An Exclusive Overland Journey
Spring on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast
New 2021 Date
Main Program: June 19 – 26, 2021
Pre-trip Extension: June 16 – 19, 2021
8-28
Guests
8 / 7
Days / Nights
15
Meals
If you’ve ever considered visiting Croatia, here’s your chance to explore this up and coming wine region and the stunning beauty of the Dalmatian Coast with local experts. Travel with your host Janie Brooks Heuck of Brooks Winery. Janie is a seasoned traveler and brings her hospitality and vibrant energy to this incredible program — sip and savor your way through Croatia together. Experience dramatic coastal cliffs, sparkling Adriatic waters, and rocky vineyards during this eight-day journey to the ancient cities of Split and Dubrovnik — and beyond. Discover the history and rich cultural heritage of this crossroads between East and West. Savor local specialties such as spit-roasted lamb and fresh seafood dishes characterized by a blend of Mediterranean and Slavic flavors influenced by generations of chefs and winemakers.
“If you want to see paradise on Earth, come to Dubrovnik.”
- George Bernard Shaw
Learn
age old and modern-day winemaking techniques and taste famous Croatian varietals
Explore
the ancient walled cities of Dubrovnik, Split, and the surrounding Dalmatian Coast
View
impressive Roman architecture with stone and red tile roofs set against the sparkling Adriatic
Day 1
Split
Arrive in the ancient city of Split and take a private transfer to the Old Town hotel, your home for the next four nights. Located right outside Diocletian’s Palace and just steps away from the bustling boardwalk of Split, this boutique property is perfectly situated at the corner of ancient history and modern amenities on the breathtaking Adriatic Sea.
Settle into the hotel and take in views from the picturesque rooftop bar and spa, relax in your comfortable modern room, or head out to explore Old Town. Get your first taste of the city’s rich culture, long history and diverse architecture on a guided evening stroll of Diocletian’s Palace. The Palace is one of the best-preserved Roman royal residences in the world. Built at the turn of the fourth century AD for the Roman Emperor Diocletian, the ancient palace boasts a remarkable history and is still in use today with more than 3,000 people living within its walls. Gather this evening for aperitifs and a wine-paired welcome dinner showcasing Mediterranean flavors.
Day 2
Dalmatian Cuisine
Today we’ll meet our expert guide and chef mid-morning and make our way to Riva — the seaside promenade of Split. Experience the energy of the city during our stroll to the lively fish market. Along the way, our chef will introduce us to the history of Mediterranean fishing, local customs, and the unique items in and around the bustling fish market.
Afterward, we’ll continue on with our final stop at an authentic Dalmatian restaurant in the heart of Diocletian’s Palace, where we’ll enjoy a cooking presentation. Sip wine while learning about local techniques and ingredients before savoring your freshly prepared lunch. Afternoon and evening are all yours to explore or relax.
Day 3
Brač
Set sail this morning for a full day on the island of Brač. We’ll head down to the port and take a short boat ride. On Brač we’ll experience island life as it has been practiced for centuries, if not millennia. Croatians have long lived, farmed, and traveled between the many coastal islands. Take in the scenic beauty of the island’s white-pebble beaches, discover some of the charming villages that dot the harbor and enjoy two local wine tastings.
For lunch, we’ll enjoy a traditional island meal at a local konoba with wine indigenous to the island. Learn about the wine’s unique flavors, as well as challenges in growing grapes in this special place. In the late afternoon, we’ll board our boat and head back to Split. The evening is all yours to explore or relax.
Day 4
Krka National Park
Enjoy a leisurely morning before heading out of the city in the early afternoon to Croatia’s national treasure, Krka National Park (pronounced kur-kah). Krka River, the centerpiece of the park has seven waterfalls, including the amazing Skradinski Buk waterfall. Stroll along the winding, wooden paths with your guide; explore the local, water-powered mill; and soak up the surrounding natural beauty.
After leaving the park, we continue to the small village of Plastovo. Here, we’ll stop at Bibich Winery for an unforgettable gourmet dinner and tasting experience with the winemaker, Alen Bibic, and his wife, Vesna. Bibich Winery has a limited production of award-winning white and red wines as well as exceptional brandies. We’ll enjoy a multi-course dinner prepared with seasonal ingredients and wine personally chosen by Alen.
Day 5
Klis Fortress & Dubrovnik
Check out after breakfast and meet up with your travel director to begin our scenic journey to Dubrovnik. Along the way we will stop to visit Klis Fortress, a medieval fortress built into the rocky ridge of a hillside village. Built by an ancient Illyrian tribe, the Dalmatae, the fortress has a fascinating 2,000-year-long history. Here, we tour the stronghold and explore the small onsite museum.
After exploring Klis, we will enjoy a delicious local lunch of wine and Dalmatian delicacies at a nearby konoba, or traditional restaurant. This afternoon we continue south toward Dubrovnik. Along the way, take in the views of the fertile Neretva Valley and coastal vistas. Upon arrival in Dubrovnik, check in and get settled in the sophisticated seaside hotel overlooking Lapad beach and the Adriatic Sea. Tonight we gather for a light dinner in Old Town.
Day 6
Old Town Dubrovnik
Discover why Dubrovnik is aptly named “the pearl of the Adriatic” during a morning walking tour with an expert guide. Explore the stunning walls that surround the Old Town and marvel at the Baroque buildings and marble streets that adorn the Placa. Stroll past bustling cafes, shops, monasteries, and monuments while learning about the city’s remarkable history, artistic tradition, and its importance to Croatian culture.
