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The Dalmatian Coast and Islands Villa Book
Croatia
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Our Dalmatian Coast and Island properties are situated in Dubrovnik, on the coast in Southern Dalmatia, and on the stunning, unspoilt islands of Brac, Hvar and Vis.
Dubrovnik, with its rich vegetation, clear blue seas, islands and white pebble beaches, is arguably the most beautiful part of the Adriatic coast. Dating from the 13th century and surrounded by tall ramparts, the old town remains virtually unchanged to the present day. Access through the city walls is by one of two entrances leading to the Stradun, the city's promenade, and one of the greatest pleasures for many visitors is to have a drink or meal in one of the nearby cafés and watch the world go by. Here you will find the Onofrio Fountain, built in 1438, and the Franciscan Monastery. At the other end of the Stradun, you will find the locals' favourite meeting place, the Orlando Column, with the nearby Sponsa Place and the Baroque church of St. Blaise. If you are visiting in the summer, do not miss the world-renowned Dubrovnik Summer Festival with music, theatre and dance performances. The Dubrovnik Film Festival also runs for three days at the end of May.
The idyllic island of Brac is home to three of our villas, two on the south-west side of the island, close to the pretty harbour village of Milna. Set among pine trees, overlooking the sea, both are perfectly placed for guests to enjoy the many activities available nearby, which include sailing, diving, fishing, windsurfing, water skiing, tennis and cycling. The small stone village of Milna is transformed during the summer months into a busy marina front, hosting many sail and motor yachts, and with an excellent choice of bars and restaurants. A third villa we have for rent here is situated on the eastern side of the island in a quiet, secluded position, also directly overlooking the sea. The traditional villages of Sumartin and Selca are within a 5 minute drive, and there is also a ferry port with connections to the more sophisticated town of Makarska, half an hour away, known for its stunning architecture, designer shops and fine restaurants. Outside its charming villages and towns, the island is a haven of peace and tranquillity, and a drive along the winding roads will take you through a landscape of pine forests, olive groves, vineyards, orange and lemon groves and bougainvillea vines, past, leading to deserted beaches and caves, archaeological sites and ancient monuments.
To Brac’s south lies the similarly cigar-shaped island of Hvar, widely hailed as one of the most attractive islands of the Adriatic. It has maintained a tradition of welcoming holidaymakers for at least 140 years, and offers a delightful combination of Mediterranean nature and modern tourist facilities. Our villa here is in heart of the historic town of Hvar, an elegantly renovated mansion which dates to the 17th century – ideally placed to enjoy the lively and engaging atmosphere of the town, as well as the beaches along the coast and on the nearby Pakleni Otoci islands.
The beautiful island of Vis, has been designated as one of the ten most environmentally preserved islands on the Mediterranean by the World Organisation for the Environment Protection. With its olive groves and vines, traditional villages and deserted beaches, it is renowned for its natural beauty as well as for its long and fascinating history. Less than 2 hours from Split, it feels like another world away. The villa we have for rent here is situated right on the edge of the sea, a short walk from Milna and Zaglav Bays, each with beaches and local ‘konobas’ (traditional restaurants). The Summer Festival which takes place from July to the first weeks of September is a very special event, offering jazz, classical music, local theatre and traditional culture. There is also an annual Vis regatta in October which attracts hundreds of yachts and visitors from around the world.