Villa Tia

Villa Tia can be found romantically nestled on a promontory rock, five metres from the beachfront, in the inlet bay of the Novigrad, flowing into the Adriatic Sea, on the western coast of Croatia. The nearest international airport of Zadar is just twenty-five kilometres away, a short twenty-minute car journey to your destination. Local shops and facilities, including restaurants, cafes, and bars, are within walking distance, whilst the town of Novigrad is one and a half kilometres away. The Novigrad Sea is on your doorstep. Many sandy and pebble beaches line the coast, some offering organised activities from pre-bookable sun loungers and parasols, water sports, restaurants and cafes, to others that are more secluded with few if any facilities in hidden bays and secret coves. Highly recommended are Beach Maestral with its snowy white pebbles, tennis courts, volleyball, water sports, jet skis, kayaking, paddle boats, restaurants and bars, and the nearby City Beach, which has easy entry into the sea from steps and rocks, and landscaped pools for children to play in.

For the grown-ups, don’t miss some cool beach clubs, such as Plaza Macumba, with bars and burgers, cocktails at sunset, and maybe a dolphin or two. Waters sports, swimming and snorkelling, and fishing are big activities in the area, with lots of local boats to take you out to sea; go on a group tour or charter a yacht with your captain. The River Zmanja flows into the Novigrad Sea and is renowned for its fresh fish and, most notably, mussels, a local must-try dish of the area.

In the high season, there is the Novigrad Cultural Summer programme, and if you are lucky, you might see sporting events, art exhibitions, jazz concerts or be invited to one of the many parties. The area is particularly well known for its many National Parks and nature reserves, many of which you can get active and cycle, walk, hike, swim, sail, snorkel or kayak your way through them. Check out Kornati Island, Krka River, Paklenica Canyon, Velebit Mountain, Plitvice Lakes, and Skradin Bay for thrill-seeking adventures.

The nearby town of Novigrad is well worth a visit; walk through the Greek gate to the picturesque historic centre and narrow stone streets to see the thirteenth-century castle known locally as Fortica and climb to the top for some stunning sea views. Find solace in the old churches, including the Church of St Nicholas, built in 1800, and the Church of St Kate, the oldest church in Novigrad. See what traditional home life was like in the Ethnographic Museum before enjoying local Croatian dishes in a street-side taverna.

Further afield is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the city of Zadar, dating back to the Stone Age, with Neolithic, Indo-European, and Illyrian cultural influences to more recent Roman and Venetian occupation. Zader has a Roman forum, a fifth-century pre-Romanesque Church of St Donatus, St Mary’s eleventh-century convent, and St Anastasia’s twelfth-century cathedral, not to mention the many museums, theatres, and art and cultural exhibition sites.

 For peace and quiet, take a trip to the nearby colourful island of Pag, famous for the lace made by nuns in the local monastery, its tasty cheese from frolicking lambs, and for the twitchers, there’s some excellent bird-watching too. Wind down with one of the many wine tours, where you can sample some of the local vintages and toast to a wonderful holiday.

Read more about Zadar

The Zadar region, anchored by the vibrant city of Zadar, boasts a rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and a cultural tapestry that dates back millennia. Situated along Croatia's stunning Dalmatian coast, and shaped by the dramatic Velebit mountain range, Zadar is a unique destination offering a captivating array of experiences.

Zadar city is known for its ancient Roman ruins, white sand beach, and rugged coastline. Take a wander through the world of the Old Town's labyrinthine streets, which are a wonder to explore, brimming with historical treasures. Make sure to stop at the Church of St. Donatus, an architectural masterpiece and a prominent example of Byzantine construction and one of the most famous pre-Romanesque churches in Croatia.

Zadar's architectural prowess isn't limited to its historical buildings; it also embraces modern art installations. The Sea Organ, designed by architect Nikola Bašić, is an ingenious creation consisting of underwater pipes and chambers that produce hauntingly beautiful sounds as the waves of the Adriatic Sea wash over it. It's a serene place to watch the sunset, often accompanied by an equally impressive light show from the nearby Greeting to the Sun installation, which comes alive with vibrant colours after dusk.

The city's waterfront promenade, dotted with cafes, bars, and restaurants, provides the perfect setting for relaxed evenings. You can pass away the hours while savouring a leisurely meal and enjoying the sea views with watch boats sailing past. Don't forget to sample the local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, pasticada (a traditional beef stew), and the world-famous Pag cheese. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine or rakija, a strong fruit brandy, to complete the culinary experience.

The Zadar region is renowned for its proximity to a collection of stunning islands, each with its own unique character. Ugljan, often referred to as the "Green Island," is known for its lush vegetation and charming fishing villages. The island offers a serene escape from the bustle of city life, with numerous opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring unspoiled beaches.

Dugi Otok, or the "Long Island," is a true gem of unspoiled natural beauty. The island is known for its rugged coastline, pristine coves, and the famous Saharun Beach, with its white sands and crystalclear waters. It’s also home to Telascica Nature Park, a protected area that encompasses stunning cliffs, saltwater lakes, and a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Back on the mainland, and just a couple of hours out of the city you’ll find one of the most renowned natural attractions in Croatia, Plitvice Lakes. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the park is a land of cascading waterfalls, interconnected emerald lakes, and lush forests, with a network of well-maintained trails that guide visitors through this natural wonder. Wooden boardwalks allow you to get up close to the waterfalls, making it a family-friendly destination.

The Zadar region offers more than just natural beauty. The local markets, such as Zadar's Green Market, provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in Croatian culture. Here, you can explore stalls filled with fresh produce, local crafts, and artisanal products, experiencing the flavours and craftsmanship of the region. Zadar is also home to a variety of unique traditions and cultural festivals. Local celebrations, like the annual regatta of traditional boats or performances of 'Klapa' a cappella singing are both integral parts of the region's cultural identity.

The Zadar region is a microcosm of Croatia's diverse and enchanting way of life, with something to offer everyone that visits. It's a place where history, nature, and culture converge to create a harmonious and multifaceted destination. Whether you're hiking through national parks, swimming near waterfalls, exploring ancient cities, or savouring traditional cuisine, the Zadar region promises an unforgettable experience for all. To visit Zadar is to step into the heart of Croatia and experience its multifaceted charm.