With the intense blue of the sea, the lush deep greens of pine and olive groves, and the pure white of Dalmatia stone, the Zadar region is an extraordinary and unique family holiday destination in Croatia.
In the Zadar region we come across both Mediterranean extremities: the bare sun-exposed rocky areas where only the most sturdy of therapeutic plants of the Kornati archipelago survive, from which only the hardiest sheep, goats, donkeys, wild game and bees live from, and the most fertile agricultural areas of Ravni Kotari, from where the most sought after fruit and vegetables come to Croatian markets.
In this unique area, the best cherries in the world, the famous Marasca cherries, also thrive. In such a great natural environment, a gastronomic sensation had to come to the fore by creating superb recipes amongst which is the globally known one for the liqueur Maraschino.
Northern Dalmatia is in the center of the Croatian part of the Adriatic Sea. The islands, coastline, and hinterland of the Zadar region offer everything that today makes Mediterranean cuisine the most popular in the world. It is acclaimed equally amongst doctors who are researching the healthy diet and the most respected culinary critics in the search for robust, perfectly harmonized flavors.
You should try brodet, fish and crab stew, the grilled fish salted with the famous Pag and Nin salt or the Ninski šokol, dried pork neck soaked in the red wine of Benkovac. Taste the cheese from Pag, the most highly-prized cheese in Croatia, infused with Mediterranean plants' flavors.
Sweeten your Zadar gastronomical experience with the world-famous Maraschino cherry liqueur. Despite many imitations, Maraschino is only made in Zadar from indigenous Marasca cherries, consistently respecting the procedure which was devised three centuries ago.
The region begins in the north, on the vivid white cliffs underneath the Velebit mountain, where the view of the surreal landscape of Croatia's most indented island, Pag, stretches before you. Velebit is a famous hiking paradise that never fails to amaze. Pag offers beautiful coves and beaches with unspoiled nature, as well as centers of modern tourism. Spend endless family beach days soaked up in the sun and enjoying windsurfing, kayaking, snorkeling, diving.
To pass the routes of Croatian rulers means to feel a notable diversity of experiences given by thousand-year-old towns, such as the 3,000 years old Zadar, whose fortifications have been inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List. In Nin, you will find the smallest cathedral in the world. The modern and lively tourist centers, such as Biograd na Moru and picturesque places of the Dalmatian hinterland, Ravni Kotari, and the islands, will overwhelm you with their specific Dalmatian temperament. Book tasting and outdoor experience tours and get to know the peculiarities of the local life told and explained by a native Dalmatian.
All those who visit the medieval fortress of St. Michael on the island of Ugljan during sunset, by bike or on foot, will have the opportunity to enjoy an earthly paradise made up of emerald islands. Experience the fantastic archipelago on daily island-hopping tours and discover all hidden coves and islets of the Zadar area.
Zadar County has bountiful natural and cultural attractions that will make your camping experience in Croatia an unforgettable one. Whether you are camping individually or with your friends and family, it is mandatory to explore amazing National parks, dreamy beaches, and impressive monuments.
The perfect combination of green and blue will satisfy any guest who wishes to combine an active holiday with relaxing beach days. The endless coastline of the Zadar region has extraordinary beaches, from pebble to sand shallow lagoon kid-friendly beaches. Numerous outdoor activities of National parks and nature parks in the Zadar region are an authentic experience of the region's fantastic nature.
From ancient Roman monuments to Venetian forts and remains and UNESCO heritage, Zadar County is an impressive cultural region to explore. Get to know the traditions and customs and learn about the local way of life.
More: www.zadar.hr
