Imotski is an attractive town situated beside the stunning Blue and Red Lakes of Dalmatia. These wonderful karst lakes are a big draw for visitors, and an exceptional sight in themselves. The Blue Lake is particularly popular as you can swim in it during the summer, and the rugged surroundings are perfect for hiking. The Red Lake is just as beautiful but you won’t be able to swim in it, due to both the steepness of the cliffs around it and its incredible depth – its deepest point is 6m below sea level.
The wider area offers some more idyllic locations which are not too far away. Baška Voda, about 30 minutes’ drive from Imotski on the southern coast, is a pretty beach resort which lends itself to outdoor activities like mountain biking, water-skiing or beach volleyball.
Many visit Baška Voda for the beaches alone, but you will find also lots of cafés and beach bars, and good restaurants – many with great views of the sea. The beach bars often host live DJs during summer too. Not far from Baška Voda is Punta Rata beach at Brela, a highlight of the Makarska Riviera. The famed Brela Stone, a small rock island, is a landmark to look out for.
Makarska is the place to be for more amenities and entertainment. The centrepiece of the Old Town is Kačić square, where will find restaurant terraces, the town’s main church and often live events taking place. Named in honour of a famed Croatian poet of the 18th century, Andrija Kačić Miošić, the square also contains a statue dedicated to him.
A walk in the mountains is a fine way to spend your day. Look out for landmark sights like the holy shrine of Vepric at the foot of the hills, and the Kotišina botanical gardens. In recent years, a new highlight has appeared – the impressive Biokovo Skywalk. This glass-bottomed, horseshoe-shaped viewing platform offers you the most breathtaking views out to sea – an unmissable experience.
Makarska also scores highly for nightlife, with plenty of high-end clubs, one of which is in a cave. Deep, as it’s known, offers an area where you can get away from the dancefloor and enjoy the spectacular sunset. You’ll find lots of events going on in town too – Makarska Cultural Summer has something for everyone, while musos should seek out the annual Makarska Jazz Festival.