Villa Amalija

Villa Amalija is located in the quiet village of Bajagic, ten kilometres from the historic town of Sinj in the heart of the Dalmatian, situated in the centre of Croatia. The nearest international airport is Split, a fifty kilometre scenic drive through the Croatian countryside to Villa Amalija. The villa is nestled in the River Cetina valley, surrounded by the three impressive mountains of Kamesnica, Svilaja, and Dinara. If you enjoy hiking, the mountains and forests offer some fabulous walking trails, and excellent opportunities to discover close up the local flora and fauna. The nearest minimarket for all of your holiday provisions, is a kilometre walk away, and whilst you are there stop of for a local beverage in the bar, and there’s a pizzeria and a restaurant too.

The villa is close to Lake Perucko, where you can swim and sunbathe, have a picnic on its banks, and spot their very own mysterious Loch Ness Monster three metre snake. The villa overlooks the River Cetina, with its eight tributaries that run down to the sea, where you can be adventurous and try your hand at white water rafting, take a trip on one of the canoeing courses, designed for both beginners and the more experienced, or simply have a swim.

The nearby town of Sinj is well worth a visit, a short ten kilometre drive away, with an interesting history that is most famous for the Knights of Sinj, known locally as Alkars. Visit the Alka Museum, where you can see the horseman standing proud in their traditional dress, that has been part of Sinj history for the past two hundred and eighty years. If you fancy getting on a horse yourself, there’s lots of local riding schools, who will take you on a trek through mountain and forest terrain, and interesting old villages. Sinj is also a great place to stock up on provisions, shop for souvenirs, and taste the local fare in one of the many welcoming tavernas. The town of Sinj used to have an airport, which is now a gliding and sky diving school. The area is well known for its fabulous private flights in planes, helicopters or even balloons over the local terrain, go up up up and away for a bird’s eye view of the area’s mountains, forests, and lakes. For the thrill seekers there are adrenalin fuelled quad safaris, or take an ATV tour through the local mountains, forests, and rivers. Slow the pace down by hiring a bike, and follow nature’s trail through the Croatian countryside.

Venture further afield to the ancient town of Split, situated on the Croatian coast, where you can get the best of both worlds with beautiful beaches and historical sights in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the old town. Visit Diocletian’s Palace, the Archaeological, City, Fine Arts, and Science Museums, before taking a stroll through its cobbled streets for a spot of shopping, dining on delicious Croatian cuisine, and in the evening an event in the National Theatre. Take a tour of Krka National Park, with its seven cascading waterfalls, windmills and a nature trail, and a monastery and Roman catacombs. In the same vicinity is the UNESCO town of Trogir, often called a city museum with medieval walls and a rich cultural heritage with original Renaissance, Baroque and Romanesque architecture, a thirteenth century cathedral of St Lawrence, and the chapel of St John with panoramic views from its bell tower.

Read more about Split

The city of Split, with its magnificent historical sites, scenic coastal vistas, and a welcoming local atmosphere, is a must-visit destination for travellers in search of the perfect balance of culture, relaxation, and adventure. Nestled along the captivating Dalmatian Coast, it’s a vibrant mix of modern life and ancient history, making it a thriving hub for both locals and tourists.

The heart of Split is the historic Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in the world. Built for the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century, this massive complex now forms the nucleus of the city. Within the palace walls, you'll discover a labyrinth of narrow streets, charming squares, and historic buildings. The Peristyle, an open-air courtyard, is a central gathering place, and both the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and the Temple of Jupiter showcase remarkable examples of ancient architecture. Strolling through the ancient streets, you'll come across quaint shops, lively cafes, and local markets.

The Riva promenade is the city's vibrant waterfront hub. Lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, it's the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, sip a coffee, or dine while overlooking the stunning Adriatic Sea. The palm-lined promenade offers a lively atmosphere day and night, with street performers and events throughout the year.

Just a short walk from the from the centre of Split is Marjan Hill, a pristine nature park that offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets. The park features lush greenery, jogging trails, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the city and the sea. It's an ideal place for hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Mediterranean.

The Split region offers a variety of beautiful beaches. Bacvice and Ovcice are two popular choices conveniently located near the city centre. The sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and trying your hand at the local beach sport, picigin. Exploring further along the coast, you'll find numerous rocky coves and pebble beaches, each with their own unique charm.

For adventure seekers, Split offers a wide array of outdoor activities and water sports. From kayaking and paddle-boarding to sailing and scuba diving, there's something for everyone who wants to experience the Adriatic up close. Split is a great base for taking boat trips to the nearby islands, where you can explore underwater caves and secluded beaches.

Croatian cuisine is known for its fresh, local ingredients and Mediterranean influence. You’ll be able to savour delicious seafood, grilled meats, and traditional recipes. To experience authentic Croatian flavours, visit the local konoba (taverns) that serve traditional dishes like pasticada (a slow-cooked beef stew), and peka (baked meat and vegetables). Pair your meal with local wines and olive oils for a complete gastronomic experience.

Split is a city of remarkable beauty and historical significance. Whether you're exploring ancient streets, soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, or indulging in delectable local cuisine, Split promises an unforgettable experience. Its blend of stunning natural landscapes, ancient history, and a welcoming Mediterranean lifestyle makes it a destination that offers something for every traveller.

Find out more in our Dalmatian Coast Travel Guide