-assisted truffle-hunting, to exploring historic towns steeped in centuries of tradition, this journey promises to be a truly unforgettable odyssey through the heart of Croatia’s most scenic and unforgettable regions.
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CROATIAN ODYSSEY
14 days/13 nightsClick on the preferred date to register:
Registration deadline is 60 days prior to the start of the trek.
Croatian Odyssey Details
Please read all of these carefully!
Truffle hunting in Motovun
Experience the Istrian tradition of truffle hunting with a local hunter and his dogs, followed by a delicious lunch of truffle pasta, etc.
Istrian villages e-bike tour, olive oil tasting
Explore Istrian olive groves, vineyards, hilltop towns, and forests via e-bike followed by an olive oil tasting with a local producer.
Cape Kamenjak hiking
Walk along Kamenjak’s coastal trails in view of the Adriatic Sea, Ucka Mountain, and Kvarner Islands.
Opatija Riviera
Stroll through the coastal walkways of this favorite holiday destination for the nobles of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Enjoy the sea breezes and ornate 19th-Century palaces.
Plitvice National Park walking tour
Enjoy a six-mile trek through one of the most beautiful and unique natural areas in Europe, featuring more than 90 waterfalls and a stunning sequence of turquoise lakes separated by travertine barriers.
Dabarski Kukovi and Velebit Mountain hiking
This 9.5-mile trail boasts amazing views of the Velebit Mountain range and limestone spires emerging from green forests and meadows.
Hiking Paklenica National Park
At the top of this spectacular trail, enjoy a traditional lunch prepared using a time-honored cooking technique called “peka,” or “under the bell.”
Old-town Dubrovnik
Enjoy a guided walk through the ancient city of Dubrovnik followed by a “Game of Thrones”-inspired lunch at a traditional restaurant and a hike to the top of Mount Srd, which towers above the city.
- Hobnail Trekking Co. long-sleeve trekking shirt and ball cap
- Custom Hobnail mobile app
- Lots of freebies
- Opportunities to get to know your fellow trekkers include an invitation to a private Facebook group for your trek, group training hikes if trekkers live in proximity to each other, and other local social gatherings
- 13 nights’ accommodation in 3* and 4* hotels
- All meals on the trek as specified in the itinerary
- Water, red wine and white wine with meals
- Local, English-speaking leader and guide(s)
- Private ground transportation throughout the trip, usually in a Renault Trafic passenger van
- Transport from and to airport
- All national park fees, entrance fees, taxes, and permits
- Ferry tickets
- Entrance tickets to Dubrovnik Walls and other stated attractions
- The company of new friends and the experience of a lifetime
- Travel insurance (See the Travel Insurance section on this page for details)
- International flights
- Entrance Visa
- Add-on activities on Day 8 and Day 11
- Meals not included on the itinerary
- Drinks other than water and red/white wine during meals
- Tips for drivers, guide(s), etc.
- Spending money, including for souvenirs
- Personal trekking equipment (hiking boots, clothing, etc.)
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- All expenses associated with nonscheduled departure or transportation
OK, here’s where we get serious. Hobnail requires that all trekkers purchase travel/medical insurance that covers them properly for all trekking activities.
There are a lot more details you need to know about travel insurance than we want to put in this limited space — including stuff about trip cancellations and what company we recommend — so when you’re ready, pop over to our Travel Insurance page.
We consider our treks to be adventures, not vacations. We’re not Hobnail Vacation Company, after all! Don’t get us wrong; we like vacations as much as the next person, but with our treks, you need to be physically and mentally ready. Here’s what we ask of you:
- You thoroughly read all the information we send you prior to departure.
- You get yourself an accountability partner and train properly. This doesn’t mean doing a few squats two weeks before departure. (Read more in the “Training” tab.)
- You familiarize yourself with your gear prior to leaving. Practice adjusting your backpack, filtering water if necessary, etc.
- If you purchase new boots, they are broken in well in advance of departure.
- When on trek, you FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS OF YOUR GUIDE. His or her only concern is helping you achieve your goal safely and in good health, but this won’t happen unless you follow their advice. This includes – but is not limited to – food recommendations, speed of pace, when to sleep and when not to, when to walk and when to rest, when to turn around due to illness, etc.
