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The Best of the Dalmatian Coast

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■ Location: Croatia

■ Duration: 7 nights

■ Board Basis: Half Board

■ Itineraries available: 1

■ Choice of Walking Grades: 4 & 6 details

■ Carbon Footprint: 790kg CO2 details

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The warm waters of the Adriatic lap the southern coast of Croatia and the 1,000 or so islands which lie just offshore. From our base in the small coastal town of Baska Voda, enjoy marvellous walking options along the mainland coast, on the delightful island of Brac, and around the yawning chasm of the Cetina Gorge. There’s also a boat trip to the coastal town of Omis and walks in the foothills of the Biokovo Mountains.

Accommodation

A range of handpicked hotels...
Set on the stunning Dalmatian Coast, the charming Hotel Villa Bacchus is perfectly placed for both relaxing by the sea and exploring the beautiful Biokovo Mountains. This welcoming property has a cosy bar and stylish breakfast restaurant with alfresco terrace seating, as well as a small indoor pool, Jacuzzi and sauna. Just steps from a Blue Flag pebble beach and a short promenade walk into the centre of Baška Voda, this is a wonderful retreat for our stay in Croatia’s Makarska Riviera region. In the evenings, our group will walk together to a nearby restaurant, where we will enjoy dinner.
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Walking grades

From September 2026, we have expanded our walking grade scale from 6 to 10 points. While the holidays themselves have not changed (the routes, daily distances and ascent levels remain the same), our newly expanded 1-10 scale offers greater distinction between holidays and clearer grade descriptions, so you can choose a holiday that best suits you.

Gentle walking grade 4

Gentle walking grade 4

The most active Gentle grade, with longer walks, some ascent, and possible steps, stiles, or off-path uneven ground. Typically, 6-7 miles (10-12km) with around 1,000ft (300m) of ascent.
Moderate walking grade 6

Moderate walking grade 6

Longer full day walks with more ascent and varied terrain. Good fitness and agility are needed. Typically, 9-10 miles (15-16km) with around 1,500ft (460m) of ascent.

What You’ll Love

  • Walking through the Cetina Gorge
  • Taking a boat trip to the town of Omiš
  • Stopping at charming coastal resorts for a dip in the Adriatic Sea
  • Welcoming hotel on the Makarska Riviera
  • Exploring the coves on the island of Brač

What's Included

  • Return flights from London Gatwick, including baggage and transfers (flights available from other airports - price may vary)
  • A choice of 2 guided walks per day with local leaders (on walking days)
  • Local Tour Manager who leads walks and sightseeing
  • 7 nights' accommodation in Baška Voda
  • 7 breakfasts & 7 dinners
  • All in-destination transport

Itinerary

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

Itinerary

Welcome to the Makarska Riviera. Unpack and settle in.

Today's walks uses the panoramic elevated paths in the foothills of the Biokovo Mountains. The views along the coast and across to the islands are superb throughout. Both walks will visit Vepric Shrine, a wooded Catholic pilgrimage site, before following the coastline along the promenade to finish in Makarska.

Option 1 - Hillside villages and Makarska

Distance: 5½ miles (9km)

Total ascent: 1,000 feet (300m)

Total descent: 1800 feet (540m)

In summary: Starting at the village of Bast we ascend though the village before contouring south east on a wide path with good views over the coast.Then our descent takes us through scattered pines and olive groves to reach Vepric Shrine. After a short visit we will be transported to Makarska for refreshments and an optional walk around the peninsula.

Highlight: Explore the bustling harbour of Makarska.

Option 2 - Bast village high tracks and Makarska

Distance: 10 miles (16km)

Total ascent: 1,500 feet (450m)

Total descent: 2450 feet (740m)

In summary: Starting at Bast, this walk gradually ascends on a higher broad track on the flanks of the Biokovo mountains, initially in shaded forest before the views open out over Makarska. We can see the locations of walks earlier in the week on Brač and high above Makar before descending to Vepric Shrine and onto Makarska to join the easier group at the harbour.

Highlight: Superb views down to the coast and across to the islands. 

