It’s that time of year again, when we all start spending our lunch hour browsing holiday destinations and ditching the junk food in the quest for a bikini bod, and where better to lust over than the unlikely paradise that is Croatia. With a surprising 1185 islands (only a couple fewer than the beautiful Maldives), Croatia is a real up and comer in the summer holiday hotlist.
Dalmatian Coast
A great one to explore is the Dalmatian coast, and you can travel from Dubrovnik to Split, via Korkula and Hvar, spending a couple of days at each destination to absorb the rich atmosphere. The Dubrovnik city walls are an untouched beauty, so its no wonder they’re one of the top sites on the must-see list! Architechture lovers must take a look at the gorgeous churches that it boasts, full of culture and authenticity. Korkula is home to lots of secluded beach spots, the most popular said to be the sandy beach of Vela Przina, where clear waters and soft sands await. Hvar’s stunning cathedral is a popular visit, while during the summer months, cultural nightlife is in abundance, and St Stephen’s Square is alive and vibrant. Once you reach Split, the Riva Promenade is the perfect cocktail spot, or check out the heights of Marjan Peninsula for a breathtaking panorama view at the peak – great for hikes and bikes, and just 10 minutes west of the centre.
Outlook Festival
For an international beach festival, it has to be Outlook Festival, hosted by the beautiful Croatian beaches of Pula. Now in its 6th year, it is widely recognised as Europe’s largest bass music and sound system culture festival. Croatia Outlook festival runs from Thursday 29th August until Monday 2nd September, and priced at £135 per ticket. Pula airport is located just 20 minutes from the festival venue, and there are a range of accommodation options to choose from, the most obvious being camping. The recommended camping spot is Camping Brioni, and is only £9 pppn, while 2013 sees the launch of the ‘glamping’ pods, Podpads, which are located a short walk from the main beach parties, in a secluded area of the campsite now known as Podpad Village, so even the nature-phobes amongst us can join the camp!
A must-do for all Outlookers, is book onto one of the boat parties. Taking full advantage of the beautiful boat port, the parties feature top DJs, pumping beats, and bars and several take place per day. Many are already sold out, but act fast on what’s left to make sure you don’t miss out on this unique addition to the festival experience!
Find cheap flights to Croatia for the festival weekend with Skyscanner.
Written by Emma Edwards. Outlook photos from the Outlook Festival Facebook Page.