Most Popular Adventurous Activities in Croatia

Cliffs and Secluded Beach, adventure activities in Croatia

Croatia is a land of sublime natural beauty and has been a home to some diverse forms of wildlife for centuries. The unique geographical attributes of different parts of the country are the reason for some starkly different yet equally glorious landscapes throughout the nation. From the playful waves of the Adriatic Sea to the difficult terrain of the mountainous slopes, this region offers several opportunities for adventure sports. Travelers who are seeking an active holiday frequent the islands and national parks of Croatia for exhilarating outdoor experiences. Following are some of the popular adventurous activities that one must indulge in to truly appreciate the natural gifts of this region.

Adventurous activities in Croatia

Hiking

Cliffs of Croatia, adventurous activities
Cliffs of Croatia

Croatia is abundant in spectacular landscapes that combine rocky slopes and sharp cliffs with emerald-green forests. These locations are perfect for a day of hiking in the lap of nature. The hiking trails of the Plitvice Lakes National Park are recommended for beginners and families, whereas the breathtaking gorges of the Paklenica National Park are much more challenging. The hike up to the stone tower on the Vojak summit of Ucka Mountain provides mesmerizing views of the Istrian Peninsula.

Biokovo Mountain, adventurous activities Croatia

Other popular spots for hiking include Risnjak National Park and Biokovo Mountain, as well as the jagged limestone rocks of Bijele and Samarske Stijene.

Diving

Ship Wrech Croatia, adventurous activities
Ship Wrech Croatia

The sparkling blue waters of the Adriatic Sea house innumerable marine wonders. A unique diving experience is offered by Baron Gautsch in Rovinj, where the waters hold the wreckage of an old ship, which is now adorned with sponges, corals, and algae. The waters here are quite deep and are not recommended for beginners, who can head over to the shallow depths of Margarina Reef instead. One must also plunge into the realm of blue enclosed by the sea cave of Bisevo Grotto, to dive among the colorful crustaceans and colorful fish species. The Pakleni Islands also have some great spots for experienced divers, with the vivid hues of the Vodnjak Reef stealing the show.

Sailing

Zlatni Rat Beach, adventurous activities in Croatia
Zlatni Rat Beach

The gentle waves and strong sea breeze of the Croatian coast make for a sailor’s delight. A voyage on a sailboat to explore the treasures of the Adriatic Sea is a wonderful way to enjoy in the many islands of Croatia. As you cruise along the sapphire blue waters, do drop your anchor on the island of Brac to relax at the beach of Zlatni Rat, a golden horn that impales the expansive sea. One must also stop by at the island of Hvar to stroll through the olive plantations and vineyards. The rustic charm of Korcula Island and the quaint churches of Ciovo Island are also extremely inviting. Since sailing and yacht charter has become a quite popular activity and you can get tips and advice at pretty much any harbor across the country.

Off-Road Biking

Krka, Croatia, adventurous activities
Krka

The best way to stay fit while on holiday is to traverse the national parks of Croatia on a bike. The Krka National Park and the Plitvice Lakes National Park have cycling trails that are suitable for bikers of all skill levels. The bike trails of Istria offer some fascinating views of the sea and lead to the top of peaks that are famous for their panoramic views. The Vidova Gora on the island of Brac is not just the highest summit of the Adriatic islands, but also an exciting place to test your cycling skills. The hilly terrain of this region offers an excellent opportunity to test your endurance in a tough session of off-road biking.

Plitvice Lakes, adventurous activities in Croatia
Plitvice Lakes

Wave Surfing

The lovers of water sports have a lot of options to choose from on the beaches of Croatia. The most famous destination for surfing is at Bol, on the island of Brac. One can also ride the waves at several spots on the Istrian peninsula, with the bays of Kamenjak and Dajla being some of the most popular ones. The waves embracing the island of Hvar are also more than suitable for surfing enthusiasts. It’s also worth mentioning that experienced surfers usually head over to the Vrboska beach for the highest waves and biggest thrills. If you are an amateur and would just like to try riding the waves for the first time, you rent the equipment for on the beaches and learn the basics of this sport from trained instructors.

These invigorating activities are bound to pack your visit to Croatia with thrills. They will keep your energy high and the adrenaline pumping throughout the day. With so many destinations for adventurous activities, Croatia is definitely a great choice for any outdoor enthusiast.

