Villa Poljička

Pretty Jesenice enjoys an excellent location on the coast between Split and Omiš. With clear seas, pebble beaches and a lovely view out to the island of Brač, this small town is known for the abundance of wooden ships which line its harbour. It’s said there are more boats per capita in Jesenice than anywhere else in Croatia, and you won’t have any problem finding one offering tours along this beautiful stretch of coast.

Numerous beaches can be found within a short distance. As well as Jesenice itself, you can visit nearby Dugi Rat and Duće, in the direction of Omiš, or Podstrana and Stobreč, towards Split. While there are a few bars, restaurants and shops in Jesenice, you will find many more in Split or Omiš.

There is enough in Split to keep you busy for days. Croatia’s second city can easily rival Dubrovnik with its must-see historical sights. The Cathedral of St Domnius and the vast Diocletian Palace are big draws, and you can also find some impressive galleries, museums and theatres. Split is home to the Croatian National Theatre, the Meštrović Gallery and the Split Gallery of Fine Arts.

It’s a great city to just hang out in, with its appealing squares and glorious waterfront perfect for enjoying a bit of café society. If the city gets too busy, you can escape to Bacvice Beach or Marjan Forest Park. Among other attractions are a giant aquarium and a curious frog museum. Its location is ideal for venturing off the mainland to islands such as Brač and Šolta – a hotspot for diving.

Omiš is known as a ‘pirate city’, and it embraces this part of its past with all sorts of themed activities and attractions. In summer, there are regular pirate cruises which are popular with families. Away from the pirate theme, Omiš is also known for its excellent water sports. The River Cetina plays host to everything from rafting to canoeing, and if you fancy seeing it all play out from above, you can take a thrilling ride on a zip-line over the canyon. If you’re OK with heights, you could also do the steep climb up to one of Omiš’ mighty fortresses and admire the beautiful views.

Finally, don’t overlook Trogir – it’s less than 40 minutes drive from Jesenice, just beyond Split Airport. With its UNESCO World Heritage Centre, lovely restaurant terraces and attractive waterfront, it has the advantages of Split but without the crowds. Climbing the bell tower of St Lawrence Cathedral will reward you with a fantastic view. Still, there’s much to admire at ground level, too – the Old Town, located on an island connected to the mainland, is full of churches and pretty, medieval streets.

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.