Croatia Island Explorer

7 days from €1,469

Explore Croatia on foot

Challenging and rewarding itinerary

Experienced Hiking Guides

Boutique small hotels

Like-minded travellers

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Explore Croatia's Islands on foot

Hike to new heights as you discover the best of the Dalmatian Coastline and its islands on our Croatia Island Explorer!

Designed for curious, like-minded travellers, our small group tours venture off the beaten track to uncover a more authentic side of Croatia - on foot. Led by experienced hiking guides and staying in charming boutique hotels, you’ll experience the rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage of the islands beyond the usual tourist trail.

Climb to the highest peak on Brač Island, explore strongholds once used by Napoleon and Croatian pirates, and work up an appetite before a wine tasting and traditional lunch on the UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain. You’ll also take in the stunning beauty of Krka National Park - just one of the many highlights of the Croatia Island Explorer.

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Itinerary

SUMMARY

The Croatia Island Explorer showcases the very best of the Dalmatian Islands on a 7-day hiking adventure.

Your journey begins in the ancient city of Split, looping through the picturesque islands of Brač and Hvar before returning to Split’s scenic waterfront.

Follow historic trails, hike to breathtaking peaks, immerse yourself in local culture, and walk in the footsteps of history as you explore iconic landmarks and stunning natural wonders along the way.

Daily Hike Overview: Average Daily Distance: 5.8km Average Daily Hike Time: 3hrs

Itinerary Highlights:

Wander the impressive Diocletian’s Palace in Split
Hike to Mirabella Fortress for sweeping Cetina Valley views
Climb Vidova Gora; Brac Island's highest peak
Visit the Spanjola & Napoleon Fortresses in Hvar
Enjoy a traditional lunch and local wine tasting
Be wowed by the waterfalls of Krka National Park

SUMMARY

Welcome to Split!

This afternoon, take the time to explore Diocletian’s Palace - an ancient fortress-like complex at the heart of Split’s Old Town, built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century.

Wander through the winding streets of the historic city centre before checking into your hotel and meeting your fellow travellers at the Welcome Meeting.

This evening, enjoy a taste of traditional Dalmatian cuisine as you get to know your group over your included Welcome Dinner.

SUMMARY

Rise and shine - your adventure begins! This morning, we’ll depart Split and transfer to the charming coastal town of Omiš, where we’ll kick off our first hike.

Today's trail takes us up to the historic fortress overlooking the town, offering breathtaking views of the Cetina Valley on one side and the Adriatic Sea on the other. With ancient fortifications and a scenic coastal backdrop, this hike is the perfect introduction to your week of exploration.

After working up an appetite, we’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch in Omiš before returning to Split for a short ferry ride to Bol, the largest town on the island of Brač. With its picturesque harbour, iconic Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach, and cobblestone streets lined with shops and restaurants, Bol is a beautiful place to settle in and discover island life.

Day 2 Hike Overview

Distance: 8km
Time: 3hrs
Ascent: 290m

SUMMARY

We’ll start the day with breakfast at the hotel to fuel up for this morning’s hike. Our trail leads us to Vidova Gora, the highest peak on Brač, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views across the Adriatic Sea.

After the hike, we’ll return to Bol to relax and enjoy lunch at your leisure before catching the ferry to the island of Hvar.

Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel, and you’ll have free time to explore the vibrant Hvar Town in the early evening.

Stroll the cobblestone streets, browse boutique shops, enjoy a waterfront dinner, or grab an ice cream and soak in the lively atmosphere of this stunning island town.

Day 3 Hike Overview

Distance: 7km
Time: 2.5hrs
Ascent: 432m

SUMMARY

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before we set off to walk in the footsteps of Napoleon on today’s hike!

We’ll climb above Hvar Town, pausing to catch our breath at the 15th-century Španjola Fortress, before continuing on to the Napoleon Fortress, where panoramic views of the island and nearby Pakleni Islands await.

After taking in the scenery, we’ll descend back into Hvar Town and enjoy lunch before transferring to Stari Grad - the oldest town in Croatia, known for its charming harbour and the UNESCO-protected Stari Grad Plain.

The afternoon is yours to swim, explore, and wander through the winding alleyways that give Stari Grad its quaint charm.

In the evening, settle into a traditional konoba for a relaxed dinner before returning to the hotel.

Day 3 Hike Overview

Distance: 6km
Time: 3hrs
Ascent: 233m

SUMMARY

After breakfast, we’ll begin today’s hike from Stari Grad to Purkin Kuk, following a scenic coastal trail lined with traditional stone walls. Our walk ends at a fascinating fortified settlement, where ancient megalithic walls tell stories of the island’s rich past. We’ll pause here to catch our breath and soak in the views before making our way back to Stari Grad.

This afternoon, you have the option to join a local wine tasting and traditional lunch.

After lunch, we’ll take the ferry back to Split and check in to our hotel for a relaxed afternoon at your own pace.

Day 5 Hike Overview

Distance: 6km
Time: 2.5hrs
Ascent: 250m

Optional Excursion Local Wine Tasting & Traditional Lunch

SUMMARY

This morning, we’ll enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Krka National Park - a stunning natural wonder famous for its cascading waterfalls and winding river systems.

You’ll have time to explore the park’s scenic boardwalks and trails at your own pace, soaking in the lush landscapes and tranquil beauty of this protected area.

After a late lunch in the National Park, we’ll head back to Split for a relaxed afternoon. Spend it however you like - people-watching with a coffee along the Riva, unwinding at the hotel, or taking a refreshing dip at the beach.

This evening, we’ll come together for an included Farewell Dinner in Split to toast an unforgettable week of adventure.