Learn about Croatian-grown wines and enjoy a sumptuous lunch of Dalmatian cuisine such as local greens, olives, homemade cheese, Dalmatian prsut (prosciutto), Vis Pogaca (sardine-filled foccacia) and fresh fish, clams or shrimp. The rest of the afternoon is open for you to explore at your leisure. Stroll about the ancient city, walk the walls, or venture out with expert recommendations from your guide. Dinner is enjoyed on your own this evening.
Day 7
Pelješac Peninsula
This morning, we’ll head to the Pelješac Peninsula, known for its fine wines and oysters. First, we’ll meet our host for the day, a renowned Croatian winemaker passionate about his craft and country. He’ll provide insider access to the area’s most respected wine cellars, and an enthusiastic perspective on Croatian wines and traditions. Visit Miloš winery and enjoy a tasting of Plavac Mali wine. Next, we’ll tour the Grgich winery situated within steep hills overlooking Trstenik harbor. Learn about winemaker Miljenko Grgich and his successes in Napa Valley and Croatia. Our final stop is at our host’s 500-year-old family cellar for a private wine tasting and traditional Croatian lunch including Peka, a variety of meats and potatoes cooked under an iron baking bell. During our farewell lunch together we toast to Croatia and our time together surrounded by the old and new.
Back in Dubrovnik, the evening is all yours to do any last minute shopping, relax, or explore old town one last time.
Day 2
Day 3
Accommodations
HOTEL CORNARO SPLIT
Enjoy the luxurious Hotel Cornaro. Located just a two-minute walk from the UNESCO protected Diocletian’s Palace, Hotel Cornaro is perfectly situated in the heart of Split. From the rooftop terrace look out across red-tiled roofs to the sparkling Mediterranean. Inside, the hotel harmoniously mixes modern and traditional style into all of their facilities and each of the spacious rooms. Amenities include a rooftop jacuzzi and bar, a choice of fine restaurants, and an exclusive spa offering a range of wellness treatments.
Each of the hotel’s elegant rooms features a flat- screen T.V. with satellite channels, air conditioning, a seating area, mini bar, and spectacular city views. The room’s private bathrooms are equipped with a walk-in shower, hairdryer, bathrobe and spa-grade toiletries.
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HOTEL KOMPAS DUBROVNIK
Experience Dubrovnik’s exceptional Hotel Kompas. The hotel’s seafront location on Lapad Beach provides unmatched views of the Adriatic as well as the city’s gorgeous tree-lined promenade. During your stay, enjoy the use of the hotel’s many amenities including an indoor and outdoor pool, a Finnish sauna, steam room bath, relax zone, and three treatment zones. Bask in the warm Croatian sun from the pool deck, unwind at one of the hotel’s two lively bars, or enjoy at the hotel restaurant which offers breathtaking views of Lapad Bay.
The hotel’s luxurious, minimalist styled rooms all feature a spacious modern balcony, premium toiletries, plush bathrobes and slippers, and 24- hour room service. Amenities provided in each room include air-conditioning, flat- screen satellite T.V., free WiFi, a hairdryer, and minibar.
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Hotel Villa Meneghetti Istrian Peninsula Pre-Trip
In Istria, enjoy three nights at this recently expanded luxury wine villa. The boutique property is part of the Relais & Châteaux collection and is the perfect countryside getaway. Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, the villa is home to a fine dining restaurant, wine cellar, and tasting room. Wooden beams, white stone walls, and beautiful landscapes create an exceptional setting for relaxation. Rooms offer charming antique touches with modern amenities and private bathrooms.
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The Fine Print
Questions? Get in touch.
This trip has been designed to include daily exploratory walks that range from one to three hours. Each day, whether touring a city or winery, guests should be prepared to be on their feet for multiple continuous hours. Guests should feel comfortable strolling along cobbled surfaces, walking up and down stairs, and sauntering down uneven nature paths. Europe tends to have Old World infrastructure (narrow cobblestone streets, lack of elevators, etc.) which can leave some areas inaccessible — if you require any walking assistance, please inquire with our guest services team. Typically, our more invigorating walks are included as optional activities. Please contact us at guestservices@experi.com if you have questions.
Note: Group maximum is based on double occupancy. The itinerary is subject to change or substitution at any time. You can learn more at experi.com/terms.
Included
- Seven nights accommodations, including all taxes and fees
- Meals as listed on the itinerary: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 3 dinners, plus wine with most major meals
- All private excursions described in the itinerary along with the services of local speakers, guides, entrance fees, gratuities, and transportation
- Full guiding services of a dedicated Travel Director
- Private airport transfers with porterage on the first and last scheduled days of the program
Not Included
- Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses
- Air and land transportation to/from host cities
- All types of personal insurance
- Personal expenses
- Additional alcoholic beverages beyond what has been arranged by Experi to pair with the included major meals
Rates*
Classic: $5,995
Jr. Suite: $7,695 (limited availability - upon request)
Single: $7,995
Pre-Trip Extension Rates*
Classic: $3,495
Single: $4,995
*Rates are per person, double occupancy in US Dollars. Call to discuss availability and rates for triple, quad, and child accommodations.
Deposits
Travel Insurance
Travel Terms & Conditions
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