Villa Ziva

A small village of around 140 residents, Seoca lies around 20 minutes’ drive from the historic town of Omiš on the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia. Known for its stunning fortresses and pirate history, Omiš also offers wonderful beaches and a varied water-sports scene. Centred on the River Cetina, this is the place to try any number of high-energy activities – canyoning, rafting, canoeing and zip-lining across the canyon are all popular.

If you’re looking to laze around on a sandy beach, Omiš is ideal – the lengthy Velika Plaza is the natural choice for a beach day with the family. Pebble beaches Brzet and Slavinj are also a short walk away. You really are spoilt for choice along this coast – head west towards Split, or east towards Makarska, and you’ll find numerous beaches to stop at, including Dugi Rat, Jesenice and Baška Voda. If you fancy taking to the water, there are many more on the beautiful islands of Brač, Hvar and Šolta. Brač is only about 15km from Omiš, so it’s an easy excursion and well worth it.

Omiš’ 13th-century Mirabella fortress, and the 15th-century Starigrad, impress with stunning views as does the site of the Mila Gojsalič statue. Mila Gojsalič was famous Croatian folk heroine, sometimes referred to as the Croatian Joan of Arc. Located high in the hills, around 5km from the centre of town, this vantage point offers an amazing view over the canyon.

The town also goes big on its pirate history, which is the basis for all sorts of family attractions, including a pirate ship. Aside from this, you have plenty of places to enjoy a meal in the sun or perhaps a cocktail by the riverside. As its roughly midway between Split and Makarska, Omiš also makes a great base for visiting the larger cities.

To the west, Split has world-class landmarks like Diocletian’s Palace and the Cathedral of St Domnius, while upscale Makarska is the jewel of Makarska Riviera, known for its good nightlife and the fantastic hiking terrain of Mount Biokovo, which provides the town with its imposing backdrop.

As well as historic landmarks, Split also offers cultural activities, with venues such as the Croatian National Theatre, the Meštrović Gallery and the Split Gallery of Fine Arts all waiting for you. For the easy and glamourous life, head for the Riva waterfront or enjoy the café terraces of the city’s landmark squares. Marjan Forest Park is also close to the city centre, providing a fine place for a walk – when you make it to the top of the hill you’ll be rewarded by breath-taking views over the Adriatic.

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.