The island of Brač lies approximately four miles offshore from the mainland, and is about the same size as the Isle of Wight. The island’s coastline has a series of attractive harbour villages, two of which will be visited on our walks. We travel to Brač by boat from Makarska harbour. We will arrive at Sumartin harbour and from here walk to a secluded cove and through olive groves to the equally attractive harbour at Povlja. Here our boat will be waiting for the return trip.

Option 1 - Island coast and harbour villages

Distance: 6½ miles (10.5km)

Total ascent: 450 feet (140m)

Total descent: 460 feet (140m)

In summary: After time to explore or enjoy a relaxed morning coffee in Sumartin, we ascend out of the town and enjoy a wide track above the east coast of the island with stunning views across to the mountains on the mainland. At the hamlet of Rasotica we see how the local inhabitants collect water where there are no natural springs, before a possible swim in the nearby picturesque cove. A good track leads us to lunch in the shade of an olive grove before walking to the north coast of the island with its basilica and harbour.

Highlight: The islands beautiful coastline with it's attractive harbour villages.

Option 2 - Island coast, terraces and harbour village

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Total ascent: 450 feet (140m)

Total descent: 460 feet (140m)

In summary: This coast to coast walk starts by following the route of the easier group with an ascent to a col for our picnic lunch before continuing to Povlja. We will have time to explore the Basilica, before taking a new route on good paths to the small harbour of Ticqa Luka, where in the past, boats moored to load stone from the adjacent quarry. The route continues around the headland with good views of the mainland before returning to Povlja, where we can perhaps enjoy a swim before catching our boat back. 

Highlight: The boat journey from Baška Voda harbour to Brač 

Both walks will start at the village of Makar, which sits on the hillside not far from Makarska, commanding superb views of the coast below, making their way via differing routes to Tučepi.

Option 1 - Above Kotišina via villages to Tučepi

Distance: 6 miles (9½km)

Total ascent: 500 feet (150m)

Total descent: 1,200 feet (360m)

In summary: On mostly good paths, this gentle paced walk reveals the contrasts between the traditional life at the base of the Biokovo range and the welcoming facilities of an attractive coastal resort. We visit old churches and small villages with an option to visit the Veliki Kaštel, a 17th century fort built into the cliffs, and recently renovated as a small interpretation centre.

Highlight: Admire the view out to the islands of Brač and Hvar.

Option 2 - Into the Biokovo Mountains

Distance: 7 miles (11km) 

Total ascent: 2200 feet (660m)

Total descent: 2120 feet (650m)

In summary: The most challenging walk of the week ascends on a remarkably constructed former mule track before contouring in welcome shade high above the coast. A slightly rougher descent takes us to a traditional café.

Highlight: An exhilarating mountain day with spectacular views.

 

Each week there is a free day when no guided walks are offered. This is an ideal opportunity to relax around the hotel, walk independently or visit local places of interest. Later this afternoon (approx 1500), we will offer an included boat trip to Makarska, so you can relax and enjoy the views, with some time to explore before getting back to Baska Voda in time for our evening meal.

Some alternative options for your free time today may include:

Makarska: Walking along the coast to Makarska. This is a generally straightforward walk, taking around two hours, with plenty of opportunities for swimming along the way. In Makarska you may want to have lunch in one of the waterfront cafés.

Split: Split is the capital of the region and is located 50km northwest of Baška Voda. At its heart is an enthralling old town of narrow streets and ancient buildings. The principal sights are the cathedral of St Domnius and the remains of Diocletian’s Palace with its spectacular gates, museum and temple. Your leaders will organise this if there is sufficient interest.

Trogir: A little further away is the equally impressive city of Trogir. Built on an island, this beautiful walled city has a maze of narrow medieval streets, elegant waterfront cafés, a wide waterfront promenade and dramatic fortifications. The city is also the best example of Croatian cultural life on the Dalmatian coast. The magnificent cathedral inspired UNESCO to name the town a World Heritage Site in 1997.

 

 

Today our walks start and finish at the hotel to enjoy the foothills of the Biokovo Mountains which rise above the village. After exploring the foothills, both groups will descend to the coast. We will then follow the coastline on a promenade through small beach resorts with the opportunity to pause for a drink or swim on our way back to Baska Voda.

