At a Glance
Find relaxation and adventure on this 8-day active holiday along Croatia's stunning Dalmatian Coast. This tour combines easy hiking through the spectacular Krka and Paklenica National Parks, relaxed cycling around UNESCO-listed Ciovo Island, and guided sea kayaking along the Velebit Channel and the Split coastline. Experience the perfect blend of gentle activity and serene relaxation as you hike, bike, and kayak through the best of Croatia. From its iconic national parks to its shimmering coastlines with plenty of swimming opportunities along the way, it is the ultimate way to experience the natural beauty of Croatia with a side of adventure.
Your journey begins in the waterside village of Starigrad, where dramatic mountains meet shimmering Adriatic waters. Here lies the gateway to Paklenica National Park, a walker's paradise with trails through breathtaking ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 7 nights of accommodation in deluxe hotels on a twin-share basis
- National Park Entry: Krka and Paklencia (1 day within each)
- Bike rental in Trogir. E-bike available at an additional cost
- All breakfasts
- Briefing at the beginning of your trip.
- Headwater navigation app
- Luggage transfers between hotels
- Two guided sea kayaking tours
Itinerary
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Arrive in the small port village of Starigrad Paklenica. Erected on the foundations of a historic city, Starigrad is where the mountains meet the sea at the gateway to Paklenica National Park. Nestled in a unique panorama consisting of up to 1,700m high rock walls and flatly sloping into the sea, Starigrad promises a fantastic start to your active holiday in Dalmatia. Settle into your accommodation, the 4-star Villa Vicko, majestically perched on the shores of the Velebit Channel. There is a beach just below the hotel where you can swim or sunbathe. As for dinner, you can savour an on-site dining experience at the Ferala Restaurant, popular for its Dalmatian specialties, accompanied by panoramic terrace views. There are also several nearby restaurants if you’re looking for more casual dining, including Dinko Buffet Paklenica and Bistro Antonio. We are more than happy to provide additional recommendations based on your preferences. |
Villa Vicko, Starigrad Paklenica 
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Approx. 13 km (8 miles), 2-3 hours walking One of Croatia’s eight National Parks, Paklenica National Park is breathtakingly stunning. With two dolomite limestone canyons named Velika (big) and Mala (small), this is Croatia’s largest mountain range and part of the Dinaric Alps, which run from Slovenia through Albania, culminating at its highest point in Bosnia-Herzegovina. The mountains rise precipitously from the sea, and while the park initially looks very rocky, you’ll be surprised to discover that 75% of the National Park is primarily beech and black pine forest. Paklenica is a walker’s paradise with over 150km of trails taking you from rocky canyons to verdant meadows and mountain summits. On the well-signposted hiking trails, you can experience the impressive flora and fauna, home to Griffon vultures, brown bears and lynx. Our selected walk takes you deeper into the canyon, ending at Ramica Dvori Hut. Owned by a local family for generations, Dvori Hut offers options for lunch alongside their homemade ‘rajika’ drink. You can also incorporate the slightly more challenging ascent to Manita Cave; here, you can discover the ‘secrets’ of the underground world of Dinaric Karst. Note: Among 115 speleological objects so far known in the Paklenica National Park, Manita is the most famous among the visitors, as it is the only cave made accessible to the public through guided visits. Open limited days and hours each season - details provided in our customer documentation. |
Villa Vicko, Starigrad Paklenica
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Your first of two unforgettable sea kayaking tours! Today, paddle the clear waters of the Velebit channel with breathtaking views across the great Velebit mountain. Setting off from Jaz Beach in Starigrad, paddle to a tiny hamlet called Vinjerac, where we recommend stopping for a pleasant walk or leisurely lunch. From here, head towards a small beach before going back towards Seline; there are plenty of swimming opportunities throughout the day. The total duration is about 4-6 hours. |
Villa Vicko, Starigrad Paklenica
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Transfer from Starigrad Paklenica to your next destination (approximately 1hr), the scenic riverside village of Skradin. Well-known as the gateway to Krka National Park, Skradin is surrounded by vineyards and wineries, including the highly acclaimed Bibich Winery in nearby Plastovo. Explore the quaint town centre with its 18th and 19th century pastel-coloured homes alongside the charming Marina, dotted with waterside eateries - perfect for a casual stroll. The Skradin Clock Tower, dating to 1872, is the town’s most iconic sight and is easily visible when viewing Skradin from afar. Unusually, it is built into the base of the nearby hill instead of right beside the church. |
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A few minutes’ walk east of Skradin town centre, discover a lovely stretch of pebbled beach along the river. The water is very clear here, making it the most relaxing place to lounge in the summer sun. Head back to our home for the next few days, the charming Hotel Skradinski Buk. Named after the famous Krka National Park waterfall, this lodging is a favourite of travellers visiting the park. The on-site restaurant serves delectable Dalmatian specialities, including fresh trout and local wines. |
Hotel Skradinski Buk, Skradin
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Approx. 8 km (5 miles), 1-2 hours walking The Skradinski Buk, one of the most popular attractions in Krka National Park, is a large pool of extremely clear water with a collection of 17 waterfalls flowing into it. Similar to the Plitvice Lakes National Park, the waterfalls in Krka are karstic, with plunging waterfalls weaving through ponds, vegetation, mini-islands, and even a tiny village. Our selected path takes you from your hotel to this wonderful area of waterfall networks, bridges and watermills. Circle these extraordinary waterfalls, taking your time to appreciate the natural beauty of this spectacle with magnificent views around every corner! Return by boat to Skradin. |
Hotel Skradinski Buk, Skradin.