Author bio –

Nicholas Svensk, an audio engineer, enthusiast for hiking, off-road cycling and exploring nature in general. Enjoys traveling while trying to learn more about world history and tradition of places he is visiting.  An Eco-activist and aspiring writer from time to time.

Top Reasons for Visiting Croatia

Top reasons for visiting Croatia

Croatia is a land of immense natural beauty and rich cultural diversity. The lush green forests, the cascading waterfalls, and the stupendous summits come together to create magical landscapes. Equally awe-inspiring is the history of this land which has been home to some of the most impressive civilizations in the world. Each generation has left an indelible mark on the culture of this region and the art, music, and architecture narrate the marvelous tales of the incredible past. Every island, city, and village has something unique and rare to offer, be it the spectacular buildings or the serene natural splendor. Following are some of the most interesting places that stand out as Croatia’s most beloved treasures.

Treasure troves of Croatia -The City of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, Croatia

If you are a follower of the television series Game of Thrones then you can get a chance to set foot in the mesmerizing city of King’s Landing, which has been brought to life by the spellbinding architecture of the city of Dubrovnik. The magnificent stone walls and the glorious Sponza Palace provide a royal feel to this ancient Croatian city, whereas the bright red rooftops offer a stark contrast against the backdrop of the sapphire-blue Adriatic Sea. The city is worldly known for its long and thick defensive walls that surround the old city core. Within these walls, the grandeur of the famous Dubrovnik Cathedral has remained untarnished in the face of time, and the cobbled pathways from the bygone era are still intact. This city has somehow managed to keep the old-world charm alive. And as such, offers a good glimpse of how European fort-structured cities looked and felt like.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

As you step inside the Plitvice Lakes National Park, you will be greeted by the serenading ambiance of gushing waterfalls. This Croatian national park is particularly famous for its sixteen cascading lakes, all interconnected with waterfalls, creating one of the kind wonders of nature. It is the largest and most frequented national park in the country, abundant in vibrant flora and fauna. Pictures cannot do justice to the astonishing patterns that the gurgling streams of water create. Surrounding forests provide the perfect habitat for several species of animals, such as brown bears, wolves, and wild cats. Wooden footbridges are provided for the easy traversal of this region, with marked tracks and signs for better navigation. But for those less adventurous, boat tours are also available.

The City of Split

Split City, Croatia

The second largest city of Croatia, Split is one of the most sought-after destinations because of its standing remnants of a marvelous past. The Diocletian’s Palace is the undisputed top attraction of this city and one of the most magnificent relics of the Roman Empire and the architecture in the world. Facing the harbor, the exteriors of the palace resemble an imposing fortress. However, the streets inside are bustling with activity, with shops and restaurants that are loved by locals and tourists alike. The Cathedral of St. Domnius is yet another stunning and imposing monument from the gone Roman era. Other places worth a visit include the Klis Fortress, the Temple of Jupiter, and the Archaeological Museum, each of which offers some insight into the ancient civilizations of this region.

Korcula Island

Korcula, Croatia

Surrounded by the glimmering waters of the Adriatic Sea is the densely vegetated island of Korcula. Bestowed with the title of Black Island by the ancient Greeks, owing to its thick pine forests. Untouched by urbanization, Korcula is a quaint town with medieval squares and rustic houses. This island is a quiet retreat that is covered with olive groves and vineyards and is perfect for those in search of peace in a more secluded destination. At the heart of the town is St. Mark’s Cathedral, standing as a perfect display of the Gothic-Renaissance architecture of the town. The Town Museum speaks of the different chapters of Korcula’s history, whereas the remnants of the towers and walls that once guarded this town create a beautiful sight against the backdrop of a sparkling sea.

Krka National Park

Krka National Park, Croatia

The Krka National Park is named after the meandering river that flows through this region. This river holds the breathtaking island of Visovac, a circular speck of land with a Franciscan monastery that now serves as a museum and library. The national park’s most famous attractions are the splendid series of waterfalls that include Skradinski Buk and Roski Slap among the favorites. And unlike Plitvice Lakes, these waters are open for recreational swimming and diving. This region is occupied by a variety of reptiles and amphibians, while on the skyline you can spot many different bird species. The idyllic scenery and the calm atmosphere are ideal for a relaxing experience. A visit to the riverside town of Skradin provides a flavor of the local culture, and its port offers a safe home for many yacht charter and boats alike.

