Intrepid Travel  >  Europe 2009  >  Browse pages 18-35  >  Europe 2009

central europe destination dalmatian coast ORIgINAl GB£500* EUe635* 7 days, Dubrovnik to Split ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Dubrovnik With its steep cobbled streets, stunning architecture and paved squares, Dubrovnik bursts with fascinating history. Post-war restoration work has been extensive, and the views from the city walls - over terracotta roofs and out to the sparkling sea - are spectacular. There is plenty of time to uncover the hidden treasures of the Old Town - begin with a stroll along Placa, the lovely pedestrian promenade, then choose a side street and explore. Perhaps take a boat ride to the island of Lokrum, where it is said that Richard the Lionheart was once shipwrecked. These days, Lokrum is the perfect place to sunbathe and swim. Days 3-4 Korcula Travel to Korcula by ferry and stay in simple accommodation with welcoming local hosts. With its pristine forests, tranquil inlets and ancient vineyards, the residents are justifiably proud of their island home. Try traditional delicacies at a local farm and wash them down with travarica, a grappa-like drink, followed by the island's famous cakes for dessert. There is plenty of time here to wander in walled Korcula Town, swim in isolated coves or to just relax and soak up the charming ambience. Days 5-7 Split The site of Emperor Diocletian's wellpreserved palace, bustling Split is the soul of Dalmatia. Dynamic and vibrant, this World Heritage-listed town is easy to see on foot, so spend some time out and about discovering its golden past. Visit the archaeological museum for a history lesson, wander into the palace's basements to bargain with the locals for handmade jewellery or just kick back with a coffee near the airy peristyle. ACCOMMODATION Hotels (2 nts), private rooms (4 nts) TRANSPORT Coach, ferry, local bus, walking GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 1 Dinner BUDGET Allow EUR245 for meals not included DEPARTS Every Mon from May - Oct GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed TRAVELLER RATING 4.55 out of 5 Hidden doorways, Croatia - Lauren Jones *plus Local Payment EUR200 PHYSICAL CULTURE SHOCK * Walk the famed city walls of Dubrovnik * Dine on traditional treats in Korcula * Experience the wellpreserved palace of Emperor Diocletian WSS TRIP CODE adriatic explorer ORIgINAl GB£620* EUe780* 8 days, Split to Bled ITINERARY... Day 1 Split Arrive early to see the sights of this busy centre on the Dalmatian Coast including the impressive ruins of Diocletian's Palace and the sprawl of Romanesque basements. Day 2 Zadar Jump aboard a local bus and take a scenic coastal route through vineyards and olive groves to seaside Zadar. Perhaps spend the afternoon admiring stunning collections of gold and silverwork housed in elaborate churches, and watch a magnificent sunset while listening to the harmonic sounds of the Sea Organ. Embrace the warm atmosphere of coastal Croatia at a small bar or cafe. Days 3-5 Rab Island Soak up the sun on pristine sandy beaches or sail to a nearby island to find a more secluded spot. Rab has been welcoming visitors for centuries, and the paved village streets, gleaming white bell towers and warm local people are sure to charm. Immerse completely in the natural beauty of the island on a terrific hike through the Kalifront forest. Day 6 Rovinj Half a century of foreign rule created the charming collection of buildings in this town. Admire the different styles of architecture then kick back and enjoy local delicacies in one of the quaint cafes lining the crooked cobblestone streets. Take time out to explore ancient ruins in Pula. Days 7-8 Bled Cross the border into Slovenia and travel into the Julian Alps. With its mountainous backdrop, picturesque lake and impressive fortress, Bled is a wonderful place to conclude the adventure. Perhaps cycle along the Lake Bled shoreline or in the nearby Vintgar Gorge. End the day with a slice of kremsnita, the delectable local dessert. ACCOMMODATION Hotels (4 nts), private rooms (3 nts) TRANSPORT Coach, ferry, local bus, walking GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS No meals included BUDGET Allow EUR280 for meals not included DEPARTS Selected Sun GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed TRAVELLER RATING 4.75 out of 5 Start 2009 10 May 24 May 07 Jun 21 Jun 05 Jul Finish 17 May 31 May 14 Jun 28 Jun 12 Jul 19 Jul 02 Aug 16 Aug 30 Aug 13 Sep 27 Sep 11 Oct 26 Jul 09 Aug 23 Aug 06 Sep 20 Sep 04 Oct 18 Oct 2010 02 May 09 May 16 May 23 May 30 May 06 Jun 09 May 16 May 23 May 30 May 06 Jun 13 Jun 13 Jun 20 Jun 20 Jun 27 Jun 27 Jun 04 Jul Street scene, Split, Croatia - Boris Kukec *plus Local Payment EUR200 PHYSICAL CULTURE SHOCK * Get lost in Split's maze of alleyways * Hear the enchanting sounds of the Sea Organ in Zadar * Discover the Rovinj harbour bustle WSV 21 TRIP CODE additional information about this destination is available at www.intrepidtravel.com