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Croatia

Dalmatian Coast Island Hopping

Trip code: W07DC

Average customer rating 4.8 / 5(28 verified reviews)

Self-Guided Walking
7 nights hotel-to-hotel
Moderate
Flights available
CO₂ rating 1/5
Headwater Navigation app

Trip highlights

Island hop between the Dalmatian Islands of Brac, Hvar, Korcula and Mljet

UNESCO World Heritage sites in Dubrovnik and Trogir

Dubrovnik, ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’: medieval ramparts, Renaissance churches, Doge’s Palace

Discover a varied landscape; stunning coastal paths, pretty villages, small ports, vineyards and olive groves

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Trip details

Experience the magic of Croatia on a self-guided walking holiday through the stunning Dalmatian Coast. This unforgettable journey blends coastal beauty, scenic trails, and rich cultural heritage as you island-hop between Brac, Hvar, Korcula, and Mljet. With peaceful walking routes, quiet villages, and plenty of opportunities for swimming in crystal-clear waters, this trip is perfect for those who love the coast, scenic walks, and immersing themselves in history, architecture, and local culture.

What's included

Included

  • 7 nights in 3-star and 4-star accommodation
  • All breakfasts and 5 evening meals
  • Briefing at the start of your holiday
  • Headwater navigation app
  • Walking transfers by car/minibus or ferry/catamaran
  • Mljet National Park entrance fee

Not included

  • Flights
  • Travel insurance

Travel options

Flights

Our air prices include standard flights and transfers.

Itinerary

Route map, with each night's stop marked
The full route, night by night. Select the map to view it full screen.

Day 1 · —Arrive in Trogir

Arrive in Trogir

Arrive in the UNESCO-listed town of Trogir, a beautifully preserved coastal gem with Romanesque and Renaissance charm. If arriving early, explore the impressive St Lawrence Cathedral, enjoy panoramic views from the Kamerlengo Fortress, or stroll through the vibrant local market just outside the old walls. In the evening, wander the cobbled streets and dine in one of the harbourfront restaurants, sampling fresh Adriatic seafood or traditional Dalmatian dishes as the sun sets over the marina.

You stay at Hotel Vila Sikaa

Vila Sikaa
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Hotel Vila Sikaa

Trogir

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Tea & coffee
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

Hotel Vila Sikaa is a charming, family-run, four-star establishment set in a waterfront building over 300 years old, offering breathtaking views of the historic heart of Trogir. Situated on Čiovo Island, within a UNESCO-protected building, Vila Sikaa provides captivating views of the sea and Trogir’s historic centre, just 150 metres away. The hotel, located on the waterfront, boasts spacious and elegantly designed rooms, tailored for ultimate comfort.

Each room is equipped with a king-size bed, soundproofing, and air conditioning, along with a flat-screen satellite TV and DVD player. The most luxurious rooms offer stunning sea views and feature either a spa bath or a hydromassage shower. A warm continental breakfast is served daily in the bright dining room, where guests can take in views of the town centre. At the aperitif bar, guests can relax, enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, and sip on a refreshing drink.

Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.

Day 2 · 12km/7.5miVidova Gora and Brac Island

Vidova Gora and Brac Island

Your journey begins with a scenic 30-minute transfer to Split, where you’ll catch a morning ferry (approx. 1 hour) across the sparkling Adriatic Sea to the island of Brac. From the port, a short transfer will take you to the starting point of today’s walk up to Vidova Gora (780m) – the highest peak among the Adriatic islands – where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over Brac, Hvar, and the stunning Croatian coastline.

Descend to the seaside town of Bol, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim or take time to explore its pretty harbour and charming streets. Later in the afternoon, hop aboard the catamaran ferry (approx. 50 mins) to the island of Hvar, where Venetian elegance and sun-kissed landscapes await.

Elevation

Vidova Gora and Brac Island elevation profile

You stay at Labranda Senses Resort

Aminess Hotel
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Labranda Senses Resort

Vrboska

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Swimming pool
  • Television
  • Wifi access

Labranda Senses Resort is nestled in a tranquil, forested bay, just 20 metres from the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. Situated in the picturesque village of Vrboska, the resort is conveniently located 5 km from Jelsa and 8.2 km from Stari Grad.

Each accommodation unit is air-conditioned and offers a private balcony. Rooms are equipped with a seating area, flat-screen satellite TV, desk, and a safe, while the modern en-suite bathrooms feature a walk-in shower.

The resort boasts an array of amenities, including a spacious swimming pool. For those looking to explore the sea, there are diving services available on-site. Guests can also enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant and relax at the bar, with a 24-hour front desk always available for assistance.

