Croatia

More on Croatia

Croatia has long been regarded by those in the know as one of the most beautiful parts of Europe; our holiday villas in Croatia prove its a reputation richly deserved, not only because of the country's breathtaking natural splendour and temperate climate, but also because of the warmth and charm of its people and a unique cultural heritage drawn from the myriad influences of two thousand years of welcome and not-so-welcome visitors.

Croatia's history is a fascinating mix of Western and Eastern influences. There is a strong Italian influence in the Istrian Riviera, most apparent in the architecture, locally produced wine and the cuisine served in many of the restaurants. Croatia boasts ancient towns and traditional villages as well as lush green countryside bursting with flora and fauna. Croatia is home to an assorted array of nationalities, which reflects rather neatly the country's modern day appeal to holidaymakers from all over the world.

Pula
Istria's commercial centre features the world's sixth largest Roman amphitheatre dating back from the first century BC. Boat trips set sail from the busy harbour, and delightful beaches can be found outside the city at Premantura on the Cape of Kamenjak, the southernmost tip of the Istrian peninsula. Distance from the aiport approximately 10-25 kilometres.

Labin
On the hill behind Rabac is the medieval town of Labin where steep cobbled alleys meander through a colourful assortment of town houses. Distance from the airport approximately 35 kilometres.

Motovun
A tiny medieval town perched on a hill overlooking the Mirna river valley, a haven to the studios of local artists and craftspeople. Distance from airport approximately 50 kilometres.

Porec
Probably the most well-known resort of the Istrian riviera. It's a town of pleasant sun and warm sea, as well as an array of cultural monuments. Porec is also a great choice for lovers of outdoor activities. Distance from airport approximately 55 kilometres.

Umag
Located on a scenic stretch of rugged coastline, dotted with secluded coves. A variety of shops, bars and caf&eactue; occupy the pedestrianised areas. The marina enjoys stunning views of the bay and is home to a number of excellent seafood restaurants. Distance from airport approximately 80 kilometres.

The History
Croatia's history is a fascinating mix of western and eastern European influences, stretching back across more than two thousand years to the time when the native Illyrians first lost their land to the Roman empire. Since then Croatia has been invaded by the Slavs, the Tartars, the Turks, the Austrians, the Venetians, the French and the Germans; an eclectic array of nationalities which reflects rather neatly the country's modern-day appeal to holidaymakers from all over the world.

The Country
Croatia's rugged Adriatic coastline stretches for almost two thousand kilometres from the Slovenian border in the north of the Istrian peninsula to the tip of Montenegro in the south. At once dramatic and serene, the jagged shoreline meanders past an extraordinary string of nearly 1,200 tranquil and mostly uninhabited islands, cloaked in abundant leaf-green vegetation, whilst infinite craggy bays guard centuries-old secrets of the sea amidst the crystal clear waters. Towering mountain ranges seduce the nature lover, entice the rambler, tempt the climber and even challenge the extreme sports aficionado. Steeped in the vivid flavours of central Europe's unique march through history, Croatia is a living museum of Mediterranean taste and culture.

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