ISSN 1847-1552

Issue 6 March, 2010 Year II. Not for sale

Magazine of Croatian Tourism

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Gastronomic heritageThe Champion Chef of CroatiaThe Pag cheese

Exploring destinationsIsland of RabIsland of BračIsland of Pag

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Kvarner

THE KVARNER COUNTY TOURISM OFFICEwww.kvarner.hr • e-mail: kvarner@kvarner.hr

HR-51410 Opatija, Nikole Tesle 2 • Tel.: +385(0)51 272-988; Fax: 272-909

KVARNER INFO - ADRIATIC GATEe-mail: info@kvarner.hr • Tel.:+385(0)51 623-333, 628-888

Shores, Islands, Highland

Issue 6 / Mart 2010 / Year IIVaraždin, Croatia

Way to Croatiais distributed free of charge, to travel agents and reporters in 47 countries worldwide.

PublisherVall 042 d.o.o. Croatiaway@vall042.comwww.waytocroatia.hr

Editor-in-chiefBorislav Šimenc

President of Editors CouncilŽeljko Trezner

Executive EditorDesign & LayoutTanja Bunjevac

Language Editor& TranslatorVolga Dawe

Supported byUHPA Association of Croatian Travel Agencies

PrintAKD d.o.o. ZagrebEdition: 5.500ISSN 1847-1552Upisnik HGK o izdavanju i distribuciji tiska: broj 1057

Interview 6-9 Željko Trezner, Director of Association of Croatian Travel Agencies (UHPA)

Newsflash10-15

Exploring destinations 16-21 Island of Rab Felix Arba23-28 Island of Pag30-32 Biograd na moru34-37 Nin the royal town 38-39 Privlaka the experience of sandy coves40-45 Island of Brač46-48 Resort Solaris, Šibenik 50-53 Čakovec Town of Zrinski 54-56 Kutina58-61 Bjelovar62-63 Hlebine65-67 Zlatni klas, Otrovanec

This too is Croatia68 Highlights of Croatia - The Pag Cheese69 Gastronomic heritage - Restaurant Zlatan Nikolina Lončar, The Champion Chef of Croatia

Events 72-73 Events

Impresum Table of Contents

Adriatic See

Bjelovar (58)

Močile (69)

Otrovanec (65)

Kutina (54)

Čakovec (50)

Island Brač (40)

Pag (23,68)

Rab (16)

Biograd (30)

Šibenik (46)

Nin (34)

Privlaka (38)

Hlebine (62)ZAGREB

Issues to follow:• April, 2010• June, 2010 - subject: nature• September, 2010• November, 2010 - subject: wines

Highway

WienaBratislava

Budapest

LjubljanaMunich

The power of cooperation The first year is behind us. We have been introducing you to the well-established and renown

tourist destinations in Croatia, and we did it in a meaningful, factual and reliable way. But we

have also been presenting the destination and events which are still, shall we say, a work in

progress, in other words they are still in their creative and growing phase. Throughout this

process we have been paying a great deal of attention to the interests you have expressed so

as to make sure we are at your service as much as possible. The numerous suggestions and

commendations (for which we thank you most warmly), delivered either by e-mail or by word

of mouth, are the best indication that we are going down the right path. And we hope that

following that particular path we shall be of a still greater service to you. Additional guarantee

that it shall indeed be so lies in the cooperation we have established with the Association of

Croatian travel agencies (UHPA), with which we also intend to develop several new projects.

We can therefore safely say that the start of our second year has been boosted with the new

strength of cooperation, the strength which will enable us to improve the overall quality of

our work even in these times of crisis. For our ultimate aim is to please you, our consumers.

P. S. From now on you can leaf through Borislav Šimenc, Editor in Chief

our magazine on www.waytocroatia.hr

Word from the Editor

interview

Concentrated on attracting foreign guests

Mr Željko Trezner, Director of Association of Croatian Travel Agencies

Q. The majority of the Croatian travel agencies are your members, which makes them one of the relevant factors in the creation of the current tourist policy, but also in the realization of the Croatian tourist trade and measures adopted to that aim by the relevant ministry. Bearing that in mind, which activities are you going to initiate in order to reshape the tourist image of Croatia and its profiling into a life style destination – as the ministry has been emphasising through all its measures?

