Croatia Coast and Canyons Walk
8 Days Starting in Zagreb, Croatia and ending in Split, Croatia
Visiting: Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Northern Velebit National Park, Starigrad-Paklenica, Paklenica National Park, Zadar, Krka National Park, Split
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CRW
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
6 - 16
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Croatia Coast and Canyons Walk" tour, exploring the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Croatia. This adventure takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of Plitvice and Krka nature parks, with their mesmerizing lakes and waterfalls, and the rugged terrains of North Velebit National Park. Discover the historic cities of Zagreb, Zadar, and Split, guided by an expert local who will immerse you in Croatia's fascinating history and culture. Experience a mix of serene natural beauty, dramatic mountains, and the picturesque Adriatic coast, all while enjoying comfortable accommodations and delicious local cuisine. This tour promises an enriching blend of walking, sightseeing, and cultural exploration, making it the perfect way to experience the best of Croatia.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Zagreb
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
A group transfer is available from Zagreb airport otherwise make your own way to your joining hotel. Meet your guide this evening and enjoy a welcome dinner. Zagreb is small and welcoming, with a mix of Austro-Hungarian grand buildings, cafes, museums, galleries, a landmark cathedral and a quirky funicular railway. If you have time in the afternoon or spending an extra night, visit the Zagreb Cathedral, whose twin spires soar over the city and the colourful St Mark’s Church with its unique tiled roof depicting the medieval coat of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia and Slavonia and the emblem of Zagreb. You can climb the Lotrscak tower, built in the 13th century, for great views of the city Trg Bana Jelacica is great for people watching and a hive of activity. Overnight in Zagreb.
Day 2 : Transfer To Plitvice Lakes, Explore The Park On Foot (4-5Hrs)
Location: Plitvice Lakes National Park
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Plitvice area
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After an early breakfast at our hotel we'll transfer (2hrs) through the hills of Croatia to one of the most outstanding and renowned natural landscapes in Europe, the Plitvice Lakes National Park. The UNESCO listed park is famed for its 16 crystal-clear lakes that are joined by spectacular cascading waterfalls. This incredibly diverse national park is home to bears, wolves, deer, wild boar and 157 bird species. It's also home to beech, spruce and pine trees, plus over 1,200 plant species. We'll explore the park on foot, using the fantastic wooden walkways found throughout the park. Overnight in the Plitvice area.
Walk: 11km/7mi. Ascent: 250m/820ft. Descent: 250m/820ft.
Day 3 : Transfer To Velebit National Park And Walk Part Of The Spectacular Premuzic Trail (6Hrs)
Location: Northern Velebit National Park
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Otocac or nearby town
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A morning transfer (1.5hrs) takes us towards the dramatic Northern Velebit National Park and the Zavizan mountain refuge, located next to a small botanical garden. We'll have time to wander amongst a variety of indigenous and endemic plant species here before walking along part of the spectacular Premužic Trail. We'll follow the trail as it snakes from one side of the Velebit's central ridge to the other, giving us a great taste of the mountain's varied geography, with lush woodland alternating with pine forest and arid, rocky slopes. The walk itself is easy and the gradient is fairly gentle, but we'll still get to experience the wild landscape of this dramatic mountainous area. At the end of the walk we transfer (1hr) to our hotel. Overnight Otocac or nearby town.
Walk: 15km/9.5mi. Ascent: 430m/1410ft. Descent: 580m/1903ft.
Day 4 : Spectacular Walk From Veliki Rujno To Ramici Village (3-4Hrs)
Location: Starigrad-Paklenica
Accommodation Name: Mountain hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast we transfer (1.5hrs) to Starigrad-Paklenica and leave our main luggage at the hotel. Taking only a backpack with our overnight needs (toiletries, spare clothes), we transfer (1hr) on a mountain road to the high grassy plateau of Veliki Rujno. At 900m lies the small church of Our Lady of Rujno, built in the past for local inhabitants who lived from cattle breeding, and spent most of the year in mountain hamlets taking their cattle out to graze. Over time, the church became too small and in 1930, due to the dedication of a local priest and enthusiastic mountaineer Don Ante Adžija, a new church was built using masonry from the old church. An annual procession, held in August, sees hundreds of pilgrims make their way up the mountain to the chapel for mass. From here we walk to Ramici, where we stay overnight in a simple rural house and are guaranteed a warm welcome and a delicious home cooked dinner.
