Holidays Croatia... For an authentic Croatian travel experience

International award winning Olive Oil - from the Sibenik region

2011-06-15T18:03:00.002+02:00

Aerial view of the Gulin family olive grove in Jadrija, Sibenik region

Note: Sv Nikola Fortress at the entrance of the Sibenik canal, top right of this image

We are proud to know Vinko Gulin, who in May 2011 was the recipient of the Biol International Award for his multi-award winning olive oil. This means the best olive oil in the world comes from his olive grove in Jadrija, situated on the Sibenik canal, just outside of Vodice (where Mr Gulin himself resides), and not from Tuscany or Istria, which also makes us proud!

This region, specifically Sibenik, Skradin and Vodice, is renowned for producing some of the best organic, extra virgin olive oil in all of Croatia, and these boutique producers do well on the world stage also. Some lovely wines also come from the region; the areas of Skradin, the island Zlarin and Primosten produce some amazing wines now also gaining recognition outside of Croatia.

Not only did Mr Gulin receive a gold medal for his extra virgin, organic oil, which he markets as "Golden Oil" (or Zlatno Ulje), he received first prize for the labelling and packaging as well. The Gulin family have received many awards for their oil and packaging since 2008.

This year there were 380 entrants from around the world, with only 18 oils receiving awards and noteworthy mentions. The packaging designs were narrowed down to 12, with judges looking at aesthetics, innovation and functionality, as well as label compliance and adherence to ethical information. Zlatno Ulje's packaging and label design was inspired by the traditional colours and ethnic motif that represents Sibenik, and won on simplicity, elegance, colour choice and adherence to tradition.

The Gulin olive grove contains 1,050 trees on 4.5 hectares of land situated on a sea front property, and ecological manure and compost as well as irrigation are used in farming. The Gulin Family's olive grove is also registered on the Producers of Ecological Products Register (number 507). The olive trees are aged from four to 16 years, and the varietals consist of: the indigenous variety Oblica (70%), Frantonio (15 %), Leccino (5%), Nocelara del Belice (5%) and Escolana tenera (5%).

The olives are hand-picked at the beginning of October and processed on the same day, resulting in the high quality, extra virgin olive oil. "Zlatno Ulje" extra-virgin olive oil yields a golden-yellow colour and an intense aroma of olive fruit. Tasting notes are: moderately sharp, intensity of aroma and undertones of spice. The unique balance this oil has on the nose and the palate renders its value priceless in Mediterranean gastronomy.

This is a great image - the olive grove is visible on the coastline, bottom of the photo;

Sv Nikola Fortress top right at the entrance of the Sibenik canal, and in the background through

the canal the city of Sibenik is visible, sprawled along the channel of Sv Ante (St Anthony)

Note also of interest in these aerial images, the ancient dry stone walls!

Email: info.holidayscroatia@gmail.com for more information, or if you'ld like to visit or find out how to purchase this Golden Oil.

http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2011/06/international-award-winning-olive-oil.html

The beautiful town of Skradin - and one of it's stunning residents

2011-04-18T13:58:00.005+02:00

Spring is well and truly here and that only means that the much anticipated summer is on its way! The whole of Dalmatia is slowly waking up after its winter hibernation - we can already feel the sun warming us up.

On a recent visit to Skradin we were fortunate enough to make our acquaintance with this lovely creature. It is common to see these swans living in the bay around this ancient town.

They are such fascinating birds and once they mate, they are partnered for life. We are looking forward to seeing the young ones grow up during the summer.

Enjoy our images :)

Email:info.holidayscroatia@gmail.com
http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2011/04/beautiful-town-of-skradin-and-one-of.html

More images from Primosten - over winter

2011-02-11T12:51:00.001+01:00

Email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com

Enchantment of Primosten - a medieval coastal settlement of Sibenik

2011-01-31T10:32:00.002+01:00

Let us introduce you to Primosten, a gorgeous ancient fishing town and harbour on the beautiful Adriatic Coast only 30km south of Sibenik town. The town core itself is centred on a small hilltop island, and this current old town quarters stems back to largely the medieval period, but also by Croats from Bosnia in the 12th Century fleeing the Ottomans. First signs of inhabitance, as is common in parts of Croatia but particularly Dalmatia, go back to 7th Century BC during the Illyrian era by a tribe known as 'Hilli.

As is also typical, during the mid 16th Century the city walls, fortresses and a collapsable bridge served as a defense system to keep out the Turkish invaders. Modern day Primosten was in fact an island until the Turks were defeated and the temporary bridge was replaced by the current embankment, creating a peninsula adjacent to another naturally occurring peninsula, Raduca.

Prior to its current name of Primosten, first used in 1564 which is believed to have either come from the Croatian word 'primostiti' (meaning 'to overpass'), or 'pri mostu' (at the bridge), it was referred to as Caput Cista (a bare head). Today the church of Sv Juraj (St George) dominates the highest point of the old town, and other famous churches include the church of Gospa od Milosti (Our Lady of Mercy) and the chapel of Sv Roko (St Rocco).

Between and on either side of the peninsulas are some well protected coves and the town of Primosten itself sits between the coves Raduca and Primosten, whilst the entire section of coast offers a delightful, long stretch of beaches including Vela, Mala Raduca, Primosten and Peles. The Raduca peninsula is covered in pine trees and is the location of several hotels and other amenities with beach access. See our images at the end of this article of some of the natural beaches in Primosten. You can even find yourself a private beach for some nude sunbathing.

Photo Source: Croatian National Tourist Board

The unique Marina Kremik with almost 400 berths is situated at the foothills of the world famous and UNESCO nominated Primosten vineyards, home to the well-known native red grape variety, Babic. Primosten's excellent Babic red wine variety is sought after throughout Croatia and wine connoisseurs around the world.

Photo of the Kremik Marina sourced from Kremik Marina website.

Note the rows of vineyards on the surrounding hills.

