Destination Dubrovnik //

They call it the Pearl of the Adriatic, and after four blissful days there I completely understand why.  Dubrovnik is a beautiful place oozing with history and culture and a laid-back way of life – it’s the kind of holiday you never want to end.  

And it’s the kind of place that looks amazing in every photograph. 

 

Old Town Dubrovnik at night is as beautiful as it is during the day. From the immaculate white cobblestone streets to the maze of stair-filled alleyways that make up Old Town, there are endless routes to explore and you can do so feeling completely safe at all hours of the night as the area is always buzzing with tourists.

You’ll find that there’s usually a lot going on in Old Town by night. The streets are filled with the young and the old and most seem to enjoy taking an evening stroll while admiring all of Old Town’s beauty. Here, you can head to one of the many restaurants and bars, including some Irish ones, and people watch!

It seems crazy to think that only twenty years ago, this city had been under siege for seven months during the break up of former Yugoslavia. Strolling around today, you would never guess that there had ever been a war.  There has been significant reconstruction work to repair the damage and the medieval architecture is now looking more impressive than ever.

I stayed 3 miles out of town at the the 5 star Dubrovnik Palace Hotel, which is sleek and modern offering stunning panoramic views over the sea and mountains. The only downside? no sandy beach, as such, but that didn't stop me enjoying swimming in the sea. Just be warned, it's rough and not for the inexperienced swimmer.

  

Dubrovnik offers so much to do, from the most popular tour to the neighbouring Peljesac Peninsula, a collection of sea-lapped hills, devoted to the cultivation of wine and oysters.

A two-hour drive takes you past a dozen little try-and-buy vineyards, of which the biggest by far is the Korta Katarina winery, on the edge of the bay at Orebic. If you want to get the best view of the city , take a cable car that takes you from the historic, seven-foot-thick walls right up to the cliff top. Dubrovnik has the most amazing views and sunsets!

It's easy to see why Dubrovnik has grown in popularity- not least because it's a mere 3hrs direct flight from Dublin , but also boasts pristine seas, informal eateries, 5-star hotels and adventure sports facilities.  The best time to visit is May-June or September-October as in the low season, most facilities close. 

A holiday with a difference. Perfection.