It’s not my birthday month, not even close. That being said, to go away on holiday for your birthday is worthy of a throwback any time of year! For my 21st, my parents took me away to Split in Croatia for a week and opened my eyes to the beautiful country on the Dalmatian Coast!
Staying in Split
We spent the week just outside the town, in a beautiful apartment overlooking the mountains used in the filming of Game of Thrones. Tours of these scenes are offered from the town centre, and our hosts were great with providing details of all the excursions available in the area.
Our place had two separate buildings with this pool in the centre. We were self-catered, which was great to be able to go out for meals but also cook for ourselves on occasions. There was a beautiful outdoor seating area where we sat out on sunny evenings, drink in hand, admiring the views.
A short Uber (yes, Uber is available in Split) down to the city was easy to arrange and opened our eyes to the area’s long history. The centrepiece, Diocletian’s Palace, was erected in 305 AD for Rome’s Emperor. However, the city has roots as far back as the 300 BC! Sat on the Adriatic coast, Split has 2 different ports. There is the North port for cargo ships and the Port of Split as the regional passenger hub.
There is plenty to do in Croatia’s second largest city. You can take in the history and culture through one of the many museums and art galleries; easily filling an afternoon in the temperate Mediterranean city.
Crystal Blue Waters
If the history isn’t enough for you, day tours by boat can be arranged around the beautiful islands on the coast. Loads of companies offer tours, and the best deals can be agreed in advance for the Blue Lagoon, however we just rocked up to a stand by the port. Our tour took us to Trogir old town and then on to the Blue Lagoon.
Whilst on the boat, we were taken around the ‘islands’ (large rocks standing out in the sea). As we headed towards one in particular, we were warned to duck. Sure enough, the narrow passage was just wide enough for our boat to enter and some of the taller passengers certainly had to duck down! We emerged into the opening and were met by unbelievably blue waters and jaw dropping shimmers in the rocks themselves. A true sight of beauty!
Split – A City of History
As mentioned earlier, the city itself has a lot of history and the older sections provide an interesting few hours. You can arrange tours from various locations, however we found just wandering the streets was ample. The cathedral stood proud in the city centre, and a maze of narrow streets linked the new and old town.
Diocletian’s Palace, built for the Emperor’s retirement (yes, I know, wouldn’t we all like a retirement palace) has four distinct sections. Nonetheless, the most grand of these stands the residential villa. Other areas of Split to visit include the numerous gates (Brass, Silver and Golden) as well as the Vestibule. Many do not know much about the history of Split, however much can be learned on a tourist day!
Whilst the Mediterranean heat is a pleasant change to those visiting from moister climates, it can take its toll! Surprisingly, we were able to enjoy the refreshing taste of Somersby cider, whilst sat in a little café. However, as would be the case with imported drinks, these were suitably marked up in price. We found that local produce was better value (and tasted great too) so we soon switched to these.
The week was a fantastic way to spend my 21st with my family and travel somewhere I have never had the pleasure of visiting before! Looking forward, I think more adventures to the Dalmatian coast are in the pipeline. Whether it’s sailing the islands or a weekend in Dubrovnik, I will certainly be back!