Villa Ophaga

On the Dalmatian coast, around 25km east of Split, Omiš is a pleasing place to both relax and get active, giving you the setting to do both in some style. The town sits on the Cetina River, which has become a hub for high-adrenaline sporting activity. Many who visit the town are after the thrills the Cetina does so well – rafting, canyoning and zip-lining across the river are certainly great ways to see the area from all sorts of new angles.

Head into the Old Town and you can discover some of Omiš’ history, with impressive fortresses and churches to look out for. It can be quite a climb to reach some of them – the rugged cliffs which dominate the town make sure of that – but the views are spectacular. The Fortica and Mirabella fortresses, looking out over the ocean towards the neighbouring islands, are among those worth seeking out.

You can’t go far in Omiš without seeing something pirate-related, which adds a note of local history the children are sure to enjoy. In August, you may even come across a re-enactment of a previous pirate battle. The Pirate Nights are a popular attraction, telling the story of the pirates and providing plenty of entertainment.

The Festival of Dalmatian Klapas also brings traditional Croatian music to the streets in summer and is one of the country’s biggest cultural events each year. The rest of the time, Omiš lends itself to plenty of other outdoor activities – climbing the cliffs, diving and paragliding are all popular.

Read more about Omis

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.