These are just a few enchanting places that make Croatia a unique destination, attractive for travelers with varied tastes and interests. They highlight the kaleidoscope of cultural and natural treasures that this country has had.


You may also like to read Most Popular adventure activities in Croatia


Author bio –

Nicholas Svensk, an audio engineer, enthusiast for hiking, off-road cycling and exploring nature in general. Enjoys traveling while trying to learn more about world history and tradition of places he is visiting.  An Eco-activist and aspiring writer from time to time.
Top reasons for visiting Croatia

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5 Most Beautiful Islands Famous for Their Beaches and Natural Attractions

Most beautiful islands and their beaches

Are you fantasizing about a relaxing island vacation? Everyone needs a break from work and other everyday responsibilities. Why not have the vacation you deserve? You’d be able to recharge your batteries and face challenges much easier and more willingly. There are about ten thousand islands on our planet and each of them has its own charm and beauty. The competition was fierce, but we’ve selected 5 of them we find most beautiful.

Here, you’ll learn a bit more about them which might help you choose the perfect candidate for the vacation of your dreams.

Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca, Spain, beaches and islands
Image credit – pixabay

This is the biggest island in the Balearic Islands archipelago and its name derives from the Latin meaning “the larger one”. The shades of its turquoise sea and golden sand will absolutely amaze you. This is why the fact that this island is one of the most popular vacation resorts in Europe shouldn’t surprise you. What’s more, if you are an architecture lover, make sure to visit Palma Cathedral La Seu and Basilica de Sant Francesc in Palma since they are truly impressive.

New Caledonia

New Caledonia, beaches and islands
Image credit- pixabay

Located in the southwest of the Pacific, New Caledonia has so much to offer to tourists. The Caledonian Lagoon is the largest in the world and has been a World Heritage Site since 2007. Its waters are so clear that you can see everything that’s going on underwater without any equipment whatsoever. Its capital, the wonderful city of Noumea, has so much to offer from beautiful beaches to museums, art galleries, and many other sightseeing spots.

Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos, beaches and islands
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This archipelago is the best thing that the Caribbean has to offer. Only 8 of these 40 islands are inhabited, and whichever you choose you won’t be wrong. White sandy beaches and stunning views all around you will take your breath away. The water near the shore is safe and shallow, so you can rest assured that your children will have a blast as well. Don’t miss out on seeing Grace Bay, Pillory, and Long Bay Beach where you can observe people kite surfing.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali, beaches and islands
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Bali is known as a little piece of Heaven on Earth and surely for a good reason. There’s no place like Bali, where everything is simply amazing. The accommodation, the beaches, the food – it’s an overall extraordinary experience to spend your vacation on this dreamy island. As far as fine dining is concerned, make sure to visit either Kubu at Mandapa or Blanco par Mandif, both in Ubud. The fish is always fresh and the chefs are real artists.

Cayman Islands

Cayman Islands, beaches and islands
Image credit pixabay

If you’d like to have an active vacation, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman are the perfect spots for you. You can enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and hiking. Little Cayman is widely known as a great diving spot. If you are interested, make sure to visit Bloody Bay Wall and prepare to be amazed. You will be able to see turtles, sponges, and other marine life, including sharks.

There are so many wonderful islands all over the world and all of them have their own appeal. Depending on what you expect from your vacation, you should be able to choose the perfect one to visit. Whether you’d like to go sightseeing, admire natural wonders, or simply lay on the beach and sip iced coffee all day, you can do it in a number of places and have an amazing vacation. However, if you decide to visit one of the aforementioned islands, you can’t go wrong as they really are the top five most beautiful islands on the planet.


About the author

Marie Nieves is a lifestyle blogger who loves unusual trips, gadgets, and creative ideas. On her travels, she likes to read poetry and prose and surf the Internet. Her favorite writer is Tracy Chevalier and she always carries one of her books in her bag. Most of her free time at home she spends walking her Labrador Retriever named Max. She is an avid lover of photography who loves to talk about her experiences. You can find Marie on Facebook or follow her on Twitter and Pinterest.

Top 5 Beaches in the Philippines You Can Explore

Phillipines

The Philippines is composed of over 7,107 beautiful islands which is why it is considered an archipelago. Many tourists and travelers from all over the world travel for very long hours just to see what the Philippines has to offer. The country has many great delicacies and also rich historical sights. But the main reason why foreigners are going to the Philippines is not just about the people and culture but also about the beautiful beaches.