A variety of activities are offered, from tennis and mini-golf to table tennis. The nearby beach provides the perfect setting for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing.

Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.

Day 3 · —At Hvar

At Hvar

Today invites you to slow the pace and soak up the serene charm of Vrboska, one of Hvar Island’s hidden gems. Often called ‘Little Venice’ for its quaint stone bridges and canal-like inlet, this peaceful village is the perfect place to unwind. Stroll through narrow lanes lined with traditional stone houses, visit the small fishing museum, or enjoy a quiet moment at the Church of St Mary.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or enjoying the calm, clear waters of the bay. Whether you choose to read beneath the pines, explore the scenic coastline, or simply rest and recharge.

Day 4 · 11km/6.8miWestern Hvar

Western Hvar

This morning’s walk begins in the peaceful hillside village of Velo Grablje, once known for its lavender production. From here, follow an old mule track to the near-forgotten hamlet of Malo Grablje, a quiet, atmospheric spot frozen in time. As the path descends through olive groves and pine forests, you’ll arrive at the coastal village of Milna – a lovely place to pause for a swim or a relaxed seaside lunch.

Continue along a scenic coastal trail back to Hvar Town, where elegant stone buildings and lively harbour views await. In the late afternoon, board the catamaran ferry to Korčula (approx. 1 hour), where you’ll spend the next three nights exploring one of Croatia’s most captivating islands.

Elevation

Western Hvar elevation profile

You stay at Hotel Liburna

Hotel Liburna
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Hotel Liburna

Korcula

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Swimming pool
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

Hotel Liburna is set on a small peninsula overlooking the old town. As well as an outdoor pool there is also access to the sea from the hotel.

Day 5 · 11km/6.8miKorcula Island

Korcula Island

After a short 15-minute transfer, your day begins in Pupnat, the island’s smallest and one of its oldest villages, rich in rustic charm and local tradition. From here, follow the historic Marmont Road, named after the French general who helped modernise Dalmatia during the Napoleonic era.

Your walk leads through peaceful fields, olive groves, and dry-stone walls that speak to centuries of island life. Soon, you’ll reach Kocje Nature Park, a hidden gem of the island with narrow canyons, moss-covered stones, and curious limestone formations that create an almost fairytale-like setting. From here, descend gradually to the terracotta rooftops and medieval streets of Korčula Town, where the day ends beneath palm-lined promenades and coastal views.

Elevation

Korcula Island elevation profile

Day 6 · 9km/5.6miMljet National Park

Mljet National Park

Board the morning catamaran to Mljet (approx. 30 mins) and explore the island’s tranquil National Park. Stroll beside the salt lakes Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero, take a boat to the 12th-century Benedictine monastery, and enjoy panoramic views before returning to Korčula by afternoon catamaran (approx. 30 mins).

Elevation

Mljet National Park elevation profile

Day 7 · —Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik

This morning, take the catamaran to Dubrovnik (approx. 2 hours), arriving with plenty of time to explore the enchanting Old Town. Wander the marbled streets, baroque churches, and elegant palaces, or visit one of the city’s many museums. For spectacular coastal and city views, walk the ancient city walls (payable locally) – a fitting finale to your Dalmatian adventure.

You stay at Hotel Perla

Hotel Perla
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Hotel Perla

Dubrovnik

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

Hotel Perla is located in the stunning Lapad Bay of Dubrovnik.

Situated along the city’s promenade, the Perla is surrounded by charming bars and cafés, leading to the lovely gravel beach just 200 metres away.

The hotel’s restaurant, Agora, with its terrace, offers a wide selection of local cuisine and provides an ideal romantic setting for dining on warm evenings.

Each day begins with a generous breakfast, prepared with local ingredients whenever possible.

The guest rooms are spacious, air-conditioned, and feature balconies.

Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.

Day 8 · —Leave Dubrovnik

Leave Dubrovnik

If you’re departing Dubrovnik in the evening, there’s plenty to enjoy during the day without feeling rushed. Start your morning at the Rector’s Palace, home to the Cultural History Museum, where you can admire elegant Gothic-Renaissance architecture and historical exhibits. Follow this with a visit to Dubrovnik Cathedral and the Treasury, showcasing centuries of sacred art. A walk along the city walls offers breathtaking views over the Adriatic and Old Town rooftops-an unmissable experience.
Round off your visit with a leisurely lunch or coffee in Gundulić Square, soaking up the charm and atmosphere before your onward journey.

What our travellers say

Wonderful mixture of walking and culture – really beautiful, walks not too strenuous and so give plenty of time for sitting down and reading a book etc as well.

