Dear Mirna,

We had a wonderful time on our 16 day holiday in Croatia organised as a private tour by Secret Dalmatia.  From a tourist’s perspective, Croatia is a most fascinating and engrossing country and we were impressed by the seemingly endless historical and cultural attractions hidden within Croatia’s borders.  Croatia’s diverse regions offering antiquities, architecture, towns, landscapes, and wonderful food and wine kept us constantly entertained.  We were also impressed by the hospitality and friendliness offered to us which made us feel very comfortable and safe at all times.  We feel that Croatia is a hidden gem.

Our tour itinerary, prepared by Secret Dalmatia, allowed us to experience Croatia in a special way.  The itinerary was tailored to our interests in history, food and wine but it was done in such a way that we could meet and talk to local people.  While all of our guides and drivers were excellent we would especially like to mention some highlights:

Firstly, our tour of Istria including Pula, Porec and Rovinj conducted by Matias who had such a deep knowledge of the history of each of these places that we didn’t want the tour to end.  His lunch choice was inspired – a simple but excellent meal of sardines and calamari in a local café at the Pula market.

Then our Istrian hilltop tour, truffle lunch and wild asparagus hunting with Ljerka who would certainly be one of the nicest people we’ve ever met. It was a very relaxing and special day.   

Next, our tour of Split with Nives who spent extra time with us when she realised our particular interest in history. Nives gave us the benefit of her in depth and academic level of knowledge of this intriguing city.

And finally, our tour of the Pelijasic Peninsula with Mario, the energetic head of the Bartulovic wine making family who can trace their ancestry back at least 500 years. Mario grows his Plavac Mali grapes as they have since they were cultivated by the Greeks who first settled in this area. Mario is passionate about his heritage and preserving all that is good about this amazing region.  Everything about this day was very special, from the tour of the vineyards to lunch at his family home.   

Mirna, thank you for your meticulous planning and management of our trip.  You went out of your way for us. In particular when the Split ferry failed to depart and we could have been stranded, you immediately arranged a private transfer through Bosnia so we could reach our hotel in Korcula.  This was an adventure on its own. It was also great to catch up with you in in Dubrovnik over dinner.

We would not hesitate to recommend Secret Dalmatia and will certainly be in contact when next we visit Croatia.

Regards

Christine & Doug Dickson