Leslie Hsu Besner and Family
Sample Itinerary
Day 1
SPLIT ARRIVAL
Welcome to Croatia! Upon your arrival to Split airport you will be welcomed by your chauffeur for a private transfer to Hotel Park. Just a few minutes from the Old Town, this five star property features a pool and beach, which are perfect for unwinding after time spent exploring in the summer sun.
Croatia’s second-largest city, Split (Spalato in Italian) is a great place to see Dalmatian life as it’s really lived. Always buzzing, this exuberant city has just the right balance between tradition and modernity.
Take the evening to visit Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most impressive Roman monuments. Here, you'll find dozens of bars, restaurants, and shops thriving amid the atmospheric old walls where Split has been humming along for thousands of years. Add to this an impressive backdrop of dramatic coastal mountains and the glistening waters of the Adriatic, and it is not difficult to see why the locals frequently claim that theirs is, “the most beautiful city in the world."
Overnight Hotel Park
Day 2
EXPLORE SPLIT AND THE DALMATIA COUNTRYSIDE
This morning, meet your private guide at the hotel and set out to explore Split, one of the Adriatic’s key seaports. The city is known for its layered history, and your guide will share insight into its past, local culture, and everyday life within the old city walls. The city center hasn't expanded beyond the original walled palace that still exists today, so as you stroll through the streets, you'll find youself transported back in time to the key moments of history that your guide shares.
After touring Split, your driver and guide will take you to the Dalmatia Countryside. In just 30 minutes, you’ll be high above the city, surrounded by hills and stone houses. Families have lived and cared for the land in this area for centuries, but today, few families remain.
Visit a nearly-abandoned village where homes date back to the 14th century. You’ll meet a local family who’ll welcome you like they do old friends. Together, learn to make soparnik, a traditional savory pie that is traditionally made by hand, filled with local chard, and baked over hot coals.
Overnight Hotel Park
Day 3
KRKA NATIONAL PARK
Wake up early this morning and begin the drive to Krka National Park. You'll stop at Skradin, a small town nestled beneath beautiful waterfalls at the mouth of the Krka River. Known for its incredible wine, the region’s food is also unique and includes specialties such as Skradin Risotto, which takes over 12 hours to prepare!
After appreciating this magical setting, continue to the park. Upon arrival, you'll explore with your guide. Stroll along the winding wooden paths, keeping an eye out for flora and fauna and pausing at each of the Krka River's seven waterfalls. The last one, Skradinski Buk Waterfall, is the most famous, and well-worth the wait! Take time to explore before making your way to the restored watermill, which houses the ethnographic museum and local craft shop. Then, return to Split.
Overnight Hotel Park
Day 4
SEA KAYAKING ON BRAČ ISLAND
Meet your private skipper for a short transfer to Brač Island, where your sea kayaking adventure begins. As you paddle out into the glistening Adriatic, be sure to look back at the charming view of Sutivan Port. Then, you'll head out to secluded bays and reefs in the area. This underwater zone is part of the largest network of protected nature areas in the world, and it is celebrated for its reefs and endless underwater meadows filled with posidonia. You'll have time to swim and snorkel to explore this ecosystem for yourself. Finish the tour in one of the most picturesque port towns on the island, Bobovišća.
Next, head to your accommodation, Lemongarden Hotel. Set among 150 lemon trees and three historic mansions, the property also includes Lemongarden Beach and a pool surrounded by blooming gardens. On site, there is a spa offering treatments, Mediterranean cuisine and wine, and plenty of space to unwind by the pool or at the beach.
Overnight Hotel Lemongarden
Day 5
SUTIVAN, BRAČ ISLAND, CAVES AND COVES OF VIS AND BIŠEVO, HVAR ISLAND AND THE BLUE CAVE
Explore Dalmatia's most beautiful islands of Hvar, Vis, and Biševo by boat.
After breakfast, meet the skipper of your private boat. First, you’ll head toward the stunning caves and coves of Vis and Biševo Islands. While it’s only five nautical miles from Vis Island, in Bisevo you will find one of Croatia’s most unusual natural phenomena: the Blue Cave (Modra Spilja). The cave is known for its striking and deep blue color, created by sun rays that come through a single crack in the rock. You’ll have time to experience the beautiful natural surroundings and impressive sandy beaches as well.
