Croatia 4 - 16 June 2027

Upon independent arrival in northern Croatia’s capital, Zagreb, check into our stylish historic hotel, an architectural gem in the heart of the city. Showcasing stunning Art Nouveau design, the hotel is ideally located near Zagreb’s key attractions.

Enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the city’s historic architecture - a rich legacy of the Venetian Empire, with influences from the Habsburgs and Ottomans.

In the evening, our tour officially begins with a Welcome Dinner. Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the capital, we head to a contemporary Michelin starred restaurant nestled in Zagreb’s surrounding forested woodlands. This culinary oasis offers an innovative Mediterranean menu, providing a spectacular start to our gastronomic journey through Croatia.

Accommodation: Luxury Boutique Accommodation

This morning, we embark on a private guided walking tour - an immersive Zagreb culinary journey that weaves through both the upper and lower towns, blending the city’s culture, history, and gastronomy along the way.

Our tour introduces the origins and significance of local specialties, with visits to the renowned open air food markets that define Zagreb’s culinary scene. Scattered throughout the city, these vibrant markets offer a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture, observe daily interactions, and witness the incredible freshness of produce delivered straight from farm to table.

Along the way, we stop to sample a variety of local delicacies, including štrukli - delicate squares of dough layered with soft cheese, boiled, and then baked to perfection; gemišt - a refreshing Croatian take on a spritzer; house made cheese and rakija - a potent brandy distilled from an array of local fruits and herbs, renowned for its supposed benefits in boosting circulation and immunity.

The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. Zagreb is a walkable city, brimming with Austro-Hungarian charm, historic elegance, a thriving arts and café culture, street art, quirky museums, and lush green spaces.

Tonight, we reunite to enjoy a casual dinner at a beloved local restaurant, enjoying the  traditional flavours of Zagreb. 

Accommodation: Luxury Boutique Accommodation

After breakfast, we check out and set off towards Istria. The region is known as Croatia’s pantry.

Istrians take immense pride in their heritage, deeply respecting their environment while reinterpreting traditions to ensure they remain an integral part of their rich history, cultural and culinary identity.

Food is the unspoken language of Istria, a Croatian region rich in flavour, where truffles reign supreme.

Today, we enjoy a scenic drive through rolling vineyards, lush forests, and charming hilltop villages. Istria, a breathtaking peninsula shared by Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy, is celebrated for its world famous truffles, exquisite olive oils, fine wines, and fresh seafood.

Truffles are undoubtedly the crown jewels of Istrian gastronomy. Today, we have the privilege of an authentic truffle hunting experience with a local family that has been in the business for generations. Accompanied by our expert guide and two highly trained truffle hunting dogs, we venture into the forest in search of these prized treasures. After our hunt, we return to the family home, where we learn the secrets of truffle preparation and indulge in a tasting of the most delicious truffle eggs, infused oils, spreads, Istrian meats and cheeses, housemade bread, and local wines. The warmth and generosity of our hosts make this an experience to cherish.

Our journey continues with a visit to the medieval town of Motovun, one of Istria’s most enchanting hilltop villages. Surrounded by vineyards and featuring winding cobblestone streets, this picturesque town offers breathtaking views over the valley below, enjoy some free time to wander.

We then make our way to Rovinj, a stunning seaside village on the western coast of the Istrian Peninsula. Here, we check into our luxurious hotel, nestled within the scenic Golden Cape Nature Park, just steps from the sea and a short walk from Rovinj’s historic old town.

Rovinj is a magical destination, and the evening is yours to explore at your leisure. Stroll through the labyrinth of narrow streets in the old town and harbour, soak in its timeless charm, enjoy some shopping or an aperitivo at a local bar. 

Accommodation: Luxury Boutique Accommodation

Today, we embark on a private tour of Istria’s medieval towns, followed by exclusive wine and olive oil tastings. Our journey takes us through the charming villages of Roč and Hum - the latter famously known as the “smallest town in the world” - rich in medieval and Glagolitic history.

