Nestled amidst the spectacular natural beauty of the Mosor Mountains, Tugare is a charming village which provides easy access to the sparkling Dalmatian coastline and the Croatian countryside. With stunning hiking trails and a small selection of local shops and restaurants, the village is ideal for nature lovers and those searching for a peaceful getaway. Only ten kilometres away, visitors are unlikely to forget the majestic cliffs of Omiš, a lively coastal town with a reputation for being Croatia’s adventure capital and a fascinating history of pirates and fortresses! Here, you can relax on the beach, hike along the coast, enjoy rafting on the emerald River Cetina, or simply wander the old town’s cobbled streets. With a wealth of natural beauty on your doorstep and the vibrant city of Split only thirty minutes away from Tugare by car, you will be delighted by all this enchanting location has to offer.
Omiš is a paradise for outdoor adventure seekers, with plenty of activities on land and water. Visitors can enjoy canyoning experiences along the gorges and waterfalls of the River Cetina, as well as zip lining above the river’s rugged ravine. The coast provides plenty of opportunities for sea kayaking, while whitewater rafting experiences through the rapids of the Cetina are perfect for those who dream of an adrenaline-fuelled afternoon! Meanwhile, the dreamlike shores of Brzet Beach, only a fifteen-minute drive from Villa Lydia, are the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the ocean.
If you would prefer to keep your feet planted firmly on dry land, why not embark upon a challenging but enjoyable hike up to the Starigrad Fortress? Known locally as Fortica, it takes roughly forty-five minutes to reach this fifteenth-century hilltop fortress, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the sea and the dramatic cliffs. The Mirabella Fortress in Omiš is only five minutes from the town’s main square for a less strenuous walk. Built-in the thirteenth century, this Romanesque fortress was used by local pirates for shelter and protection. Today, the fortress offers breathtaking views of the gorge and the town’s pretty harbour.
The cobbled streets of Omiš are made for wandering on sunny afternoons. Here, you can visit the picturesque St. Michael’s Church in the old town before stopping off at the Omiš City Museum for a glimpse into the town’s colourful past and cultural heritage. Later, enjoy a leisurely meal at one of many excellent local restaurants, serving traditional Croatian dishes such as cuttlefish risotto or Dalmatian pašticada. During the summer months, the streets of Omiš are particularly lively thanks to local festivals such as the Festival Dalmatinskih Klapa, an event which celebrates traditional cappella singing, as well as the entertaining Pirate Battles of late July and early August.
With a backdrop of mountains and cliffs, the beaches of the Omiš Riviera range from busy, family-friendly stretches of white sands to secluded coves and serene bays. Located just a few minutes walk from the old town, Velika Plaza is a popular beach offering plenty of convenient amenities and water-based activities such as snorkelling and jet-skiing. The beaches of Galeb and Duce are only a short drive away, and both offer scenic views and plenty of idyllic swimming spots. For a day trip to remember, take a boat tour from Omiš to the beautiful island of Brač.
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.
