The Charms of Split Reach India

Is Central Dalmatia about to see another new tourism market?

After another great season in terms of tourism numbers, it seems that the message about the unique attractions of Split Dalmatia County are reaching new audiences...

India is not a country with a strong cultural tradition of visitors to Croatia, but could that be about to change with the some of the first tourism articles about the region appearing in the Indian press?

One of the most-read publications in English, The Hindu, featured Split earlier this week, a positive portrayal that could well be the start of increased interest from Indian tourists. Read the article here. 

Discover Dalmatia, a Sailing Paradise

There is no doubt that tourism on the Dalmatian coast, and Split is particular, is on the rise. This year's statistics have been impressive for the Dalmatian capital, and there has been much written about the number of fligths coming into Split, which was the busiest airport in the country in the summer, with more than 80 destinations served by 43 airlines.

But there has also been a large increase in tourism from the sea. 114 cruiseliners so far this year have brought an estimated 200,000 tourists, a number which is set to rise considerably next year. But there has also been a noticeable increase in another source of sea tourism - sailing.

With its plethora of islands and stunning coast, Dalmatia is becoming ever more attractive as a sailing destination, with the central islands of Brac, Hvar and Vis particularly popular. Split is becoming increasingly important as a sailing base, and there are now some excellent sailing packages and schools to suit all skill levels and time frames.

Check out the video below for a taster of the freedom of a sailing holiday, and experience the freedom of island-hopping sailing on the Adriatic next summer.


Dalmatia from Mark Lancaster on Vimeo.

Central Dalmatia Records Biggest Rise in Tourism Numbers for 2013

The beaches may be emptying now, but 2013 has been an excellent season for Central Dalmatia, and the first nine months' statistics show that the region was second only to Istria in performance.

In total, there were some 2.05 million arrivals by September 30, which transposed into 12.3 million overnight stays.  These impressive numbers meant a 10% overall improvement on the corresponding numbers in 2012, the largest rise in all Croatia.

Central Dalmatia was the favourite destination of the Czechs, who came in the largest numbers, followed by the Poles in second and Germans in third. There were some other interesting statistics from the UK and Scandinavia - a whopping 27% rise in tourists from the previous year.

To discover more of the beauty of Central Dalmatia when planning your 2014 holiday, why not follow our official Facebook page?

Daily Mail Features Game of Thrones Filming in Central Dalmatia

Central Dalmatia has been returning to the past in recent days, with various locations in the region being used as the setting for the latest series of the ever popular Game of Thrones.

The hit series has already seen filming in Dubrovnik for the second year running, and now attention has turned further up the coast, with film locations including Diocletian's Palace in Split and Klis Fortress. Prior to that, the huge cast and crew assembled in Zrnovnica, where Britain's Daily Mail was on hand to report on the filming with some impressive pictures. Read the Daily Mail report here. 

Take Part in the Oldest Regatta in Croatia: Mrduja

The beaches of Central Dalmatia may be getting a little emptier as the end of the season approaches, but there is still plenty of action on the Adriatic, and one of the most eagerly anticipated sailing events of the year takes place in the traditional first week of October - the Mrduja regatta. Now in its 82nd year, the regatta is regarded as the oldest in Croatia.

It takes its name from the small island of the same name which has traditionally been a bone of ownership contention between the islands of Brač and Šolta, between which it lies, but in 1927, the small island achieved fame for a different reason, with the first Mrduja regatta. Count Toni Pavlović, a noble from Split, organised the regatta, a 22 mile race around the small island, which is clearly visible on the ferry through the two bigger islands, and whose coastline is just 500m.

The count himself won that day from a field of 11 vessels, and the event became an annual tradition - interrupted only by the Second World War - with several hundred boats expected at the 2013. It attracts serious sailors, as well those out for a fun day trip, and the eating and drinking is as important as the sailing for some. 

To register for this year's event, click here. 

Trilj: The Heart of Adventure Tourism in Central Dalmatia

Drag yourself away from the beach for just a day and discover a whole new world just a short distance from the coast.

The region of inland Dalamtia is known as Zagora, or 'behind the hill', and while there might not be too much of the pristine Adriatic on offer, there are plenty of other activities which are attracting an increasing number of tourists each year to Central Dalmatia, and for whom a beach holiday is the last thing on their minds.

For Zagora is adventure tourism country, just thirty minutes from Split and the Dalmatian coast. Here Dalmatia offers a different kind of Paradise - kayaking, rafting, climbing, cycling, horse riding, canyoning, hiking. If it adrenaline sports you are looking for, look no further. Check out the video below for a gentle armchair introduction.

One of the advantages of being based in towns such as Sinj and Trilj, for example, is that one has the accessibility of the coast, combined with the rich diversity of nature and activities away from the crowds. Prices are cheaper, the tourists routes less congested, and there is fabulous nature at every turn. 