Next, we visit a family owned olive oil estate, renowned for its organic olive oil and wine production. Here, we indulge in a tasting of both, accompanied by local delicacies. This private estate has once again been recognised among the world’s best extra virgin olive oils (EVOO) in the 2025 Flos Olei guide, earning an exceptional 99/100 points.

Set against a backdrop of stunning panoramic views, our guided tastings offer insights into the history of the Istrian region and its indigenous varieties. We tour the estate’s cellar, olive groves, vineyards, and oil mill. Our guided tasting introduces us to the family’s philosophy and craft, featuring a selection of extra virgin olive oils and wines. Accompanying our tasting is a spread of traditional Istrian cuisine, homemade delicacies, including homemade cold cuts from local producers (prosciutto, sausages, and buđola), bruschetta, and artisanal cheeses.

We then continue to a family run winery and distillery, proudly maintained by five generations. Here, we experience true Istrian hospitality with a family dedicated to producing top quality Istrian wines and brandies since 1885. 

Our visit includes a tour of the distillery, wine cellar, and winery, where we sample a selection of DOC wines, along with a signature cocktail crafted from the family’s traditionally produced liqueurs, offering a true taste of the region.

In the late afternoon, we return to Rovinj, where you’ll have the evening free to wander at your own pace. Discover charming boutiques, savour fresh seafood in local restaurants, or relax with a drink at one of the quaint little bars perched along the seafront.

Accommodation: Luxury Boutique Accommodation

Today, we bid farewell to incredible Istria and journey to another Croatian gem - the Plitvice Lakes, nestled in the Dinaric Alps region of Croatia.

Upon arrival, enjoy free time for lunch before we meet our private guide for a walking tour to explore part of this stunning National Park. There is truly nothing like this lush valley of 16 terraced lakes, seamlessly linked by cascading waterfalls and scenic lakeside walkways. As Croatia’s oldest and largest national park, Plitvice Lakes has long been celebrated for its untouched natural beauty.

The vivid emerald green lakes, gushing waterfalls and preserved forests make this an unforgettable experience. Our guided walking tour includes a panoramic boat ride, offering breathtaking views of the lakes from a unique perspective. Be prepared to ooh and aah - and take plenty of photos!

After our visit, late afternoon, we check into our accommodation, perfectly situated within the National Park. Enjoy some leisure time - perhaps explore the area by bicycle, unwind in the sauna or jacuzzi, or simply soak in the natural beauty.

Tonight, we gather for dinner in-house, where we savour the flavours of the Croatian hinterlands. Expect organic, free range meats, homegrown vegetables, and delectable desserts made from local fruits. A highlight of the evening is our first “Peka” - a dish often regarded as a national treasure and one of Croatia’s oldest roasting techniques, dating back to Neolithic times. This traditional method involves slow roasting meat, potatoes and aromatics beneath a heavy, bell-shaped lid, covered in charcoal, resulting in incredibly tender, moist, and flavourful cuisine.

Accommodation: Boutique Hotel

This morning, we depart Plitvice and head to Trogir, a charming medieval town and our first stop on the Dalmatian Coast. Here, we are warmly welcomed by our chef for a hands-on cooking class.

Our chef is an absolute delight - charming, full of smiles, and passionate about Croatian cuisine. She embodies the heart of Dalmatian culinary traditions, bringing them to life in the most authentic way.

Today’s experience is more than just a cooking class - it’s a journey into local life. We begin by joining our chef at the farmers’ market, selecting fresh seasonal ingredients for our dishes. Then, we take a leisurely stroll to her 13th century historic home, where we step into the kitchen and start preparing traditional Dalmatian cuisine.

Together, we craft a range of regional specialities, including homemade pasta, side dishes, sauces, and marinades. Once we sit down to enjoy the delicious meal we’ve prepared, paired with local wines, you’ll feel like a true Dalmatian!

