Villa Raelyn

Perfectly placed for the stunning Blue and Red Lakes, Imotski is a fine place to base your stay in Dalmatia. While both of these landmark sights are well worth seeing, you will only be able to swim in the Blue Lake. It’s just not possible in the Red Lake, due to the steep cliffs around it and its incredible depth.

Imotski town lies not far from the border with Bosnia & Herzegovina and is a pretty place to spend some time. You can enjoy its beautiful squares filled with café and restaurant terraces and may even get to experience some open-air concerts or festivals.

Head towards the coast and you can discover the lovely Baška Voda, Situated between Mount Biokovo and the Adriatic Sea, this town draws visitors with its wonderful beaches, spas and opportunities to try activities like mountain biking, water-skiing, paragliding and beach volleyball. Shaded pebble beaches and plenty of beach bars and cafés make it easy to simply hang out too. The food is reliably good in these parts, with Baška Voda rafioli, filled with almonds, nuts and maraschino cherries, a favourite local speciality.

Not far from Baška Voda is the glorious Punta Rata beach at Brela, considered one of the finest beaches on the Makarska Riviera. Makarska itself is only a 15-minute drive down the coast. This resort’s sandy beach extends to almost 2km, and the town is a favourite with those looking for lively nightlife. In summer, evenings in Makarska are enlivened by weekly Fishermen’s Nights, with fresh fish, local wine and plenty of fun and music.

With lovely restaurant terraces, the city’s main square, Kačić, will impress you with its wonderful mountain views – and so will the weather. The town enjoys more than 2750 hours of sun each year and remains pretty mild even in winter, although things are considerably quieter. Walks in the mountains are sure to get you relaxed and appreciating this area’s great natural beauty. Look out for the Biokovo Skywalk, a glass-bottomed viewing platform offering spectacular panoramas from more than 1200 metres above sea level.

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Makarska, perched between the Biokovo mountain range and the glistening waters of the Adriatic Sea, is a stunning destination where nature's grandeur takes centre stage. The imposing mountains rise dramatically behind the town, creating a striking backdrop for the entire region. With its distinct Mediterranean climate, visitors can expect warm summers and mild winters, making it an ideal year-round destination.

The Riva - the town's seafront promenade - is a focal point of the community, where locals and visitors alike gather to soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere. Lined with palm trees and a variety of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, the Riva is the perfect place to unwind, take in the scenic views of the sea and settle into the Croatian pace of life. As the sun sets over the Adriatic, Makarska comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. The Riva transforms into a lively hub of entertainment, with street performers, live music, DJ sets, and a chance to mingle with locals and fellow travellers.

If you're a history enthusiast, Makarska's rich heritage and historic sites will surely pique your interest. The Church of St. Mark, built in the early 18th century, stands as a testament to the region's strong Catholic tradition. The Baroque architecture and stunning altarpieces make it a notable religious landmark.

For a deeper dive into the past, the Makarska Franciscan Monastery, founded in the 16th century, houses an impressive collection of artefacts including ancient manuscripts and artwork. The monastery's cloister and church are architectural marvels in their own right. Within the complex, the Malacological Museum showcases an extensive collection of seashells, a testament to the region's maritime heritage.

The Makarska Riviera boasts a series of blue-flag beaches and crystal-clear waters, ensuring a perfect setting for relaxation and water activities. The most famous is the Makarska Beach itself, stretching for almost 2 kilometres and offering a plethora of water sports, sunbathing spots, and beachfront cafes. While sunbathing and swimming are the primary draws, you can also indulge in snorkelling, paddle-boarding, and jet skiing to experience the vibrant underwater world of the Adriatic.

Heading north along the Makarska Riviera, you’ll come to the town of Brela, famed for its pristine beaches. One of the best, Punta Rata, is often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world. The crystal-clear waters and the iconic Brela Rock jutting from the sea make it a picture-perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming.

The Biokovo Nature Park, often overshadowed by the coast, offers a different but equally wonderful experience. Here, the rugged mountain terrain allows for hiking, trekking, and adventure in the heart of nature. There are several well-marked trails that lead you through lush forests, up to the highest peak of Sveti Jure (St. George), providing breathtaking panoramic views of the Adriatic and the surrounding islands.

Day trips to nearby destinations are also a great way to explore the broader region. The islands of Hvar and Brač are easily accessible by ferry and make for fantastic day excursions. Hvar is known for its beautiful old town and lavender fields, while Brač is famous for the stunning Zlatni Rat beach.

This enchanting coastal region, characterised by its stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and vibrant atmosphere, is undoubtedly a place that leaves a lasting impression. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the diversity of the Dalmatian region. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or simply in search of a relaxing coastal escape, Makarska offers something for every traveller.