- When on trek, you treat your guide and the locals you encounter with the utmost respect. We are guests in their country and very grateful to be there.
All of these things may seem like common sense — and they are — but we feel that we must mention them. Hobnail’s goal is to provide you with the best experience possible, and you have an important role in achieving that goal.
A few days after registering for a trek (with at least a $500 deposit), we will give you a call (if you’re available) to say hello and answer any initial questions you may have. If you have a Facebook presence, we will also invite you to join a private group page just for your trek. This is a great way to interact with your fellow trekkers, and possibly your guide, before departure. You can post questions in the group anytime you’d like, talk about the cool gear you’re planning to take with you, organize group hikes if you live near each other, and generally just get to know those who will be sharing this incredible experience with you.
Within the first weeks after your trek is confirmed, you will receive a Welcome Box from us. It contains stuff that you can use during training as well as on the trek itself, and some other just fun things to get you (even more) excited about your trip.
You’ll also receive a login to our Hobnail app, which is full of great information including a day-by-day schedule, nearby points of interest, beautiful photography, and yet another way to contact us – through its messaging service. As your trip gets closer, we will load your flights and other more specific information into the app so you’ll feel even more secure in knowing where you’ll be staying and even how to get around the airports you’ll travel through.
The closer you get to your trek, the more you’ll hear from us — but of course, you can reach out any time you have a question.
Like all of our adventures, you need to have achieved a good level of fitness prior to departure for this trek. Remember, these are not simply vacations that incorporate a little bit of walking. On the contrary, these are active adventures! In most cases, you will be on your feet for several hours each day, and in some cases, hiking along rough trails and possibly, steep inclines. It is your responsibility to train, practice, and have yourself in the best condition possible by the time you depart.
So, if you are expecting a 10-mile day of hiking on your trip, emulate that hike at home — repeatedly. If you expect consecutive days of hiking on your trip, complete consecutive days of hiking at home. Same with biking. Do more and more of this as your departure approaches so that when you’re actually there, your muscle memory will kick in. Train hard at home so that things will be easy during the actual trip.
Trust us — your adventure will be infinitely more fun if you are physically prepared for it. If you need help or suggestions with training, feel free to call or email us!
What happens if my trek is not confirmed?
If the minimum number for the trek you booked is not reached before the 60-day booking deadline, you will be eligible for either a refund or to transfer your deposit to another trek. See details HERE.
Our Mobile App
When you book, we send you the login credentials to your own, customized app. By departure, your app will contain your flight info, passport, travel insurance docs, and COVID info, as well as your full itinerary, points of interest, and other amazing stuff.
TREK ITINERARY
Day 1: Welcome to Croatia and Zagreb!
Your designated guide awaits you at your centrally located hotel in the afternoon. Embark on a brief stroll through the vibrant capital, indulging in our inaugural culinary experience in Croatia. Enjoy an array of Zagreb and northern Croatian specialties, including cheese strukli, hunter’s stew, and Zagreb’s unique rendition of wienerschnitzel. Engage in friendly conversation as we acquaint ourselves and outline the exciting journey ahead across Croatia. Following dinner, enjoy the remainder of the evening at your own pace.
Lodging: Hotel in Zagreb
Included meals: Dinner
Day 2: Truffle Hunting in Motovun, Vineyard Walk & Wine Tasting
Embark on a scenic drive from Zagreb to Istria, often dubbed as the Croatian Tuscany, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and gastronomic wonders. Take part in the timeless tradition of truffle hunting alongside a seasoned local guide and their expert canine companions. Explore the lush Motovun forest in pursuit of these prized delicacies, followed by an amazing lunch showcasing truffle-infused pasta, cheese, and more, thoughtfully prepared by our gracious hosts.
Following this culinary adventure, meander through quaint vineyards and indulge in Istria’s signature white malvasia and red teran wines. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is yours to unwind at the hotel, basking in the enchanting Istrian sunsets.
