Villa Aleena is located in the popular town of Podstrana. The famous Old Town of Split is 10km to the west, and the historic, pretty town of Omis and the magical Cetina River are roughly 13km to the east. It is a fabulous location for a holiday packed with adventure, stunning scenery, gastronomic delights and relaxation. Active guests will be delighted with the golf and tennis just close to the villa in addition to the watersports available on the beach, hiking, biking and all sorts of thrilling activities on the Cetina River.
Split is a very attractive seafront gem combining honeycombs of intricate historical buildings, including the wonderful Diocletian’s Palace, with a cosmopolitan, palm-sprinkled promenade offering tourists a fabulous vibrant holiday experience. The town’s atmospheric, narrow streets are brimming with ancient monuments, charming restaurants, cafes, bars and a good variety of shops. Split oozes a laid-back vibe. The main city beach, Bacvice, is both a perfect place to relax during the day and a popular night-time jaunt in the evening. You can easily take trips to the stunning islands of Hvar, Vis and Brac from Split. Popular with the rich and famous, Hvar is glitzy and boasts a marina full of luxury yachts. Brac is beautiful and home to the famous Zlatni Rat Beach at Bol, which adorns most Croatian holiday posters. Vis is a gorgeous, remote, craggy island with a laid-back rural vibe.
Omis, 13km along the coast, is known as the City of Pirates. It is situated at the mouth of the Cetina River and is home to many churches, the 13th-century Fortress Mirabella and the 15th-century Fortress Starigrad. The town is known for its delicious gastronomy and boasts outstanding restaurants serving fresh, locally caught fish and smoked ham. Shopping is excellent in Omis. The town’s Klapa Festival during the summer is good fun with Capella singing in churches and squares in the old town, plus there are some amusing pirate displays.
Flowing from the Dinara mountains, the Cetina River is action-packed with an awesome zipline, canyoning, river tubing, rafting and kayaking. You can even rent see-through kayaks so that you can explore flora and fauna when you are paddling down the river. Thrilling rafting takes place in the northern part of the river, where there are exciting rapids and challenging waterfalls to descend. White water rafting takes place in a section of 10km starting north of Kuciceand passes one of the prettiest beaches, Stuzica. The rafting ends in the village of Blato na Cetini, which is a great lunch stop. Canyoning is not for the faint-hearted! Expert guides will help adventurous guests plunge into newly discovered rocky areas and clear waters, swim underneath powerful waterfalls, flow down naturally formed chutes and jump into emerald pools. The bravest can abseil down the 56m high Gubavica waterfall, providing the most exhilarating and unforgettable experience. Paragliding is also very popular, with instructors taking younger visitors on tandem flights.
On the other side of Split, you can visit another gem, Trogir. This wonderful walled city boasts historical buildings such as the Cipiko Palaces and St. Lawrence Cathedral. In the evening, everyone leaves the knotted, maze-like marble streets and gravitates to the graceful promenade lined with cafes, bars, restaurants and luxury yachts.
The Region
The city of Split, with its magnificent historical sites, scenic coastal vistas, and a welcoming local atmosphere, is a must-visit destination for travellers in search of the perfect balance of culture, relaxation, and adventure. Nestled along the captivating Dalmatian Coast, it’s a vibrant mix of modern life and ancient history, making it a thriving hub for both locals and tourists.
The heart of Split is the historic Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in the world. Built for the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century, this massive complex now forms the nucleus of the city. Within the palace walls, you'll discover a labyrinth of narrow streets, charming squares, and historic buildings. The Peristyle, an open-air courtyard, is a central gathering place, and both the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and the Temple of Jupiter showcase remarkable examples of ancient architecture. Strolling through the ancient streets, you'll come across quaint shops, lively cafes, and local markets.
The Riva promenade is the city's vibrant waterfront hub. Lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, it's the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, sip a coffee, or dine while overlooking the stunning Adriatic Sea. The palm-lined promenade offers a lively atmosphere day and night, with street performers and events throughout the year.
Just a short walk from the from the centre of Split is Marjan Hill, a pristine nature park that offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets. The park features lush greenery, jogging trails, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the city and the sea. It's an ideal place for hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Mediterranean.
The Split region offers a variety of beautiful beaches. Bacvice and Ovcice are two popular choices conveniently located near the city centre. The sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and trying your hand at the local beach sport, picigin. Exploring further along the coast, you'll find numerous rocky coves and pebble beaches, each with their own unique charm.
For adventure seekers, Split offers a wide array of outdoor activities and water sports. From kayaking and paddle-boarding to sailing and scuba diving, there's something for everyone who wants to experience the Adriatic up close. Split is a great base for taking boat trips to the nearby islands, where you can explore underwater caves and secluded beaches.
Croatian cuisine is known for its fresh, local ingredients and Mediterranean influence. You’ll be able to savour delicious seafood, grilled meats, and traditional recipes. To experience authentic Croatian flavours, visit the local konoba (taverns) that serve traditional dishes like pasticada (a slow-cooked beef stew), and peka (baked meat and vegetables). Pair your meal with local wines and olive oils for a complete gastronomic experience.
Split is a city of remarkable beauty and historical significance. Whether you're exploring ancient streets, soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, or indulging in delectable local cuisine, Split promises an unforgettable experience. Its blend of stunning natural landscapes, ancient history, and a welcoming Mediterranean lifestyle makes it a destination that offers something for every traveller.