The authentic stone vineyards are indeed a remarkable man-made phenomena, and are a testament to manual hard work using only traditional soil cultivation and agricultural methods, on what was otherwise extremely rocky and inaccessible land. The vineyards consist of fields of dry stone walls, with each vine surrounded by a lower dry stone wall to hold the shallow red soil in place. The result is an incredible network of rectangular rows of vineyard and stone. As a tribute to this amazing feat, a permanent picture is displayed on the wall in New York's United Nations building.

The old economy relied on farming, viticulture, olive growing and fishing and today it increasingly is based on tourism. The wonderful thing about Primosten, much like the rest of Dalmatia, you will see the locals have produced healthy, good quality food in an ecologically clean environment using traditional farming, cultivating and hand processing methods.

This indeed is something that draws in discerning tourists who are looking for a more authentic and cultural experience. The villages such as Draga and Burnji situated on the outskirts of Primosten, offer a genuine ethno and eco-tourist experience taking you to a place where time has stood still. You will see the original and almost forgotten lifestyle of villagers, unchanged by modern times. In peaceful environs you will enjoy being surrounded by centuries-old olive groves and vineyards, home made wines in wooden barrels, domestic olive oil pressed using the old stone method, local figs, artisan cheese and pure, natural drinking water straight from the well.

You will also enjoy hand made prsut (similar to prosciutto) preserved only using sea salt, delectable dishes cooked on coals under the peka (a domed lid), and organic chick peas, olives and lentils, amongst some of the traditional meals.

Aside from the organic food offering and traditional experience in the local villages, you can also enjoy the most delicious and fresh seafood offering and other traditional Dalmatian meals in konobas and restaurants in and around the town centre. For late night owls, there is one of the largest nightclubs in all of Croatia only minutes away by car. In the summer months it serves as an outdoor venue as well increasing its overall capacity to over two thousand patrons.

For more information about visiting Primosten on your holiday, please don't hesitate to contact us. We can arrange your itinerary for you.

Email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com
http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2011/01/enchantment-of-primosten-medieval.html

Enjoy our images below of the natural beaches around Primosten. We would also like to leave you with a taste of Primosten, with a link to this video. The music is by a typical Dalmatian Klapa, generally and all-male a capella ensemble, sometimes accompanied by a mandolin.

Delightful Vodice - a coastal town with something for everyone

2011-01-06T10:50:00.003+01:00

First of all welcome to 2011 - we hope that your Christmas and New Year celebrations were as relaxing and enjoyable as ours! Which leads to us to feature this post on the seaside coastal town of Vodice, not only one of the biggest tourist destinations in Sibenik-Knin county, but on the whole Dalmatian coast. Aside from being a popular summer tourist destination, it is still a very quaint and charming town with a very interesting history.

During what is known as the off season (winter), a number of events are celebrated in Vodice over the Christmas and New Year period. On December 24 the parish church of Sv Kriz (St Cross) in the old city core is host to a very beautiful and traditional midnight Mass service. On December 25 you will see the families from Vodice outside for an evening walk gathering near the prominent town monument and enjoying the goodwill and good spirits enjoyed on Christmas day after a huge feast at home.

The annual Christmas by Sea concert takes place every December 28 and features most of the well-known traditional Dalmatian Klapa (typically all male singing groups, either a'cappella or accompanied by mandolin). They also provide many performances throughout the summer season to the delight of tourists. New Years' Eve is another big celebration, with a marquee being organised in the square of wells (the centre of the town) with performances by popular Croatian contemporary singers or bands.

Vodice is one of the best known tourist destinations on the Adriatic sea, often touted as the Croatian version of the French Riviera. It has a regular population of around 11,000 inhabitants however if has accommodation facilities to host 50,000 tourists each night. This is typically through the summer months from June through to the end of September (although the tourism season is recognised as being April to October), with the busiest period being July and August.

Not only is Vodice popular amongst European visitors largely from Germany, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Italy and Russia as well as an ever-increasing number of visitors from Slovakia, Austria, Slovenia, Switzerland, France, Netherlands, the Scandinavian countries and even the UK, it is also growing in popularity as a domestic summer destination, particularly dwellers from our capital city of Zagreb.

It is located 12km northeast of Sibenik and though is now a town in its own right is considered part of greater Sibenik. It is located on a large bay, in fact it has one of the longest beach front paths stretching from Srima (in the south) all the way to Tribunj (to the north west), and an abundance of swimming beaches along the way. Srima also happens to have among the best stretch of water for windsurfing on the entire Dalmatian coastline.

The Sibenik region is actually host to over 50 percent of Croatia's berths at the many marinas located on its 800 plus kilometres of coastline. Vodice's marina has around 500 berths.

Vodice is well connected to other centres by the Adriatic tourist road and there are numerous ferry lines, too. Split (to the south) and Zadar (to the north) airports are only around an hour's drive from Vodice. The islands of Zirje, Kaprije, Prvic and Murter are a stone's throw away, and are stops for the water taxi service between Vodice and Sibenik.

It is no wonder that Vodice is a popular tourist destination as a delightful seaside town with a host of water and adrenalin activities as well as day trips on offer, by boat or bus during the day and a plethora of eateries, bars and clubs by night. Traditional Dalmatian cuisine including delectably fresh seafood is available at most restaurants and the typical Dalmatian konobas (an old style tavern). Two of the largest nightlclubs are in the vicinity of Vodice - Hacienda, a large open air nightclub on the outskirts of Vodice and Aurora, a large nightclub complex in nearby Primosten, which attract the world's best DJs and local performers and are popular amongst hardened party revellers.

As well as being an attractive destination for adventurists and party goers, Vodice is also one out of hundreds of child friendly places with tourism facilities catering to the needs of families and holiday makers wanting to enjoy summer and the outdoors. Entire families including every age group can be seen promenading the main streets of Vodice enjoying themselves until late on a summer's night, whilst the National Parks Krka and Kornati Islands also in close proximity of Vodice, are teeming with tourists during the peak of summer eager to experience these natural heritage treasures.