Lodging: Hotel in Motovun
Transfer: Slightly over 3 hours
Included meals: Breakfast and lunch
Day 3: Istrian Villages & Parenzana E-Bike Tour, Olive Oil Tasting
Indulge in a delightful morning at our hotel before embarking on an adventure through the picturesque Istrian countryside on electric bikes. Traverse scenic routes adorned with olive groves, vineyards, hilltop towns, forests, and meadows. Rest and rejuvenate in Groznjan, renowned as the artists’ haven, where you can relish a personalized lunch or coffee experience. Discover the charm of this village, celebrated for its art galleries and vibrant jazz festival.
Continue your journey along the Parenzana, a historic railway route adorned with captivating bridges and tunnels, guiding you through the valley. Pause for an enriching olive oil tasting session, delving into the rich tradition of Istria with a local artisan.
Enjoy leisure time in the afternoon, soaking in the serenity of the surroundings. As the day winds down, ascend to Motovun’s ancient town, tracing back to the 11th century, and soak in panoramic vistas from the historic city walls. Conclude the day with a delectable dinner amidst the captivating backdrop of the Mirna River Valley.
Lodging: Hotel in Motovun
Biking distance/time: 31 miles / approximately 6 hours
Biking elevation gain: 3,675 feet
Included meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 4: Cape Kamenjak Hiking and Pula Colosseum Visit
Bid farewell to the enchanting vistas of Motovun as we embark on a scenic 1 hour and 20-minute drive to Cape Kamenjak, nestled at the southern edge of Istria. Protected since 1996, this rugged peninsula offers a plethora of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, cycling, swimming, windsurfing, kayaking, and more.
Embark on a stroll along Kamenjak’s coastal paths and pine-scented forests, treated to panoramic vistas of the Adriatic Sea, Ucka Mountain, and the alluring Kvarner Islands. Keep an eye out for dolphins surfacing off the coast. This 7-mile route also features a dinosaur path where ancient fossils and footprints are preserved in the rocks. Expect around 4-5 hours of leisurely walking, with optional pauses for refreshing swims. While the trail boasts mostly even terrain, some rocky patches necessitate cautious navigation.
Enjoy lunch at one of the charming beach bars or opt for a picnic with provisions from a nearby grocery store. Following our exploration, we venture into Pula, Istria’s bustling urban hub, where ancient Roman ruins and the magnificent Pula Colosseum, among the world’s finest preserved amphitheaters, are located. As the day unfolds, we journey approximately an hour to Lovran, nestled on the picturesque western shores of Kvarner Bay, for dinner near our cozy accommodations.
Lodging: Hotel in Lovran
Transfer: 3 hours
Walking: 7 miles / 4-5 hours
Elevation gain: 440 ft
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 5: Hiking Ucka Mountain & Sightseeing in Opatija Riviera
Today, you’ll explore Ucka Nature Park with a hike up to Vojak peak, standing proudly at 1,401 meters above sea level, making it the tallest point in Istria. This park is famous for its special climate and dense forests, home to many unique plants and animals. At the top, prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking views of Istria’s green hills, the Adriatic Sea, the Kvarner Islands, and the distant Velebit Mountains. The hike lasts about 3 hours, covering just over 4 miles with an elevation gain of around 1,600 feet. After our hike, we will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant where you can taste some regional specialties like wild boar, venison, and even bear! (Vegetarian options are available, too).
Later, we’ll explore Opatija, a favorite holiday spot for the nobles of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Take a stroll along the coastal paths, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and the elegant, 19th-century palaces. In the evening, we’ll return to Lovran, where you can dine as you please.
Lodging: Lovran
Included Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Hiking: 4 miles / 3 hours
Elevation gain: 1,600 ft
Transport: 1.5 hours
Day 6: Plitvice National Park Walking Tour
Today, we embark on a journey to one of Europe’s most enchanting natural wonders – Plitvice Lakes National Park. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, this unique park features a series of turquoise lakes connected by travertine barriers and adorned with more than 90 waterfalls.
