Delights of the Dalmatian Coast

• Elegant Dubrovnik, 'Pearl of the Adriatic': mediaeval ramparts, Renaissance churches, Doges' palace
• Beautiful off-shore islands; spectacular Krka National Park
• Superb hotels: a harbour side mansion, a grand ***** villa and a family-run hotel near the old town of Trogir
• Stunning coastal paths, easy valley trails, undiscovered lakes and waterfalls
• Expert local guide with air-conditioned minibus

Croatia's rich cultural heritage is matched only by its amazing natural beauty: sandy beaches, unspoilt islands, tourist-free villages and barely-visited historic sites - all perfect for exploring on foot. Travelling with our local guide, in an air-conditioned minibus, we follow easy coastal paths to rocky coves and forest paths leading to tiers of shimmering waterfalls. We'll also visit the many sites that make up Croatia's historical melting pot. There's Dubrovnik - its well-preserved ramparts surround a honeycomb of Renaissance churches, secret courtyards and sumptuous merchants palaces. Then Trogir, where the first Greek settlers landed and listed by UNESCO for its wealth of classical buildings like St Lovro's church and the Venetian loggia. Founded by the Romans, Split's famous Diocletian palace was once the Emperor's retirement home. Today its warren of narrow alleys houses the town's cathedral, and its cavernous cellars are used as art galleries.

We're extremely pleased with our choice of hotels too, all of which are within five minutes walk of the historical centres. In Dubrovnik, we stay in a ***** hotel with a private pool and swimming terrace. Our family-run **** hotel in Trogir is on Ciovo Island, just 200m from the old town. On Brac, our *** hotel in Bol, a pretty honey-coloured stone mansion, lies on the harbour front, with all rooms affording sea views. Evening meals are taken in local restaurants where we'll savour the excellent regional cuisine. Air conditioned rooms are guaranteed throughout.