Vodice, whose meaning is 'water sources' was founded in Roman times as Arausa (also with the same meaning) due to an abundance of natural underground springs surrounding the area which supplied the region. In fact, by the 19th Century Vodice, ('voda' meaning 'water' in Croatian) was the largest exporter of fresh drinking water and had one of the largest stone paved rivas, proportionately large in relation to the town size, at the time . Today the main square in the town centre, known as 'square of wells' (trg bunara), includes the preservation of the town's original water sources and wells.

Earliest mentions of 'Vodice' can be traced back to 1402 (prior to that the region was Arausa). Important and/or historical monuments in the Vodice region, many of which have hiking or bike paths surrounding them, relating to its history include:

- archeological site of the original Liburnian and Roman settlement Arausa dating as far back as 4th Century BC, located off the main road between modern day Vodice and Gaceleze, where remains of Liburnian necropolis and Roman water system can still be seen.

- Prizba, in the Srima hinterland; the remains of a 5th/6th Century basilica and also the discovery of Ilyrian graves.

- Rakitnica, not far from Okit off the road between Vodice and Gaceleze, is the site of an historical settlement, first settled around 1311. Fairly significant remnants of the original houses still exist, near where the church of St John the Baptist was built in 1455. Construction of Gradina, the fortress, commenced in 1509 by the order of Sibenik administration as a defense system against the Ottomans. The Turks captured Gradina in 1571 and it became an important base for them until their defeat by the Venetians. The remains of Gradina can still be seen.

- The Church of Sv Ilija (St Elias) the Prophet, originally built in 1298, but consecrated to St Elias in 1493, at the foot of Velika Mrdakovica.

- the tiny church of Sv Kriz (St Cross) built in 1402 on the site of the old graveyard, featuring a unique Romanesque-Gothic era baptismal pillar and font.

- The town's defense walls were built in the 15th Century and the Coric tower, in Vodice's medieval town centre surrounded by narrow streets, built from Brac limestone in 1646 - to protect the inhabitants from Turkish attacks during Ottoman rule. It is only one of two to remain.

- dominating the backdrop of the town of Vodice, and visible all the way from Sibenik, you will see Okit - a steep hill providing magnificent panoramic views, on which is built the church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, originally constructed in 1660 (but believed to be the site of an even older chapel) with 14 stations of the Cross added in the early 20th Century. This original church was destroyed twice during the 20th Century in WWII and the more recent War of Independence. Architect Nikola Basic designed the recent construction.

- The baroque parish church of Sv Kriz (St Cross) was built in the town centre, a work of architect Ivan Skoko, in 1746 on the site of an old chapel, with a beautiful rosette feature. The bell tower commenced in 1752 by a Dubrovnik builder took 20 years to complete.

The early dwellers of Vodice were mainly farmers and fishermen, whereas nowadays the main source of income is tourism, which has increasingly become a tradition over the last 50 years. The warmth and hospitality of the people of Vodice has seen them naturally embrace tourism and the town is a regular recipient of tourism awards and prizes for a range of reasons: gastronomic offer, town aesthetic and range of tourism offer.

For more information contact:

info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com
http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2011/01/delightful-vodice-coastal-town-with.html

We have available select accommodation in coastal locations in and around the Sibenik region. Visitors have already commenced booking since December.

Classical view of Vodice old town centre - note the bell tower of the parish church Sv Kriz

Close up of bell tower, parish church Sv Kriz (St Cross) just visible on the right

View from marina of part of the main riva - note the bell tower is visible from most positions

Riva towards the old town

One part of the marina

View of marina towards the nearby islands

Old town centre, near the monument

Sunset over Vodice

View of Vodice from the sea, Okit & Our Lady of Mt Carmel towering in the background (note bell tower!)

View from the sea towards the immensely popular Hangar beach, by Hotel Olympia -

it's probably hard to see the crowds in this photo, however take our word for it, it's super crowded, by families, couples and young people alike.

Stall holder at the local fresh produce market in the town centre

More hiking photos Dalmatia, Winter Part 2

2010-12-24T05:43:00.002+01:00

Part 2 of our winter hiking images - open space, mountains, fresh air (if only we could share it) and more sunsets.

The natural, unspoiled beauty of Croatia has rich offerings: within a 100km radius you can experience the sea, the plains, the karstic landscape, forests and mountains.
Email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com
http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2010/12/more-hiking-photos-dalmatia-winter-part_24.html

More hiking photos Dalmatia, Winter Part 1

2010-12-22T08:19:00.002+01:00

We can see that you're loving our hiking photos, so we are bringing you some more to enjoy. In this album we have canyons, caves, waterfalls and sunsets.

The natural, unspoiled beauty of Croatia has rich offerings: within a 100km radius you can experience the sea, the plains, the karstic landscape, forests and mountains.
Email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com
http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2010/12/more-hiking-photos-dalmatia-winter-part.html

Celebrating Christmas in Croatia

2010-12-21T13:49:00.003+01:00

The traditional way of celebrating Christmas in Croatia depends on the region however there are many similarities across the country. We would like to share these with you.

The old way was to decorate the house with greenery, tree branches in windows, on shelves and so on. Another important custom is the planting of wheat seeds in a shallow bowl on the day of Sv Lucija (St Lucy), December 13, and by Christmas Eve the wheat grass is tall enough to be tied with a red, white and blue ribbon and placed on the table or on a window ledge. Often, people will put a candle in the middle of the bowl, whereby the light is meant to signify the human soul.

And finally, the custom of spreading straw on the floor and many households also put straw under the tablecloth, represents the birth of Christ and fertility. It is traditional to light a Christmas log fire on Christmas Eve ('Badnjak' in Croatian). Christmas Eve also means attending Midnight Mass after a day of fasting from meat. Instead, it is very traditional to prepare meals of fish and in the Dalmatian region its 'bakalar', which is dried, salted cod fish.