Day 6 Hike Overview

Distance: 2km
Time: 3hrs
Ascent: 53m

SUMMARY

Enjoy breakfast and a relaxing morning at the hotel before it's time to check out and say farewell to your fellow travellers.

Pricing

Secure your spot with only a €60 deposit. Your full balance isn't due until 12 weeks before departure.

Departure date Route Price

Inclusions

Experienced Hike Guide

Explore Croatia with a local, experienced guide who leads each day's hiking itinerary

Breakfast Daily

Continental breakfast is included daily

Ferry Tickets & Port Transfers

We’ll organise your ferries & transfers between the port and your hotel

Krka National Park Entrance

Entrance to Krka National Park

Two Evening Meals

A Welcome Dinner & Farewell Dinner are included on the Croatia Island Explorer

Hike Transfers

Selected transfers to/from the start/end hiking locations

6 Nights Accommodation

6 nights accommodation in boutique hotels (twin-share)

Daily Hikes

Explore Croatia on foot with daily guided hikes

Who Are Your Guides?

Experienced Hikers

Your experienced guide has hiked these trails many times before and works closely with us to curate the perfect itinerary for our guests! Our Guides are passionate about showing travellers the best trails, peaks and views this incredible country has to offer.

First Aid Trained

Your Guide is First Aid trained and able to respond in the unlikely event of a medical situation arising whilst hiking.

Local Experts

Your guide is a local expert, with in-depth knowledge of Croatia’s flora, fauna, culture, and history.

Health & Safety Trained

Guides are Health and Safety trained, following guidelines from the British Safety Council. Your Guide is well-versed in how to look after guests during their tour!

Your Accommodation

Boutique Hotels

Twin-share rooms are included on all Croatia Island Explorer tours, providing a relaxing and welcoming space to retreat to after an invigorating day of exploring! Rooms are air-conditioned and include a private ensuite.

Each unique hotel is family-run, offering Croatian hospitality and a relaxing atmosphere. There are various spaces to relax and unwind at each hotel.

Please note: images are representative of the accommodation provided at each destination. If this particular accommodation is not available, accommodation of equal standard will be provided at each location.

FAQ's

The Croatia Island Explorer is a small-group tour that highlights the best of the Dalmatian coastline on a 7-day hiking adventure.

Starting and ending in Split, the journey loops through the picturesque islands of Brač and Hvar, offering a mix of scenic trails, coastal charm, and cultural discovery. Perfect for travellers who love to hike, explore, and connect with like-minded adventurers.

The tour officially begins at 5pm in Split with a welcome meeting at the hotel, and concludes with check-out in Split on the morning of Day 7.

We recommend you have a reasonable level of fitness to participate in the daily hikes offered on the Croatia Island Explorer. Each day’s itinerary brings a different challenge, and your guide will cater to your group’s interests and abilities. If you don’t feel up to hiking or feel a particular day may be too strenuous, you’re welcome to spend the day relaxing at the hotel or exploring a nearby town.

You will stay in twin-share ensuite rooms on the Croatia Island Explorer.

Please note: images are representative of the accommodation provided at each destination. If this particular accommodation is not available, accommodation of equal standard will be provided at each location.

Prices are based on two people sharing; however, for those who are in odd-numbered groups or travelling solo, you will share your room with another like-minded traveller of the same sex.

Split has an international airport that many low-cost European and International carriers service. Flights are not included in our tours.

A basic continental breakfast is included daily, along with a Welcome and Farewell Dinner. Other meals and snacks aren’t included, giving you the freedom to enjoy local cuisine and spend as much or as little as you like. Your Guide will happily recommend great spots to eat and drink along the way!

This tour is suited to young professionals and young-at-heart travellers. The Croatia Island Explorer is an 18+ tour and attracts travellers between the ages of 20 and 60.

Our Croatia Island Explorer is not a cruise. You will travel between the islands via public ferries and stay in boutique hotels on each island and in Split.

The length of the ferry will vary depending on the destination, ranging from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. We recommend bringing a good book or utilising the onboard wi-fi on some of the longer journeys.

We recommend a starting budget of €60 per person, per day to cover meals. If you would like to participate in additional excursions or dine at higher-end restaurants, we suggest allowing additional budget. Croatia is a part of the European Union and uses the Euro. There are plenty of ATM’s in Croatia where you can get cash out.

Yes! You'll have time to explore local culture, take a stroll, or get up to whatever you desire to make the most out of your experience. Your tour guide will advise you each day as to when free time is available.

Yes, we are! Sail Croatia owns and operates Island Hopping. Sail Croatia has been operating since 2003 and today is one of the biggest and most respected tour operators in Europe.

Yes, the itinerary may change due to a variety of factors beyond our control, including weather conditions. In the event of an itinerary change, we will make every effort to offer a suitable alternative that ensures an enjoyable and safe experience for all guests.

Inspiration For Your Next Hike

3 minute read The Ultimate Guide to the Dalmatian Islands

Hvar, Korcula, Mljet and more… chances are you’ve heard of the little slices of paradise that are dotted throughout central Croatia, but with so many islands to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by where to go, what to do and what are the must-see spots. This ultimate guide to the Dalmatian Islands will dive into the very best islands to visit, when and how to get there, and of course, the most popular island hopping itineraries!

3 minute read The Ultimate Guide To National Parks In Croatia

People are flocking to the Dalmatian region from every corner of the globe and it isn’t just the country’s stunning coastline that’s attracting them! Over a third of Croatia’s surface area is covered by eight national parks and 11 nature parks dotted throughout the country.