DUBROVNIK

Dubrovnik may not be huge but it has everything you need to compete as a worthy tourist destination: well-preserved buildings in the old town towering over the sea, gorgeous beaches moments outside the city walls, and an abundant choice of excellent places to eat and stay. All the ingredients for making special memories!

And this bijou Croatian city is far from being the exception. The Dalmatian Coast is one long tapestry of breathtaking scenery set along the rugged Adriatic shoreline dotted with hundreds of islands, big and small, and rocky islets. Like petals of confetti floating on the deep blue sea, Croatia’s islands are ripe for exploration away from the rest of the world. It’s a mere hop and a skip to a host of hiking trails off the beaten path over in Korčula or to escape the tourist crowds by experiencing the wild beauty of Mljet. And nothing could be simpler than getting involved in the watersports on offer or making like Robinson Crusoe in a deserted creek.

Anyone with a penchant for luxury hotels and sea swimming are also well catered for on the Dalmatian Riviera, like in Cavtat – a lovely seaside resort just south of Dubrovnik that was good enough for yesteryear's Austrian-Hungarian aristocracy. A string of beaches and small bays lined with upscale establishments invite the Mediterranean dolce vita to the Adriatic.