The traditional bowl of wheat sitting on our window sill.

A uniquely Croatian Christmas decoration, the licitar heart, originated in the Zagreb region and is made of dough and decorated usually in red with intricate patterns, and is now commonly used throughout the whole of Croatia.

Presents were typically brought to children on the day of Sv Nikola (St Nicholas) on the December 6, or in some other parts of Croatia it was St Lucy (December 13). The tradition of having a Christmas tree and giving presents on Christmas Day, which in Croatia means gifts from the infant Jesus, are traditions that have been heavily influenced by America and Western Europe. However, these days this is commonly observed.

On the January 6, the day of the Epiphany in the Roman Catholic calendar, the parish priest visits to bless the home and all the Christmas decorations are taken down.

We would just like to mention that our capital city Zagreb is particularly beautiful at Christmas time. There are traditional market stalls in the main squares where you can buy fresh produce, tradtional Christmas decorations and handcrafted goods. Near the Cathedral, in the same square is a 'live' nativity scene, so with real people and animals, which is lovely for children in particular. It is also very common for snow to fall in Zagreb around Christmas time making it even more special.

Many people think of Croatia as the coastline and summer and parties, but one thing people may not realise is that it is very family-friendly and family oriented. We would suggest that for a family getaway, the best times to visit are all year round and if you wanted to avoid bustling crowds then any time apart from summer would be the best time! We find that many visitors with cultural appreciation tend to visit outside of summer also, as they have the privilege of being able to enjoy cultural and historical monuments and sites without hordes of people.

Email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com

http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2010/12/celebrating-christmas-in-croatia.html

Zagreb in winter - beautiful at Christmas time.

Christmas decorations (branches and candles) being sold from a market stall.

Stall with traditional wooden hand carved gifts and other items.

Fruit and vegetable market stalls in the main square.

And this is what happens if you leave the grocery shopping too late!

Gradina Fortress in Drnis

2010-12-17T05:42:00.005+01:00

Drnis is located in the Sibenik-Knin region, in the Dalmatian hinterland, about midway between Sibenik and Knin. Evidence of civilisation goes back to the Bronze Age with remnants of artefacts found in caves. There are also archeological sites that are attributed to the Romans.

We have previously dedicated an article to just some of the concentration of fortresses in this region and due to its popularity we are bringing you a little more.

The Gradina Fortress (Gradina actually means 'fort' in Croatian!), though it didn't survive intact remains even to this day a significant symbol in Drnis, visible from the town's entrance and all around and is testament to the protective role it played during its time. We visited recently, and despite the advance of winter it was a pleasant day!

Gradina - See the rest of our pictures below.

It was built in the Middle Ages by the noble Nelipici family, supposedly to form part of their fortification network, which also included fortresses Kljucica, Kamicak, Bogocin and Necven. This defense system was located along the left bank of the Krka River which was the boundary of their property.

It served to protect the region until the invasion by the Turks in the early 1400s when they took control, converting the fort for their own purposes. In the late 1600s the Turks fled from the Venetian onslaught. After the Venetians it was largely under Austro-Hungarian jurisdiction, and briefly under Napoleon in the early 1800s during that rule.

Gradina was largely destroyed, as were most of the fortresses that were securing the region, when the Turks fled. However what remains today is still a majestic and imposing landmark. According to documentation it is believed that the Turks gave the name 'Dernis' to the town on their arrival, meaning 'gates into field'.

We would like to point out that Drnis is also famous for its specialty delicacies; the valuable prsut (special smoked ham) and a sheep's cheese from nearby Misina, as well as traditional viticulture. The surrounding hills and continental temperatures ensure a unique micro-climate lending itself perfectly to producing the best quality produce.

Prior to the Homeland War, Drnis prsut was served at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II of England. We will bring you more on traditional Dalmatian food another time!

We will also bring you more information about Drnis in future posts, it's such a beautiful town with an interesting past and present, and as is true in the rest of Dalmatia (and in fact all areas of Croatia), the locals are absolutely lovely and hospitable, and you get a real sense of being stress free in their presence and environment.

There are several eco and agro-tourism facilities in and around the township of Drnis, with agro-tourism farmstays at a number of villages where you can experience traditional food and stress free rural life.

Several significant, well-known Croats claim Drnis as their birthplace including professional sportspersons, intellectuals, artists, and composers. In particular we'd like to make mention of Jakov Gotovac. Born in 1895 in Split but with roots in Petrovo Polje (Peter's Fields, village of Drnis area) he is probably the most famous Croatian composer and conductor of classical music.

His most famous piece, the opera 'Ero S Onoga Svijeta' (Ero the Joker) is inspired by traditional peasant folkloric music which had nationalistic appeal. It was an instant classic and has been translated into nine languages and performed all around the world (80 cities just in Europe), except for Australia. Gotovac died in 1982.

Here is a clip of the final scene from 'Ero S Onoga Svijeta', our favourite because it's very uplifting and 'catchy'. It is also popular for Croatian national folkloric ensembles to perform this scene at major events and functions of public significance, so it's a real celebratory piece.

For the cultural among us, here is the last scene of the opera Ero S Onoga Svijeta, performed by Sokacka Rhapsody and courtesy of a clip from HRT (Croatian Television)

and here is a folkloric group performing with orchestra and opera singers at the Poljud Stadium in Split as part of a major event.

Email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com

http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2010/12/gradina-fortress-in-drnis.html

Amazing Sunsets

2010-12-12T11:29:00.000+01:00

Here are some photos of some absolutely beautiful sunsets taken in around the Sibenik area, including Vodice and Tribunj. Of course, we are only amateur photographers but imagine what an experienced photographer can do?! We have said this before; perhaps we are biased but we truly believe that our beautiful Dalmatia, and indeed Croatia, provides some spectacular backdrops and inspiration for creative and artistic minds. Please enjoy!

