Croatia Barren mountains, dense forests, charming well-preserved towns, crystal clear blue waters and a warm Mediterranean climate

Once Europe’s best-kept secret, the cat is definitely out of the bag as the popularity of Croatia soars. Blessed with barren mountains, dense forests, charming well-preserved towns, crystal clear blue waters and a warm Mediterranean climate – it’s hardly a surprise.

Croatia’s island archipelago is a highlight of the country with at least 1,200 islands and counting. The best way to enjoy this area is sailing along the Adriatic on a yacht. If you want to explore the stunning islands in more depth, there are ferries that will carry you from island to island. All inhabited islands have their own unique character while retaining a similar Croatian feel with their red roofed, stone-built houses and narrow winding streets.

The capital of Croatia is Zagreb. With an interesting mix of Eastern and Western Europe, the city is best explored and appreciated on foot. Take the funicular to the upper town then climb up Lotrščak Tower for sweeping 360-degree views of the city below. View the gleaming white St Mark’s Church with its unique roof tiled with Zagreb’s coat of arms; join the locals in their meeting place in between the Upper and Lower at Ban Jelačić Square or explore the nearby colourful Dolac Markets. The two towering spires of Zagreb’s Cathedral can be seen from all over Zagreb and is worthy of a visit inside. For something a bit quirky and unique visit the Museum of Broken Relationships with objects donated by jilted lovers from all over the world.

Croatia’s most popular tourist attraction is the breathtaking Plitvice National Park. Founded in 1949, it covers over 19 hectares of wooded hills and 16 lakes which are all connected by cascades and waterfalls. The impossibly clear, turquoise coloured waters have been flowing over the limestone and chalk for thousands of years which have eventually created the stunning series of lakes, caves and waterfalls that it is today. With long or short trails and buses and boats connecting different areas, the lakes are a highlight of any visit to Croatia and if you’re lucky, you may even spot a bear or wolf in the surrounding forest.