Excursions

The city often called “The most beautiful in the world” has around 200 000 inhabitants. It is over 17 centuries old and thanks to the fact that roman Emperor Diocletian has chosen that place to build his summer house, it became one of the most famous cities on Mediterranean. It is under UNESCO protection and has entered into the register of the World Cultural Heritage. It is located in a very centre of Adriatic coast. Split abounds with numerous cultural and historic sights and entertaining program. Night life takes place in many restaurants, clubs and discotheques. By day it is full of walkers and tourists that admire its beauties. The famous city walk – Riva, is a seaboard that stretches along the south walls of Diocletian palace. It is the most popular meeting place for citizens and city visitors. Split is the second largest city in Croatia and an important port for tourist transfer toward the islands and Italy. Daily, a great number of ferry boats navigate in direction of islands Brač, Hvar, Korčula, Vis and Šolta that all are attractive tourist destinations.

This ancient town was founded on a small island between the mainland and the island of Čiovo. Trogir represents a rare example of unchanged urban structure that is dated from the times of the old Greek town. Thanks to its excellent defensive position, Trogir managed to preserve its independence and freedom for centuries. The results are visible today in the impressive Renaissance and Baroque buildings and numerous artworks. One of the most significant hallmarks of the area is the cathedral of St. Ivan, patron saint of the city. It was built in the place of an early Christian basilica on the site where a Greek temple once stood. Its construction started in 1200, the south portal was finished in 1213 and in 1240 the stonemaster Radovan completed the western portal. In the following centuries the cathedral was reconstructed and expanded. The southern side was more pronounced with the construction of the bell tower on the southwestern corner over the entrance hall and the southern portal under which there is a round staircase. On the southern portal along the cross-shaped opening, there is a Latin inscription that tells of the time when the cathedral was constructed. Chronicles from those years mention that all the classes, including the poorest fishermen and peasants, contributed to the construction and the decoration of the home of their heavenly patron.

It is located on river Cetina estuary. Omiš is town of rich and famous history, ones a pirate seat from where they ruled the Adriatic, today is a centre of beautiful Omiš Riviera. It has become the most desirable Dalmatian and Croatian destination for the active vacation fans. Rafting on Cetina River, free climbing and sea sailing are on the reach of your hand. Omiš is famous by its beautiful long sandy beaches and slope mountains that are falling right in to the sea. It is also famous by the Festival of Dalmatian “klapa” within Omiš cultural summer. Many churches and old stone fortresses that you should visit are only a part of charm and offer of this small town.

Krka river aboard his 72.5 km long course is a unique natural gem. Beautiful waterfalls, preserved nature and cultural heritage are the reason why it is an area of 111 km2 of the river Krka was proclaimed a national park. Krka springs at the foot of Dinara Mountain and Sea near Sibenik. Specific configurations in order to create a series of soil beautiful waterfall from which the most famous Skradinski Buk, height of 37.5 m. The area of the Krka river abounds with traces of ancient settlements, and numerous historical and cultural monuments. The oldest traces that bear witness to the presence of a man with Krku are prehistoric sites from the Palaeolithic. Along the right bank of the river Krka, the move from the city meter to Skradin, there are remains of an ancient Roman waterworks Scardona. In the area of the park there are more remains of the medieval Croatian fortress of 14 th century, among them, the ključićem, which by its size and preservation of one of the most fortified buildings in Croatia. Among the religious buildings most valuable jewels Park are Franciscan church and monastery on the islet Visovac, and the monastery Krka with its rich artistic and cultural heritage in the Roski and Skradinski noise, there are many mills that have a cultural and historical importance, as monuments of architecture and the rural economic history.

The area of Plitvice lakes (Plitvička jezera) is considered to be one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Europe. In this forested mountain area there are 16 beautiful lakes of a crystal blue color. Over the centuries, water from these lakes has eroded and carved the surrounding rocks and the channels in a spectacular way. The mineral sedimentation from the flowing water and the growth of rare types of weeds and moss have caused the formation of spectacular waterfalls, channels and cascades. Mineral sedimentation covers the bottom of the lake with white shine and turns trees and stone in the water into fossil-like shapes. This extremely interesting biodynamic process is continuing in an undamaged environmental setting. Because of different environmental characteristics, the lakes are divided into two sections, Upper and Lower. The Upper lakes are located on the soil where the surface erosion creates spectacular scenery along the forest expanse that surrounds the lakes and waterfalls. The Lower lakes are located in the canyon of steep cliffs, formed by the river\’s flow. This is the area where numerous speleological attractions are located; the caves under the waterfalls are especially beautiful. The area of Plitvice lakes was declared to be the National park in 1949. Because of its unique biological characteristics and beauty in 1979 it was included in the UNESCO World heritage List. The exceptional beauty of the lakes and waterfalls, rich animal and plant life, contrasts of autumn colors and clear mountain air, walks on the forest paths and wooden bridges, comfortable hotels and restaurants attract almost a million visitors each year.