Option 1 - Villages, Views and Promenade

Distance: 6 miles (9½ km)

Total ascent: 1100 feet (330m)

Total descent: 1060 feet (320m)

In summary: We explore the mainly abandoned Dalmatian village of Topici before continuing northwest, parallel to the coast, walking through small tourist resorts en route back to Baska Voda. On wide paths with wonderful views this is a popular walk with numerous places to stop after lunch for a swim in the brilliantly clear waters of the Adriatic.

Highlight: Take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic.

Option 2 - Napoleon’s Road, High Col and Promenade

Distance: 10 miles (16km)

Total ascent: 1900 feet (570m)

Total descent: 1900 feet (570m)

In summary: The harder walk will ascend to a high mountain col. Using a part of the extraordinary Napoleon’s Old Road we ascend to one of the best lunch spot of the week with views in every direction. A stony descent takes us to the coastal promenade for a delightful return to our hotel.

Highlight: The stunning Napolean's Road

The Cetina Gorge is an impressive natural feature that has been carved through the limestone of the Biokovo Mountains. We start inland at the village of Kostanje, behind the coastal mountain range.

Option 1 - In to the Gorge

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Total ascent: 800 feet (240m)

Total descent: 1400 feet (440m)

In summary: Enjoying contrasting scenery to the coastal region, an easy morning through quiet villages takes us to a dramatic lunch spot with views to the Cetina River below. From here we follow a well-graded path through trees leading us to our boats which take us to a historic mill for refreshment, and through the gorge to Omiš on the coast.

Highlight: The delightful boat journey through the gorge to the coastal town of Omiš.

Option 2 - Above the Cetina Gorge

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Total ascent: 900 feet (260m)

Total descent: 1550 feet (460m)

In summary: We will take an alternative route to the easier route to visit a church for lunch with distant views high above the morning’s path, and then rejoin the path down to and into the gorge.

Highlight: Marvel at the Cetina Gorge; an impressive natural feature that has been carved through the limestone of the Biokovo Mountains.

We hope to see you again soon.

View all

Accommodation

Hotel Villa Bacchus, Baška Voda

Set on the stunning Dalmatian Coast, the charming Hotel Villa Bacchus is perfectly placed for both relaxing by the sea and exploring the beautiful Biokovo Mountains. This welcoming property has a cosy bar and stylish breakfast restaurant with alfresco terrace seating, as well as a small indoor pool, Jacuzzi and sauna. Just steps from a Blue Flag pebble beach and a short promenade walk into the centre of Baška Voda, this is a wonderful retreat for our stay in Croatia’s Makarska Riviera region. In the evenings, our group will walk together to a nearby restaurant, where we will enjoy dinner.
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More Information

Book your holiday ‘with flights’ and you can choose to depart from selected UK airports* to your destination. For latest flight times and prices please call us on 0203-974-8865 or email reservations@hfholidays.co.uk  

If you choose to book your flights with us, we automatically include return transfers between the destination airport and hotel.  

If you are booking on a land-only basis, you can join the group transfer at an additional cost. To do so, your arrival and departure times must be in line with the scheduled group flight timings. Guests travelling at different times will need to arrange their own transfers. Please contact us before booking to discuss the available options and costs.

It's best to be prepared for all weather conditions. To make it easier, here is a list of items you should consider packing.   

Essentials  

  • Walking boots 

  • Waterproof jacket 

  • Waterproof trousers 

  • Insulated jacket/top 

  • Walking clothing  

  • Walking socks (plus spares)  

  • Sunhat 

  • Gloves/mitts and warm hat

  • Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)  

  • Headtorch

  • High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)  

  • Swimcap (compulsory in Itialian resorts)

  • Sunglasses with a dark lens 

  • Rucksack (15-30 litres)  

  • Mobile phone 

  • Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.) 

  • Passport 

  • Visa (if applicable) 

  • Copy of your travel insurance policy 

  • UK Global Health Insurance Card (formerly known as EHIC) 

Recommended

  • Collapsible walking poles 

  • Swimwear and travel towel

  • Snacks

  • Dry bags

  • Rubbish bags

  • Insect repellent

Optional extras

  • Camera 

  • Sit mat

  • Flask for hot drinks 

  • Durable lunch box

  • Gaiters 

  • GPS device (excluding Bhutan, Georgia and India)

Before booking, you should check with your doctor to see whether any health precautions are needed for your trip. Health advice and requirements can change, so we recommend doing this in good time before travel.