A. Our chief aim is to position the incoming tourist agencies in the place which they should occupy within the Croatian tourism. Tourist agencies are an important channel of transfer and distribution of information from the demand towards the supply. At the same time, the incoming tourist agencies, primarily those operating as the destination management of a company, are practically irreplaceable in the formation process of the new tourist products and securing markets for them. They are, in fact, creating the most

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complex of tourist products in the form of package arrangements, excursions, congresses, various manifestations and events. Unless we intend to keep on selling only beds and beaches, it is essential that we restructure the existing and encourage the formation of new incoming agencies as the destination management companies. Consequently, our activities are going to be directed towards all the subjects within the tourist sector prompting them to

recognize the importance of tourist agencies in the development strategy of the Croatian tourism, and the formation of new incoming agencies as the destination management companies. Their job is to create innovative and unique tourist products designed to create a completely new image of the Croatian tourist supply. I am very pleased to say that the Ministry of tourism and the Croatian National Tourist Board are now giving us all the help which previously has not been forthcoming.

Q. A worthwhile offer of destinations depends directly on the achieved level of cooperation between all the subjects who have, so to speak, tied their life in a given destination to tourism. To what degree are the current agencies an active participant in the creation of the Croatian tourist supply, and what is their influence on the formation and reshaping of the local, regional and national tourist product going to be in the future?

A. Unfortunately, numerous awful events in our recent past resulted in the neglect of the role of tourist agencies as the mediating factor which bears a significant impact on the reduction of the seasonal quality of tourism, on expanding the scope of the supply and bringing tourist from more distant markets. Therein lies the reason why there can be no straightforward comparison

between our circumstances and those in the destination which are our direct competitors.

Unless we intend to keep on selling only beds and beaches, it is essential that we restructure the existing and encourage the formation of new incoming agencies as the destination management companies.

The wide diversity that Croatia is blessed with in many areas provides an excellent basis for the formation of the supply of products which can be tailored to the demand of the ever more segmented market.

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interviewFortunately, that situation is changing fast. The wide diversity that Croatia is blessed with in many areas provides an excellent basis for the formation of the supply of products which can be tailored to the demand of the ever more segmented market. And the incoming tourist agencies, functioning as the destination management companies, are the factors which by offering the numerous potential attractions can turn them into a measurable economic result. That will inevitably make their impact on the creation of a destination product very significant. However, that is not going to be easy unless a consensus is reached, and the individual interests of all the subjects involved recognized. Hence my belief that without the inclusion of tourist agencies into the destination management companies there can be no positive results of any significance.

Q. The continental areas provide an additional tourist potential for the country which has not yet been fully recognized. Where and how do you see the possibilities for the more positive inclusion of the continental Croatia, bearing in mind the potential of its numerous specific features and the advantages of the preserved environment?

A. The inclusion of the continental parts of Croatia into tourist trends is not so big a problem as it may seem at first glance. I believe it is quite possible that the dedication of people in the continent may easily exceed that of those in the coastal areas where tourism already exist, if only in the summer. Based on the personal experience I can confirm that people in the interior of the country are far

more aware of the need to work hard if they are to expect results in the field of tourism. Providing there is more systematic coordination and stimulation, the results are guaranteed. At the same time, the overall impetus for the development of the destination management companies is going to results in the creation of the supply that will include numerous attractions hidden in the rural areas of Croatia, primarily in its continental part. The potential offered by the continental Croatia is just

At the same time, the overall impetus for the development of the destination management companies is going to results in the creation of the supply that will include numerous attractions hidden in the rural areas of Croatia, primarily in its continental part.

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Mr Željko Trezner, Director of Association of Croatian Travel Agencies (UHPA)

as diverse and interesting as its coastal belt, and I am certain that the market catering for special interests is going to recognize that fact.

Q. To what degree can your members today be an active and experts service of quality for their colleagues in other countries, and what role does the UHPA play in the process? The local circles believe the UHPA engagement in this particular field not to have been satisfactory, indeed, it has been more or less confined to the activities within the Croatian National Tourist Board system. Is it reasonable to expect certain changes in the wok of your Association in this area as well? A. There is no doubt we already have quite a few members who are holding their own with regard to the global competition. When you have several medium size agencies which have in the last few years grown into large incoming agencies through the organic growth, without acquisitions, when they are on the receiving end of prestigious awards, when they are adopting demanding quality standards and becoming members of international organizations, then there is most definitely room for success of the incoming agencies in Croatia – difficult conditions notwithstanding. Has the support provided by UHPA been sufficient?

