July and August are peak season along Europe’s southern shores, with luxury travelers flocking to destinations throughout Italy, Spain, and the French Riviera. While summer is definitely the time to visit Europe for sun worshipping and nightlife, peak rates and high demand can leave last-minute travelers out of luck.
Where to book for a last-minute luxury getaway? Consider one of Europe’s fastest-growing vacation destinations, Croatia. With nearly 2,000 km of coastline and over 1,000 islands it’s an island-hopping, beach-loving paradise with impressive cities and historic castles to spare (shooting of HBO’s Game of Thrones resumes here shortly). Of course, Croatia’s appeal is no longer a well-kept secret, but it’s still possible to find comparatively good value and availability at luxury vacation rentals here.
Luxury Croatian Destinations
One of the most popular Croatian destinations with luxury travelers is the fortified city of Dubrovnik. Known as “The Pearl of the Adriatic,” for its shimmering white marble, Dubrovnik’s Old Town has been carefully restored in recent years.
From Dubrovnik, it’s just a short boat ride to Lokrum Island, where you’ll find both a medieval monastery and a rocky nudist beach. In fact, with secluded coves all along Croatia’s coast, it’s not hard to find a secluded spot to sunbathe, with or without your swimsuit!
Quieter Croatian Sites & Destinations
For travelers seeking a waterfront getaway further from the vacationing crowds, there are many smaller villages and islands along the “Split Riviera” to choose from. Primosten, for example, maintains its picturesque appeal, with charming seafood restaurants, pebbled beaches and a well-preserved old town connected to the mainland by a causeway.
While in Croatia, also be sure to spend a day exploring some of the country’s spectacular natural beauty. From Primosten, it’s only a 30-minute drive to the lakes and waterfalls of Krka National Park.
Author: Katherine Scott is Editor at Luxury Retreats. Katherine has experienced many of Luxury Retreats’ destinations first-hand, including Spain, Italy and the French Riviera. A gourmet traveler, she’s happiest discovering exotic new flavors in Thailand or sipping her way through a European vineyard tour.