Only a few cities in the world can be compared to Dubrovnik. Thick stone walls have managed to preserve the city\’s independence for over seven centuries. The wide, paved street Stradun, filled with bars, stores, churches and palaces combine entertainment, commerce and religion in one pulsing beat. Famous sculptures and architectural masterpieces reveal art treasures as public display. The way that the city walls rise and blend with the sky, hills and the sea proves that the human presence can have an enriching effect to the environment. It is difficult to name all the sights in Dubrovnik, let alone to set some apart. The city grew and persevered through the turbulent centuries of conquests and destruction of the Middle Ages. Its most important treasure was its freedom that was preserved with wise diplomacy, even when the larger part of the Balkans was under the Turkish rule. Dubrovnik paid for its freedom in gold, but it always profited from it. For centuries, Dubrovnik was an independent republic with a mighty merchant fleet that sailed all over the Mediterranean. Such an environment has been a fertile ground for numerous artists and architects whose artwork benefited the city to such and extensive degree. Strong walls with its towers protected the priceless treasures of cultural heritage such as Onofrio\’s fountain, Orlando\’s column, Stradun, the Duke\’s palace, Palace Sponza, Cathedral, Dominican and Franciscan monastery and numerous other monuments.

Parish of Međugorje is located in southern Herzegovina, in the state of Bosnia and Herzegovina. All of the Međugorje residents are of Croatian nationality, speak in Croatian language and are Catholics.

This corner of the world was marked with constant population migrations throughout history. Before World War I, individuals took out to the world escaping poverty, while the rest of them left their homes because of the war oppressions. Population of Međugorje encouraged with supernatural events, regarding to the apparition of our Lady that began in 1981., slowly started returning to the homeland.

Međugorje is a unique phenomenon, sanctuary that gathers a multitude of believers from all over the world that come before God with great faith to find serenity in their souls as well as their hearts. Sanctuary in Međugorje has three Spiritual zones: the Church, a hill upon Lady Mary indicated herself and Križevac mountain. These holy places are available to the millions of believers from every corner of the planet that seek consolation and gratification of their spiritual and religious needs. On the hill of Podbrdo that overlooks Međugorje, a sculpture of the Queen of peace is erected to honor 20 years of appearances, and on the peak of the mountain Križevac stands a large concrete cross that locals have raised in remembrance of Jesus’ torment.         

Everyone who decides to visit Međugorje will gain an invaluable spiritual experience, and thanks to the cordial local people one will understand what it really means being at home, far away from home.

Ethno village Herceg was formed in 2008., and nevertheless it is newly built, it bears witness of a time when tradition was cherished and co-living with nature was filled with harmony.

The village stands only a couple of kilometers away from the well known sanctuary of Međugorje, on a three way intersection of Čitluk, Međugorje and Ljubuški. Ethno village will offer everything you need for a quiet and pleasant vacation, fresh clean air, wonderful silence without city noise, and numerous interesting things you would never expect to find in such small natural oasis. Within the village there is an old stone house that is conceived as a museum. Everything in it is set to be just like it would be a hundred years ago, so the house testifies some old long forgotten times. Inside the house you will find authentic tools, furniture, pottery and ornaments.   

Guests that will stay in the ethno village will be able to take pleasure in some incredible recreation, whether jogging through breathtaking nature or enjoying a game of sand bowling, an old traditional game on a new modern sand bowling filed, or taking part in some of the cultural and entertainment events that are organized in the Herceg amphitheater every year.

Although the village exudes some old times there are smartly incorporated modern facilities. So one can find within a complex of small stony houses, a top notch multifunctional hall with a capacity of 250 seats, fully equipped with the state of the art technology. 

Kravica waterfall is found on a 50 kilometers long river of Trebižat. Just as same as the Krka waterfall or Plitvička Lakes, the river Trebižat is also in a continuous natural process of depositing tuff.
It is known that tuff barriers, waterfalls that is, can only appear in water of high purity and quality, so it is no surprise that the Trebižat landscape is a state protected park as a natural phenomenon. Height of the waterfall is in between 26 and 28 meters, with a diameter of 120 meters. All around the waterfall sprouted hemp, fig and poplar. Even though once there were many active mills and old traditional devices for rolling cloth, now days one can only find a couple of restaurants that offer food from the grill and fish specialties in the season.  

This natural beauty attracts a large number of visitors every year. In the summer period, because of the low water level, visitors can enjoy swimming and water sports in a swimming pool beneath the waterfalls. 

Lištica is the only river that runs through the city of Široki Brijeg and then flows into the Neretva river. Široki Brijeg was named Lištica in the former Yugoslavia after this very river.
By the source of the river a hill of Borak is situated where beneath it clear and cold water murmurs freely, and right in this area a couple of smaller springs are found that together make the river Lištica. Not far away from its source, right upon that hill remains of an old fortress lay around.
River is suitable for fishing and canoe safaris, and exactly those type of activities can be found in numerous local hotels.

Medvednica mountain (Bear mountain) is situated in the north part of Croatia, only 10 kilometers away from the capital city of Croatia. Due to its rich variety of flora and fauna Medvednica was declared a national protected park of nature. Zagreb is one of a few European capitals that has a park of nature in its close vicinity.
 
