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Thomson Destinations
Istria & Kvarner Riviera
If you fancy discovering somewhere different this year, let us introduce you to a corner of Croatia that pulls out all the stops to impress. We're talking can't-believe-your-eyes-pretty beaches. Movie-set backdrops that'll whip your breath away. And towns crammed with more culture than you'll know what to do with. If you haven't heard of the Istrian and Kvarner Rivieras, you're not alone. That's because these delightful regions sit on the less-trodden tourist trail. But those in the know are on to something very special indeed. Picture Venice, minus the canals. Now add in pine forests as far as the eye can see. And sit it all along a coastline with seas as clear as mineral water. No wonder they've kept it under their sunhats. Istria is the Adriatic's largest peninsula and one of the most developed. That said, it sits in three national parks sprinkled with gorgeous green rollers, fields of flame-red soil and pastel-washed villages. And it all sweeps along 430km of shoreline. With so many resorts to ooh' and ahh' over, where should you unpack your bags? If you're after a bit of everything, it has to be picturesque Porec. Chock-a-block with honey-coloured Venetian houses, it's got the lot. Buzzy bars. Blue Flag beaches. And a beautiful historical quarter. Rovinj also has something for everyone and is known locally as the Blue Pearl of the Adriatic'. It's abuzz with traditional eateries and has oodles of peaceful pebble coves. If you want to pull up in the slow lane though, try the serene seaside fishing villages of Umag and Rabac where you can really kick-back on the shores. On the other hand, it might be the ever-so elegant Opatija that wins your holiday heart. Sitting in the fairytale-like region of Kvarner, this cosmopolitan resort with its ice-cream coloured Belle Époque villas, overlooks the sparkling sapphire-blue seas. Whichever slice of gorgeousness you go for - this is one holiday hotspot you won't want to miss.
Croatia
Dubrovnik Riviera & Islands
If there's one place to be seen right now, it's the Dubrovnik Riviera. When it comes to the what's hot' polls, this corner of the Med's stealing the spotlight. And it's easy to see why. At its centre stands the time-warp town of Dubrovnik. Perched on a rocky finger pointing out into the Adriatic, its battlements unfurl like a stone ribbon around the city. Inside is a jumble of terracotta roofs, chimney stacks and steeples. Think of it as a Medieval jewel box, stuffed with architectural gems hardly changed since the 13th century. There are ornate palaces carved in creamy-grey stone. Baroque churches topped with grand cupolas. And monasteries crouched around silent courtyards. Dubrovnik's one of those fairytale cities where every corner is Kodak gold. Turn this way and you'll chance upon a sleepy little alleyway strung with laundry. Turn the other and you'll come across a sunlit square filled with pavement cafes. But it's not just Dubrovnik that will send your senses into override. The whole coastline's a treasure trove. Take the seaside town of Cavtat, for instance. It's a scrapbook of beaches, window shutters and bougainvillea-festooned houses. There are sleepy hamlets, too - places like Mlini and Plat - where all you can hear are waves lapping against pebbles and the occasional chug of a motorboat. The one constant is the countryside. The towns and villages here are pulled up against dramatic, pine-draped hillsides that tumble into turquoise coves and bays. And there's more. The Dubrovnik Riviera's got islands. Miniature Garden of Edens cast into the sea, like Brac, Hvar and Korcula. Perhaps the most famous is Lopud island. This emerald gem is dotted with secluded bays that promise total escape from the world. Yep, the Dubrovnik Riviera's shuffled onto the holiday map of Europe in style. No wonder it's getting the travel pack's plaudits.
Highlights
Plitvice Lakes A miracle of nature, Croatia's 16 Plitvice Lakes are crystal clear, connected by enchanting waterfalls tumbling down the hillside. Encircled by emerald forests brimming with brightly coloured flowers and wildlife, you'll appreciate the awe-inspiring scenery on an exhilirating walk across bridges and past the lakes - truly a naturelover's dream Available from most of the resorts on the Istrian Riviera. Croatian Evening When on holiday it's always a treat to experience the festivities that date back to the roots of that country. The Croatian evening is a great mix of Istrian and international music and dance through the years. Colourful costumes are instrumental in giving the entertainment an historical feel and enable you to take wonderful photographs. Food and wine are in plentiful supply during what has proved to be an excellent social evening. Available from Croatia - North. Nature's Creations Let nature truly inspire you with a visit to the breathtaking Postojna Caves, which harbour colossal stalactites and stalagmites shimmering in the shady tunnels, and soak up the mystical ambience as you journey through the colourful grottos on a small train. The remainder of your day takes you to the home of the famous Lippizzaner white horses, trained for the Spanish School of Riding in Vienna, where you'll enjoy an elegant lunch performance. Available from most resorts on the Istrian and Slovenian Rivieras.
² Plitvice Lakes
² Local musicians.
Sky digital 647 Visit your travel agent up to Call 0871 230 2555 Calls costMobile 10p/min plus 6p set up fee from a BT landline. and other providers' charges may vary.
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