In the late afternoon, we arrive at the city of Split, set on a peninsula along the stunning Adriatic coastline. Renowned for its rich history, the majestic Diocletian’s Palace, beautiful beaches, and bustling harbour promenade, Split offers plenty to explore. Our heritage hotel, perfectly located in the heart of the city, provides easy access for an evening of independent exploration.

Accommodation: Boutique Hotel

This morning, we meet our expert guide for a private walking tour of Split’s Old Town. Our journey takes us through the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace, where we uncover the secrets of this extraordinary Roman landmark and delve into Split’s rich history.

One of the best preserved Roman royal residences in the world, the palace was originally built as the Emperor Diocletian’s summer retreat. Today, this historic gem blends Roman, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture, with over 3,000 residents still living within its ancient stone walls. As we wander through its maze of cobbled streets, our guide will share fascinating stories about Split’s past and cultural heritage.

The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. Options abound - immerse yourself in more history, lose yourself in the charming streets of the Old Town, take a relaxing seaside stroll along the promenade, or unwind at one of Split’s beautiful beaches.

This evening, we reunite for a casual Dalmatian dinner at a local Konoba (tavern), where we indulge in authentic coastal cuisine. Dalmatian food is defined by simplicity, fresh locally sourced ingredients, and exceptional seafood - a reflection of the region’s maritime and agricultural heritage.

A highlight of our meal is Dalmatia’s most iconic dish, crni rižot - a rich, black risotto made with cuttlefish ink - along with a selection of other regional delicacies.

Accommodation: Boutique Hotel

This morning, we check out and board our private motor yacht for a day of sailing through the breathtaking Pakleni Islands, en route to the island of Hvar. This stunning archipelago of rocky islets and unspoiled beaches is one of the Adriatic’s most spectacular natural wonders. As we cruise, we will enjoy refreshments on board as we soak in the panoramic views of the coastline. We stop at the Pakleni Islands, renowned for their crystal clear waters, lush greenery, and secluded coves. When we find the perfect cove, we drop anchor, allowing time to swim and snorkel in the pristine waters.

Lunch is served on the island of Palmižana, at a beachside bar, where we indulge in freshly caught, simply grilled seafood and local produce - a true taste of the Dalmatian Coast.

In the late afternoon, we arrive at the magical island of Hvar, our home for the next three incredible nights. Expect stunning coastal scenery, historic architecture, a charming old town, and some of Croatia’s most spectacular beaches.

Our boutique hotel is ideally located on Hvar’s marina, just a five minute walk from both the beach and the historical centre. Enjoy some free time this evening to relax or explore the harbour and enjoy a sunset sipper in one of the local bars. 

Accommodation: Boutique Hotel

Today, we explore Hvar on a guided cultural and historical tour, discovering the people and places that make this island so unique. This immersive experience takes us to the heart of Hvar’s heritage, where history, culture, and local traditions come to life.

We begin with a walking tour through Hvar Town, visiting its most treasured landmarks. First, we stop at the 550 year old Franciscan Monastery, then visit the Benedictine Convent, home to the nuns who craft intricate lace from the agave plant, one of Hvar’s four UNESCO recognised traditions. Continuing our journey, we make our way to the Španjola Fortress, one of the most famous viewpoints in Croatia, offering breathtaking panoramas of the island and the Adriatic Sea.

The tour continues through the streets of Stari Grad, the oldest town in Croatia, where history comes alive in its beautifully preserved streets. Our UNESCO experience deepens as we visit the Stari Grad Plain, an 80 hectare agricultural colony founded by the Ancient Greeks, which remains a testament to centuries of cultivation and farming traditions.

In 384 BC, ancient Greek settlers arrived on the island of Hvar, bringing with them a vine that they planted in the fertile fields of Stari Grad. This marked the beginning of a winemaking tradition that has endured for centuries. Despite many challenges, the people of Hvar have skillfully preserved their viticultural heritage, crafting exceptional wines that reflect the island’s rich terroir.