As a general rule, travellers should ensure they are up to date with routine UK vaccinations and boosters, including, for example, MMR and diphtheria, tetanus and polio. Some countries may require you to have specific vaccinations such as Malaria, Rabies and Yellow Fever. Please check with your GP if you are unsure.

Please note that the use or possession of some common prescription or over-the-counter medicines is restricted or banned in certain countries. If you will be carrying medication, you should check with the relevant embassy or consulate before travelling. As an extra precaution, we recommend keeping medication in its original packaging, carrying a copy of your prescription, and, where possible, asking your pharmacist to provide the medication name in the language of the country you are visiting.

For further country-specific health advice, visit www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.traveldoctor.co.uk. If you are travelling from outside the UK, please consult your own doctor and check local entry requirements.

 

This information is for those travelling with a full ‘British Citizen’ passport; for all other nationalities or passport holders, please check with your local consulate for advice.

Passport Requirements

This information applies to travellers holding a full British Citizen passport. Entry requirements vary by destination and can change at short notice. For most EU and worldwide destinations, passports must be valid for the entire duration of your stay. Some countries also require a minimum period of validity remaining on your passport (often up to 6 months beyond your return date), even if you are not staying that long.
We strongly recommend ensuring your passport has at least six months’ validity remaining at the time of travel to avoid any issues.

If you hold a different type of British passport or a passport issued by another country, you must check the requirements with the relevant embassy, consulate, or official government website.

Visa Requirements

Visa rules depend on your nationality, destination, length of stay, and purpose of travel, and they can change frequently. It is your responsibility to check whether you require a visa before travelling.
British passport holders should check the latest entry, passport validity and visa requirements for their destination on the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

 

 

Travel insurance is a condition of booking. Therefore, if you have not already arranged insurance, it is imperative that you do so before you travel.

For more information about healthcare and its costs, please visit: https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/

Drinking Water

Standards for drinking water vary widely around the world. In many destinations, tap water may not be safe to drink, brush your teeth with, or use for making ice. Where advised, you should drink only bottled or treated water and ensure that bottle seals are intact before use. If bottled water is unavailable, water should be boiled or filtered.

Staying well hydrated is particularly important in hot climates and during active holidays. Carry water with you and drink regularly. 

If you are unsure about local water safety, check official country-specific health advice before travel, or ask your accommodation or local guides for guidance once you arrive.

On arrival day

We may have guests arriving from different UK airports. Guests arriving on any later evening flights may have a prepared plated dinner on this first evening, depending on the estimated arrival at the hotel. In this instance, our tour manager will leave details for guests to join the group the following morning.

Tips

We would advise that tips for the guides / driver are not included in the package prices as standard practice and it is at the discretion of the individual guest to offer this on the holiday.

If the international number you wish to call starts with a 0, you must drop the starting digit when dialling the number.

To dial a UK number 0044

To dial a Croatian number 00385

To dial a Serbian number 00381

To dial a Bosnian number 00387

To dial a Montenegrin number 00382

The local language is Croatian. English is spoken widely in shops and tourist attractions.

The local currency is currently Euro. 

220 - 230 Volt AC with round two round pin plugs; you will need an adaptor for any appliances brought from the UK.

There are several ATM machines in Baška Voda where you can obtain money.

Carbon Footprint - 790kg CO2

We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.

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The Best of the Dalmatian Coast

Members save an additional £30 on this booking and get a range of other exclusive benefits. Add HF Membership to your booking online. Read more about membership
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We are proud to be Britain’s only walking holiday co-operative. Led by almost 40,000 members, offering hundreds of holidays across the UK and overseas, with all surplus being reinvested back into our Society.

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Flexible choice of guided walks

Experienced volunteer HF Leaders guide every walk at our UK country houses, offering up to three daily options. Making it easy to find a holiday to suit your ability, and with the flexibility to switch grades each walking day.

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If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests 

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If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

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