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Croatian Highlights and a Taste of Slovenia

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A Newmarket Gold Escorted Holiday

Unearth the hidden treasures of this delightful region - Roman Pula, Venetian Rovinj, the plunging waterfalls of the Plitvice Lakes, the vast cave at Postojna, and Lipica, home of the famous Lipizzaner horses - on a holiday where everything is taken care of, from the moment you arrive to check-in to the moment you say 'Bog!' (goodbye in Croat).

Jutting out into the water on the sun-blessed Croatian coast, Porec is a handsome sight. Its ancient promenade is backed by stout houses and cobbled streets, which surround its striking Venetian bell-tower. Along the main harbour jetty fishing boats and larger day boats offer the attractions of a day at sea - perhaps even visiting Venice - while in addition to all the facilities of your chosen resort hotel, there's always the warm blue water of the Adriatic to enjoy.

Day One

Fly to Croatia, and transfer to Porec and your chosen hotel. Check-in, then perhaps stroll or take a 'tourist train' into the town's wonderful old centre this evening.

Day Two

Today is free to rest and relax in the surroundings of the hotel, or perhaps to spend a little longer exploring Porec. Don't miss the exquisite mosaics and frescoes at the ancient Basilica of Euphrasius.

Day Three

Today's included excursion begins early, as we drive to the stunning lakes of Plitvice National Park - justifiably Croatia's most visited natural attraction. Sixteen bodies of water, backed by breathtaking scenery, are linked by waterfalls and rapids, which tumble down the time-weathered terraces. Enjoy a wonderful day amid the beautiful scenery before returning to Porec this evening.

Day Four

On today's half-day tour you'll see the very best of Istria: remarkable Lim Fjord, a wooded gash in the coastline and - reputedly - a hideaway of the pirate Captain Morgan; Rovinj, rising Venice-like out of the water, her narrow streets leading ever upwards to the Baroque church of St Euphemia; and the provincial capital, Pula, famed for its vast Roman amphitheatre.

Day Five

Today we travel to Veil Brijuni Island. Once the private retreat of President Tito, this tiny island is now a National Park famous for its zoological gardens, stocked with animals originally given as gifts by visiting dignitaries. Tour the park by miniature train, and gain an insight into privileged life behind the Iron Curtain at the compelling 'Tito on Brijuni' exhibition.

Day Six

Journey into neighbouring Slovenia, to visit one of the world's most famous caves - the giant chasm at Postojna. Take the train some two miles underground, then tread the paths of this nether world of stalactites and stalagmites.

Later, you'll head to the famous stud farm at Lipica, where the white horses beloved by Vienna's celebrated Spanish Riding School are bred for their grace and beauty.

Day Seven

Spend a final day relaxing in Porec.

Day Eight

Transfer back to the airport for check-in and your flight home.

Wining and dining

As you might expect from countries lying between the Adriatic and the Alps, the local cuisine varies from seafood and Italian-influenced pastas to hearty meat-dishes. In the majority of hotels, you will enjoy on-the-spot 'show-cooking', as chefs prepare dishes in front of you. Don't miss any opportunity to try prsut, local home-cured ham.

The region's wines - especially those produced in Slovenia - are very pleasant, and several local breweries provide an endless supply of good beers.

 

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