*Please note that this mountain hut cannot be accessed by road so you will need to carry your overnight requirements in your backpack today. Our bags will be waiting for us at our hotel on day 5. Bed linen is provided at the mountain hut.
Walk: 5.7km/3.5mi. Ascent: 258m/846ft. Descent: 585/1919ft.
Day 5 : Enjoy Spectacular Views Walking In The Paklenica National Park (4-5Hrs)
Location: Paklenica National Park
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Starigrad-Paklenica
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Inhabited since prehistoric times, the dramatic landscape of the Paklenica National Park gained national park status in 1949, due to its unique natural features and magnificent forests. A dramatic mountain range that appears to fall directly into the sea will be our host along its high trails for the next two days. We'll enjoy spectacular views across to the islands of Rab, Pag and the Kornati National Park. We start our walk through the canyon of Velika Paklenica, surrounded by huge walls and the remains of old water mills. These ancient buildings, built in the 19th century and still in use up until the 1960s, are well preserved cultural monuments and maintained by the national park authorities. We have a local transfer to the coastal town of Starigrad-Paklenica. The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy a walk along the sea or relax with a drink in one of the many pavement cafes or local bars.
Walk: 8.5km/5.3mi. Ascent: 235m/754ft. Descent: 703m/2306ft.
Day 6 : Explore The Dramatic Krupa Canyon, Transfer To Zadar (2-3Hrs)
Location: Zadar
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Zadar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A short transfer (45mins) takes us to the pretty area of the Krupa river. Situated under the steep slopes of Velebit Mountain, this picturesque river stretches from a small spring through the deep Krupa Canyon until it reaches the Zrmanja River. The area is full of hidden, underground caves and dotted with tiny hamlets. We begin walking at the bridge of Kudin, one of the nicest places in the hinterland of Zadar. It's called Deveterci, for the 9 small cascades that make the place so magical. According to legend, a young man called Kuda wanted to be closer to his loved one at the other bank of the river so built the bridge from 12 arches out of travertine blocks, and just as many pillars. The last two arches are now damaged but the bridge still stands despite time and high winter waters. From Krupa we transfer (1hr) to the picturesque historic town of Zadar, the ancient capital of Dalmatia. The marble, traffic-free streets follow the the old Roman street plan and still contain some Roman ruins and several medieval churches. Massive 16th-century fortifications still shield the city on the landward side, with high walls running along the harbour. Zadar was part of Italy until 1947, and, though fast diminishing, one still finds Italian influence. The Roman Forum was constructed between the 1st Century BC and the 3rd Century AD, and the circular 9th Century Church of St Donat is one of the most outstanding monuments in Dalmatia. The sarcophagus of St Simeon is a masterpiece of medieval goldsmith work - commissioned in 1377 and made of cedar, covered inside and out with finely executed gold-plated silver reliefs. Your guide can help with dinner suggestions. Overnight Zadar.
Walk: 4km/2.5mi. Ascent: 200m/656ft. Descent: 200m/656ft
Day 7 : Transfer To Krka National Park, Explore On Foot And By Boat, Transfer To Split (4-5Hrs)
Location: Krka National Park
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Split
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast we transfer (1hr) to the beautiful Krka National Park. Created by the Krka River, this stunningly beautiful national park can only be described as a limestone phenomenon. We start our visit of the park on foot, walking among waterfalls up to Skradinski Buk then take a boat to the waterfall Roski Slap. Visovac Lake and the Franciscan monastery are situated between these two magnificent waterfalls, right where the river enters the lake. From Rošk Slap we walk up to Ožidana pecina and then to Stinice. We later drive to Split (1hr) for the last night of our tour. This atmospheric city, located on the Dalmatian Coast, is an exciting mixture of modern buildings, UNESCO-listed palaces, old city walls, and a beautiful promenade - all with a spectacular mountainous backdrop. After check at the hotel we take a walking tour of old town and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Walk: 12km. Ascent 316m/1036ft. Descent -258m/846ft.
Day 8 : Trip Concludes
Location: Split
Meals Included: Breakfast
The trip concludes this morning with a group transfer to Split airport (approx 30mins).
What's Included
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Meals
7 breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches, and 5 dinners are included.
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Accommodation
6 nights in 3-star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities, and 1 night in a mountain hut in dormitories with shared facilities.
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Guides
English speaking local guide (1 guide if the group is less than 12, or 2 guides for a group of 13-16 people).
