Overview
On the sunny northern Dalmatian Coast (and away from the cruise ships), we’ve crafted a journey of vineyard hikes, walks in truffle and olive oil country, island hopping, and seaside rambles along the blue Adriatic. We’ll hike up to the castle-topped hill town of Motovun, with a walk on its ancient walls, explore the Kvarner Gulf by sailboat, enjoy swim stops, and see the grand Roman amphitheater at Pula. Along the way, our Trip Leaders introduce us to fascinating people, great wines, and regional delights (freshly grilled calamari, enjoyed waterside!). Our journey begins in Slovenia’s lovely capital, Ljubljana, and our finale is in the medieval island-town of Trogir, a World Heritage Site known for its mix of Renaissance, baroque and Romanesque architecture.
I'm so glad that I chose the Croatia trip. The itinerary was beautiful and provided a mix of hiking, history, culture, and even boating! Both of the trip leaders are top notch. Bravo, Wilderness Travel!
— Susan M., Woodbury, MN
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-3
Ljubljana, Slovenia / Motovun, Croatia / Grožnjan
In castle-topped Ljubljana, set along the curving Ljubljanica River, we stroll across picturesque bridges and visit the market, then cross to Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula for a hike through truffle country to the hill town of Motovun, entering town through its original gates. After our hike on the Parenzana Trail, which links Slovenia, Croatia, and Italy, we visit the artists’ haven of Grožnjan, once a Venetian fortress town.
Days 4-5
Rovinj / Porec / Pula
We walk another scenic stretch of the Parenzana, then head to Porec, climbing up the bell tower of its majestic cathedral for Adriatic vistas. At Pula, we explore its impressive Roman amphitheater. Overnights are in Rovinj, set on a peninsula jutting into the sea. With its quayside cafes, yachts, and Venetian mansions, it has a delightfully Italian flavor.
Days 6-7
Cres / Lubenice
On rugged Cres, an island of tiny stone villages, we hike from clifftop Lubenice down through pine forests to the bay of Martinšica for a picnic and a swim. We walk along the seaside promenade to Veli Lošinj, set around a natural harbor, and up a ridge to the church of St. Ivan, overlooking the sea.
Days 8-11
Rab / Trogir
By private sailboat, we head to the Renaissance-era island of Rab, and we hike in Krka National Park to enjoy its karst landscape of cliffs and canyons. Our trip ends in Trogir, with its medieval Old Town surrounded by the sea. Depart on Day 11 via Split or extend to Dubrovnik.
Croatia: Istria and the Dalmatian Coast
Highlights
Highlights
Details
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