Well, that is another question. I do however believe that UHPA has shared in the hard times together with its members, but it has also grown into one of the leading professional associations in the tourist trade of Croatia. Which is why I would not talk of what UHPA could have been. But rather what it can be in the future. The fact that to date we have dealt more with the issues of

status and structure now enables us to concentrate on the business issues, with especial emphasis on the incoming operations, in other words, on bringing foreign tourists to our country. We have no doubts regarding the success of our activities undertaken jointly with the tourist board system. The projects that are now being prepared on those lines are sure to bring a completely new model of cooperation between tourist boards and tourist agencies. The aim is to develop new tourist products and offer them to the tourist market.

The fact that to date we have dealt more with the issues of status and structure now enables us to concentrate on the business issues, with especial emphasis on the incoming operations, in other words, on bringing foreign tourists to our country.

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newsflash

Liberalization of the entry regime

The Government of the Republic of Croatia has adopted the

Decision on the temporary suspension of the visa regime for the

citizens of the Russian Federation, Ukraine and Kazakhstan. It

allows them to enter and stay in this country for up to 90 days

with a valid passport. The suspension comes into force on April

1 and ends on October 31, 2010. In order to facilitate the entry of foreign tourists into Croatia in

2010 the liberalization of the Croatian visa regime also includes

the measure whereby no visas shall be required for foreign citizens

with a valid Schengen residence permit or a visa, for those who

arrive by boat while on a cruise, for the citizens of India and China

visiting Croatia in organized groups, as well as for the citizens of

Jordan, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. www.mint.hr

Cruiser in Dubrovnik Port

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Business meetings and study tripsThe Internatioanl Tourism Exchange PUT, the largest gathering of business trip organizers in Croatia, which took place from 24 to 26 November 2009 in the northernmost part of the country, to be specific in Međimurje, in the Sveti Martin Spa & Golf Resort, attracted close to 150 representatives of travels agencies, hotel companies, tourist boards and tourist journalists from seven countries.In addition to being introduced to the specific features of the supply of tourist products offered by the municipality of Sveti Martin, particularly with its new attraction – the reconstructed floating mill on the River Mura – the participants attended the presentation of the new tourist supply of Međimurje devised under the common name of Delectable flavours of Međimurje. The aim of the project

is to offer the traditional dishes of the area and the wines to be found along the wine road of Međimurje. The project has been joined by some twenty restaurants and as many wine makers. And in order to demonstrate the both the wealth and the quality of that offer, the hosts have treated their guests to eighteen dishes and 40 wines of Međimurje served in the attractive premises of the restaurant and cellars of the Terbotz castle. On the second day, following the working morning, the Simply the Best awards were presented at the formal lunch. The afternoon was dedicated to team games and to getting acquainted, and indeed enjoying the services offered by the Sveti Martin Spa & Golf Resort. In the evening there was dancing and partying. On the final day of the gathering a conference was held the subject of which was Through cooperation to the destination product. The aim was to try and find answers to some of the issues regarding the relations between agencies, hoteliers and tourist boards arising in the course of creating and managing a particular destination.

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newsflash

The Laureats Mali Lošinj, Iločki podrumi i Rabska fjera The Simply the Best award was founded by the Editorial Board of our magazine. It has been presented for the first time in 2009 in three categories at the ceremony organized during the Business TRIP Bourse which took place in the Sveti Martin Spa. In future this annual award, or rather the awards, are going to be presented jointly by UHPA (Croatian Association of Travel Agencies) and the Editorial Board of our magazine. The categories for which the first Simply the Best awards were given are as follows: coastal tourist destination, continental tourist destination and cultural tourist attraction. Following the selection of ten coastal destinations, ten continental destinations and ten cultural attractions in the first round, in the second round those selected underwent double annonimous grading (in the destination category 30 individual elements were graded). The coastal and the continental destinations, and three attractions with the highest number of points passed to the final round, and among them each member of the jury (consisting of ten tourist journalist, ten travel agencies and ten independent tourist experts) selected the best ones and sent their votes by electronic mail. In reaching their decision they also took into account the results acheived in the first ten months of the 2009 tourist season. The sum total of individual votes decided the winners.

In the category of coastal tourist destinations the award went to Mali Lošinj with Biograd coming second and Opatija third; in the category of continental tourist destiantons the victory belonged to the Cellars of Ilok with the tourist estates The Old Cellar and the Principovac Summer Residence; and in the category of cultural attractions the winner was the Rab Fiesta.

