Tour description
Embark on an unforgettable self-guided journey through Croatia, where rugged mountains meet the sparkling Adriatic. Begin in Split and explore UNESCO-listed towns before venturing into nature with hikes through Velebit and Paklenica, a visit to Plitvice Lakes, and scenic coastal drives. Discover breathtaking viewpoints, explore limestone caves, and relax on secluded beaches. Whether trekking through dramatic canyons, wandering charming island towns, or uncovering local traditions, this flexible itinerary lets you experience Croatia’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage at your own pace.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival
Upon your arrival in Split, you’ll pick up your rental car using the voucher provided. If you happen to arrive early in the morning, you have some great options for exploring the area. You can spend some time wandering around Split’s charming city center, or take a short drive to the historic town of Šibenik, just an hour away. If you’re up for more adventure, consider visiting Krka National Park where you can admire the breathtaking Skradinski Buk waterfall. If you prefer to head a little farther, the beautiful city of Zadar is about 1.5 hours from Split and is definitely worth a visit. After your explorations, make your way to the island of Pag, where you’ll check in to your accommodation and settle in for a relaxing seven-night stay.
Day 2 - Life on Mars hike
Drive to Ručica Beach in Metajna, where you’ll begin your journey along one of Croatia’s most captivating hiking trails, the Life on Mars trail. This unique path winds through the dramatic karst landscape, offering stunning views over the Bay of Pag. As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by the rugged beauty of the area, with opportunities to stop and take in the panoramic scenery. The trail also passes by some of the most picturesque beaches of the region, perfect for a refreshing swim along the way. The combination of striking natural beauty and the peaceful atmosphere of the Bay of Pag makes this hike a truly memorable experience.
Day 3 - Sea Kayaking Pag Bay or a Boat trip to Rab island and Zavratnica bay (optional)
Free day. You have the option of participating in one of the following two activities:
- Sea kayaking in Pag Bay
The tour begins at Ručica Beach and heads towards Sušac, passing stunning rocks and sandy shores. After swimming at Sušac, the tour continues along Pag Bay with stops at Veli Zaton Beach, Gače Cave, and Malin Beach. The final stop is Beriknica Beach, known for its unique rock formations, before returning to Ručica. The route may vary based on weather and fitness.
- Boat trip to Rab Island and Zavratnica Bay
The boat ride departs from the port of Tovarnele in Lun, heading towards the Zavratnica Nature Park. This stunning 900-meter bay is home to the remains of a sunken World War II warship, visible on the seabed. The journey continues to Pudarica Beach on the island of Rab, where you’ll enjoy lunch onboard and time for a swim at the sandy beach. The final leg of the trip includes a visit to the historic town of Rab, with free time for sightseeing, before returning to the starting point in Lun.
Alternatively, you can unwind on the beaches or explore Pag Island’s history and local crafts, such as cheese-making, salt pans, the lace museum, and the olive garden in Lun, and visit the charming towns of Pag and Novalja.
Day 4 - Velebit Nature Park
A scenic 1-hour drive will take you to the charming village of Baške Oštarije, the starting point for numerous hiking trails that wind through the diverse landscapes of the Velebit mountain. Each trail unveils a different facet of this majestic region, offering stunning views of the rugged rocky ridges, which are among the most captivating features of the mountain. As you hike, you’ll be rewarded with unique panoramic vistas, stretching from the sparkling sea and nearby islands to the lush, deep green forests that surround the area.
Day 5 - Sjeverni Velebit National Park
A short drive from the accommodation brings you to Northern Velebit National Park, a protected area renowned for its remarkable biodiversity and dramatic landscapes. The Velebit mountain range is home to a fascinating variety of flora and fauna, as well as dense forests, deep canyons, rugged rock formations, and hidden caves that captivate nature lovers and adventurers alike. Your hiking journey begins at the Zavižan mountain lodge, a well-known starting point that offers stunning panoramic views. From there, the trail leads through the park’s botanical garden, where you can admire a diverse collection of alpine plant species adapted to the mountain’s harsh conditions. After a rewarding day of exploration in this pristine wilderness follows an 1.5 h drive to your new accommodation.
Day 6 - Plitvice Lakes National Park
Enjoy a day exploring a UNESCO World Heritage site, the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park. After a short drive, you’ll arrive at Entrance 2 of the park, where you’ll receive your tickets based on the voucher provided. As you wander through the park, you’ll be immersed in its stunning natural beauty, walking along peaceful forest trails and crossing picturesque wooden bridges. You’ll also have the chance to glide across the crystal-clear waters on an electric boat, and enjoy panoramic views from a specially designed vehicle, allowing you to fully appreciate the park’s cascading waterfalls and lush landscapes. After a day filled with awe-inspiring sights, you’ll return to your accommodation for another night.
Day 7 - Paklenica National Park
A 1.5-hour drive brings you to Paklenica National Park, one of Croatia’s most spectacular hiking destinations. This stunning park is best explored on foot, as its dramatic canyons, carved deep into the southern slopes of the Velebit mountain, reveal breathtaking landscapes at every turn. Towering cliffs, hidden caves, and rugged trails make Paklenica a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. After another day of exploration, you will drive to Trogir for a final night before the departure.
Day 8 - Departure
The end of your stay in Croatia. Return of the rented vehicle and departure.