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Luggage Transfer
Luggage transfer for 1 piece up to 20kg is included, except on day 4 where you will need to carry all your overnight requirements.
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Transfers
All transfers as noted in the itinerary are included.
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Boat Trip
A boat trip in Krka National Park is included.
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National Park Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to Plitvice, Northern Velebit, Paklenica, and Krka National Parks are included.
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Travel
Travel to Zagreb and from Split is included.
What's Not Included
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Meals and Drinks
Meals not listed as included and drinks are excluded.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory and not included.
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Luggage Transfer on Day 4
Luggage transfer on day 4 is not included.
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Single Room Supplement
A supplement will apply if you book a single room.
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Tips
Tips are not included.
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Entrance Fees Not Listed
Entrance fees to monuments/sites not included in the itinerary are excluded.
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Private Transfers
Private arrival and departure transfers can be arranged on request and are not included.
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Excess Luggage
A supplement applies for excess luggage.
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Transfers by Taxi or Public Transport
Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage are not included.
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Hotel Taxes
Hotel taxes, if applicable, are payable directly to the hotel and are not included.
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Items of a Personal Nature
Items of a personal nature including phone calls, laundry, etc.
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4 Dinners and Daily Drinks
4 dinners and daily drinks are not included.
Grading
GRADE 2 - Walking days are usually between 3 - 5 hours on trails which range from grassy paths and forest woodland to rugged alpine paths in the national parks. Trails are good with no difficult sections and most days we'll walk sections of the Via Dinarica, the new long distance walking trail that links the Balkans. On day 4 & 5 we are in the heart of the national park and away from any roads, therefore you’ll need to carry what you need for one overnight. As all bedding is supplied, there is no need for heavy backpacking and it gives us the opportunity to experience an unspoilt location.
What You Carry
The walks are fully supported so you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements including wet weather gear, lunch supplies, water bottle, warm top, phone etc. Exception is on Day 4 where you will need to carry your overnight requirements to the mountain hut.
Mode of Transport
All transfers are included as noted in the itinerary, including a boat trip in Krka National Park and travel to Zagreb and from Split, ensuring seamless travel throughout the tour.
Accommodation
Hotels, mountain hut
Accommodation on this holiday is in a variety of comfortable hotels and one night in a simple mountain hut in dormitories. All other accommodation is based on twin sharing. If you are travelling by yourself, you will be paired with another solo traveller of the same sex. Single rooms can be arranged for a supplementary charge and are dependent on availability at the time of booking. Please note that single rooms are not available for one night at the simple mountain hut in Paklenica National Park.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Plitvice Lakes National Park?
Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife including bears, wolves, deer, wild boar, and 157 bird species. The park also features beech, spruce, and pine trees, along with over 1,200 plant species.
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Will I need to carry my luggage during the walks?
For most of the tour, your luggage will be transferred for you, and you will only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements. However, on Day 4, you will need to carry your overnight requirements to the mountain hut as it cannot be accessed by road.
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What kind of accommodation will be provided during the tour?
You will stay in 3-star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities for 6 nights. On one night, you will stay in a mountain hut in dormitories with shared facilities.
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Are there any special requirements for the mountain hut stay?
Yes, you will need to carry your overnight requirements in your backpack on Day 4 as the mountain hut cannot be accessed by road. Bed linen is provided at the mountain hut.
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What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches, and 5 dinners. Meals not listed as included and drinks are not covered.
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What is the difficulty level of the walks?
The walks are usually between 3 to 5 hours on trails that range from grassy paths and forest woodland to rugged alpine paths. The trails are generally good with no difficult sections, although you will need to carry your overnight requirements on Day 4.
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What kind of historical sites will we visit?
You will visit several historical sites including the Zagreb Cathedral, St Mark’s Church, the Roman Forum in Zadar, and the 9th Century Church of St Donat. You will also explore the old town of Split, which features UNESCO-listed palaces and old city walls.
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Is travel insurance required for this tour?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for this tour.
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What kind of transportation is included in the tour?
All transfers as noted in the itinerary are included, including a boat trip in Krka National Park. Travel to Zagreb and from Split is also covered.
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Can I arrange private arrival and departure transfers?
Yes, private arrival and departure transfers can be arranged on request. Please ask your consultant for more details.
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How fit do I have to be?
Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.
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What happens if something goes wrong?
On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.
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I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?
Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.