Our adventure begins with a scenic, three-hour drive from Lovran to the park entrance. Upon arrival, we’ll head out into the park’s intricate network of wooden pathways and bridges, treating ourselves to breathtaking vistas of 16 stunning lakes, picturesque forests straight out of a fairy tale, and majestic waterfalls. The beech and pine forests surrounding the lakes are teeming with diverse wildlife and hidden caves. The trail spans approximately 6 miles, typically taking 5-6 hours to complete, and we will provide a lakeside picnic lunch. If you prefer, you can grab sandwiches or snacks from a quaint restaurant along the route, or we can make a quick stop at a local market in the morning to pack your own provisions.
After our hike, we’ll hop on a quick, 15-minute bus ride to view the lakes from a different perspective before returning to the starting point. Then, it’s just a few minutes from the park entrance to our cozy accommodation for the night. We’ll reconvene for a delightful dinner once everyone has had some time to unwind and relax.
Lodging: Hotel in Plitvice
Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 6 miles / 5-6 hours
Elevation gain: Around 1,000 feet
Transport: 3 hours, 10 minutes
Day 7: Dabarski Kukovi & Velebit Mountain Hiking, Cheese Tasting
Following breakfast, we’ll embark on a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the Velebit Mountain range, starting our hike from Baske Ostarije. Our journey will lead us through the lush forests and towering limestone formations of Velebit Nature Park near Dabarski Kukovi. The hike we’ve mapped out for the day offers a fairly challenging adventure, covering a total distance of 9.5 miles with an elevation gain of 2,700 ft. On clear days, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and its picturesque islands.
After our hike, we’ll enjoy a hearty traditional meal at a local farm, where you can sample cheeses crafted on-site, followed by a one-hour drive to the coast and a short ferry ride to Rab Island. Once settled into your accommodations, you’ll have the evening to explore Rab Town and enjoy dinner at your own pace.
Lodging: Hotel in Rab
Included meals: Breakfast and lunch
Hiking: 9.5 miles
Elevation gain: 2,700 feel
Transport: 2.5 hours ground / 20 minutes ferry
Day 8: Free day on Rab Island
choose from a couple of optional add-ons (paid to local providers directly on-site):
- Sea Kayaking: Paddle the crystal-clear waters around Rab, enjoying pristine beaches,
Old Town views, and interesting cliffs and rock formations along the rugged coastline.
Price from $60 per person. - Boat trip to Goli Otok: This uninhabited island is home to a former Yuglavian political
prison, known informally as “Croatian Alcatraz.” Take a tour of the island and learn
about its grisly history. Price from $60 per person.
The group will meet back up in the evening for dinner together.
Lodging: Hotel in Rab
Included meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 9: Hiking Rab Island to Kamenjak, Sightseeing in Zadar
Today, we’ll delve deeper into the charms of Rab Island with an exhilarating hike to its highest point, Kamenjak. This scenic trek spans 6 miles —featuring a 1,500 ft elevation gain — and is expected to last around 4 hours. As we ascend, we’ll be greeted by panoramic vistas of the island’s lush landscapes and the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
At the summit, we’ll refuel with a delightful lunch at a traditional restaurant, where you can sample local delicacies such as roasted lamb and the renowned “Rapska torta” or Rab Cake. From this vantage point, soak in the breathtaking views of the majestic Velebit Mountain Range to the east and the picturesque Kvarner Bay and its islands to the west.
In the afternoon, we bid farewell to Rab and embark on a brief ferry ride back to the mainland, followed by a leisurely two-hour drive to the coastal gem of Zadar. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to unwind and explore the historic city center and its ancient Roman ruins at your own pace. Your guide will be happy to recommend some dining options for a memorable evening meal.
Lodging: Hotel in Zadar
Included meals: Breakfast and lunch
Hiking: 6 miles / 4 hours
Elevation gain: 1,500 feet
Transport: 2 hours ground / 20 minutes ferry
Day 10: Paklenica National Park Hiking
Our day begins with a scenic 45-minute drive to Paklenica National Park, a true gem nestled within the Velebit Mountain Range. Known for its stunning hiking trails and world-class rock climbing routes, this park boasts the largest and most pristine forest complex in Dalmatia.
