Croatia
Croatia is a Mediterranean country with a legacy of numerous historical periods intertwining in a truly unique and interesting way. Population migrating, times of war and peace, cultures, religions, nations, etc. All these factors have created a unique story of this part of the world to which nature was more than kind. Mighty world powers came and went away, bringing both the good and the bad to the inhabitants, both building and destroying and leaving behind numerous buildings, cultural and historical phenomena, as well as customs and habits, which keep fascinating the visitors who are not afraid to take a deeper look and learn more about Croatia than what the few pages in tourist brochures have to offer.
The indented coast, pleasant climate, rich flora and fauna, breath-taking landscapes and the never-ending blue sea are only some of the well-known features reminding one of the amazing Croatia’s natural wealth and favourable geographic position. Protected from the cold currents by the Alps and the Pannonian Valley on the north side, and facing the south and 1185 islands, islets, cliffs and reefs spread all over it, Croatia’s title as the Mediterranean jewel is rightfully earned. The coast is exceptionally well-indented along its entire length, from the Savudrija Cape to Prevlaka, and the sea is clear and rich with diverse sea food what is particularly thrilling for the numerous fans of the indigenous Mediterranean cooking.
If we should speak of the gastronomy as a unique Croatian feature, we must mention that diverse dishes have been traditionally prepared in both the continental and coastal area and that even the titles of these dishes give away the combination of various cultures, religions and customs. The tables have always reflected the nature and the way people lived in a certain region and that is best witnessed in the examples of dishes based on sea food which are specific for the coastal part of Croatia, as well as those specific for the continental population which prefers meat dishes and “stodgy” food, so to speak.
Croatia is abundant with natural wealth and the visitors can admire the best examples of nature at work in its national parks, nature parks and ornithological reserves. As a country of exceptional nature, culture, history, cooking and a thousand-year-long tradition, Croatia offers its visitors countless possibilities of enjoying different ways of relaxation and fun and participating in various activities, as well as many events and manifestations.
Of course, these are only the basic ideas that first come to mind when we think of Croatia and we must not forget the people who are those leaving the final mark on everything – they are the friendly hosts who will make you feel comfortable and relaxed. The entire Croatian coast, from the furthest part on the west of the Istrian peninsula to the most southern Dalmatian islands, as well as the whole continental region, from Gorski kotar and Lika on the west to Međimurje and Zagorje up north and Slavonija and Baranja on the east, have plenty to offer to its visitors. They make an interesting and authentic story about the people, history, nature and picturesque landscapes which take one’s breath away.