Say Croatia, and most people envision a chilly Eastern European spot tucked somewhere between Slovenia and Bosnia an Herzegovina. While it is true that it is part of Eastern Europe and the Balkans area, it also has an immense stretch of coastline along the Adriatic Sea and is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes imaginable. It is a place of biodiversity with the gorgeous Plitvice Lakes and the high ranges of the Dinaric Alps. Its coastal area is home to thousands of islands and it rivers like the Danube and Drava pass through some of its cities. There are low mountains and forested highlands, and it is a place of rich natural resources.
Why Choose Croatia for Your Spring Getaway?
Croatia is also one of the most picturesque spots to visit during the spring. In fact, travel experts agree that Croatia is a little-known secret at any time of the year, but that spring is an especially appealing moment to pay a visit. The main reasons for this include:
Weather
Though the spring may be a bit too early for you to spend days at the many beaches that line the western edge of Croatia, it is an ideal moment to enjoy things like hiking and biking. It is a perfect time to head to Plitvice Lakes (mentioned earlier) since the seasonal crowds have yet to appear and yet the scenery and views will still be breathtaking. The winter brings rain and cold to most areas, but as March arrives, this transitions into sunny and welcoming days ideal for being outdoors and sightseeing in the city or countryside.
Food
Spring is when the country has its annual festival of oysters along the Peljesac Peninsula, and when the oysters taste the best that they will all year. It is warm enough for most restaurants and cafes to begin outdoor service, and it is when wild asparagus first makes its appearance on menus. You are welcome to join locals and forage for it, too. It is also when Festiwine takes place in the city of Dubrovnik and you can try lots of vintages along with spring food favorites in the Old Town area.
Nature
The landscape comes to life quickly during the spring season in Croatia and whether you opt to enjoy the blossoms on display at events like the Flower Fair of Zadar, the International Garden Show in Zagreb, or the Festival of Flowers in Split, you’ll be amaze. However, most agree that spring in any part of the country is likely to be inspiring as the trees and flowers all seem to wake at once. Zagreb is noted as being particularly appealing in the spring, and many even head to the Zagreb Mirogoj cemetery because it is a visually stunning spot. As we already noted Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Parks are two of the most popular (and crowded) during summer holidays. In the spring, the waterfalls are at capacity and yet you will not encounter the same crowds. (There are 11 national parks, and spring is ideal for visiting any).
Festivals
In addition to the festivals already mentioned, Croatia is also host to a lot of spring festivals that include the International Street Festival in Zagreb, the Easter celebrations in Hvar are famous an include a Following the Cross event, but Easter in general is viewed as the start of spring and many Croatians enjoy a seaside visit during that time.
Dubrovnik’s and Split’s Tranquility
The spring season is the quiet time in these two lovely cities, and if you want to get the best chance to explore them, a visit in the spring gives you a rare chance to wander quieter streets and savoring a wide array of open tables at the many cafes.
Villas
It is not widely known that Croatia is home to those many hundreds of beaches as well as many luxury rentals. However, you will be surprised to learn that there are an amazing number of these accommodations to choose from and enjoy during a spring visit.
The Rivieras of Croatia
Another lesser known fact about Croatia is that its coastal areas are often described using the word Riviera. This includes the Dubrovnik Riviera, as well as the Split Riviera, and many other regions. They will all feature premium furnishing and décor, and it is simply a matter of choosing the setting that appeals to you the most.
For example, a larger family or a group of friends may want to enjoy the beauty of the Makarska Riviera and the Villa Allure is a perfect option. Setting above the town and at the foot of Biokovo Mountain, it is a four-bedroom gem of modern architecture and design. At the main living level is an immense pool terrace, and multiple balconies and terraces offer complete privacy and amazing scenery all just minutes from town and the shore.
Villa Violet is also a four-bedroom villa, but in the Brac Island area. Another masterwork of modern design, it sits at the water’s edge and yet also features a large pool terrace, private dock, and a surrounding garden of mature pines. It gazes out towards an impossibly lovely view of the mountains and the water, while inside the fantastic design and décor makes for a rejuvenating stay.
The Villa Big Lagoon is also in the Brac Island area and features five-bedrooms and is also right along the waterfront. With room for 12, it is a perfect choice for a group getaway or even a destination event. You are only moments from the best beaches and the convenience of town, and this might easily prove your new and favorite European destination.
If a new springtime destination is on your “to do” list, make Croatia a priority. The coastal region is alive and thriving as spring arrives, but so too are the interior regions with the many national parks an amazing scenery waiting to be discovered. Whether you go for the food, the views, the events, or a combination of them all, staying in a luxury villa enhances your experience and lets you enjoy the very best Croatia has to offer.