We’ll embark on a hike through Velika Paklenica, the park’s main canyon, where towering limestone cliffs create a dramatic backdrop. Look closely, and you might catch a glimpse of climbers tackling the park’s impressive multipitch routes, some of which rise over 1,200 feet high. As we continue, our trail will wind through serene forested areas, gradually leading us to the Ramica Dvori mountain hut.
At the top, we’ll be rewarded with a traditional meal prepared using the age-old technique of “peka” or “under the bell.” While enjoying this hearty meal, we’ll take in breathtaking mountain views and sample homemade liqueurs crafted from local herbs and fruits. If we’re fortunate, our hosts might even treat us to a lively traditional song on the accordion—a perfect way to embrace the local culture.
The hike is a round-trip journey, taking us back through the canyon to our starting point. In total, we’ll cover around 8 miles, with 1,700 feet of elevation gain, over approximately 4-5 hours of hiking.
Afterward, we’ll set off on a two-hour drive to our next destination: Omis, a charming town situated at the mouth of the Cetina River. Once a notorious pirate stronghold, Omis now serves as a playground for adventure enthusiasts. You’ll have the evening to explore its vibrant streets and enjoy a meal at one of its many restaurants.
Lodging: Hotel in Omis
Included meals: Breakfast and lunch
Hiking: 8 miles / 5 hours
Elevation gain: 1,700 feet
Transport: 2.5-3 hours
Day 11: Hiking to Omis Fortress, Free Afternoon
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll embark on a hike to a fortress towering above Omis, dating back to the 14th-15th centuries and nestled atop a cliff, boasting a commanding view 860 feet above the town. This fortress played a pivotal role in the defense strategies of the Venetian empire against Ottoman invasions, designed to safeguard the townsfolk in times of crisis. The hike, though steep, is brief and should only take 1.5 to 2 hours to ascend, with an additional 30 minutes built in to explore the fortress and soak in the stunning panoramic views from the summit. After our hike, enjoy lunch at your own pace in Omis.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you please. Relax on the shores of the Adriatic, take a refreshing swim, or opt for optional activities available for those seeking more adventure. Choose from thrilling options such as white water rafting (starting from $50) or canyoning (starting from $60) along the Cetina River, or experience an adrenaline rush with a zip-lining excursion (starting from $75) in the scenic Cetina canyon. We’ll reconvene for dinner together as a group and share stories of our day’s adventures.
Lodging: Hotel in Omis
Included meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 1/5 – 2 hours
Elevation gain: 860 feet
Day 12: Peljesac Peninsula Hiking & Wine Tasting, Salt Pan Visit and Oyster tasting in Mali Ston
Today, we’ll journey southward, traversing the lush Neretva River Valley en route to the Peljesac Peninsula. Along our 1.5-2 hour drive, we’ll pause to sample fresh fruits, homemade jams, and amazing juices from charming local roadside stands.
Upon reaching Peljesac, we’ll check out the villages of Ston and Mali Ston. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to try the renowned local oysters, admire the impressive third-longest defense walls in the world, and explore the historic Ston salt pans, which boast a salt production tradition spanning over two millennia.
Our adventure continues with a hike along the Ston defense walls, erected in 1333 to safeguard the Republic of Dubrovnik and its valuable shellfish farms. This scenic route spans a little over 2 miles and around 900 feet of elevation gain, offering panoramic views of the intricate defense system comprising three forts and 41 towers. Following our morning stroll, we’ll enjoy a yummy lunch at a seaside eatery, where you can sample Ston’s famed oysters and other shellfish.
Next, a short drive brings us to the Dingac region of Peljesac, renowned for producing Croatia’s finest red wines crafted from the Plavac Mali grape variety. With a winemaking tradition dating back centuries, the region’s exquisite red wines have been a favorite of aristocrats from Dubrovnik since the Middle Ages.
As the day draws to a close, you’ll have ample free time to unwind and savor dinner at your leisure.