The award Simply the best

Mr. Mirko Herceg, representative of the Minister Tourism, is presenting the award

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Simply the best

Mali Lošinj – the quality of the overall services supplied by 11 hotels, 830 private room renters and 8 camps, combined with as many as 221 events organized in the first ten months of last year, an ongoing programme of 28 thematic excursions to the surrounding area, with over 220 km of developed walkways, cycling and thematic tracks, and a successful tourist season, undoubtedly provided a sufficient reason for the jury to award the first Simply the Best prize to Mali Lošinj.

The Rab Fiesta – this three-day festivity involving almost 700 costumed participants recreates life and customs of the centuries gone by, and offering its visitors a chance to partake in some 60 workshops demonstrating traditional skills in food preparation and production of local products, is a very special and meaningful experience.

Ilok – In the period of one year two tourist estates were organized in the easternmost part of Croatia, in the area of Ilok: The Old Cellar and the Principovac summer residence, located in the heart of the extensive vineyards of Ilok and enhanced still further with services like tennis courts, walking and cycling track, is a specific feature of the tourist supply in continental Croatia, which the unanimous vote of the jury tourist readily recognized.

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Generalturist and TUI together

The global economic crisis, which has also sent serious shivers

through the world tourist industry, had a crucial impact of the

way individual tour operators conduct their business. Some have

reduced their scope of their operations and reduced the number of

employees, and some decided to find a way to a better tomorrow

through cooperation. That was the way chosen by the Croatian

company Generalturist and the Austrian TUI, one of the leading

European tour operators. At the beginning of 2010 they have

agreed on and signed a contract on strategic partnership which the

President of the Generalturist management, Mr. Zoran Pečarević,

sees as the means of realizing a better supply of trips, and therefore

better sales results. The Austrian partner is expecting better sales of

TUI package tours in Croatia. www.generalturist.com

Partnership

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Museum of the Neanderthal man of Krapina(Hušnjakovo, Krapina)Making use of the new technologies the world renown archaeological site of Hušnjakovo in Krapina, where in 1899 Dragutin Gorjanović Kramberger discovered the remains of the Neanderthal man, has transformed its precious exhibition into a fascinating and intriguing story of the birth of the world and the history of human kind from the ice age to this day. The authors of this new exhibition are the palaeontologist Radovčić and architect Kovačić. They reconstructed the nature and living conditions of those times, while the hyper-realistic sculptures done by Elisabeth Daynes brought the Neanderthal family to life. The multi-medial technology used to stage the exhibition launches one to a distant and fascinating journey. The interactive presentation of things like the morphological diversity of the Neanderthal people and of today’s man opens up through a simple touch of the interactive installation of the body, while the sense of perception and the spiritual world of those predecessors of ours are depicted through the realistic breaking of ice beneath one’s feet. To put it into a nutshell, the Neanderthal of Krapina will be an experience not forgottenin a hurry. The Museum is open every day except Monday from 9h to 18h. The price of a ticket is 50 Kn for adults and 25 Kn for children, students and pensioners. Group visits enjoy special discount. Visits of groups of 20-25 persons have to be arranged with the Museum in advance.

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Rab, located in the Bay of Kvarner about 105 km from the port of Rijeka, is one of the first tourist oases of the northern Adriatic. It enjoys

an exceptionally favourable geographical position both with regard to its climate and to the communications. Its summers are long and warm, its winters mild, and the insolation of 2500 sun-soaked hours per year rates it among the sunniest areas of Europe. This lovely small town with four bell towers, the sound of which have become its symbol, sits on a tiny peninsula between the cove of St. Euphemia and the town port . It is a town of rich historic heritage that transforms into a genuine experience based on a 120 year long tradition of organized tourism.The sea - clean and generous, all types of beautiful beaches, an abundance of wondrous natural features, all kinds of medicinal herbs, fields , vineyards and olive groves all bearing fruit, but above all else the islanders of Rab who welcome each visitor as a dear friend, make this town and this island a destination suited to rest and recreation the year round.