A couple more hiking photos for your viewing pleasure

2010-12-10T14:10:00.002+01:00

One of our favourite adventure activities is hiking, particularly in the cooler seasons (Autmn/Winter). Dalmatia is entirely a karstic phenomenom with a plethora of canyons, caves, underground springs, rivers and mountains - all the way to the sea. We appreciate its natural, unspoilt beauty.

The rock formations never cease to amaze and the rivers are pristine

Stopping to take in a breath of fresh air and the view

Getting ready for a descent

Setting up camp

Overnight camp

Sibenik Regatta, December 4 & 5

2010-12-06T15:28:00.001+01:00

The 11th Sibenik Regatta is held over the first weekend in December and is attended by more than 50 cruisers and over 500 visitors from Croatia and overseas.

The race is held in the beautiful port of Sibenik and participants can enjoy lovely waterfront views of the old town of Sibenik and the fortress of Sv Mihovil. It also coincides with town festivities.

On the Friday the organisers host a welcome party to the event, which is a monotype regatta in triple format.

Photo exhibitions are open for viewing at the Sibenik public library and a host cafe bar. Festivities are held over the weekend, including a fair and traditional folk music performances.

Racing typically commences at around 11am each day, and there are night races also from 8pm over two nights.

Race participants choose their own course, and have a round the clock race card checked in at 6 different control points. The goal is to pass through each checkpoint before the finish.

Each checkpoint is a venue like a cafe bar and the regatta teams run a tab which requires stamping to officiate each checkpoint. Throughout the regatta, participating cafe bars provide a 20 percent discount. Each participant receives a T-shirt as a memento of the event.

Hiking in Dalmatia - at one with nature

2010-11-28T08:14:00.002+01:00

As we see Autumn coming to a close in Sibenik, we can reflect on the gorgeous colour palettes of oranges, reds, yellows and browns, signalling that winter is approaching. The nights are now quite cool, but the fresh and often clear days lend themselves to the ideal time for exploring the natural and archeological wonders that our region is blessed with.

One of our favourite things to do is hiking. The landscape is like a wilderness untouched and uspoilt in its natural wonder. There is an ever-changing and breathtaking beauty to be discovered, as if for the first time.

Expect to see spectacular waterfalls, rivers, flora, fauna and a uniquely magnificent landscape that can only occur in this uniquely karstic natural wonder, meaning that the area is characterised by limestone and also includes the formation of the most incredible natural sights such as canyons, sinkholes, underground streams and caverns. Such is the beauty of the whole of Dalmatia from the hinterland all the way to the coast.

We are extremely fortunate to personally know one the best and most experienced hiking guides in Croatia, our good friend Jozo. He has over 20 years experience trekking the Dalmatian hinterland, some areas little explored and some sights unheard of even by locals.

The following will give you an idea of the kind of guided tours we can arrange for you:

Mt Dinara climb, this is Croatia's highest mountain at 1831 metres.

Zrmanja and Krupa Rivers hike, incuding canyons, caves, waterfall, underground spring, ancient monastery and stone bridge.

Cikola River canyoning, including caves, waterfalls, meeting the Krka River and the medieval Kljucica fortress

Mamet Cave, hiking via Mt Velebit range.

Surdup climb, via Knin in the Mt Dinara region, near the Bosnian border. Knin - important to Croatia's history and known as the 'home of Croatian kings' as it was the capital of the Kingdom of Croatia a thousand years ago - is host to historical and medieval fortifications, it is the site of prehistoric remains as well as the point where the Krcic and Krka rivers join.

NP Krka hike, to the best vantage points for picturesque scenery of rivers, fortresses and waterfalls.

Aside from exploring by foot the various fortresses in the Sibenik region, and trekking through natural terrain filled with spectacular scenery, or visiting prehistoric and archeological sites, why not consider jeep safari tours? These are available to Vranjsko Lake, Krka, Primosten and Mt Dinara.

There are many options for active, adventure style experiences that allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of Croatia; diving, caving, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, sailing, mountaineering and rock climbing, recreational and game fishing, para-gliding, cycling and mountain biking and horse riding.

Other outdoor ventures include golf, and in our very own Sibenik there's paint ball, bungee jumping, and a falconry centre.

Email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.comPublish Post

http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2010/11/hiking-in-dalmatia-at-one-with-nature.html

Medieval fortifications in Sibenik

2010-11-11T13:17:00.003+01:00

The town of Sibenik, also the capital of the Sibenik-Knin region in northern-central Dalmatia, is the oldest town on the Adriatic coast that was established by the Croats - without any influence from the Romans, Venetians or others. The first written mention of Sibenik is from 1066 in a document written by the Croatian king Petar Krešimir IV.

Sibenik-Knin county is home to at least 15 fortifications, 11 of them from the medieval period and still in good condition to this day. Four of these are located within the town of Sibenik, their duty as the town's defense system was to protect the town from invasions throughout the centuries, least of not the Ottomans.

These are:

The original fortress of St Michael (Sv Mihovil) - patron saint of Sibenik - located in the historic town centre commencing at the coastline and rising 70m steep. Building commenced in the 15th Century lasting until the 17th Century. St Michael fortress was damaged twice, in the mid 1600s and the mid 1700s, due to storage of gunpowders and explosives, but rebuilt.

St John (Sv Ivan), positioned on the highest point (115m) above the town, was built in a star pattern in the year 1646 and completed in only six weeks.

Subicevac, located on several hundred metres below St John. The two were built at the same time.

The the truly unique fortress and the strongest naval fortification on the coast of Croatia, St Nicholas (Sv Nikola) located on the island of Ljuljevac, at the canal entrance into Sibenik. Built in the mid 16th Century to protect Sibenik from attack by sea.