We will explore this time-honoured tradition at a renowned wine estate, where we’ll sample fabulous local varietals.

For our long lunch, we step into a hidden world - an abandoned village, where we dine at the most authentic Konoba (tavern) in Hvar. This family run gem serves seasonal dishes and local wines all made with ingredients from their own garden, land, and the sea, offering a true taste of traditional Dalmatian cuisine in an unforgettable setting.

Accommodation: Boutique Hotel

Today is yours to spend as you wish, with plenty of time to relax or explore at your own pace.

Hvar offers an abundance of experiences, depending on your interests and how active or leisurely you prefer your holidays to be. You might choose to visit some of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches, take a day trip to the Blue and Green Caves or the Island of Vis, wander through the quaint streets of Stari Grad, visit a local winery, set sail on a sunset cruise, hire a boat or simply indulge in a lavender ice - cream while people watching in St. Peter’s Square.

Tonight, we meet for dinner at a konoba in Hvar harbour, where we’ll share a selection of local dishes showcasing the island’s authentic flavours, including local wild boar and Hvar’s famous lavender desserts. 

Accommodation: Boutique Hotel

This morning, we depart Hvar and make our way to Dubrovnik. Along the way, we stop to meet an oyster farmer and his daughter, who are continuing a three generation tradition of oyster harvesting. Their passion for the region’s food heritage is evident, and there is no better storyteller than a man whose family has been farming these unique oysters for generations. Enthusiastic about his family’s legacy, he takes great joy in sharing the secrets of oyster farming with visitors.

We take a short boat ride to a private island for an oyster harvesting and tasting experience near Mali Ston, on the Pelješac Peninsula, renowned for its exceptional Croatian oysters. With our expert guide, we learn about the traditional breeding process, the oysters’ natural diet, and their predators, gaining insight into this time honoured craft.

Then, alongside his daughter, our host prepares a delicious mussels buzara, a local seafood dish, while freshly shucked oysters are served for us to savour - an indulgent experience in an unforgettable setting.

After our oyster tasting, we continue our journey to Dubrovnik, where we check into our luxurious seafront hotel, overlooking Lapad Beach and the shimmering blue green Adriatic Sea. There’s time to swim at the beach or take a leisurely stroll along its famous tree lined promenade, soaking in the coastal charm.

Tonight, we will enjoy a seasonal Mediterranean menu on the terrace overlooking Lapad Bay

Accommodation: Boutique Hotel

After a leisurely breakfast overlooking Lapad Bay, we head into the Old Town for a private walking tour. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most celebrated destination, renowned for its imposing medieval walls, marble streets, and elegant baroque palaces. As we stroll through the historic city, we will enjoy tastings unique to Dubrovnik, and finish at a renowned gelato stop.

The city’s main pedestrian street, Stradun, is lined with cafés and shops, bookended by a cluster of historical landmarks at either end. After our tour, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace - whether that means discovering hidden alleyways, enjoying a drink with a view, or simply soaking in Dubrovnik. For those interested, we will also arrange an optional walk along the city walls.

In the late afternoon, unwind at your seaside hotel, savouring the final moments of the Adriatic coastline.

This evening, we gather for our farewell dinner - an exclusive chef’s table experience overlooking Dubrovnik’s ancient walls. Paired with premium regional wines, this exceptional setting provides the perfect backdrop for our final evening together - a truly unforgettable conclusion to our culinary journey.

Accommodation: Boutique Hotel

Your final morning in Croatia begins with a delicious breakfast, overlooking the exquisite Lapad Bay beachfront - the perfect way to savour the last moments of this unforgettable adventure.

As this extraordinary journey comes to a close, we hope you leave with lasting memories of Croatia’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and incredible flavours.