5. ABOUT CROATIA
Croatia is a peaceful, young democratic country (member of the UN and EU), which may surprise people considering the well-publicised strife that followed its declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. Most of the country remained untouched by the conflict and today it is among the safest countries in the world to visit.
Croatia’s size compares to all of Ireland, with a population of over 4.5 million. Zagreb is its capital and more than half of Croatia borders the Adriatic Sea. Croatia has a spectacular coastline of 1,778 km and 1,185 offshore islands.
The country has evolved from centuries of occupation from foreign empires – namely the Romans, Venetians, Austro-Hungarians, Greeks, and French. This has produced a culture fascinating in its diversity. It has a charm that is neither Mediterranean nor Central European, but a unique combination of the two.
Find our more about Croatia here.
6. LOCATIONS VISITED
ZAGREB
4 nights
Zagreb is one of the oldest cities in Europe and can offer its visitors the Baroque atmosphere of the Upper Town, picturesque open-air markets, diverse shopping facilities, an abundant selection of crafts and a choice vernacular cuisine. Zagreb is a city of green parks and walks, with many places to visit in the beautiful surroundings.
In spite of the rapid development of the economy and transportation, it has retained its charm, and a relaxed feeling that makes it a genuinely human city.
OPATIJA
4 nights
Opatija (pronounced o-putt-eeya) was the fashionable seaside resort of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The grand residences of the late 19th Century, painted in fresh pastels, add to the elegance and charm of this town. The stunning coastline, clear waters and many parks containing tropical plants, makes Opatija a favourite destination for a holiday. The delightful 12 km coastal promenade is lined with bay trees, palms, figs and oaks, and 19th Century grand villas.
SPLIT
4 nights
Split is a seaport that emerged from a Roman settlement founded between the 3rd and 4th Century BC. The Roman emperor Diocletian built a palace in Split in the 4th century, which is the heart of the old town. It is one of the most imposing Roman ruins in existence and is home to 3,000 people as well as shops, cafes and restaurants.
UNESCO designates Split as a cultural treasure. Its palm lined ocean front promenade is reminiscent of the French Riviera, but the rest of the city reveals a striking combination of Roman, Venetian and Hapsburg influences.
HVAR
4 nights
This is an island of vineyards, olive groves, lavender and exuberant subtropical vegetation. It is an island paradise with more hours of sunshine than anywhere on the Adriatic. Our town (also called Hvar) is a medieval town that lies between protective pine-covered slopes and the azure Adriatic.
The Greeks, Romans, Venetians, Austrians and French have all occupied this area and have left their influences. A combination of Renaissance and Gothic palaces are hidden among narrow backstreets below the 13th Century city wall, and a long seaside promenade winds along the indented coastline.
In this traffic free town with a maze of streets we have a chance to truly unwind, relax and explore our island paradise.
DUBROVNIK
4 nights
Dubrovnik for some will be a highlight of the tour and understandably so. Dubrovnik is known as the Crown Jewel of the Mediterranean and is a walled city of beautiful architecture, set on a peninsula jutting into the Adriatic. It is simply one of the prettiest places in the world. The old town with its marble streets is almost completely untouched by the modern world.
It has a profusion of fine sculpture and architectural detail that underscores a common artistic heritage. Words cannot do justice to this dazzling place, which has left many a visitor spell bound, enchanted, and wanting to return.
5. ABOUT CROATIA
Croatia is a peaceful, young democratic country (member of the UN and EU), which may surprise people considering the well-publicised strife that followed its declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. Most of the country remained untouched by the conflict and today it is among the safest countries in the world to visit.
Croatia’s size compares to all of Ireland, with a population of over 4.5 million. Zagreb is its capital and more than half of Croatia borders the Adriatic Sea. Croatia has a spectacular coastline of 1,778 km and 1,185 offshore islands.
The country has evolved from centuries of occupation from foreign empires – namely the Romans, Venetians, Austro-Hungarians, Greeks, and French. This has produced a culture fascinating in its diversity. It has a charm that is neither Mediterranean nor Central European, but a unique combination of the two.
Find our more about Croatia here.
6. LOCATIONS VISITED
ZAGREB
4 nights
Zagreb is one of the oldest cities in Europe and can offer its visitors the Baroque atmosphere of the Upper Town, picturesque open-air markets, diverse shopping facilities, an abundant selection of crafts and a choice vernacular cuisine. Zagreb is a city of green parks and walks, with many places to visit in the beautiful surroundings.
In spite of the rapid development of the economy and transportation, it has retained its charm, and a relaxed feeling that makes it a genuinely human city.
OPATIJA
4 nights
Opatija (pronounced o-putt-eeya) was the fashionable seaside resort of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The grand residences of the late 19th Century, painted in fresh pastels, add to the elegance and charm of this town. The stunning coastline, clear waters and many parks containing tropical plants, makes Opatija a favourite destination for a holiday. The delightful 12 km coastal promenade is lined with bay trees, palms, figs and oaks, and 19th Century grand villas.