There are numerous others around the county, mostly located in the hinterland in the vicinity of Krka National Park, but most notably is the impressive fortress of Knin which dominates the highest point above this town.

One of the most important factors of Sibenik's heritage is the medieval town core. It consists of a labyrinth of typically narrow Dalmatian streets, known as 'kala'. Of unique cultural significance within the historical town centre is the number of churches. Sibenik had the greatest number amongst all the historic Dalmatian town centres, at one point numbering 28. To this day, 13 remain preserved.

The most famous of these churches situated in the historical town core, is the iconic Cathedral of St Jacob (Sv Jakov) which symbolically represents the town of Sibenik. The construction of the cathedral lasted in total for 105 years; from 1431 until 1536.

Protected by UNESCO since 2000 (one of seven UNESCO sites in the Republic of Croatia), St Jacob is renowned for its construction methods and is a structure not only recognised for its significance in Croatian art history but also on a European level.

The frieze of 74 human heads is of particular interest, made by the peer of the cathedral's head architect Juraj Dalmatinac, positioned on the apse exteriors. It is believed that the actual heads were based on real people living in Sibenik during the time of construction.

Just of a bit of fun, the Dalmatian newspapers run stories from time to time comparing the faces' similarities to modern day Croatian celebrities and sports people!

The good news is that the best time to see these cultural and historic architectural gems in our beloved Sibenik is during autumn and winter, if you happen to have a spare week. We recommend that you also try and fit in a visit to Knin, at the very least.

Although the mornings and after dark the air is crisp we are often party to some lovely sunny days of 12 or 13 degrees Celsius, good enough to wear a T shirt. But be warned to bring layers of clothing including thermals, as you must be prepared in case of the famous Bura winds phenomena that blows very strong and icy cold - capable of dropping temperatures by 15 degrees Celsius in its presence.

This is actually an occurrence peculiar to Dalmatia and is a unique experience in itself. The day after a Bura will often be a lovely, still and sunny day and the locals are torn between cursing the chill and wind factor, and appreciating the cleansing effect it has on the towns and the sea. The sea temperature in winter averages at 12 degrees Celsius.

Email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com

Web: http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2010/11/medieval-fortifications-in-sibenik.html

Fortress of Sv Mihovil (St Michael), as viewed from Sv Ivan

The historic town centre of Sibenik, Sv Mihovil is visible as the highest point

View to Sv Mihovil from Subicevac

fortress of Subicevac

View from Subicevac, Sv Mihovil visible in the distance (top left)

View of the fortress Sv Ivan as seen from Sv Mihovil

One aspect of Sv Ivan (St John), more as follows

View of Sibenik from Sv Ivan

View of Sv Mihovil from Sv Ivan - Sv Nikola can be seen in the distance, at the canal entrance

Canal entrance, the only way to reach Sibenik by sea

Boat heading for the canal

This and following images are close-ups of Sv Nikola (St Nicholas), the sea-based fortification at Sibenik's entrance

Another aspect of Sv Nikola, more following

Cathedral of Sv Jakov

Detail of the human heads, exterior of Sv Jakov

Close-up detail of St Michael (Sv Mihovil) - the patron saint of Sibenik - as represented in stone on St Jacob (Sv Jakov) Cathedral. Always portrayed slaying the devil, St Michael symbolises victory and fearlessness and was selected by the early residents of Sibenik as their heavenly guardian for strength and protection. Nowadays, he is also the patron saint of the Croatian police force and army. The feast of St Michael is celebrated on September 29, and is an important day in Sibenik's calendar of festivals.

A view of just one of many sections of the spectacular Knin fortress

Pomegranate - the colours of Autumn

2010-11-09T10:03:00.001+01:00

Take a look at this beauty, the pomegranate tree. At the moment full of ripe fruit and autumn foliage after bearing magnificent red flowers, it is another symbol of the Mediterranean, having been cultivated in Dalmatia since ancient times and you will find them scattered amongst the fig trees, olives and vines. The fruit is high in vitamin C, B5 and fibre and has recently gained notoriety as a superfood because its antioxidant properties.

Email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com
Web: http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2010/11/pomegranate-colours-of-autumn.html

Olive season - age old tradition in Dalmatia

2010-11-03T14:08:00.007+01:00

November 1, otherwise known as All Saints' Day, marks the beginning of the olive harvesting season. In a tradition spanning hundreds of years all Dalmatian households with olive groves prepare to begin picking the now ready fruits.

This is a collective effort on behalf of each family, often including help from the extended family and depending on how large the farm outside helpers as well. Traditionally workers brought from outside were paid in olive oil, and even to this day there are many people who prefer to be compensated with this liquid gold instead of money in the paper variety!

By and large, the traditional method is still followed. The olives are picked by hand, not by machine, so this maintains the quality of the fruit. Large sheets are placed on the ground to catch them. In the olden days people would take their fruit to the mill, which was a basic stone press. The best oil producers press their olives as quickly as possible, some within 6 hours of them being picked, producing a superior oil exceptional on the palate.

These days, there are 'modern' presses available, mostly in centralised locations where they can service a particular locale and these are indicative of the olive rich regions; Sibenik, Razine, Brodarica, Perkovic, Vodice, Tribunj, Primosten, Siroke, Skradin and the islands of Murter and Prvic. When we refer to modern, there is no extra processing carried out than before; the olives are put through the press one time, and it is this 'first', cold pressed, virgin oil that is the end result.

As with domestic wine making, most households make the olive oil for their own personal use throughout the year. Some of the locals sell it to tourists during the summer months, and it is beginning to fetch higher prices. In Vodice this summer domestic olive oils from the surrounding villages was reaching 100 Kune a litre.

The quality of the olive oil in the Sibenik-Knin region is without a doubt the finest quality there is. We like to think we are not biased much, but who knows, maybe we are?! However, certain boutique olive oil producers from the region have gained notoriety, not just on a national level but through international recognition. Many are winning medals and awards for their oil through organisations such as the International Olive Council and are being published in the Extra Virgin Olive Oil World Guide (L'Extravergine, published out of Rome).