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Approx 28 km (17 miles), 1-2 hours biking Transfer from Skradin to Trogir on Ciovo Island (approximately 1 hour). The largest of the Trogir archipelago, Ciovo Island is home to some stunning beaches and quiet villages, all with a rich cultural heritage. Inhabited since prehistoric times, Ciovo has a large squid-fishing community, celebrated in style each year with a popular festival. |
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Today’s bike ride takes us along the island’s pristine coastline, then slightly inland through lush vegetation, offering incredible far-reaching views. Stop to explore secluded beaches and enjoy some fabulous restaurants before admiring one of Ciovo’s spectacular sunsets. After a fulfilling day, we head to our final destination, Hotel Sikaa, a 4-star family-run boutique hotel. This stay offers awe-inspiring views of the historical centre of the old town of Trogir. For dinner, the hotel offers a la carte dining featuring Mediterranean cuisine. The hotel’s prime location makes it close to some of the region’s best-rated restaurants, which you can check out if you fancy other dining options. |
Hotel Sikaa, Trogir
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A morning transfer takes you to Split to join a sea kayaking excursion along the coastline beneath Marjan Hill. You get spectacular views of islands and the mountains, and a break on a beach before returning to Split. Total duration is approximately 4 hours. On returning to Split, spend time exploring the city. Visit Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where ancient Roman architecture meets bubbly cafes and hidden courtyards. A transfer takes you back to Trogir. |
Hotel Sikaa, Trogir
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This morning, your Croatian adventure comes to an end. Savour one last breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey. Bid your farewells for your onward journey. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
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Breakfast More Info
- The departure point is Starigrad Paklenica
- The finish point is Trogir.
- The closest airport to Starigrad Paklenica is Zadar Airport (ZAD), which is approximately a 30-minute drive away.
Croatia has one of the sunniest climates in Europe, and some regions are notoriously free from rain. We generally travel off-season, so you should expect some variation in temperature and possibly some rainfall. Temperatures can be high, particularly in July, averaging around 30C (86F).
The walking level on this trip is rated Level 1 Leisurely.
Level 1 Leisurely: These are our easiest walks. Suitable for anyone who is reasonably fit and healthy, enjoys the occasional weekend walk. Some holidays involve short, steeper sections; others will include gentler, but longer ascents/descents. Trails are seldom totally flat so you should be prepared for altitude changes of up to 400m on some days. A head for heights is not necessary.
Level 2 Moderate: Suitable for anyone looking for slightly longer walks and who is confident with daily ascents/descents of up to 700m. Most routes will follow well defined paths, however, there may be sections where you will need to be able to navigate via the app or map. You don't need specific walking experience; however, good health and reasonable fitness are important. There may be some sections on uneven terrain where scrambling is required. On certain holidays, you do need a head for heights; this is specified on the online holiday pages where applicable.
Level 3 Demanding: Fitness is important as you can expect full day walks, including up to 1,000m ascents/descents. Routes may be indistinct in places due to the nature of the terrain, so ability to navigate by map and app are required. Where applicable, experience of walking in mountains is important, and you should have a reasonable head for heights. There is likely to be some scrambling required, although not rock climbing. Not suitable for under-12s.
Level 4 Challenging: Building on Level 3 requirements, fitness is important as you can expect full day walks, including up to 1,200m ascents/descents. High altitudes, longer distances, climate and remoteness can also be a factor depending on your chosen destination. Previous trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident of your physical condition. Once again, you should be confident navigating by app or map; have a reasonable head for heights, and there is likely to be some challenging elements and may be some scrambling required, although not rock climbing. Not suitable for under-12s.
The biking level on this trip is rated Level 1 Leisurely.
Level 1 Leisurely: Gentle routes, often flat but with the occasional short climb and freewheel descent! On average, you should expect to be cycling for 20-60km on each cycling day. The distance is hugely dependent on the elevation and terrain. These are a great choice for first-timers, families with children, anyone who hasn't ridden a bike in years, or those wanting a relaxed break with plenty of time to explore or enjoy the pool.
Level 2 Moderate: Expect more undulations on these trips. The more varied terrain will appeal to the fair-weather cyclist or to the more active rider looking for a relaxed trip. You can expect a climbing up to 660m in a day, over a distance of 20-90km. Generally, a bit more distance would mean a bit less climbing as a result, and vice versa. It is your holiday after all! No special technical skills are required but must be good health and reasonably fit.
Level 3 Demanding: We would recommend you be a regular, confident cyclist to enjoy this more Demanding level of holiday. The days cycling will tend to be on longer, more challenging routes with distances up to 100km. The routes will also be hilly, some with longer climbs meaning you can expect to the day elevations to be between 400-800m. As such, riders are required to have a good level physical fitness.
Level 4 Challenging: Our Challenging trips require a good level of fitness and for you to have confidence in your ability on the bike. They will be tougher routes, with longer distances and steeper inclines and declines, which will appeal to a more experienced cyclist. The routes could be up to 120km, with some good elevation gains of up to 1000m in a day. Please note, E-Bikes are generally not suitable for Level 4 holidays. For mountain-biking trips, previous experience is essential as they will involve some technical off-road riding.
Terrain: The terrain on this holiday is varied but generally gentle, combining easy walking, relaxed cycling and calm coastal paddling. Walks follow a mix of well-marked forest trails, riverside paths and limestone canyon routes, with some uneven and rocky sections in national park areas. Cycling takes place mainly on quiet, well-surfaced coastal roads with modest gradients, while kayaking is on sheltered coastal waters with pebble or rocky shorelines for landing.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 100 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 100 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 100 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 100 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