After your visit to the Blue Cave and Bisevo Island, you’ll head to Vis, where you'll experience the Mediterranean culture and way of life. Enjoy the crystal-clear sea, secluded beaches, and small coves and isles that make Vis a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
Your last stop will be Hvar Island and the Pakleni Archipelago, located off the Southwest coast. The island of Hvar is listed among the top 10 islands in the world and known for its sunny weather, crystal blue waters, ancient villages, Venetian palaces, charming lavender fields, olive plantations, vineyards, and quaint cobblestone streets.
Overnight Hotel Lemongarden
Day 6
BLACA HIKE WITH ŠKRIP SIGHTSEEING & OLIVE OIL MUSEUM
There’s no better way to learn about the nature, history, and traditions of Brač than by hiking with a private guide. Start with a 40-minute drive to Blaca, passing gorgeous landscapes and small island towns as you go. Upon arrival to the trailhead, make your way down the Blaca Canyon on a small downhill trail. After about 45-minutes of moderate hiking on stone terrain you’ll arrive at Blaca Monastery. Here, meet the curator who will guide you through this special place full of unexpected surprises. Take time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Next, it’s time to learn about the island's star product: olive oil, or “liquid gold,” as it’s often called in Brač! Drive to the Olive Oil Museum, where you’ll sample a variety of delicious olive oils alongside local cheeses, prosciutto, olive tapenades, and more! Return to your hotel with the rest of the evening at leisure.
Overnight Hotel Lemongarden
Day 7
DAY AT LEISURE IN SUTIVAN
Today is yours to spend exactly as you wish! You might choose to enjoy the private beach, hang by the pool, book yourself a spa treatment, or take out some bikes to explore the area on your own.
Overnight Hotel Lemongarden
Day 8
DEPART SUTIVAN FOR DUBROVNIK
Check out after breakfast and meet up with your driver for a private transfer to Dubrovnik. The drive and ferry crossing will take about 5 hours.
Upon arrival, check into Hotel Kompas. Kompas has all the modern day amenities and is situated in a charming location along Lapad Bay. Only 10-15 minutes from the historical Old Town of Dubrovnik, Hotel Kompas is also well located near shops, restaurants, and a boardwalk for strolling. If you'd prefer, we can also upgrade your hotel to the luxurious Dubrovnik Bellevue Hotel, with pricing upon request.
In the evening, meet up with your private guide and head on a pleasant walk through Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Referred to as the “the pearl of the Adriatic Sea” you’ll see why this city is so enchanting. Head to the main pedestrian walking area where you can enjoy numerous outdoor cafés and shops with outstanding monuments at either end.
After your intro and tour of the city, your guide will recommend a nice restaurant in the old town for dinner on your own. Enjoy your evening at leisure and return to your hotel after dinner on your own (may require an Uber or private taxi ride).
Overnight Hotel Kompas
Day 9
DUBROVNIK – PRIVATE BOAT TO ELAPHITE ARCHIPELAGO
Today your driver will collect you and transfer you to Dubrovnik Marina where you’ll board your private boat.
Cruise through the crystal blue waters of the Adriatic to the Elaphite islands. The archipelago comprises 13 islands, islets, and prominent rocks that make for quite a scenic journey. Check out cute towns with little cafes and also cliffside walks where you'll gain insight into the well-preserved island lifestyle.
The rugged coastline is comprised from a web of rocks, caves, hidden beaches, and coves. Jump in for a refreshing swim in the Adriatic, and enjoy the quaint bays, underwater caves, and grottos.
In the afternoon, return to your hotel to enjoy the pool and time at leisure.
Overnight Hotel Kompas
Day 10
DUBROVNIK AND DAY AT LEISURE
Today you can explore on your own and choose to hire a local car and driver or just enjoy the sites of Dubrovnik at your own pace.
Areas of possible interest in the nearby region are:
- The town of Cavtat is only a short drive south of Dubrovnik and is a quintessentially Mediterranean seaside town.
- Srdj Hill is an ideal spot for a spectacular panoramic vista of the red rooftops against an impressive view of the surrounding islands.
- Picturesque seaside villages, such as Trsteno and other nearby beaches of interest.
Overnight Hotel Kompas
Day 11
Departure
After a final breakfast breathing in the salty sea air of the Adriatic, you'll meet your driver for a private transfer to Dubrovnik Airport for your outbound flight.
