Croatia: A Journey Through Stone, Sea, and Serenity
I’ve always dreamed of visiting Croatia, and this summer, Mick and I finally made it happen. The travel arrangements were not ideal, but what unfolded was a trip that felt like stepping into a
living postcard, with ancient cities, turquoise waters, and quiet mountain villages that seemed untouched by time.
We established our home base in Kostanje, a small village nestled in the hills. The house we rented was nice and peaceful, surrounded by olive trees and the scent of wild herbs. Every morning, we’d sip coffee while watching the mist lift from the valley below. It was the kind of quiet that resets your soul.
From Kostanje, we explored the coast. Split was our first stop—a city where Roman ruins meet vibrant markets and buzzing cafés. Walking through Diocletian’s Palace felt like time travel. We wandered narrow alleys, stumbled upon hidden courtyards, and ended the day with fresh seafood by the harbor.
Dubrovnik was next, and it absolutely lived up to the hype. The old city walls, the terracotta rooftops, the shimmering Adriatic, which was cinematic in every sense. We walked the entire perimeter of the walls, soaking in views that stretched for miles. At night, the city glowed with lanterns and laughter, and we found ourselves lingering over wine in tucked-away taverns.
Hvar was our island escape. We took a ferry and spent the day observing the beautiful, crystal-clear coves (too chilly for a swim) and wandering the lavender-scented streets of Hvar Town. It was glamorous but relaxed, with just the right mix of charm and sunshine.
One of the most magical moments came in Lozovac, where we visited the waterfalls in Krka National Park. The sound of rushing water, the lush greenery, and the wooden walkways winding through the forest were like something out of a fairytale.
Croatia gave us more than just beautiful views. Croatia gave us space to slow down, reconnect, and savor the simple joys. From the stone streets of Dubrovnik to the quiet mornings in Kostanje, every moment felt like a gift. Croatia should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.