A prime example of adventure tourism in action is that of Hotel Sveti Mihovil in Trilj, which is actually the oldest private hotel in modern-day Croatia. Opened as a restaurant in 1965, the hotel now offers the perfect base to discover the region, as well as tailor-made packages which are proving increasingly popular with the mostly British adventure tourism market, who are coming for seven-day packages in groups of 5 to 25. From adult to family packages, there is something for everyone. Here is a sample 7-day package which brings out the very best of the region, and offers an action-packed week in inland Dalmatia.

After a short Transfer from Split to Trilj you will be checking into the Hotel. This 3 star rated hotel fits all rooms with Air-conditioning, Satellite TV, Mini bar, a private bathroom and direct phone line. This is the time to unpack, have few drinks and become acquainted with our Holiday Guides and the other hotel guest.

Today we are taking a short transfer to the small village of Han. This is where we begin the Canoe Safari. Each Canoe can hold from 6 to 10 people and our guides will be taking your group down the beautiful Cetina River. This slow ride is and great opportunity to see the amazing landscapes of Croatia. This trip makes good practice for rafting later on in the adventure. The rest of the day is free and it’s recommended that you explore the local area around the hotel.

The best way to tour the sublime Croatian landscape is by bicycle. Today we will be exploring the local villages and the winding mountain paths on mountain bikes. The track winds around the hills and follows the river until passing through the Historic villages and landmarks. This is a wonderful opportunity to sample the local produce and drinks from a family run farm we stop at for lunch.

After breakfast we are taking transfers to the village of Cikotina Lada. You will be Kayaking through the clear waters and navigating the rocky crags. These beautiful canyons are an undiscovered delight. The vegetation remains unspoilt across the river and some of the cliff faces scale over 100 meters. This tour is full of unforgettable scenery that you will treasure for ever.

Today we travel further down the Cetina. This stretch of river is where you will find the regions fasted water rapids. Take the plunge with 8 others and smash through the furious rapids as the river meets the sea. This experience is truly unique and an unforgettable experience.





The rafting is flowed by a trip to the sea side. Sun bath, swim and play volleyball. There is always cocktails and ice cream available. There are some fantastic shops and area in the area.

Time to relax and enjoy the Croatian weather, you could go shopping in town, get a bite to eat or just chill out by the pool. Remember to talk with your Croatia active holiday guides, their extensive local knowledge can provide you with an unlimited amount of things to do any day of the week. A short walk from your hotel, and you can go swimming in the river, wander into the countryside, discover Roman ruins or find a local pub! We can arrange further excursions during your Croatia Activity holiday stay. Top picks are: horse riding, day trip to Trogir or Split (both are registered under UNESCO). Many options!

Today we inviote you to the greates adventure, to discover the Cetina canyon. This huge 200 metre canyon is home to many beautiful waterfalls, lakes and hot pools. This region of the country is going to take you breath away. Climbing thought the canyon is always a challenge but the views from Gubavica Falls are simply stunning and well worth the trek.  The remainder of the afternoon is free before a special farewell dinner at the hotel.

It’s time departure, we will transfer you to the airport and bid you farewell. If you are not ready to leave yet we can extend your stay, just talk to our team. There is still plenty more places to go and activities in the region and we can make the necessary arrangements to allow you’re adventure to continue.

To learn more about adventure tourism in Trilj, visit the Trilj Tourist Board website or the Hotel Sveti Mihovil, which is located on the banks of the majestic Cetina river. 

Award-Winning Director Ashley Colburn Filming in Sinj

The Sinj Tourist Board was delighted to welcome award-winning director Ashley Colburn to the town for a day's filming on Friday September 20.

Ashley, who received critical acclaim for her Wow Croatia documentary, has decided to return to Croatia to film a new show about seven locations, including Sinj.

The tourist board posted her itinerary on its Facebook page:

SINJ WITH ASHLEY

Fascinated with beauties of Croatia, Ashley Colburn (Emmy-awarded for her documentary «Wow Croatia») decided to make a seven-episode documentary series about various regions of Croatia.
Itinerary Sinj (Friday 20th September)
- Lady of the Sinj Curch
- Old city, talking about Alka
- Fortress Kamičak, and filming
- Cetina adventure
- Kosinac Spring
- Lunch at Konoba Potkova, filming
- Activities Alka
- Sleeping in Pansion Fantasia

Ashley certainly got her hands dirty during the filming, spending time in the kitchen preparing some of Sinj's infamous culinary delicacies, as well as getting to grips with the region's heritage and adventure tourism.

It was a fun-filled day, and one that clearly left an impression on Ashley, who later tweeted:

Today I was honored to discover #Sinj ! We had a great day learning about Alka, hiking, visiting churches and we even stuffed some cabbage! I'll be back!