Split has a proud maritime tradition, and its port has seen plenty of boating traffic during its long and distinguished history.
In recent years, the harbour has played host to what has become an increasingly important international boat show, and this year's Croatia Boat Show will take place from April 17 - 21 in Split harbour.
It is a chance for all sectors of the boating industry to come together, and there are plenty of smart yachts for the visiting public to enjoy during the event. The fair necessitates some temporary uprooting of regular ferry and catamaran berths, and regular travellers to the islands may find themselves arriving at a different part of the harbour.
For more information about the Croatia Boat Show, visit the official website, or check out the video below for more details.
Given its size, proximity and regular ferry schedule to Supetar, Brac is arguably the most accessible island for a day trip from Split, and the pleasant one-hour ferry transfer should be seen as part of the experience. It is an island of culture, tradition, beaches, beauty and adventure, with plenty to entice the visitor from the mainland. Here are five highlights, all of which can be enoyed on a day trip from Split:
1. Zlatni Rat beach, Bol
Arguably the most famous beach in all Croatia, Zlatni Rat (or Golden Horn) is one of the top attractions in Dalmatia. Situated on the edge of the tourist town of Bol on the southern shores of Brac, the shifting tides move the beach left and right, and it is popular family resort, as well as the base for activity sports such as wind surfing. There is a daily catamaran from Split to Jelsa via Bol at 16:00 (16:30 on a Friday), or the beach can be reached by ferry to Supetar and onward bus connection.
2. Blaca Monastery
One of the most impressive complexes in Dalmatia and testament to the determination and dedication of the monks of the 16th century, Blaca monastery is well worth the hike, both for the incredible views and the sense of achievement of human endeavour. Founded in 1551 following more Ottoman attacks, Blaca was also an agricultural community, producing wine, honey and other local specialities.
In addition to the orginal construction, there is also a world-famous observatory, museum and library.
3. Dragon's Cave
Another fascinating insight into centuries-old monastic life is located close to the village of Murvica, about 7km from Bol. Zmajeva spilja (the Dragon's Cave) takes its name from the relief of a dragon in it, and its main purpose was a a temple and home to the Glagolitic priests from the 16th century on.
The cave is some 20m long and divided into four halls, including the Chapel of our Lady in the first hall. There are several carvings into the mountainside, including Madonn, the moon and dragons, which scientists have attempted to explain. A common theory is that they are linked to parts of Slavic mythology and Christian iconography.
A visit to Dragon's Cave is possible only with a guide.
4. Dol with Vitalac
A rare treat! Found only on Brac and one more village on Crete, vitalac takes lamb' s offal (liver, heart, lungs) skewered and wrapped. After turning on live coals, the sticks are wrapped in lamb's intestines and then turned for another hour. Vitalac is then cut and eaten while the diners wait for the whole lamb to be baked. Wine and drinks included.
The journey begins from Split harbor and continues across the hills of Brac Island to tiny Skrip village where guests get introduced to history of the island and its traditions. Next stop is picturesque and wonderfully preserved Dol village where our cooking class takes place. The cooking class of vitalac also combines the lamb cooking traditions of Brac island.
The program is offered from Split area in May, June and September.
5. Brac stone and the Pucisca stone masonry school
Brac stone is famous throughout the world, with its most famous location being part of the White House in Washington. It is also to be found in other public buildings around the world, such as Liverpool Cathedral in the UK.
Stone masonry is a highly skilled art, and one much prized in Dalmatia, where construction from stone is an essential part of the culture. The Pucisca stone masonry school is an important centre of learning and craftsmanship of this very important art form.
For more information on transfers and organised tours to these destinations, contact the tourist boards on Brac:
The first seasonal flights have landed and the first cruise ships have docked, and the important Easter holiday is almost upon us.
For the most part, however, tourists visiting Central Dalmatia will be looking to arrive in the summer months, and the Dalmatian islands will be the destination for many. As such, the Jadrolinija ferry times are an important part of the holiday planning.
The summer Jadrolinija ferry, which comes into effect from June 1 - September 30, is now available. For the most comprehensive overview, visit the official Jadrolinija website. For a more simple overview for transfers from the mainland to the islands of Brac, Hvar, Vis, Solta, Korcula, Veli and Mali Otok, click on the links below:
There are so many fascinating destinations on the Dalmatian coast to discover, that is can be a difficult choice to find the right one. One destination with plenty to offer for a very varied holiday is the town of Omis. Here are seven great reasons why Omis is worth looking into for every kind of holiday - family, activity, history or pure relaxation.
1. Pirates!
Omis has a rich pirate history, and the region was under constant attack from the Ottomans. The Cetina gorge was a favourite hiding point, and the legends of the Omis Pirates are very much alive today. So much so that there is the annual Omis Pirate Night during the Omis cultural festival, where legendary battles are recreated and the whole town descends into one big party. The most famous pirate of them all, Johnny Depp, was invited to come to last year's festival. He couldn't make it then, but this year - who knows?