The first hiking object in the history of Croatian mountaineering was built on Medvednica, on the peak called Sljeme. First mountaineer lodge is built beneath the very top of the mountain in the distant 1878. Until today, there were numerous hiking and ski lodges, inns, neat resorts, shelters and walking trails built on the mountain.
 
Sljeme, the highest peak of Medvednica, has several descents of which all except the White meadow are connected to the bottom of the chair lifts. It is interesting that the courses or downhill trails are not named after numbers or names, but only by colors, which can confuse a skier who is on Sljeme for the first time. If someone told him to go to the Green course he will think that it is the easiest course. But if a bit longer, Green course could easily get a red tag as a very difficult course would get. Sljeme’s Red course is equipped with lighting system for night skiing, so snow sports enthusiasts can enjoy night skiing.
 
Sljeme is well-known for hosting the famous “Snow Queen Trophy” competition during which Zagreb and its surrounding area become a real snow Mecca for those who enjoy winter sports.

Bjelolasica is the highest mountain of Gorski Kotar region. Despite its height and steep rocks it is not inaccessable at all. On the contrary, the top of the mountain is a plateau full of hiking paths and trails. Foothill of the winter resort also owes its easy accessibility to the personal needs of the local population that keep the road clean and in function at all times. The area is dominated by the Olympic Center, situated at 620 meters above sea level. The ski resort is located only a few hundred meters away from the HOC, and parking for several hundred cars is located at the very bottom of the course and a lift called Vrelo.
 
Vrelo is a black course that has been shut down for many years, but recently has been fully renovated and now is certainly the most beautiful and the finest ski course in whole of Croatia. By reaching the top of Vrelo course, one can find another lift  called Gomirkovica. Lift and the course share the same name. On that course tourists will find a mountaineer lodge that offers local food and can accommodate about one hundred guests. Most certainly one of the most beautiful experiences is a visit to the Tower – the very top of the mountain Bjelolasica, that is also the highest peak of Gorski Kotar region, and a visit to the Samarske and White rocks, a protected nature preserves.

Bjelolasica is with its natural location and unspoiled beauty of the nature truly a real paradise for all mountaineering and rock climbing enthusiasts.

Nature park Blidinje in Bosnia and Herzegovina was established on 30th of April 1995. and covers an area of 364 square kilometers on a space that consits of three municipalities; Posušje, Tomislavgrad and Jablanica. Although nature dominates the landscape still there can be seen a number of cottages that are used by their owners during the winter time when sports and recreation center Risovac is opened. Resort itself is situated at an altitude of 1800 meters above sea level at the foot of the mountains Vran and Čvrsnica.
 
Although the ski resort was opened only a few years ago, it is well arranged and adapted for both adults as well as for children. Those who don’t have their own skiing equipment, the same can be rented. In the vicinity of the ski resort one can find restaurants and other facilities within the cottages and guest houses.

Apart from the ski resort itself guests can visit the botanical-zoological garden Masna luka, where springs of clean mountain water are found, and rich flora and fauna can be seen. Among many animals certainly the most attractive are the black bear and a mountain goat. These days many refer to the Blidinje park as an oasis of beauty and health. In summer time you can enjoy the beautiful green landscapes, and in winter time you can enjoy the snow and winter idyll.

Kupres is well known for its winter tourism because it is located at 1250 meters above sea level with harsh mountain climate and is nearly five months covered in snow. It is a traditional destination for recreational skiers and also snowboard, sledding and other snow sports enthusiasts. 4 skiing courses with total length of 13.5 kilometers are located near the sports and recreation center Čajuša. Courses are maintainded regularly with modern machinery, and in case of the absence of real snow, the resort is equipped with snow cannons and snow machines. Apart from daylight skiing you can also enjoy in night skiing, thanks to the high-quality lighting. Close to the ski club “Stožer” on the slopes of the same name, there are two more ski courses.

The greatest attention is drawn to the so called “Kupres house” which is decorated entirely in a mountaineer style. The whole area is richly decorated with various wooden carvings. Facility has up to 200 seats on both floors and is located at 1300 meters above sea level. Gastronomy is adapted to the tradition of Kupres area. The two-seater ski lift has its starting station just above the mentioned facility and its length is 1500 meters. At the very top of the ski lift is a viewpoint terrace with an unforgettable view of the town of Kupres and the whole Kupres area.

Pohorje is best known for hosting the “Zlatna lisica”, the World cup competition for female skiers that has a long tradition. The highest peak, Črni vrh, is located at 1543 meters above sea level. Resort itself is situated on the southwestern edge of the city of Maribor at an altitude between 325 and 1327 meters. Although it is placed on a fairly low altitude, Pohorje is covered in snow every season.
 
On a high region called Bolfenk is the most famous course Radvanje where Zlatna lisica is held. It is illuminated with reflectors so night skiing is also possible. Besides Bolfenk there is also the Areh region known for beautiful but also dangerous courses: Cojzerica and Pisker.
 
Within the resort there are few restaurants where you can grab a snack during your skiing break. Accommodation is various, from luxury hotels that offer wellness to affordable guest houses near the ski resort. Maribor, being the second largest town in Slovenia, offers a range of options for having fun – going out to shopping malls, cinemas or bars and discotheques.