Croatia has put the world at its feet with its beauty, history and culture – but also has plenty to offer those who want to be active on their holiday.

Here you will find the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, which offer fantastic diving, the best in Europe according to many. In the mountains there are many hiking trails of varying difficulty. Croatia is also called the ”Land of a Thousand Islands”: more than 1,200 islands lie like a string of pearls along the long coastline. A dream for anyone who loves sailing and paddling. Croatia’s natural conditions make the country a paradise for active holidaymakers: – Croatia’s slightly ”odd” shape provides a unique proximity to the sea and the mountains at the same time. This means that you can enjoy a beautiful hike or mountain climbing in the morning and kitesurf on the beach in the afternoon, says Vedran Sušić, director of the Croatian Tourist Board in Stockholm.

Challenges in Dubrovnik

Croatia offers real challenges, through various events. Dubrovnik, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and known from the TV series Games of Thrones, is now also hosting the world-famous Spartan Trail Championship running competition. But don't forget to walk on the six-meter high walls that surround the Old Town. The view of the city and the sea is – fantastic! Dubrovnik is a perfect starting point for an active holiday this autumn. During the winter season, Croatia Airlines flies time-efficiently from Stockholm to Dubrovnik with a short stopover in Frankfurt. From Dubrovnik you can easily reach several of Dalmatia's charming cities, such as; Šibenik, Split, Makarska and Zadar. And off the coast you will find some of Croatia's most famous islands; Brač, Hvar, Korčula and Vis. Sustainable tourism is a word of praise when more and more people want to discover Croatia, says Vedran Sušić.

– We work intensively with sustainable development. As a visitor, you should be able to enjoy various activities and know that they have been developed with the best of the environment in mind, eat organic food and drink local wines. In collaboration with local authorities, we will continue to develop all possible activities, especially during the pre- and post-season.

Finally: What are your best tips for activities?
– I have many… But if I had to choose just a few: Riding along the river in Slavonia, sailing in Split's island world, and rafting and cycling in the mountains of Gorski Kotar, which is still relatively undiscovered by tourists but loved by locals.

Croatia's slightly "odd" shape provides a unique proximity to the sea and the mountains at the same time.

Active tips! * Hike in the footsteps of Games of Thrones Jump on the "set-jetting" travel trend and explore the filming locations for Game of Thrones. There are several travel agencies that offer tours, in Dubrovnik as well as Split and Sibenik. * Hiking with spectacular views Mount Biokovo, above the city of Makarska, is Croatia's second highest mountain. Enjoy a spectacular view from the "Skywalk", a glass platform that protrudes from the mountain at an altitude of 1,228 meters. * Hike in Krka National Park Krka is one of Croatia's most beloved national parks. There are 22 beautiful hiking trails and beautiful waterfalls. * The Dubrovnik Spartan Trail 2023 Challenge This autumn, Dubrovnik will host the world-famous Spartan Trail running competition. The race consists of three disciplines: 10 km, half marathon and 50 km. When: October 28–29. * Exciting outdoor festival & spectacular sunset The port city of Zadar in northern Dalmatia is one of Croatia's oldest cities but also has a lot of contemporary architecture - such as the first sea organ in the world. Zadar also hosts an outdoor-themed festival every year. Enjoy the spectacular sunset too. The most beautiful in the world according to Alfred Hitchcock. * Choose a mountain Croatia has a long climbing tradition and was among the first seven nations in the world to establish a national climbing organization. Some famous peaks are Sveto Brdo, Bijele Stijene and Gola Plješivica. * The big blue island of Hvar is ranked among the world's ten best islands to dive around. Discover wrecks, caves and coral reefs. * Mini kayak trip A trip to the small island of Lokrum, located a convenient distance outside Dubrovnik, is a perfect beginner's trip. The island is a natural paradise and legend has it that King Richard the Lionheart was shipwrecked here on his way home from the Crusades in the 12th century. Explore historic buildings and swim in secluded small coves. * Kayaking in the Dalmatian Archipelago When the kayak pushes forward over the mirror-like sea - then tranquility sets in. Take a trip out among the Elafiti Islands in the Dubrovnik archipelago. The permanently inhabited islands of Lopud, Šipan and Kolocep offer a nice combination of history, beautiful architecture and untouched nature. * On two wheels Cycle around the hills and vineyards of the island of Vis and take the opportunity to taste some of the best local wines. The island was also the filming location for the sequel to the film Mamma Mia. More Croatia information: 
www.croatia.hr/en-gb