SPLIT
4 nights
Split is a seaport that emerged from a Roman settlement founded between the 3rd and 4th Century BC. The Roman emperor Diocletian built a palace in Split in the 4th century, which is the heart of the old town. It is one of the most imposing Roman ruins in existence and is home to 3,000 people as well as shops, cafes and restaurants.
UNESCO designates Split as a cultural treasure. Its palm lined ocean front promenade is reminiscent of the French Riviera, but the rest of the city reveals a striking combination of Roman, Venetian and Hapsburg influences.
HVAR
4 nights
This is an island of vineyards, olive groves, lavender and exuberant subtropical vegetation. It is an island paradise with more hours of sunshine than anywhere on the Adriatic. Our town (also called Hvar) is a medieval town that lies between protective pine-covered slopes and the azure Adriatic.
The Greeks, Romans, Venetians, Austrians and French have all occupied this area and have left their influences. A combination of Renaissance and Gothic palaces are hidden among narrow backstreets below the 13th Century city wall, and a long seaside promenade winds along the indented coastline.
In this traffic free town with a maze of streets we have a chance to truly unwind, relax and explore our island paradise.
DUBROVNIK
4 nights
Dubrovnik for some will be a highlight of the tour and understandably so. Dubrovnik is known as the Crown Jewel of the Mediterranean and is a walled city of beautiful architecture, set on a peninsula jutting into the Adriatic. It is simply one of the prettiest places in the world. The old town with its marble streets is almost completely untouched by the modern world.
It has a profusion of fine sculpture and architectural detail that underscores a common artistic heritage. Words cannot do justice to this dazzling place, which has left many a visitor spell bound, enchanted, and wanting to return.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
1. TOUR SUMMARY
SLOW TRAVEL CROATIA TOUR SUMMARY
A relaxing journey from Zagreb to Dubrovnik, touring along the magnificent Croatian Coast
20 days – 10 to 30 Oct 2026
AU$ 11,400 per person - Twin Share (TO BE CONFIRMED)
AU$ 13,550 Single - includes Single Supplement (TO BE CONFIRMED)
NOTE: Single places booked out! -
WHO IS IT FOR?
Many people think that because Charles is an Artist that this is a tour for artists, but the truth is, this is a tour for anyone and everyone - no artistic skills required. It is not an art or painting tour - it is a relaxing holiday!
If you enjoy travelling at a relaxed pace, staying in beautiful hotels in magnificent locations, dining in cafes and restaurants and having plenty of free time to do as you please, then this is a tour for you. A perfect combination of organised activities and free time. It is to be considered as a holiday with some painting and sketching thrown in, for those (if any) wishing to paint.
IF YOU ARE A PAINTER
Charles is tour leader and although he may be doing some sketching/photography and film making on occasion, he will most likely be photographing and filming for tour promotion purposes.
It needs to be made clear that this is not a workshop type of tour. You are having a holiday and painting a little if you wish. Charles is happy to give advice if you seek it.
He suggests you approach the tour as a chance to do some sketching and/or painting in some amazing locations that he will show you, and treat your work as a visual journal of a great holiday. How much painting/sketching you do on this tour is your choice. It is important to Charles that you feel relaxed and free to paint as little or as much as you like, or not at all.ITINERARY SUMMARY
Please note: due to availablility accommodation may change from year to year
Zagreb 4 nights (5 star accommodation)
Opatija 4 nights (5 star accommodation)
Split 4 nights (3 star accommodation)
Hvar 4 nights (4 star accommodation)
Dubrovnik 4 nights (5 star accommodation)
Side trips to Plitvice Lakes, Istria, Lokrum, Zadar and Trogir
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5. ABOUT CROATIA
Croatia is a peaceful, young democratic country (member of the UN and EU), which may surprise people considering the well-publicised strife that followed its declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. Most of the country remained untouched by the conflict and today it is among the safest countries in the world to visit.
Croatia’s size compares to all of Ireland, with a population of over 4.5 million. Zagreb is its capital and more than half of Croatia borders the Adriatic Sea. Croatia has a spectacular coastline of 1,778 km and 1,185 offshore islands.
The country has evolved from centuries of occupation from foreign empires – namely the Romans, Venetians, Austro-Hungarians, Greeks, and French. This has produced a culture fascinating in its diversity. It has a charm that is neither Mediterranean nor Central European, but a unique combination of the two.
Find our more about Croatia here.
6. LOCATIONS VISITED
ZAGREB
4 nights
Zagreb is one of the oldest cities in Europe and can offer its visitors the Baroque atmosphere of the Upper Town, picturesque open-air markets, diverse shopping facilities, an abundant selection of crafts and a choice vernacular cuisine. Zagreb is a city of green parks and walks, with many places to visit in the beautiful surroundings.In spite of the rapid development of the economy and transportation, it has retained its charm, and a relaxed feeling that makes it a genuinely human city.
