Croatia: Hike, Bike & Kayak

Arrive in Zadar. Ease into things with a welcome meeting, where you’ll get acquainted with the rest of the group. The evening is spent at your leisure exploring the streets of Zadar. Perhaps head out with your group for dinner at a traditional restaurant and sample local favourites such as lamb in red wine, njoki (gnocchi) with Dalmatian ham or fresh fish. Don't forget to try the famous liqueur, Maraskino, made from locally-grown maraschino cherries according to a centuries' old secret recipe. This unique drink was a favourite at European imperial and royal courts and has been produced in Zadar since 1821.

For centuries, Zadar was the capital city of Dalmatia and the city's rich heritage is visible at every step. An important coastal town, the musical steps of the ‘Sea Organ’ on Zadar's waterfront is both fascinating to hear and express the city’s important relationship with the sea. In the morning, trace marble streets through the Old Town and discover Roman ruins in amongst medieval churches on an orientation walk with your leader. After lunch, take a local bus to Starigrad Paklenica, a small town in a harbour that sits at the foot of the World Heritage-listed Velebit Nature Park. This is your gateway to the Paklenica National Park – two canyons divide this mountainous region, filled with gorges, and cliffs that reach up to 400 metres in height. The evening is spent at your leisure exploring the streets of Starigrad (literally 'Old Town'), one of the oldest towns in Europe, built on the historic Roman settlement of Argyruntum. Relax harbourside tonight before all your activity this week.

After breakfast, it’s time to set off on the first active day of the trip. Paklenica National Park is home to incredible rock formations, stunning natural scenery and one of the most visited climbing sites in Europe. Get acquainted with the area on a hike through the Velebit mountain range in Paklenica National Park. Your hike will take you by the right edge of the Velika Paklenica Canyon and reveal some of the most magnificent views of the park. Have your camera at the ready to capture the lush surroundings, which are a result of the pure spring water that flows through the area, blossoming the trees and meadows. When you arrive at a mountain lodge there’ll be time for a traditional lunch (optional). After lunch, why not try the homemade brandy of the region. Alternatively, try some of the herbal tea, made from the region’s famous Velebit herbs. Back on the track, you’ll drop by a 17th century village, Sklopina, which consists of houses built into the cracks in the rock. The return path leads you to the very bottom of the Velika Paklenica Canyon, along the creek where you can freshen up before returning to the comfort of your Starigrad accommodation.