Dalmatian Coast: Croatia & Montenegro
Stretching from Montenegro to Croatia, the Dalmatian Coast features riveting ancient history, contemporary Mediterranean culture, and miles of unspoiled Adriatic coastline. With Gray & Co’s expert planners and guides at the helm, it’s also ripe for active exploration. Hike Montenegro’s rugged limestone peaks, sail Croatia’s sapphire seas, cycle past medieval ruins, and kayak to beaches only accessible by boat. It’s all about connecting the right hand-picked islands and historic gems—whether by private yacht, jet, bike, trail, or support vehicle. We provide the ultimate in curated experiences and convenience.
Starting in the south, Porto Novi, Montenegro is where the Dinaric Alps offer up hikes among Mediterranean oak tree forests and stone villages dating back to medieval times. We like to end the day with portside apéritifs at the chic One & Only Portonovi, a luxury property perched along a fjord-like bay that is perfect for kayaking. Explore the nearby 17th-century Savina Monastery and the 16th-century Ottoman fortress at Kanli Kula. Heading north, the village of Herceg Novi is a coastal gem dating back to 1382.
Cycle along the country roads into Croatia, where Dubrovnik—with its iconic terracotta rooftops and towering city walls—is our first stop. Staying at the historic Hotel Excelsior, Gray & Co. guides reveal the bustling Old Town on foot, and arrange for a hike (or cable car ride) up Srd Mountain for incredible views. Another don’t miss site is the Trsteno Arboretum, best known as the lush gardens of King’s Landing in “Game of Thrones”. The nearby beaches of Lopud Island are a short boat charter away.
Heading north among the islands to Orebic, we cycle through the rolling vineyards and olive groves of the Pelješac Peninsula. The elegant 8-room Villa Korta Katarina sits nestled among vineyards between the Adriatic and Mount Sveti Ilija. Don’t miss their poolside views! Next, sail to Hvar and check into the serene Maslina Resort on Maslinica Bay near Stari Grad. Cycle past ancient Roman ruins or hike through lavender fields and along hidden inlets. Another of our favourite experiences is to travel by speedboat to Korčula, Marco Polo’s birthplace, which features Venetian-style piazzas and lively boutique-lined streets.
A short ferry, or even shorter private flight, brings you to the walled city of Split, where ancient Roman architecture meets modern café culture. In addition to exploring the historic centre, head to the 42-square-mile Krka National Park, where you can swim under waterfalls and visit the 2,000-year-old Klis Fortress, another filming location in “Game of Thrones”. Finally, Istria, a less-frequented yet equally captivating northern peninsula, is a fantastic addition to any Croatia itinerary. We advise staying at the San Canzian Hotel, a luxurious hideaway with premier cycling right out the door. Just the way we like it.
