Relaxation, adventure and history; the coastline of Croatia has it all and Villa Aveena is set in the heart of it. Located on the secluded hills overlooking the Adriatic Sea, villa Aveena has plenty on its doorstep while providing a quiet getaway for the ultimate relaxing holiday. Soak up some vitamin sea and spend an afternoon splashing in the shallows of the Adriatic Sea. Plaza Artina is the closest pebbled beach to the villa and is great for families to enjoy an afternoon with cafés and restaurants on hand for much-needed ice creams.
Villa Aveena is a mere eight kilometres from the nearest town, Omis and Centrina River. Omis is a port town along the coast, with mountains above and the cooling Adriatic Sea below. With a rich history from pirates and 15th-century fortresses, Omis is a great morning out.
The Cetina River is an adventurous day out for the whole family. A spectacular valley of mountains, forests and trails following the river to the sea, there are plenty of exciting ways to get to the mouth of the river. Rafting tours are a great way to see the landscape from below and feel the rush of the river wash you downstream. For those who enjoy heights, you can zipline down the valley, seeing the river from a whole new perspective.
The villa is a 40-minute drive from the famous city Split. With a history dating back to the 2nd/3rd century BC, Split is filled with history and culture and is one of the largest cities along the Adriatic Coast. The city is a maze of terracotta rooftops and, in the heart of the city, lies Splits old town and one of its most iconic historical landmarks, Diocletian’s Palace. Originally built for the Roman emperor and military garrison, the palace is the centre of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Split, one the best-preserved examples of Roman palatial architecture.
Across from the villa lies the island of Brač. You’ll need to travel to Makarska or the city Split to hop on a ferry which will take you to and from the island. This journey can take two hours, but the adventure is worth it. The island of Brač is renowned for beautiful long beaches, idyllic terracotta towns along its shoreline and plenty of local cuisines to try.
The Region
The Dalmatian coast is a veritable treasure trove of stunning landscapes and historic towns, and Omis, situated halfway between the famous port city of Split and the energetic town of Maksarka, is no exception. With its rich history, scenic backdrop, and a plethora of attractions, Omis stands out as a unique and captivating destination for those seeking to explore the charm of Croatia. The town's history is deeply intertwined with its dramatic geographical setting, which is dominated by the imposing Cetina River Canyon and the Mosor Mountain Range.
The old town of Omis, with its narrow cobblestone streets and stone houses, is a place where history and culture converge. It’s a charming place to explore on foot and soak up the local way of life. There are a number of historic churches that you’ll come across while exploring - the Church of St. Michael, the Church of St. Peter, and the Church of St. Rocco, which all showcase intricate architectural details and a sense of reverence. The old town is also home to an abundance of restaurants, cafes, and local shops, it’s an excellent spot to savour authentic Croatian dishes and find unique souvenirs.
One of the most prominent historical attractions in the town is the Mirabella Fortress, often called Peovica. Perched high on a rocky outcrop, this fortress was built during the 13th century and was used as a hideout by the notorious Omis pirates who terrorised the Adriatic Sea. Today, visitors can climb up the steep path to the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the town, the coast, and the surrounding landscapes.
Omis boasts a pristine stretch of coastline with a variety of beaches, each catering to different tastes. One of the most popular is the sandy beach at the mouth of the Cetina River, offering calm waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Adventurous spirits may prefer the pebbly beach of Brzet, known for its perfect conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Just a short drive from Omis, there's the small village of Stanici, which is renowned for its unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear waters. It's a serene place to relax and escape the crowds often found in more touristy locations.
The Cetina River is a defining feature of Omis, and one of the most exhilarating activities here is to take a rafting excursion along its emerald waters. The river cuts through the impressive Cetina Canyon, creating a thrilling white-water rafting experience that appeals to adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. The journey offers panoramic views of the rugged cliffs, lush forests, and the charming villages that dot the landscape.
The nearby Biokovo Nature Park is an outstanding natural attraction. The Biokovo Mountain Range, part of the Dinaric Alps, offers incredible hiking opportunities, with well-marked trails leading to panoramic viewpoints where you can marvel at the Adriatic Sea and the islands scattered along the coast. The juxtaposition of the rugged mountain terrain and the azure waters is simply stunning and will leave a lasting impression.
The history, natural beauty, and cultural vitality of Omis combine to create a destination that is rich in character and charm. Whether you're seeking adventure on the Cetina River, exploring the medieval fortresses, or simply savouring the local cuisine, Omis has something to offer every traveller who ventures to this utterly enchanting corner of the Dalmatian coast.
