DALMATIAN COAST FAMILY Croatia | 6 days - 5 nights | from $3,998 / adult, $3,198 / child Trip Summary: Once part of Yugoslavia and often overlooked, Croatia has quickly acquired a reputation as one of Europe’s must-go destinations. Famous for its crystal-clear waters, forested islands, vineyard-clad hills and quaint harbor towns, the Dalmatian Coast is a paradise for anyone in search for serenity and adventure! www.austinadventures.com | 800-575-1540 1 THE DAY TO DAY Day 1: Hvar Town After meeting in the morning in Split, we take the ferry to the beautiful Isle of Hvar, where we disembark at the quaint harbor town of Stari Grad, home to the impressive Bianchini Palace, Tvrdalj Castle, and the former Dominican monastery • Saddle up and cycle towards Jelsa, where you can admire the octagonal 16th century Church of Saint John in Renaissance style, as well as crystal-clear waters of Mina Bay and Grebišce • Proceed to Vrboska, also nicknamed “Little Venice” for its collection of small bridges crossing the little river • Find and marvel at the 16th century church of Saint Mary of Charity and the Renaissance works by Venetian artists such as Veronese and Bassano at the Church of Saint Lawrence • End the bike ride in the coastal town of Hvar, whose traffic-free marble streets, waterfront promenade, yacht-lined quays, and hip bars and cafés offer the perfect venue for relaxation and people-watching • Walk among beautifully restored Gothic ‘palazzi’ and the historic Venetian arsenal before following the footpath up to a Spanish Fort for spectacular views of the city and the sea at sunset • Later this evening, we indulge in a festive welcome dinner • (L, D) Overnight at Hotel Adriana. Day 2: Hvar Town After breakfast, we change our mode of transportation as we board our sea kayaks to explore the peaceful archipelago Pakleni Otici • Situated off Hvar’s southwest coast and covered by pine trees, the islands derived their name from the paklina, a pine resin once used as a sealant for the wooden boats • Paddle along the scenic bays of Marinkovac Island and enjoy the scent of pine, rosemary and lavender while visiting the beach of Sv Klement Island • In the late- afternoon, participate in a cooking class followed by dinner at a local restaurant, and learn how to prepare Croatian specialties such as Leg of Lamb à la Pašticada, mussels and black risotto • (B, L, D) Overnight at Hotel Adriana Day 3: Korcula Town Travel by private yacht from Hvar Town to Korčula Island and the harbor town of Vela Luka, where we commence our cycling route • Built on a small peninsula on the Pelješac Channel, Korčula used to be the home of Slavic pirates who transformed the island into a base from www.austinadventures.com | 800-575-1540 2 which they attacked the passing ships; once it was taken over in the year 1000 by the Venetian Republic, an 800- year on-and-off Venetian rule began • Today, the island is known for the white stone quarries, many secluded bays, and breathtaking sea views • We will stop in Smokvica to enjoy a pizza and salad lunch • Pass through small, friendly villages during today’s bike ride, until you reach the walled town of Korčula, whose old town center holds a harmonious mix of 15th century Gothic and 16th century Renaissance buildings • Why not have a swim in the Adriatic at the beach near our hotel? • Feast on fresh and authentic Croatian seafood tonight at a fish restaurant frequented by the locals • (B, L, D) Overnight at Hotel Marko Polo Day 4: Korcula Town Travel by private boat to Pelješac Peninsula on the mainland, where some of Croatia’s best red wines are grown: Dingač and Postup • On this hiking day, we will follow the trails through and above the forests along the narrow peninsula, accompanied by fine views of the clear, turquoise sea bordered by elegant cypresses • Stop at the 15th Century Franciscan Monastery and investigate the votive presents which were donated for centuries by the sailors after surviving a shipwreck, storm or pirate attack • Fuel up at a ‘Peka’ lunch (traditional Croatian barbecue) with the most incredible views, before descending into Orebič for our boat trip back to Korčula • Visit the home of Marco Polo, Saint Mark’s Cathedral with Venetian paintings by the famous Tintoretto, the Byzantine Icon Museum, and the Town Museum • Depending on the season, you may be able to attend a traditional Moreska sword dance performance this evening! • (B, L) Overnight at Hotel Marko Polo Day 5: Korcula Town Today you can choose between an exciting buggy drive safari plus snorkeling adventure and/or a leisurely day of biking on Korčula Island • For the safari we get in two- person buggies and head for Lumbarda beach • Follow your guides along the gravel roads above the coast of Lumbarda and Žrnovo villages, while pausing to admire the spectacular views and to swim and snorkel in one of the bays • The cyclists will pedal - with constant views of the majestic Pelješac mountains - from Korčula Town to Račišce, a quiet coastal village nestled on a scenic bay • Enjoy a wine tasting at a famous local winery before returning to Korčula Town • This evening we walk into town for a delicious farewell dinner at a local restaurant • (B, L, D) Overnight at Hotel Marko Polo www.austinadventures.com | 800-575-1540 3 Day 6: Dubrovnik Enjoy one more breakfast before we transfer you to the Dubrovnik airport or Dubrovnik town • Most will decide to spend at least one more night in Dubrovnik in order to explore the historic town center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site • (B) No overnight **Trip itineraries are subject to change without notice due to road, weather and other factors outside of our control, for the safety and enjoyment of our guests, as deemed necessary and appropriate by Austin Adventures. Cycling: 8 - 31 miles, moderate to challenging terrain Hiking: 1-5 miles, easy to moderate terrain Kayaking: Calm waters, no experience necessary Discovery: Renowned for its crystal-clear coves, wooded islands, vineyard-clad hills and picturesque harbor towns, the Dalmatian Coast is an adventurer’s paradise. Explore the sun-drenched town of Split, a treasure trove where you can discover which walls date back to Roman times. Its palace was built for the Roman emperor Diocletian as a retirement home. Marvel at Hvar Town’s magnificent Venetian architecture, including the Arsenal which once served as a repair station for war galleons and in 1612 the Renaissance Theater was built on top of it. Sea kayak the peaceful waters around the Pakleni Otoci islands. Climb the historic walls of the ancient port city of Dubrovnik, which for so many centuries, was an independent republic and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you look closely, you will discover damage from the mortar shells during the recent Yugoslavian civil war (1991-92). Austin Adventures guides are experienced facilitators and regional experts. They will take the time to explain the details of each activity, answer any questions, and demonstrate the use of all equipment. Each activity has been carefully planned to include options for all levels. www.austinadventures.com | 800-575-1540 4 DISTINCTIVE ACCOMMODATIONS Nights 1 & 2: Hotel Adriana Sitting on the shore with fine views of the town center of Hvar, Hotel Adriana is a member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World. Deluxe rooms, a rooftop pool with saltwater, a delightful lounge, terraced gardens and the spacious Sensori Spa make the Adriana a perfect place to unwind after your daily activities. Nights 3 - 5: Hotel Marko Polo The four-star Hotel Marko Polo on the island of Korčula has been recently renovated. It offers an indoor as well as an outdoor pool, a wellness/spa center, a fitness center, and tennis courts. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the hotel is only a short stroll from the town center. www.austinadventures.com | 800-575-1540 5 Arrival and Departure Prior to the trip, arrive at your own convenience in Split. On Day 1, we will meet you in the lobby of Hotel Park in Split at 7:30 a.m. (or at the ferry at 8:00 a.m. if you are staying at a different hotel). After a two-hour ferry ride to Stari Grad on Hvar Island, the cycling begins. After breakfast on Day 6, we take you to the hotel of your choice in Dubrovnik (2.5 hour transfer) or the Dubrovnik airport (3 hour transfer). 2016 Dates Trip Price Trip Length Host Cities 6 days/5 nights Split, Croatia June 19 - 24 from $3,998 / adult Dubrovnik, Croatia July 3 - 8 ($680 single Airport Codes: July 24 - 29 supplement) SPU and DBV August 14 - 19 $3,198 / child Reservations & Availability 1-800-575-1540 [email protected] What Our Guests Say “This was the trip of a lifetime and I truly felt the ‘toughest part’ was going home – even with the mountains we climbed!” – Ingrid W., Morristown, NJ “Austin Adventures puts the customer first. Our guide took care of us and all the details ahead of time. The cooking class in Hvar with Mario was an adventure and ranks as one of our more memorable Croatian experiences. An authentic, humorous, unrushed chance to get to experience the life of a Croatian. Priceless!” – Craig J., Portland OR www.austinadventures.com | 800-575-1540 6 .