OPATIJA
4 nights
Opatija (pronounced o-putt-eeya) was the fashionable seaside resort of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The grand residences of the late 19th Century, painted in fresh pastels, add to the elegance and charm of this town. The stunning coastline, clear waters and many parks containing tropical plants, makes Opatija a favourite destination for a holiday. The delightful 12 km coastal promenade is lined with bay trees, palms, figs and oaks, and 19th Century grand villas.SPLIT
4 nights
Split is a seaport that emerged from a Roman settlement founded between the 3rd and 4th Century BC. The Roman emperor Diocletian built a palace in Split in the 4th century, which is the heart of the old town. It is one of the most imposing Roman ruins in existence and is home to 3,000 people as well as shops, cafes and restaurants.UNESCO designates Split as a cultural treasure. Its palm lined ocean front promenade is reminiscent of the French Riviera, but the rest of the city reveals a striking combination of Roman, Venetian and Hapsburg influences.
HVAR
4 nights
This is an island of vineyards, olive groves, lavender and exuberant subtropical vegetation. It is an island paradise with more hours of sunshine than anywhere on the Adriatic. Our town (also called Hvar) is a medieval town that lies between protective pine-covered slopes and the azure Adriatic.The Greeks, Romans, Venetians, Austrians and French have all occupied this area and have left their influences. A combination of Renaissance and Gothic palaces are hidden among narrow backstreets below the 13th Century city wall, and a long seaside promenade winds along the indented coastline.
In this traffic free town with a maze of streets we have a chance to truly unwind, relax and explore our island paradise.
DUBROVNIK
4 nights
Dubrovnik for some will be a highlight of the tour and understandably so. Dubrovnik is known as the Crown Jewel of the Mediterranean and is a walled city of beautiful architecture, set on a peninsula jutting into the Adriatic. It is simply one of the prettiest places in the world. The old town with its marble streets is almost completely untouched by the modern world.It has a profusion of fine sculpture and architectural detail that underscores a common artistic heritage. Words cannot do justice to this dazzling place, which has left many a visitor spell bound, enchanted, and wanting to return.
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Below you can find a selection of paintings by Charles
THE TEAM BEHIND SLOW TRAVEL CROATIA TOURS
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Founder
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.
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Design Director
The main joint leader.
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Travel Manager
For all yout travel needs
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When Nancy can’t make it Lily is the helper. Tech Savvy, professional and super organised
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Tour helpr
When Nacy cant make it. Aimee is super creative and has a keen eye for details.
What more can I say but simply amazing ... from the accommodation, food, wine (that you don’t get a hangover from) painting locations and the laughter …one more time, amazing and very memorable … best organised tour I have ever been on.
Shirley Schubach
TESTIMONIALS FROM THE SLOW TRAVEL CROATIA TOUR
If you like to eat where the locals eat, if you want local guides who are informative and engaging and if you want a balance of touring with the group and freedom to explore on your own then this is the tour for you. Charles is an outstanding host who carefully selects guides, accommodation and eateries to enhance your holiday. A wonderful experience in a truly beautiful Country I definitely hope to return. Special mention to Charles’ assistant Lily, who was also a delight!
Katrina Maxwell
This tour provides a wonderful insight into the history, culture and lifestyle of Croatia. The experience was better than I could have anticipated, fabulous accommodation, spectacular food (like seriously unbelievable!), glorious scenery and importantly great balance between sharing time as a group and time to explore for yourself. Charles has created a tour where you get the best of Croatia and will leave you wanting to go back for more! Thanks Charles and Lily
Beth Dawson
For us the whole ‘Slow Tour of Croatia’ was an exciting and unique experience. It was a great mix of interesting cultural experiences, unforgettable scenery (Plitvice Lakes being a highlight), tasty food delights (especially THAT sumptuous home cooked lunch on Hvar) and being immersed in the rich history. Throughout the tour we felt relaxed and unhurried – just being able to live in the moment was refreshing. All of this was achieved by the excellent tour organization of Charles. His knowledge of Croatia, ability to speak the language and good humoured manner allowed us to relax, feel special and enjoy this beautiful country.
Mick and Gayle Cambey
The trip to Croatia with Charles was a dream for me as his organisation was flawless, giving me freedom to see and enjoy the sights, the great food and the friendly people of such a wonderful country.
Pauline Gordon
Sights, history, culture, new friends and lots of laughs (not to mention the food, beer and wine!) This is how a holiday should be. Despite the relatively short 3 week sojourn, I came away feeling as though I had become part-Croatian. Tour was very well organised and a credit to team leader Charles and his colleagues at Albury Travel. I would recommend this trip to anyone who wants to experience the real Croatia. Hvala lijepa.
Mike Henderson
What more can I say but simply amazing ... from the accommodation, food, wine (that you don’t get a hangover from) painting locations and the laughter …one more time, amazing and very memorable … best organised tour I have ever been on.
Peter and I had the trip of a lifetime. Charles was such a good organiser from painting, degustation dinners, tour guide and incredible patience. We had so much fun, never stopped laughing. Many thanks Charles for an incredible tour.
Ray Eastwood
My experience is one that I shall never forget … I learned about Croatia, its lifestyle, language, food, wine … oh yes and painting! Your knowledge of Croatia and willingness to share it with us made this more than just a "tour". Charles, thank you for a fantastic trip.
Micheline Mathon
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