The most important date for your pirate diaries every year is August 18, when the 13th century pirate battles are reconstructed in the town harbour - a true spectacle and fun for all the family.
2. Dinosaurs!
There is plenty of ancient heritage to discover in Dalamtia, but for a sense of the oldest heritage of all - and for fun for all the family - head over to Dino Park, the first theme park on the Adriatic, with dinosaur attractions aplenty.
3. Rafting
Omis is gateway to the mighty Cetina river, and the Cetina means... rafting! One of the most popular adrenaline days out in Dalmatia.
4. Fotresses
If adrenaline is not your thing, there is plenty more to discover up the Cetina, starting from Omis. The river's mountainsides are full of fortresses which pay testament to the brutal history and legends of the region. To learn more about the legends and fortresses of the Cetina, click here.
5. Beaches
The Dalmatian coastline is one big beach opportunity, and the 35 kilometres of the Omis Riviera is no exception. Get away from the crowds and discover quaint old fishing villages and your own private spot. From accessible family beaches to something more secluded, there is plenty to choose from, and if activity sports are your thing, activities such as windsurfing are available.
6. Omis Dalmatian Klapa Festival
If you are a fan of traditional Dalmatian music, head for Omis for the famous Dalmatian Klapa Festival which has been taking place since 1967. It has become the central point of Dalmatia's rich klapa heritage, and the festival is growing in importance and reputation every year.
To visit Dalmatia without experiencing the soul of the region through the excellent performances of the various klapa groups would be to miss out of one of its essential ingredients.
7. Free climbing and trekking
As if the activities on the Adriatic and challenges of the Cetina river were not enough for the the active tourist, Omis an excellent base for trekking and climbing, discovering the stunning mountains which surrouns the town. It is one of the premier destinations for free climbing in the region.
One of the biggest changes moving from Manchester to life in Dalmatia is my relationship with vegetables. I still recall the woman from Cambridge in a shop on Hvar in November who was complaining that there were no tomatoes for sale. When it was explained that it was not the season for tomatoes, she appeared confused, as tomatoes are for sale 12 months a year in her shop back home...
The quality of the fresh fruit and vegetables in Dalmatia is exceptional, and I have come to accept the seasonal availability of produce. Not only to accept, but also to look forward to the coming season - asparagus in a month, for example. There is no comparison between the quality and taste of fruit and vegetables produced in Dalmatia and the bland offerings in British supermarkets.
The other difference between Manchester and Dalmatia apart from availability is buying habits. Many families grow their own food and will sell to others, while there are certain places where one should always stop and buy things if one is in the region.
One such place for me at least is Vrgorac, which is a stunningly beautiful little town in the middle of the most perfect landscape, which few people have heard of, and fewer have visited. It appears almost from nowhere on the drive from Mostar back to Split, as the road winds round in acres of pristine forest in the hills. It is totally unspoilt nature, with historic Vrgorac in the middle.
In summer, the first signs of life in the hills are individuals dotted around the winding roads - strawberry sellers. If I come home without Vrgorac strawberries, I am in trouble...
Strawberries are only part of the story, as Vrgorac has a great reputation as a quality producer of fruit and vegetables, all grown in a healthy and a natural environment. It was no surprise, therefore, to see the Vrgorac Tourist Board launching an excellent culinary initiative at GAST 2013 in Split this week, called Zeleni Dani, or 'Green Days', a great idea to celebrate the local produce in season in late Spring and Autumn.
Working with the restaurants and other local partners, the Vrgorac Tourist Board will be holding several events in the shoulder months of March, April, September and October with a culinary theme. In addition to its gastronomic scene, Vrgorac has plenty to offer. It has historic fortresses and a lovely old town (see video below), and is the birthplace of famous Croatian poet Tin Ujevic (read more about him here).
It is also a great base for activity sports, and its hiking credentials are assured as it is the birthplace of mountaineer, film maker and photographer Stipe Bozic, who was the second European to climb Everest twice.
For more information about options for that healthier holiday, contact the Vrgorac Tourist Board.
One of the many advantages of flying into Split is the sheer wealth of holiday choice which awaits the arriving tourist. While the majority head out to the stunning islands of Hvar, Brac, Vis and Solta, and a large number savour the growing attractions of the Dalmatian capital, some of the real undiscovered treasures of Croatia lie just a short journey inland.
The town of Sinj is one such example. Last year, there were almost 12,000 overnight stays, down from 21,500 before the motorway from Zagreb opened in 2006 (Sinj lies on the old road). A town and surrounding area of 24,000 people (the town itself has 11,448 inhabitants), some distance from the sea. Why bother when there is so much Adriatic magic to enjoy at the beach? Why indeed?
Except...
