Why Croatia is the ultimate European summer destination

One of Europe’s most beautiful sailing destinations, Croatia offers calm turquoise waters and a host of islands, each with its own identity and idiosyncrasies.

Yacht charter bases are located in marinas, the most popularfree porn  ones being on the mainland, in or near Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar and Pula, all of which are conveniently served by summer flights from the UK.

Sailing around Croatia is one of the best ways to see the beautiful country as you can stop off at the many islands along the coast and take a dip in the Adriatic Sea.

Below are four of the best routes to see Croatia by boat.

South Dalmatia
If you set sail from Dubrovnik, you’ll be touring the islands of South Dalmatia. Make your first stop at Mljet, to explore the dense forests and two turquoise interconnected saltwater lakes of Mljet National Park — hire bikes and cycle the perimeter of the lakes, or rent kayaks and paddle across them.


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Proceed to neighbouring Korčula, where the highlight is censored jav Korčula Town, perched upon a tiny fortified peninsula. Within its medieval walls, tightly packed stone buildings include the magnificent Gothic-Renaissance cathedral and the supposed birthplace of intrepid explorer Marco Polo.

Beyond the town, Korčula’s undulating hills are planted with olive groves, vineyards and pinewoods. South from here, the remote island of Lastovo is often missed by holidaymakers due to its inconvenient ferry timetable, leaving it wonderfully peaceful for those who arrive by yacht. On the return voyage, spend a night in a sheltered bay off one of the tiny car-free Elaphiti islets — Šipan, Lopud or Koločep.

SPLIT
See the sights of Split (Croatian National Tourist Board)
Central Dalmatia
Croatia’s most popular point of departure for sailing holidays, Split (and nearby Trogir and Kaštela) takes you straight to the islands of Central Dalmatia. Begin with Brač, where Bol, on the south coast, is home to the country’s most photographed beach, the stunning jav censored Zlatni Rat, a 500-metre long pebble spit, which juts out into the sea, perpendicular to the coast.

It’s also Croatia’s top windsurfing destination. Nearby, the island of Hvar bears fertile vineyards and purple lavender fields. Here, trendy Hvar Town centres on a harbour hugged by elegant Venetian-era stone buildings, overlooked by a hilltop castle. Adored by the rich and famous, its glamorous nightlife venues include rustic-chic beach clubs and cocktail bars.