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keywords: sun , sea, beaches, greenery, culture,

fun , entertainement and experiences,

walking, Rab Fiesta, crossbowmen

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Island of Rab “Felix Arba”

Way to Croatiasights

Visitors coming by a ferry from Jablanac are faced with its stark, bare face, a striking landscape around the ferry port of Mišnjak which looks like some strange uninhabited island. But it is a deceiving picture because it offers only a small part of the island, the part exposed to the bora swooping down from Velebit. The rest of it is covered with greenery

and woods. Indeed, it is the woods that once covered the entire island that the

name originates from.

The word “rab” comes from the Illyrian and Liburnian “arba”, which means “darkness”. The

name Arba is first mentioned on a stone plaque from the end of the 1st c. B.C. , telling us the

Emperor Augustus ordered the construction of the town walls and a tower.

Rab in one of the few Croatian settlement which go back to the pre-Roman times. Its first inhabitants were

the Liburni. The Romans turned it into their municipium. In the 2nd or the 3rd century Rome presented the town

of Rab with an amphora which bore the inscription “Felix Arba” – Lucky Arba. Rome awarded this title only when a town earned and deserved recognition for its achievements,

importance or wealth. In those times of luck numerous buildings, temples and monuments were built.

Kaldanac, the old town nucleus, contains many buildings well worth visiting. The oldest bell tower of Rab rises nex to the Benedictine monastery of St. Andrew. The architectural wealth lent to the old heart of Rab by its churches is added to by the numerous mansions and palaces built by nobility, patricians and ordinary but well to do citizens.

Standing out among them is the Ducal Palace with its Gothic-cum-Renaissance tower, the wonderful Renaissance palaces of Dominis-Nimira, and others. The Tower of the Brave and the St. Christopher’s Tower were built in the 15th century and represent the remnants of the medieval town walls and fortifications.

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accommodationNumerous hotels, a camp, two ACY marinas (www.aci-club.hr), pensions, villas, apartments and rooms in private homes offers a variety of high quality accommodation. A good part of the hotels are a part of Imperial, the largest hotels company on the island.Hotel Imperial Hotel (4*) - 134 rooms, Padova (3*) - 175 rooms, www.imperial.hrHotel Carolina (3*), Hotel Eva (2*),Hoteli Rab (3*), 138 rooms, www.hotelrab.com Hotel Arbiana (4*), 28 rooms, www.arbianahotel.com Hotel Istra (3*), 101 rooms, www.hotel-istra.hr The island of Rab is linked to the mainland throughout the year by ferry and catamaran lines:1. Jablanac – Mišnjak-Jablanac, car ferry www.rapska-plovidba.hr2. Valbiska-Lopar-Valbiska, car ferry www.lnp.hr3. Rijeka-Rab-Rijeka catamaran www.jadrolinija.hrIn the 2010 tourist season the company Imperial d.d. is providing transport service for passangers travelling from the Rijeka airport to Rab. Transport has to be booked in advance ( preferably 5 days in advance). Information and booking to be made by e-mail: transfer@imperial.hr, sale@imperial.hr

sports & recreationThe indented coastline and the diversity of the island landscape provides those looking for active holiday plenty of opportunities for sports and recreation, enjoyment and healthy lifestyle. There are altogether 157 cycling tracks, 144 walking paths, 5 diving centres, twenty tennis courts, 5 sports ground for small sports, sports hall, paintball course, sea-kayak, hunting an fishing, water sports. The offer of recreational programme is further enriched by a number of charter fleets of fast and not so fast boats and ships which take no time to sail one to a sheltered cove where active holiday can be enjoyed to one’s heart content.

events

Way to Croatia

Rab Fiesta25-27 July 2010Unique in Croatia, the medieval summer festival known as the Rab Fiesta, issues from the historic heritage and is the celebration of the restored municipal holidays declared back in the 14th century by the Great Council of the town of Rab in honour of St. Christophorus, the patron saint of the town. Among the participants of the Fiesta are tradesmen of the island of Rab still actively engaged in traditional crafts, as well as associations and culture clubs dedicated to the preservation of traditional values and the production of things home-made. The revived festivities last for three days: 25 July – the Feast of St. Jacob; 26 July – the Feast of St. Ann, and 27 July – the Feast of St. Christophorus. For those three days the whole of Rab is wearing the

Renaissance, hosts and tourists dress up as blacksmiths, bakers, fishermen, tailors, scribes… dishes and all kinds of delicacies are based

on recipes originating from the Middle Ages, and it all comes to an end with a Tourney. On the

final day the most precious of the Rab relics, the head of

St. Crystophorus, patron saint of Rab, kept in a casket of glass

and silver, is brought out. In 2009 Rab Fiesta was

presented with the Simply the Best award

for the category of cultural

attractions.