Local, award winning producers from Sibenik county in Dalmatia to keep an eye on are: from Skradin, Josip Silov and Drago Laca; from Bicine, Pero Skoric; from Vodice, Vinko Gulin and Lola Skoric; and from Sibenik, Ivica Burazer and Nikola Burazer. The quality of the oil demands prices up to 25 Euros a litre.

An impressive effort, seeing as in a tradition stemming back to pre-Roman times Croatia had as many as 40 million olive trees, but a decline in numbers since the Second World War through to the recent Homeland War sees a more recent figure of around 6 million trees. However, through funding and rebates to growers, this number is again on the increase with a goal of 10 million trees being set for Croatia's entry to the EU.

Olive trees, native to the Mediterranean basin, are believed to have been cultivated for 7,000 years making it the first cultivated plant. And, these amazing trees can live for a few thousand years. In Croatia there are three famous ancient olive trees; one in the Brijuni Islands and another in Kastel Stafilic (stara maslina, meaning "old olive") both thought to be around 1700 years old, and in Lun on the island of Pag is one of the world's largest concentrations of wild olive trees, some aged over 1500 years old.

The other amazing thing is that even though the best production years of an olive trees is during the first couple hundred years of its lifetime, it can still continue to bear fruit - in smaller quantities - for a couple of thousand years that we know of!

If you are in awe of these truly graceful trees, a special gift to mankind, and you are interested in visiting some olive groves and perhaps take part in olive picking and making, we can arrange this on private farms direct with the owners who happen to be our good friends, for an authentic and traditional experience. Contact us for more information.

Email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com
Web: http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2010/11/olive-season-age-old-tradition-in.html

Old olive grove - one of many - Kornati Islands.

Typical Dalmatian landscape dotted with olive trees, fig trees and grape vines. Location: Sibenik-Knin county

Wild olive trees growing near an old Roman spring, Sibenik-Knin region.

Cultivated olive trees, grown not far from Skradin, already yielding a good amount of olives.

Young olive plantation, in the Sibenik-Knin county.

Young olive tree.

Olives in August, the end of summer, still three months away from being picked.

The olive tree on Brijuni Islands, over 1700 years old.

Boutique olive grove, producing superb quality extra virgin olive oil, not far from Vodice.

Olives ready to be picked and pressed, mid October, olive grove near Vodice.

Hand picked olives, first weekend November, 15km from Vodice

Olive picking, private farm

Olive picking

Game fishing in the Adriatic Sea, possible all year round

2010-10-28T11:59:00.004+02:00

Image is from the blog: http://www.marlin-web.com/croatia.html Visit this site for more images and an interesting account of big game fishing in Jezera.

For the fishing enthusiast, Croatia’s Adriatic Sea offers some world class fishing normally associated with places such as the US, Central and South America, New Zealand and Australia. Dalmatia has a rich history entrenched with the sea and fishing; a way of life that has embodied the culture and ‘soul’ of its people throughout the centuries and bred countless generations of expert fisherman. You will find very experienced big game fishing operators on the island of Murter and the popular coastal town of Vodice in the Sibenik-Knin county who frequent the local islands including the enchanting Kornati.

In fact Jezera, an historic fishing village and one of the original four settlements on the island of Murter, celebrates summer long with its Sea Days festival in the months of July and August, culminating in the annual, international big game fishing event in the last week of September. This is a seven day competition which attracts teams from nearly 60 countries around the world battling it out for the biggest catch. Throughout the festival visitors can enjoy superb, locally caught and prepared seafood and entertainment.

Croatia

it is possible to venture out on fishing expeditions all year round. The following information outlines the type of fish found in Adriatic waters and the times of the year:

Large fish from 100 – 300kg (averaging 70 – 150kg)	Mid sized fish with the possibility of 40 – 60kg (averaging 5 – 20kg)	Smaller varieties up to 15kg (averaging c. 5 – 10kg)
Blue Fin tuna, AUG – JAN	Albacore tuna, SEP – NOV	Little tunny, MAR – MAY & SEP – NOV
Swordfish, OCT – DEC	Amberjack, DEC – MAR	Atlantic Bonisto, OCT – APR (all year), c. 2kg
Shark (Blue and Thresher), MAY – JUN	Dorado and Dolphin fish, AUG – DEC

Note that this is a general guide with the season depending on: sea temperatures, the concentration of feeder fish and the sea salinity levels (which are dependant on rainfall and the inflow of fresh water).

Croatian laws ensure responsible sport/recreational fishing and environmental practises are enforced by the appropriate authorities in order to protect the marine and natural resources for future generations. This means that although an allocated number of fish can be kept, there is size and weight requirements for each fish species that dictate the release of the catch. Your big game fishing tour operator will happily assist.

Prior to venturing out it is compulsory to obtain a fishing licence or permit, available at Croatian local admin offices and travel agents. This is relatively easy to organise and all that’s required is photo identification and payment of the appropriate fees, although you’ll find that this is something typically arranged by the tour operator. Age limits do not apply in Croatia.

Licences are issued according to daily, weekly or monthly use for recreational angling, spear-gun fishing, long line and tuna fishing. You may also want to consider the traditional hand trawl-line fishing which relies on teamwork, or a spot of night fishing during a new moon when the sea is calm.

The entire Adriatic Sea is open for fishing, whilst certain restrictions apply to marine and national parks – Kornati and Krka - and for some smaller locations. There may also be restrictions on fishing tackle and equipment, which is also usually handled by the game fishing operator.