Mrs Brown

Great holiday especially out of season! Would be very busy in peak season and loved having walks and beaches to myself, not having to book restaurants and everywhere so green and lush! Great walks and plenty of time to explore the towns.

Mr Corn

We travelled with our son who has special needs and we had a great time. The itinerary, organisation and choice of hotels and food was really good and the small number of special requirements we had were met really well. Croatia is a beautiful country and we had the best mix of activity and relaxation and met some lovely fellow travellers too.

Mr Kilburn

We visited Croatia May 20-28th 2023 and were very glad that we were not there in high season when apparently most of the islands we visited would be heaving with tourists. The weather was perfect and on many of our walks we met very few people, if any. Island hopping is an ideal way to enjoy the amazing scenery. One word of advice, make sure that you keep all your paperwork safe. It can be quite confusing at first to receive so many vouchers, which are essential for ferries and pickups. Having said that, everything worked seamlessly, apart from the time we nearly ended up in Dubrovnik, not realising we had docked in Mlijet! Take poles- nearly all walks are downhill on stony ground. I struggled a bit with the walk on Day 2 and opted to skip Day 3 walk due to the tight schedule. Otherwise all the walks were manageable and definitely worth it for the spectacular scenery. We found Croatia to be a little more expensive than anticipated. However, we would thoroughly recommend this holiday.

CERNY

This holiday was beautiful! It was so well organised. Island hopping is very different to the other Headwater holiday’s we have done and be aware of the extra mileage of ferry hopping on top of the walks. The hotels were well placed and their hosts were amazing! Mljet was stunning and the walk to the top is so worth it!!! Hvar was beautiful but the Jelsa bus walk was very tight on time. Adding an extra day in Split was fantastic and he Croatian people were so friendly and kind. Overall we enjoyed every second and i would thoroughly recommend it!

RECHERT

The walks were challenging enough to get a sense of achievement without feeling overstretched. The GPS navigation made it almost impossible to go wrong and was a source of comfort, as was having Azra answering very quickly when I had to phone her with a question.
The accommodation and instructions were spot on, which led to me having a more relaxing week than when I have organised my own trips.
Self guided suited us as we’re used to ‘doing our own thing’ but this tour gave us our own space (with everyone having different walking paces) but provided the benefit of having other similarly minded people to share our trials and tribulations with at the end of each day – if you wanted to.
I would definitely recommend Headwater/Exodus to anybody wanting a self guided walking tour.

BOON

Croatia is a beautiful country. We had great walks, lovely scenery and good hotels. At the briefing we felt a bit overwhelmed with the amount of info re transfers, taxis and ferries but all worked well and all the tickets , bookings etc are well presented in a folder so we didn’t loose anything! Day 3 – St Antonie – route on Jelsa – the bus drops you just outside of town rather than in the town centre so keep an eye out and check with the driver if you’re at Jesla – we missed the stop but the driver very kindly took us back! Walking to the Tor at the beginning of the walk is more like a 3 booter and involves quiet a bit of scrambling. Once at the top though the rest of the walk is easier. We shared a cab back to Hvar with other walkers on the trip later in the day so as not to have to clock watch/ rush for the last bus back in the early afternoon. Overall a fab trip with varied and interesting walks.

SAUNDERS

We both thoroughly enjoyed our Dalmatian Island hopping experience. It was a perfect combination of hiking and exploring the stunning and historic local area – soaking up the beauty of the natural scenery as well as the spectacular towns. The itinerary was very well thought through with plenty of free time to sightsee and the local guide was excellent. All of the transfers worked like clockwork and we loved the additional experience of catching boats between the islands. We got an early morning flight to Split which meant that we had plenty of time to explore Trogir which was well worth the early start! We had been to Dubrovnik previously so we spent our last afternoon just relaxing in Lapad. But others may want longer to explore the delights of Dubrovnik. Overall we would definitely recommend this trip!

Jeremy Hawkins

I have travelled with you on numerous trips and find your organisation is very good. The information you supply is comprehensive and generally covers everything I need to know. The staff are always very helpful and quick to respond to any queries

Janet Gosling

Very good overall, perhaps 4* hotels are best where possible in Croatia

Melanie Ridley
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Positive impact

Carbon score for this trip

24.0

Kg CO₂e

per person, per night

Relative to other Headwater trips

We measure emissions from the parts of the holiday we organise — including accommodation, in-trip transport, meals and activities — and express them as CO₂e per person, per night. Our label doesn’t include your travel to and from the start of the trip. As a Certified B Corp, Headwater is committed to reducing this figure and to positively impacting local communities, the local environment and our staff. Learn more

From the journal

From£1,279per person