The beautiful Dalmation Coast, Croatia |  <i>Kate Baker</i> Cycling in the Dalmatian Islands |  <i>Tim Charody</i> Cycling between Stari Grad and Jelsa on the island of Hvar, Croatia |  <i>Ross Baker</i> The beautiful Dalmation Coast, Croatia |  <i>Kate Baker</i>
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Croatia! Here We Go Again

5 of the best active holidays in Croatia

You may have seen the sequel to the beloved 'Mamma Mia!' film. But did you know that parts of the film were actually shot at the island of Vis, where we visit during some of our bike and boat trips in Croatia?

The 'Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again' film will certainly further boost popularity of the Mediterranean country and you may too have added Croatia to your travel bucket list. To help you choose your holiday, check out the below short overview of five of the best trips.

  • » Take to the water to explore Dalmatia’s sensational coastline, with an overnight at the island of Vis, where the Mamma Mia sequel was filmed
    » Get off the beaten track – from Kvarner Bay to the Istrian peninsula
    » New trip takes you through northern Croatia’s dramatic, yet largely undiscovered, landscape

If you are planning a trip, we've included five of our best active holidays in Croatia, a mix of classic favourites and new itineraries…

Croatia Family Adventure

Cycling quiet coastal roads on the islands off the Dalmation Coast with kids |  <i>Ross Baker</i> Kids swimming and kayaking on a family adventure in the Mediterranean |  <i>Ross Baker</i> Kids eating ice cream in Jelsa on the Croatia Family Adventure |  <i>Kate Baker</i> Croatia and her many islands offer some excellent family cycling ideas

Take to the water to explore the sensational coastline of southern Dalmatia, with overnights in scenic ports and quiet bays, including the island of Vis, where the Mamma Mia sequel was filmed. With further highlights such as the famous narrow white pebble beach of Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape), each day brings a new island to discover by bike, on foot or even by raft. Activities on this family holiday are specifically geared towards the whole family ensuring the experience is both informative and interactive.


Kvarner Bay Bike and Sail

The picturesque island of Krk Andela Lora Swimming Platform Cyclists on the island of Pag Relaxing on the sundeck in Kvarner Bay Tranquil coastal scenes in Croatia |  <i>Liz Rogan</i>

Countless islands in crystal clear waters, deeply fissured cliffs, serene picturesque beaches, and numerous small bays are the typical features of Croatia’s lesser-known in the UK (yet equally stunning) Kvarner Bay in the north Adriatic Sea. Based on a comfortable motor yacht, you can take a day off cycling and spend time on board, swim or just wander through the alleyways of pretty port towns – while at night, you can sleep in your cabin… or on deck under a thousand stars!


Croatia Coast and Canyons Walk

_DSC0286 _DSC0068 (2) _DSC0068

This new guided trip in northern Croatia takes in the interior and coastline between Zagreb and Split, an area rich in medieval towns and villages, breathtaking national parks, cascading waterfalls and spectacular mountains. In the company of an expert local guide, you will explore some of Croatia’s most beautiful pockets, from the emerald terraced ponds of Plitvice Lakes National Park to the spectacular canyons of the little known Velebit Mountains, Croatia’s largest mountain range.


Istria on Foot

Pula as seen from the sea Hiking in Brijuni National Park, Istria Unique trail markings in Istria Quaint albergue's along the Parenzana Trail Hiking in the èka Nature Park at the bottom of the Istrian Peninsula

Istria remains one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, brimming with rolling hills, pristine wilderness, medieval villages, and a dramatic coastline. Trip highlights include: exploring the village of Motovun and its striking hilltop setting, surrounded by vineyards and truffle forests; visiting the islands of Brijuni National Park, where ancient pine forests meet with the azure waters; and ascending Mount Vojak for sweeping views over the Bay of Trieste, the Julian Alps and the Adriatic islands.


National Parks of North Dalmatia

The stunning Dalmatian Coast in Croatia Picturesque Krka National Park Cycle through sleepy villages in the Dalmatian Islands |  <i>Tim Charody</i> Dalmatian Island town of Solta

Discover a nature lover’s paradise as you cruise on northern Dalmatia’s crystal clear waters. Anchor in quiet ports and find unspoiled nature at the famous national parks of Krka and Kornati, explore Croatia’s ‘Long Island’, Dugi Otok, take in the beautiful views from the cliffs in Telascica Bay and wander around the medieval towns of Sibenik, Zadar, and Trogir. For more flexibility, each day you can decide to either bike alone using the information and maps provided or join the tour guides.

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