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RabTourist Boardwww.tzg-rab.hr

contact

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The Tourney The Tourney reaching backt of 1364 have been revived by the Crossbowmen club of Rab in 1995 in line with the historic records it is held on the 9 May – the Victory Day, Statehood Day - 25 June, Feast of St. Chrystopher – 27 July and the Feast of the Assumption – 18 August. The weapon used by the crossbowmen of Rab is a crossbow the men of this island used to defend their town from the walls in the 15th century. The men on the galley from Rab which took part in the Battle of Lepanto were also armed with the same crossbow. The exclusive aim of the formation of the club is the revival of cultural and historic heritage and the promotion of Croatian tourism.

Rab Summer festival

13 - 14 August 2010This is a festival that plays host to the best know singers from Croatia and from all over the world. It is a special event, quite unique on the Adriatic, which offers a chance of a great experience and the opportunity for good fun and enjoyment in good, legendary music of quality. This year the performers at the Festival include TBF, Tom Novy, Severina, DJ Dolls and DJ Mark Bucca.

Fashion week 9 - 10 July 2010Another in the string of events to experience on the island of Rab. A weekend of fashion – come and enjoy Rab from a different angle.

www.kompas-istra.comSlobode bb, HR-52221 Rabac, Phone: +385 52 856 599, Fax: +385 52 856 473

info@kompas-istra.com

accommodation for groups and individuals in:hotels, tourist settlements, villas & apartments, mobile homes

excursions, transfers and guide services

Let us map out your accommodation!

Pag

keywords: beaches, Pag cheese, sea salt, lamb,

lace of Pag, folk costumes

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salt

cheeseWay to Croatia

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facts The town of Pag is located on the island of the same name which, with its 270 km of coastline dotted with numerous coves, tiny ports and beaches of sand, pebble and stone, is the most indented island of the Adriatic. It is characterized by the Mediterranean climate with exceptionally long sunny periods, and is of a rather unique landscape almost completely devoid of trees. In most part the island is a realm of white and greys stone scarred by

bora and crisscrossed by long stretches of dry-stone walls. The slopes of the mounts of Pag are covered by an abundance of aromatic herbs – the staple diet of the local breed of sheep which gives imbues the cheese produced on the island with that very special flavour which made it so famous.

The town, nestling in the Pag bay that almost cuts the island in two, can be reached by the bridge from direction of Zadar, i.e. by the A1 motorway (Zagreb-

Split), exit Posedarje, from which it is 44 km drive away. It can also be reached by a 15-minute ferry ride from Prizna (on the mainland) to Žigljan (island), and then 30 km along the island road offering lovely panoramic vistas.

The medieval town of Pag, which had enjoyed the status of a free royal town since 1244, grew in the vicinity of salt pans. Today that site is an archaeological locality of Stari grad. In the mid 15th century a famous Croatian builder and sculptor Juraj Dalmatinac (Georgius Dalmaticus) produced the necessary plans and the town was relocated and fortified so as to be able to defend the salt pans. The powerful fortifications provided security for a peaceful and safe life, for development of production of salt, honey, dried mutton, fat, cheese and wool.

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salt cheese

cheesePag is also known as the town of salt. Quality sea salt, obtained from the clear seas in a traditional, natural way, has for centuries been the trade mark of this town and this island. Indeed, in addition to being livestock breeders, the main occupation of the folk of Pag has been the production of salt. The first written mention of it dates from the year 999. Alongside tourism, salt production has remained one of the main economic activities on the island to this day. In the immediate vicinity of the town are the salt pans where salt is produced by the ancient process of drying up the sea waters in relatively small ponds of clay – a fascinating sight presenting

an excellent opportunity of a photograph.

Way to Croatia

25 As for the gastronomy of the island, the best known specialty of Pag is its famous cheese, today undoubtedly one of the best autochthonousCroatian cheeses the production of which can be traced to the 4th century B.C., when it was produced by the Liburni. But that is by no means the only delectable item on the menu of the Pag delicacies. First and foremost there is lamb – which also owes its mouth-watering taste to the pasturage, just like the cheese, then there is žutica – the local wine, excellent olive oil, delicious and healing sage honey. And the Benedictine nuns have another tradition worth getting to know, but this one is for the palate – baškotin is the aromatic crisp bread offered at the door of the convent.

