Your Guide to a Perfect Week in Croatia: Sunsets, Boating, and Secret Beaches
Korčula
Split
Our journey began with a flight from JFK with a layover in Amsterdam. After a long journey we finally we touched down in the stunning city of Split. We checked into the Design Hotel Brigg, a chic, modern establishment in the “New Town” located just a stone's throw from the beach. Not only did the design ooze Scandinavian minimalism, but the concierge service was also quite good, offering helpful tips to kickstart our Croatian adventure.
A particular highlight was a private historical tour that delved deep into the history of this ancient city. Our guide took the experience to the next level, revealing not just the historical context but also showing us iconic filming locations from the HBO show Game of Thrones. While such excursions may not be for everyone, it undoubtedly added layers of richness to the rest of our journey.
Boat Day from Split to Hvar
After bidding farewell to Split, we took a private boat, sailing towards the idyllic Island of Hvar. The whole experience felt like a personalized adventure, with our captain tailoring the itinerary to suit our preferences. We docked at hidden coves and pristine beaches, even snorkeling at some of the best spots in the Adriatic Sea. As the day rolled on, we enjoyed local Croatian wines and handcrafted cocktails, capping off the sea outing with a delicious seafood lunch. We closed the day by relaxing at the beach club “Carpe Diem” before reaching Hvar.
Hvar
We stayed at the Hotel Amfora, which boasted a private beach, multiple pools, and a decadent spa. The hotel is situated conveniently by the sea, and downtown Hvar was just a leisurely coastal walk away. Here, we had the privilege of meeting Tin, a Hvar local who leads operations & client experience for Journey2Croatia, and was an invaluable resource. Anything we needed in Hvar he could make happen with a quick phone call. He ensured that we had priority reservations at top dining spots, complete with the best seats in the restaurant—benefits he can also secure for CFS clients traveling in Croatia.
Korčula
A swift ferry ride later, we arrived at the island of Korčula ('KOR-chu-la'). The low tourist count on this island amplified its allure, making each experience feel more authentic. Our accommodation, Lešić Dimitri Palace, was part of the Relais & Châteaux collection. With every room designed differently, our stay felt unique and personalized. The highlight was the “birdcage” patio in our multi bedroom suite, a quaint spot perfect for evenings with a few glasses of wine.
While in Korčula, we had the concierge arrange for a reservation at a secluded beach club on a private island, accessible only via a short (15 min), thrilling speedboat ride. It felt like a scene from a movie! The day was spent swimming, socializing, and sipping potent margaritas, making it one of the most memorable days of the trip.
Dubrovnik
Our final stop was Dubrovnik, where we checked into Hotel Bellevue. Built into a cliff, the hotel's architecture offered a stunning blend of modern design and ancient surroundings. The beach was easily accessible via an elevator that descended directly from the hotel. When you reach the bottom floor—its last stop—the door opens to reveal the interior of a cave, where a beach attendant hands you a towel and guides you to your perfect spot on the pebbly beach.
Our tour of Dubrovnik's historic Old Town was spectacular. Our local guide was adept at navigating through the labyrinth of streets and adjusted the tour according to our interests. We not only visited the major Game of Thrones filming spots but also got to walk on the city walls during sunset, turning an otherwise touristy experience into a magical moment (#hack). The day ended with cocktails at a chic restaurant, where we toasted to the perfect trip.
Top Picks
If forced to pick just one favorite experience, Korčula wins hands down. The surreal landscapes, luxurious accommodations at the Lešić Dimitri Palace, and the unparalleled dining experience at a Michelin Starred restaurant by the waterside made it a trip for the books.
Croatia presented an extraordinary combination of historical intrigue, breathtaking natural settings, and world-class cuisine. From enlightening jaunts through age-old streets to thrilling boat rides and culinary adventures, this coastal summer journey was truly one for the record books.