There is something different about Sinj. It is a town rich in history and tradition, with its main tourist event - the Alka - one of the most interesting festivals in southern Europe, the annual knights' tournament which takes place every summer to commemorate the famous defeat of the Turks at Sinj in 1715. A town with a unique festival which takes place over a short period of time every year. Not so unusual.
Except...
Dig a little deeper. Did you know, for example, that there is evidence that football was first played in the Cetinjska Krajina region. Evidence which was put on the front page of the 1969 cover of official Fifa journal, FIFA News (issue 71). As the Sinj Tourist Board explains:
Photo: Nikola Belančić
A tombstone of a seven-year-old Roman boy Gaius Laberius holding a ball with hexagons joined in the manner of a net-like ornament. The symbol of a real leather ball, it is considered firm evidence that football in Europe was first played in the Cetinska Krajina Region. It was found in the Tilurium site, in the locality of Gardun, and dates back to the 2nd century.
Today the tombstone is built into the front wall of the Perković family-owned stone building in Vrlička Ulica at number 10 in Sinj. Made of limestone, the monument is 113 centimetres high and 46 centimetres wide. At the bottom there is a two-part inscription, the first part of the inscription being in a well-defined frame and informing about Gaius Laberius, whereas the second part is an inscription by an unkonown author dedicated to the boy.
The central part is a round medallion framed with ornaments, bearing a portrait of the boy who holds the ball in his right hand. At the top of the monument there is a frieze showing a kantharos (a large two-handle vase), a dolphin and the head of Medusa (in ancient mythology, the personification of evil) and a triangular gable with acroteria (plastic ornaments of tops and corners) in the shape of lion’s paws. The head of Atis is sculptured in the triangular gable.
Photo: Branko Čović
Even though football was played at Gardun among Roman soldiers and sons of the rich, originally the game was Illyrian and the Delmates had played it long before the Roman troops arrived. This is further proven by the fact that in no locality other than Gardun throughout the historical Roman Empire, a football-related pattern or image has been found.
In 1969, the international football association (FIFA) dedicated a cover of its official journal FIFA NEWS (issue 71), headlined Archaeology and football, to the archaeological discovery of the amateur archaeologist Josip Bepo Britvić. According to the FIFA, this discovery is a piece of information significant for both archaeology and football fans. (Delmates VS Romans match).
So, pretty town with some history, a claim to fame and a couple of traditions? Maybe a little interesting.
Except...
Photo: Sinj Tourist Board
There is plenty to do. Sinj is a perfect blend of heritage, tradition and activity sports. Supremely located just 30 minutes from Split and yet a world away from the tourist hordes, Sinj is the perfect place to discover the charm and unique aspects of traditional Dalmatian life, and for outdoor lovers, there is a wealth of choice.
With its own airfield, there are paragliding options.
Photo: Sinj Tourist Board
Sinj's hippodrome is world famous, and horse-riding holidays are available in the region, a perfect way to discover the real Dalmatia close up.
Photo: Ilija Veselica
The mighty Cetina river has some challenging days out, including white-water rafting and canoeing safaris.
Photo: Sinj Tourist Board
Tennis courts, an Olympic-size outdoor swimming pool, fly-fishing, climbing, paintballing, hiking, mountain climbing and Jeep safaris - the list goes on.
Photo: Nikola Belančić
All a 30 minute drive from Split. The home of football. For an inexpensive activity or outdoor holiday in inland Dalmatia's unspoilt nature, yet within a short drive of the amenities of the city and the beach, Sinj is surely one of the last quality undiscovered destinations in Europe.
And the food. We have not yet mentioned the food. Next time, or for more information, visit the Sinj Tourist Board online.
In addition to its standard tourism offer, Central Dalmatia is becoming increasingly important as a conference and trade fair destination. With several quality hotels appearing in Split and elsewhere in the region in recent years, the ability of the region to host major events is increasing year by year.
Next week sees the start of the 18th GAST international food and beverage fair in Split. It is an extremely popular event, both for the visiting public and businesses in the hospitality industry. In the words of the official website (please click here for more details):
GAST 2013
Split,March 6th-10th, 2013.
The most significant gastro event in Croatia!
18th International Food fair
18th International Beverages fair
18th International Hotel and hospitality equipment fair
18th DIONIZIJANA – Wine fair
8th Coffee fair
8th FURNITURA - Furniture fair
7th SATURN - Tourism fair
6th GAST AROUND THE WORLD
GAST fair is a meeting point of numerous food, beverages, hotel and hospitality equipment producers and merchants, and it is recognized as a key spot of touristic season logistical contracting. This manifestation has a yearly growth trend of 35% for all elements included - the exhibition area, number of exhibitors and the number of visitors, as well as the number of contracts, which is an extreme rarity in Croatian fair industry.
Please find below a report from last year's fair, where there was a seminar on eco-ethno tourism in Dalmatia, including a presentation from current Central Dalmatia Tourist Board director Joško Stella.
