Villa Niksa

Villa Niksa is just 1.5 kilometres from the quiet resort of Zaton.  It's perfect blend of mild climate, natural beauty and rich cultural heritage makes Zaton a popular destination.  In the shade of centuries old pine forest on the banks of the beautiful sandy beaches with crystal clear water.   The beach extends for 1.5 kilometres and has a blue flag that symbolizes the quality of service and purity of the sea.  Shallow waters, sand and gravel shoreline make Zaton the perfect destination for families will small children who will enjoy everything the summer fun has to offer.  Near the beach there is a dense pine forest which on hot days supplies much needed shade and there are plenty of snack bars and restaurants to enjoy many local specialties.

Visitors to Zaton travelling without small children might want to travel a little further south to reach Gof Beach.  Here you will find the clear waters expected of the Adriatic coast and isolation.  To the west, right at the end of the peninsula, there are rocks for teenagers to jump into the sea, a small cave and sometimes, a rope swing.  

Gourmands don’t need to traipse into Dubrovnik for a splendid meal, Zaton has everything you could need.  For a hearty, unfussy, traditional and tasty meal take yourself to a Konoba, the Dalmatian equivalent of a tavern. One in particular might be Konoba Vala at the north of the bay.  It offers an ample terrace with spectacular views, a small playground for the little ones and an amazing selection of food.  From salads to pizza or seafood to steaks you will find generous portions and good quality.

The old medieval town of Dubrovnik is close by and is well worth a visit.  The Old Town has many winding streets filled with authentic and quaint shops and an amazing fruit and vegetable market open most days.  Here it is possible to book a boat to visit neighbouring islands and in particular the island of Lokrum, a stunning and uninhabited nature reserve having the ruins of a former Benedictine monastery.   A perfect place to relax and get away from it all!  

After a long day of sightseeing why not enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the many restaurants in the harbour whilst watching the boats come and go?  A perfect place for a spot of people watching.  

Dubrovnik is a mecca for history buffs!  From a coastal fortress leaning over the sea to the famous thoroughfare of Stradu, the city boasts some of the most impressive medieval architecture in Europe.  One of its most iconic sights will be the City Walls, believed to be some of the best preserved medieval fortifications in the World! Another must see will be the Minceta Tower.  Fans of Game of Throes will at once recognise the Tower as the House of the Undying in Qarth.

Finally, a highlight to a complete a day’s sightseeing would be a visit to Dubrovnik Cathedral.  Completed in 1713 it holds a large collection of relics, some belonging to the city’s patron Saint Blaise.  

Another town well worth a visit is Sibenik.  A quiet historic town offering a slower pace of life, not as many tourists but incredible views! The star of the town is the Cathedral taking over 100 years to build and is now the most important Renaissance monument in all of Croatia.  You cannot fail to miss the magnificent dome shape which can be seen from almost anywhere in the city.  Game of Thrones fans will recognise the inside where several scenes were shot for the Iron Bank.

For a fantastic day out, why not visit Krka National Park.  Named after the Krka River, the Park covers an area of just over 142 square kilometres and includes two-thirds of the river itself.  The top attraction in the park are its magnificent waterfalls, including the famous Skradinski Buk falls, one of Croatia’s most famous sights. One of the best was of seeing the park would be a boat trip, included in the entrance ticket. 

Read more about Sibenik

Cradled along the shimmering shores of the Adriatic Sea, Šibenik is an ancient coastal city that sits equidistance from the larger and busier cities of Zadar and Split. By contrast to these larger destinations, Šibenik offers a glimpse into a more local way of life. With its well-preserved medieval core, magnificent fortresses, and the ethereal beauty of Krka National Park at its doorstep, Šibenik is a destination that captivates the hearts of travellers seeking an authentic Croatian experience.

Šibenik's Old Town is home to one of Croatia’s ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the iconic Cathedral of St. James. The cathedral is a true masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, a testament to human ingenuity and craftsmanship. The intricate frieze that adorns the cathedral's exterior tells stories from the Bible and local history, leaving visitors in awe of the skill and artistry of the craftsmen who dedicated their lives to this grand project. Stepping inside, the awe-inspiring interior of the cathedral continues to leave visitors breathless with its intricate stone vaulting and a serene atmosphere.

A visit to the Šibenik City Museum reveals the rich maritime history of the region, showcasing ancient ship models, navigational instruments, and artefacts from the city's seafaring past. Šibenik's maritime heritage is also celebrated during the annual International Children's Festival, a tradition that dates back to 1958 and unites children from all over the world in a cultural exchange of art and music. Children from around the world participate in various artistic and cultural activities, making it a unique experience for young travellers.

Šibenik’s calendar comes alive with festivals and cultural events throughout the year. The Šibenik Evening of Dalmatian Chanson is a tribute to the region's musical heritage, where local and international artists perform the soulful songs of Dalmatia. For those seeking a more contemporary cultural experience, the Terraneo Music Festival brings renowned musicians and electronic music enthusiasts to the city. This eclectic blend of events ensures there's always something happening in Šibenik, from lively street performances to classical concerts in historic settings.

Just a short drive from the city, Krka National Park is a haven of cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and crystalline rivers. The park's centrepiece is the Skradinski Buk waterfall, a stunning series of cascades that plummet into a serene pool. The park is not only a feast for the eyes but also a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including various bird species and aquatic life. Hiking trails and wooden walkways wind through the park, allowing visitors to explore its beauty at their own pace.

A boat trip along the Krka River offers a unique perspective on the park's natural wonders and historical sites, including the Visovac Monastery, a peaceful island sanctuary that has stood for centuries.

Šibenik is a gateway to the stunning Dalmatian islands that dot the Adriatic Sea. Day trips or longer island-hopping adventures are easily arranged from the city's port. Islands like Kornati, Prvić, and Zlarin offer pristine beaches, clear waters, and the opportunity to experience the tranquility of island life. Kornati National Park, also known as the "nautical paradise," is a sailor's dream, with its rugged islands and countless coves. Charter a boat or join an organised tour to explore this unique archipelago, which is a protected natural wonder and a playground for divers and snorkelers.

Whether you're wandering the picturesque cobbled streets of the Old Town, basking in the natural splendour of Krka National Park, or savouring traditional dishes in local eateries, Šibenik promises an unforgettable journey through history and the magic of the Mediterranean.