Recreational freshwater fishing

If recreational fishing is more your thing, then there are a couple of spots to try your luck for trout in the Zrmanja or Krka Rivers, or you can try for decent sized catfish, carp and pike in Croatia’s largest natural spring-fed lake, Vranjsko. Part of Vranjsko Lake has been deemed an ornithological reserve, as it is plays a crucial role in the existence of over 230 bird species and unbelievably is host to over 140 species of migratory birds each autumn with sometimes up to 400,000 birds stopping over.

Note: remember it is important that you obtain the appropriate fishing licence and know about any restricted areas affecting certain sections of the rivers and sea.

Enquire with us at info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com if big game or recreational fishing is something that you’re interested in!

Web: http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2010/10/game-fishing-in-adriatic-sea-possible.html

Things to do in September – ADRIATIC BOAT SHOW Mandalina Marina, Sibenik

2010-10-28T07:18:00.004+02:00

The Adriatic Boat Show is an annual, international event held each September since 2007 at Sibenik’s Mandalina Marina. Featuring new and used vessels of all types, the fair is designed to showcase the uniqueness of Croatian traditional small boat building as well as highlight the importance of the mega-yacht category, whilst promoting the Sibenik region. Ecology and environmental concerns have an important place in the program in addition to marine innovations and trends, shipbuilding, yachting equipment and global manufacturers’ presence.

Mandalina Marina is an apt location as it happens to be Croatia’s first dedicated mega-yacht marina. The Sibenik region is definitely considered the most beautiful section of the Adriatic coast and has featured in National Geographic magazine’s world's most attractive sailing destinations.

So if you’re planning a trip to Croatia in September when the summer holidaymakers have dispersed don’t forget to include the Sibenik region on your list of places to visit. Throughout the Adriatic Boat Show weekend in mid September another event of significance also takes place; the international Sibenik Medieval Fair (check out this excellent short video clip). With National Parks Krka and Kornati in the vicinity and the sea temperature still averaging at 19 degrees Celsius, your stay could easily turn into a week. And for fishing enthusiasts, September happens to be the right time for albacore tuna.

Email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com
Web: http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2010/10/adriatic-boat-show-mandalina-marina.html

See what attracts visitors to Sibenik-Knin

2010-10-21T13:41:00.002+02:00

In the first eight months of 2010 the number of tourists to Croatia was up 3% from the 2009, despite wariness of the global recession.

The top five tourists come from: 1. Germany 2. Slovenia 3. Italy 4. Austria and 5. the Czech Republic.

In the county of Sibenik-Knin, Dalmatia, the number of overnight stays just for the month of September was up 13% on the previous year, with an increasing number of visitors from Poland and Spain.

Also, in a 2010 survey conducted among Croatian citizens the Sibenik-Knin county was voted best county in Croatia for holidaying (out of seven), coming in first place with almost 30% of votes.

Some quick stats about Sibenik-Knin:

- Located in northern central Dalmatia

- Founded by Croats in 9th Century

- 2 National Parks: Krka and Kornati

- 11 Medieval Fortifications, 4 are located in Sibenik

- 230 Cultural Monuments

- 600 Archeological Sites

- Over 280 islands, islets, cliffs and reefs; island of Zlarin home of red coral, island of Krapanj home of sea sponge

- Geographic characateristic of limestone and hinterland providing rivers, canyons and caves

- UNESCO World Heritage site, St Jakov Cathedral

- UNESCO World Heritage cultural site candidate, the vineyards of Primosten

- Traditional economy known for shipbuilding, fishing, viticulture, agriculture and olive groves; more recently tourism

The images below provide a sample of what brings visitors to the county of Sibenik-Knin.

Email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com
Web: http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2010/10/see-what-attracts-visitors-to-sibenik.html

View over Sibenik from Subicevac fortress

Old town, Sibenik

Krka falls, in Krka National Park, Skradin

View towards the historically important archeological site, Bribirska Glavica, Skradin

Detail at 'Nympheum', the Roman public water tanks, c. 1st - 2nd Century, Bribirska Glavica

Sunset over Vodice

The UNESCO listed 15th-16th Century St Jakov Cathedral in Sibenik

A beach near Primosten

Sailing the Kornati Islands National Park

The Knin fortress

Grape harvesting & wine making season, Croatia Oct 2010

2010-10-21T06:19:00.010+02:00

During the first couple of weekends in October, whilst the wineries in Croatia prepare for harvesting and production of the new season's wine, almost every household across Croatia is busy either picking their own or buying local grapes to make wine for their personal consumption over the next year.

This domestic wine is very popular as table wine with tourists. Not only is it great value for money, grapes are typically picked by hand and the wine is made using natural and traditional wine making methods without additives or preservatives.

Croatia is producing some great quality commercial wines which are still being discovered by the rest of the world, yet the unbeatable combination of sun, sea and rocky soil (a mixture of limestone and red soil) provides the ideal conditions for viticulture in centuries' old tradition preceding Roman times!

If wine is one of your passions consider planning a trip to Croatia during early October. The weather is still mild and the sea is still warm enough for swimming (20 degrees Celsius in some places). It is also the perfect time for visiting the national parks and various historic cultural and archeological sights, as the days are not too hot and you won’t be competing against the hoards of summer tourists.

Holidays Croatia can arrange for you to visit some of the finest, award-winning wineries in the county of Sibenik-Knin (in the central part of northern Dalmatia) and surrounding areas. This region is known for having many unique, native grape varieties. Some of the best known as well as up and coming vineyards in this part of Croatia are found in Skradin and Primosten.

We can also organise visits to private, hobbyist winemakers whom we know personally because they are good friends or relatives, where you can partake in the domestic grape picking and wine making process. And of course sample the wines and take some away with you!

email: info.HolidaysCroatia@gmail.com

web: http://holidaycroatia.blogspot.com/2010/10/grape-harvesting-and-wine-making-season.html

Local private vineyard

Typical scene while driving through the Dalmatian hinterland

Usually where you find grapes, you'll also find figs and olives!

Picking grapes by hand, local hobby winemaker, Sibenik-Knin county