The hidden bays and rocky coves of its southern coast are best explored by boat, especially postcard-perfect Stiniva Bay, otherwise reached via a steep, rocky path.ġ5 of the world's most stunning islands for every kind of traveler 8. The port of Vis, neighboring Kut, and Komiža at the western end are the island's major towns, made up of lovely stone townhouses and seaside promenades. Vis, one of Croatia’s more remote islands, was best known as the site of a former Yugoslavian military base before Mamma Mia! 2 put it on everyone’s list. Remote Vis Island boasts some incredible bays and beaches © xbrchx / Shutterstock 7. Don’t neglect eastern Mljet, home to some tranquil little bays and brilliant beaches. The entire western section of Mljet is a national park, where you’ll find two sublime cobalt-colored lakes, an island monastery and the sleepy little port of Pomena, which is unbelievably pretty.

Legend has it that Odysseus was marooned here for seven years, and it’s easy to appreciate why he took his time leaving. MljetĬloaked in dense pine forests, marvelous Mljet is an island idyll.

To find a swimming spot, follow the waterfront promenade and stake out one of the tiny rocky bays, or hop on a taxi boat to the nearby Pakleni Islands.

Summer is when yachts anchor at this tiny seaside party town and sun-dazed revelers descend in droves to the beachside cocktail bars.įor a step back from the action and superb views over the town, head up to Fortica, the medieval castle looming on a hill above the town. Planning tip: Entry tickets are limited to avoid overcrowding. Wooden boardwalks allow you to easily traverse this exquisite watery world. Travertine expanses covered with mossy plants divide the lakes, whose startling colors are a product of the underlying bedrock. There are 16 interconnected lakes, the 2.35km-long (1.5 miles) Kozjak being the largest, plus dozens of smaller ones – some just reed-fringed ponds. Plitvice Lakes National ParkĪ turquoise ribbon of lakes linked by gushing waterfalls in the forested heart of continental Croatia, Unesco-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park is an awe-inspiring sight. Greenery and waterfalls converge at Plitvice Lakes National Park © Shutterstock / weniliou 2.

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