Lodging: Hotel in Peljesac
Included meals: Breakfast and lunch
Hiking: 2 miles
Elevation gain: 900 feet
Transport: 3 hours / 10 minutes
Day 13: Exploring Old Town Dubrovnik, Hiking to Mt. Srd
On our final full day of exploration, we’ll immerse ourselves in one of Croatia’s most iconic destinations — Dubrovnik. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” this ancient walled city is not only steeped in history but also gained global fame as the filming location for King’s Landing in the HBO series, “Game of Thrones.” Enjoy exploring the Old Town with your guide and viewing this ancient city from the vantage point of the walls.
We’ll pause our sightseeing adventures for a Game of Thrones-inspired lunch at a charming traditional restaurant. Here, you’ll savor authentic Dubrovnik cuisine crafted from centuries-old recipes, all while being transported into the realm of King’s Landing. Located at the top of the famed stairs where Queen Cersei’s dramatic “walk of shame” unfolded, the restaurant offers a special GOT-themed menu, adding to the immersive experience.
Following lunch, you’ll have around an hour of free time to explore Dubrovnik at your own pace. Later, we’ll embark on a scenic hike to the summit of Mount Srd, which towers above the city. The trail offers stunning vistas of Dubrovnik and the neighboring Elaphiti Islands. At the summit, we’ll gather for a delightful light dinner overlooking the city, after which, depending on the group’s preference, we can either hike back down to the city or opt for a cable car ride. The round-trip hike spans about 3 miles with an elevation gain of 850 feet from the trailhead (1,350 ft if starting from sea level in town).
Lodging: Hotel in Dubrovnik
Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking time/distance: 1.5 hours / 3 miles
Elevation gain: 850 feet
Transport: 1.5 hours
Day 14: Departure
We’ll be sorry to see you go! Your guide will take you to the Dubrovnik airport or help you arrange transportation to your next destination.
Included meals: Breakfast
Transport: 40 minutes
GENERAL INFORMATION
Where is Croatia?
Nestled in the heart of Europe’s Balkan Peninsula, Croatia boasts a diverse and captivating landscape shaped by its unique geographical features. Along its stunning Adriatic coastline, Croatia is adorned with over a thousand islands, each offering its own distinct charm, from the lush greenery of Hvar to the rugged beauty of Cres. The Dinaric Alps stretch across much of Croatia’s interior, forming a rugged spine that offers breathtaking vistas and outdoor adventures. In the north, the fertile plains of Slavonia are crisscrossed by rivers, including the mighty Danube, which marks Croatia’s border with Serbia.
Inland, Croatia is dotted with picturesque lakes, forests, and rolling hills, with notable natural wonders such as Plitvice Lakes National Park, renowned for its cascading waterfalls and crystalline lakes. From the pristine beaches of the Dalmatian Coast to the verdant valleys of Istria, Croatia’s geography is as varied as it is breathtaking.
Croatia's history in a nutshell
Croatia’s history is a tapestry woven with diverse influences, spanning millennia of civilizations and empires. The region’s roots trace back to ancient times, with Illyrian tribes inhabiting the land before the arrival of the Romans in the 1st century BC. Under Roman rule, Croatia prospered as a key province of the empire, evidenced by the well-preserved Diocletian’s Palace in Split. With the decline of the Roman Empire, Croatia experienced waves of invasions and migrations, including Slavic settlements in the 7th century, which laid the foundations for the Croatian identity and language.
In the medieval era, Croatia emerged as a powerful kingdom, forming personal unions with Hungary and briefly with the Kingdom of Croatia and Kingdom of Hungary united under the Habsburgs. However, the Ottoman incursions in the 15th and 16th centuries brought turmoil to the region, leading to conflicts and the gradual decline of Croatian autonomy.
The 19th century saw a resurgence of Croatian nationalism, culminating in the establishment of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes in 1918, later renamed Yugoslavia. Following the breakup of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s, Croatia declared independence, leading to the Croatian War of Independence, which ultimately resulted in the recognition of Croatia as an independent state in 1992. Since then, Croatia has undergone significant political and economic reforms, solidifying its place as a vibrant European nation with a rich cultural heritage.
CROATIAN ODYSSEY
14 days/13 nightsClick on the preferred date to register:
Registration deadline is 60 days prior to the start of the trek.
