Croatia

Croatia is set in the heart of Europe, on the beautiful Adriatic coast. It has over 1185 islands, islets and reefs, the majority of which are uninhabited and under preservation orders. About 50 are inhabited, the largest being Krk and Cres. Croatia covers an area of over 56,500 km2 and is bordered by Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia & Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina. The total population is over 4.50 million, with almost 800,000 living in the capital Zargreb. Croatia’s coastline measures over 5800 km but this includes even the tiniest islet. The climate in the interior is temperate continental with a mountain climate in some places. The Adriatic coast enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate with countless sunny days providing dry, hot summers. Winters tend to be mild and humid.

In 1999 Croatia was a three-times winner of international awards for the cleanest waters in the Mediterranean and many major cruise lines include Croatia on their itineraries. The Dalmatian coastline boasts some of the world’s best-known resorts including Dubrovnik, Split, Porec and Trogir, all of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, as is the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Croatia is not only a country of outstanding natural beauty, but also a centre of culture dating back thousands of years. Zagreb is a focal point for art and culture with museums and galleries hosting internationally renowned exhibitions. The city also offers excellent conference and convention venues, enhanced by accommodation in first-class hotels.

Croatia is clearly the ideal destination for those seeking sun, sea and lots of space. Accommodation ranges from quaint but comfortable bed & breakfast places to chic new boutique hotels and traditional five-star establishments. Attractions for vacation visitors include guided tours, religious pilgrimages, city and hotel trips, special-interest tours and a variety of sport such as canoeing, ballooning, biking, hiking, fishing and of course swimming. A convenient ferry system travels from the mainland to the Adriatic islands as well as to Italy.