Philippines

If you are interested to know more about the beautiful country of the Philippines then you are definitely on the right page.

Here are the top 5 beaches in the Philippines that you will totally love:

  1. BORACAY
Borcay, Philippines
(photo source: www.oceanislandtravel.com)

Who doesn’t know Boracay? With its white sand and beautiful atmosphere, it’s pretty much one of the best islands there is. Boracay is known to the world because of its natural beauty. Boracay is located in the province of Aklan in the Visayan region. Before you can visit Boracay, you have to go to Manila first, and then from there, you may take a flight to Boracay. Flight duration from Manila: 45 minutes to 1 hour.

There are a lot of activities you can try in Boracay and they are the following:

  • Banana Boating
  • fly-fishing
  • Helmet Diving
  • Island Hopping
  • Parasailing
  • Sunset Sailing
  • Snorkeling
  • Stand-up Paddling
  • Jetskiing
  • Kitesurfing and much more.

2. CORON PALAWAN

CORON PALAWAN, Philippines
(photo source: www.statebudgettaskforce.info)

Coron is considered a first-class municipality in the province of Palawan. Coron is located in the southeast part of a huge and bigger island called Busuanga. It actually serves as the jump-off point to beautiful and historic sights and getaways in the Calamian Group of Islands. Flight duration from Manila: 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Some of the most popular attractions in Coron are the following:

  • Coron hot spring
  • Shipwreck dives
  • Barracuda Lake
  • Kayangan Lake
  • Mt. Tapyas and much more.

3. EL NIDO PALAWAN

EL NIDO PALAWAN, Philippines
(photo source: www.choosephilippines.com)

Another beautiful island in the Philippines that is also located in the province of Palawan is El Nido. El Nido is known for its beautiful beaches that you may explore through its island hopping services. El Nido is also a first-class municipality in Palawan and the number of tourists visiting the place blew up throughout the past five years. Going to this island can be quite pricey but there are ways to bag the cheap accommodations. Flight duration from Manila: 45 minutes to 1 hour.

El Nido offers great tour packages and they are the following:

  • Tour A – Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, 7 Commando Beach
  • Tour B – Snake Island, Pinagbuyatan Island, Entalula Beach, Cudugnon Cave, Snorkeling Site
  • Tour C – Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Star Beach, Hidden Beach
  • Tour D – Ipil Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Pasandigan Beach, Natnat Beach, Bukal Beach

4. CARAMOAN

CARAMOAN, Philippines
(photo source: Caramoan Islands)

In the lower eastern part of Camarines Sur in the Bicol region of the Philippine archipelago lies a beautiful island called Caramoan. It is a first-class municipality that has a 4,000-hectare limestone forest. Caramoan has one of the perfect white sand beaches and it is definitely a must-see place. Caramoan is also known because it is where Survivor shot their Fans vs Favorites season and it has been broadcasted on worldwide television back in 2011. Because of that, the number of visitors skyrocketed and it is a good thing for the people of Caramoan. Flight duration from Manila: 45 minutes to 1 hour.

The activities that you can do in Caramoan are the following:

  • Climb the Rock Cliff at Matukad Island
  • Go to the Shrine of Our Lady
  • Visit Paniman Beach
  • Go to Parish Church of St. Michael the Archangel
  • Bird Watching
  • Visit Layahan Waterfalls

5. SIARGAO

SIARGAO,Philippines
(photo source: www.kawayansiargaoresort.com)

Lastly, Siargao. Surigao is located in the Philippine Sea and it is known for its tear-drop shape. Siargao is also known as the “surfing capital of the Philippines” which is why professionals or aspiring surfers are paving their way to this beautiful island to try out the activities that they are offering. Flight duration from Manila: 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Top activities in Siargao include the following:

  • Go to Magpupungko Beach
  • Cloud 9
  • Go Surfing
  • Visit Taktak Falls
  • Go to Daku Island

Truly, the Philippines is composed of many beautiful islands. The ones above are just some of the best and there’s more to the Philippines than just beaches. The Philippines should definitely be part of your bucket list!


Mark Aldrin Hipolito is a daytime writer for Holiday Inn Parramatta, one of Australia’s modern and luxurious hotels in the suburban district. Mark Aldrin gives hotel tips and hacks to help people make the most out of their vacation.


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