From Istria in the north, through Central Dalmatia, to the Dubrovnik Riviera in the south, a summer holiday to Croatia, without a doubt offers you the opportunity to explore one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. The 4,058km coastline comprises of spectacular beaches, secluded coves, marinas that are home to boats of all sizes and an impressive collection of 1,185 islands (only 5 fewer islands than the Maldives), of which 48 are inhabited.
According to the latest Post Office Holiday Money Report, Croatia has been picked out as one of ten "hot" destinations for summer 2014. With that in mind we have put together this list of 10 stunning Croatian Resorts we think you should visit on your next summer holiday to Croatia...
1. Mljet
Mljet is believed to be the most beautiful island on the Dubrovnik Riviera, with its stunning national park which covers approximately 11 square miles and boasts two saltwater lakes - Malo and Veliko. Perched on a small island in the middle of one of them is the 12th-century Benedictine monastery of St. Mary, which can be reached by a small taxi boat. The island of Mljet is criss-crossed with many paths, winding through the pine and oak trees and taking you over the green hills and down to the beautiful beaches and clear blue seas.
2. Hvar
The island of Hvar is the sunniest spot in Croatia.The town of Hvar has a beautiful waterfront promenade, lined with palm trees and boast a great selection of gift shops, seafood restaurants, cosy cafes and bars. . There is a remarkable, white polished stone square in front of the impressive Cathedral, with fantastic views of the harbour and the backdrop of islands.
3. Korcula
The island of Korcula boasts numerous unspoilt coves and beaches, azure blue sea, an abundance of lush, aromatic Mediterranean plants and an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. Contained within old fortified walls, with its Renaissance palaces and medieval fortresses, many have compared the town of Korcula with Dubrovnik. There are plenty of sports facilities on offer and a good selection of cosy cafes and restaurants, serving delicious local cuisine.
4. Trogir
A beautiful bridge links the mediaeval city of Trogir to the mainland. Known as the cultural centre of Dalmatia, this spectacular town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989. With its exciting cultural treasures, comfortable hotels and lovely restaurants and cafes.
5. Pula
The famous port of Pula is a fascinating mixture of roman history and contemporary surroundings in a perfect summer setting. This excellent holiday resort is also the most important commercial and cultural centre of the region. It is studded with landmarks, of which the Roman amphitheatre is certainly the most impressive. The sea is beautifully clear and the fishing superb and there is good shopping, excellent museums and art galleries and the friendly warm welcome for all those lucky enough to visit this delightful seaside town.
6. Dubrovnik
With entire streets and buildings perfectly planned and preserved to create the original atmosphere of the 7th century, you can ramble through the cobbled streets and narrow alleyways and admire the ancient architecture, take a walk along the stone ramparts of the city walls for the best view of the magnificent town of Dubrovnik, or simply relax in the sun soaked cafes and watch the world go by. Dubrovnik holidays offer a selection of hotels either within walking distance of the old city or in quiet locations spread along the coast, but with easy access to the city.
7. Cavtat
Cavtat is a particular favourite of British tourists for many years, this delightful resort has a beautiful palm-lined promenade with a charming cluster of pavement cafes, traditional restaurants and lively bars. With its mixture of remarkable cultural treasures, modern hotels, pretty pebbly beaches and crystal clear waters Cavtat offers its visitors both character and charm.
8. Makarska
With its perfect semi-circular small harbour, Makarska certainly lives up to its too-good-to-be-true appearance. The wide promenade of Makarska, bursting with fashionable cafes, restaurants and boutiques, is backed by an old town of narrow, stone-paved streets. The modern hotels are built just outside the bay with their own curving, pine protected beaches.
9. Brela
If relaxing in the sun beside the sea is your idea of the perfect holiday to Croatia, Brela is the resort for you. The white pebbly beach, safe blue sea and green pine and olive trees fringing the shore make Brela a favourite especially with families. The fishing village with its stone houses, small bars and cafes has a friendly, informal atmosphere. The hotels are built to the side of the port on densely wooded slopes.
10. Bol
Bol is situated on the southern shores of the island of Brac under the steep heights of Mt. Vidova Gora and is home to the world famous Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach. Bol is a well known Medieval seaport with an abundance of cultural sights and peculiar places for you to explore. Relax and enjoy the local ambiance in any of the cafes, bars and restaurants that line the busy harbour promenade. There is a mini-train that you can jump onboard to travel around the resort.
