Hike & Taste Dalmatia: From Island Trails to Rural Tables is a multi-day journey through the heart of Central Dalmatia, combining guided hiking, island exploration, and authentic local gastronomy. Starting in Split, the experience moves seamlessly from the living history of Diocletian’s Palace and the scenic Marjan Forest Park to the island landscapes of Brač, where panoramic ridge walks lead to secluded heritage sites and breathtaking viewpoints over the Adriatic.
The journey continues along historic mountain paths of Biokovo, following the old “French Road” and uncovering layers of cultural and natural heritage, before descending into traditional Dalmatian villages where locally sourced meals bring the landscape to the table. Carefully selected accommodations, private transfers, and curated culinary experiences ensure comfort throughout, while every hike is designed to reveal a different face of Dalmatia – from coastal cities and forested hills to island trails and rural hinterlands.
Blending active exploration with slow travel philosophy, this itinerary offers an immersive way to experience Dalmatia through movement, nature, and taste – connecting people, places, and traditions in a single, cohesive journey.
For a full refund, cancel at least 30 days in advance.
Full itinerary description
Arrival in Split and private transfer to a carefully selected eco-certified boutique hotel, A-category, committed to sustainability and renewable energy use. After check-in, the rest of the day is free to relax or take an optional stroll through the city and its historic surroundings. Overnight in Split.
The day begins in the heart of Split with a relaxed urban hike through the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace. Walking through Peristil, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, Vestibule, and narrow stone streets, you experience over 1,700 years of living history where everyday life and ancient heritage blend seamlessly. From the old town, the route continues into Varoš, one of Split’s most authentic historic districts, before ascending towards Marjan Hill – the city’s green oasis. The hike leads through Mediterranean pine forest, passing St. Nicholas Church, the ancient Jewish cemetery, the Botanical Garden, and former hermit dwellings. The highlight of the day is the panoramic viewpoint at Sedlo, offering sweeping views over Split, the islands of Brač, Šolta, and Čiovo, and the surrounding mountains. The descent leads to Bene beach area for a relaxing break by the sea. Return to the city in the afternoon, with the rest of the day at leisure.
After a scenic sailing journey from Split, we arrive on Brač, Croatia’s largest Dalmatian island, known for its dramatic landscapes, stone heritage, and pristine nature. The day begins with a gentle hike through fragrant Mediterranean vegetation towards the remarkable Blaca Hermitage, a secluded monastery founded in the 16th century by Glagolitic monks seeking refuge and solitude. Hidden within a steep rocky valley, Blaca stands as a testament to centuries of self-sufficient living, combining spirituality, science, and harmony with nature. Following the visit, the adventure continues towards Vidova Gora (778 m), the highest island peak in the Adriatic. The hike rewards us with breathtaking panoramic views over Brač, the famous Zlatni Rat beach, the island of Hvar, and the surrounding archipelago. From this spectacular viewpoint, the beauty and scale of Dalmatia unfold in every direction. After the hike, we enjoy a traditional island lunch prepared with locally sourced ingredients, including eco-certified lamb and olive oil. The meal offers an authentic taste of Brač’s culinary heritage and rural traditions. In the evening, we sail back to Split as the sun sets over the Adriatic, concluding a day that perfectly combines nature, culture, history, and local gastronomy.
Today takes us from the Adriatic coast into the rugged landscapes of the mighty Biokovo Mountain, where history, nature, and local traditions come together in a uniquely Dalmatian hiking experience. Our adventure begins in the village of Brela, at the start of the historic French Road Trail. Built during the brief period of Napoleonic rule in Dalmatia, this remarkable engineering project was designed to connect the Makarska Riviera with the inland regions beyond Biokovo. Although never fully completed, the road remains one of the most fascinating historical hiking routes in the area and is protected as a cultural heritage site. Following the gently ascending trail, we hike through pristine Mediterranean landscapes while enjoying ever-expanding views over the Adriatic Sea, nearby islands, and the dramatic slopes of Biokovo. Along the way, we learn about the mountain’s rich flora and the impressive vision behind this early 19th-century infrastructure project. Thanks to its gradual incline, the route offers a comfortable and rewarding walk suitable for a wide range of hikers. After descending from the mountain, we leave the coast behind and head into the peaceful Dalmatian hinterland. In the traditional village of Tugare, we are welcomed at a family-owned rural estate, where authentic hospitality and a slower pace of life provide a perfect contrast to the morning's adventure. The day concludes with a traditional farm-to-table lunch featuring seasonal ingredients sourced directly from the surrounding countryside. Prepared according to local recipes passed down through generations, the meal offers a genuine taste of Dalmatian rural culture and serves as the perfect finale to a day spent exploring both the natural and cultural landscapes of the region.
After breakfast and check-out, a transfer is arranged to Split Airport. As the journey comes to an end, you leave with lasting memories of Dalmatia’s diverse landscapes, rich heritage, and authentic local experiences. From exploring the historic streets of Split and hiking through the pine-covered slopes of Marjan, to discovering the hidden monastery of Blaca on Brač and walking the historic trails of Biokovo, each day has offered a unique perspective on the region. More than just a hiking holiday, this experience combines nature, culture, history, and gastronomy, revealing Dalmatia beyond its postcard scenery. While the trip concludes today, the memories of breathtaking views, traditional flavors, island tranquility, and genuine local hospitality remain long after the journey home.
For a full refund, cancel at least 30 days in advance.
A pleasant drive, safe and clean vehicle and a receptive driver are
our standards for every journey. Select one of the listed vehicles
that best suits your type of travel and enjoy the drive to your
destination carefree.
1 - 3 passengers
4 - 8 passengers
9 - 15 passengers
16 - 50 passengers
