A woody peninsular nestled between two bays of pure blue, Cavtat has long called artists and creative types to its watercolor shores. This charter stop is one of the most southern resorts in Croatia, sitting a stone’s throw (just 22km) away from the border of Montenegro. Striking with mirage like mountains in the backdrop, a charming promenade, and red sunbaked town rooftops, Cavtat is a tantalizing bohemian feeling town. Be sure to visit the house turned museum of painter Vlaho Bukovac to admire the rural frescoes before catching a spectacular sunset with a carafe of local wine. Beyond the artistic draw, Cavtat is also home to 15th century monasteries and rich folkloric history woven into everyday life. From summer carnivals and local dances to fresh fish dishes and handcrafted jewelry, the pretty waterfront town is a more peaceful alternative to the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik.
Lokrum is a lush forested island draped in pines, olive, and black ash. Landing on this glorious nature reserve it's hard to believe that the buzzing capital of Dubrovnik is a mere ten minutes' sail away. Home to an old Benedictine Monastery and a former filming location for Game of Thrones, this is where fantasy fanatics can actually sit on the Iron Throne. Nature lovers will bliss out at the beautiful botanical gardens where giant agaves and Brazilian palms thrive. Days on Lokrum are spent dreaming of drinking Arbor Gold, sunbathing on rocks, and cooling off in the clear aquamarine waters. The island is also home to a salt lake nicknamed ‘the dead sea’. With no overnight accommodation on the island, day trips are popular but evenings are sweet and silent.
The largest of the Elafiti Archipelago, Sipan is a charming retreat with a history dating back to the 11th century. Enamoured by the Dubrovnik aristocracy of old, the island is home to the remains of grand summer houses and impressive palaces. Sipanska Luka, on the northwest of the island, is an active fishing village that guarantees glorious maritime fare for those who favour fish dishes. The island is also famed for its wine and olive oil production, with luscious lines of citrus groves and sprawling vines and olive trees. Conveniently close to Dubrovnik, there are endless opportunities for day trips from Sipan, or you can choose to stay put for sparkling turquoise waters and unforgettable sunsets. There are plenty of captivating coves perfect for casting anchor, as well as several beach bars on offer for guests who like to sip, sunbathe and socialize.
Mljet comes cloaked in forest and is also home to two interconnecting salt lakes. Located in the Mljet National Park, these lakes are fascinating for any history lover as they date back over ten thousand years and were once freshwater lakes until the Christian era. The melody of the deep green forest meets vibrant blue waters, creating a natural paradise for rest and play. On the tiny islet of Veliko Jazero, you'll find the 12th-century Benedictine Monastery of St. Mary. Charter guests can dive, cycle, swim in clear waters against fragrant pine backdrops, and visit the cave of Odysseus, said to be the spot that kept him hostage for seven years after a storm ruined his boat.
Delightful Dubrovnik with its golden city walls and pearl of the Adriatic status looks every inch at the fantasy series setting it is famous for. Dating back to the 7th century, exploring Croatia’s capital is all baroque beauty, UNESCO delights, and limestone pavement strolls that will deliver something extraordinary with every corner turn. Walking the city walls is a must to get a feel for the place and to soak up those blue and balmy sea views. Sip a coffee on the pedestrian street of Stradun, see 16th-century paintings from Raphael in the Cathedral, and visit ancient forts and towers. Of course, for fans of the HBO hit series, a Game of Thrones themed tour is a must.
Tivat has undergone a makeover in recent years thanks to its investment and redevelopment of the naval base in to a luxury marina, Porto Montenegro, attracting yachts from the world over. You might wonder if you've arrived in Monaco with the luxury boutiques, modern apartments and superyachts berthed here. Take a walk along the lovely promenade for some lovely views and stop along the way for a drink in one of the outdoor bars to soak in the atmosphere of this "new" tourist hotspot.
The fortified town of Kotor is a must stop for any Adriatic charter. The Venetian Old Town, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979, is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Stroll through her maze of winding cobblestone streets, enjoying Romanesque architecture, medieval churches and quaint orange roofed houses whilst soaking in the views of the stunning surrounding mountainscapes. For the adventurous, hike up the 1300 steps to the St John Fortress overlooking the city.
A wonderful waterfront and a reputation as being one of the finest places to stroll and play, Herceg Novi captures everything to adore about the Bay of Kotor. This gorgeous beach town is a breath of fresh air and while it can buzz with summer crowds, most of the party people will have headed down to the sandy stretches of the southern Adriatic. Mountains, wild olive groves, pomegranate trees in bloom, and the soft sunlit waters set a scene that you can barely tear your eyes away from. Restaurant hop along the waterfront, sampling evocative fresh cuisine and sipping Balkan wines in bliss. Take a kayak adventure over to the village of Rose or stay put and explore the architectural highlights of the Old Town including the Savina Monastery, the crumbled Clock Tower from the 17th century, and the Archangel Michael's Church. For those who want to swim in the cobalt blue, there are plenty of hidden spots waiting for you along the nearby Lustica Peninsula.