Dry-stone walls are a striking memento of life full of hardship and of the tremendous effort invested into it by the people of this island. Once the non-arable areas were cleared and turned into tiny fields, the walls were built of carefully and skilfully arranged stones. Their shapes, surfaces, appearance and intention are among the most prestigious examples of the indigenous popular building tradition.

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events

The nucleus of the town has been preserved practically in its original form and it contains a number of precious historical buildings:

the church of the Assumption of Our Lady, Ducal palace, Convent of St. Margaret, churches of St. George and St. Francis, and the remains of original walls 5-7 m high with the Skrivanat tower – popularly known as the Town tower. It was the first structure to be built following the relocation of the town, and was one of the nine towers that used to encircle the town. Once upon a time the sea lapped at its most prominent section, while the gun ports on its front hid cannons that protected the town against the attacks from both sea and land. Should one need to sooth aches and pains, or alleviate skin problems, Pag can answer those needs as well. Lokunja is the area of town where the sea is shallow and its bottom is covered with thick layers of medicinal mud. Its use in the healing of rheumatic diseases goes back a long way. The mud is applied to the affected part of the body, allowed to dry and then simply washed off in the sea.

lace

Although the winter carnival is the most resilient part of the Pag tradition, the pivotal event in the summer is the Summer Carnival of Pag which takes place on the last day of July, and which is about to celebrate its 50th anniversary. During the Festival the streets reverberate with the sound of the brass band playing the traditional wheel dance of Pag, a masked ball is held, folk songs and chants are sung, and the play “Robinja” (she-slave) is performed. Summer is also the time of numerous cultural manifestations, and the best known among them is the Summer in Pag where one can enjoy the performances of some of the most famous musicians from Croatia and the world. Exhibitions of fine arts are staged in the gallery section of the church of St. George and in the Town Hall. The Skrivanat tower and the atrium of the Ducal Palace provide an excellent stage for theatre productions and concerts alike.

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The lace of PagThe most striking and most attractive part of the colourful and intricate female folk costume is the head cover edged by the lace of Pag. The lace, a Croatian national souvenir, is a centuries old tradition that still lives in the streets of the old town. Many believe it to be the most beautiful of memories one can take from this island. The lace originated in the ancient Mycenae and arrived to these parts in the times of Antiquity via the trade routes. In time it was embraced and preserved by the Benedictine nuns in the convent of St. Margaret. In the 16th century they began to teach the sawing technique of lace making to the local women, but it was only in 1906 that a secular lace-making school was founded. There are several types and patterns of the Pag lace which is sawn with a thin thread which makes it stand apart in the world of lace. Its beauty has been recognized at numerous exhibition at home and abroad – Paris, Hamburg, Budapest, New York and others. In Pag one can see some amazing pieces it in the Museum of Pag lace. In addition to the souvenir shops, pieces of lace can be bought directly from the lace makers who, come the summer, sit in front of their homes sawing it. lace

There are five hotels and two aparthotels within the town area, as well as private accommodation of significant capacity. The Šimuni tourist estate, located 11 km from the town, include an ACY marina and an auto-camp(www.camping-simuni.hr)Pagus Hotel (4*) - 234 beds www.coning-turizam.hr Meridijan Hotel (4*) - 100 beds www.hotel-meridijan.com Plaža Hotel (4*) - 92 beds www.plaza-croatia.com Biser Hotel (3*) - 46 beds www.hotel-biser.com Tony Hotel (2*) - 40 beds www.hotel-tony.com Belveder Aparthotel (3*) - 52 beds www.belveder-pag.com Frane Aparthotel (3*) - 32 beds www.hotelfrane.com

Lanterna lanterna-pag@zd.t-com.hrMaricom maricom@zd.t-com.hr , www.pag-tourist-service.hr

Mediteran mediteran.pag@email.t-com.hrMeridijan 15 info@meridijan15.hr, www.meridijan15.hr

Perla info@perla-pag.hr, www.perla-pag.hrSunturistPago sunturist-pago@zd.t-com.hr, www.sunturist-pago.hr

laceWay to Croatia

contact agencies Tourist Board Pag www.pag-tourism.hr

info

accommodation

The island of Pag – ornithological reserve of Velo blato, a marsh area with an observation post from which one can observe 143 types of water-fowl. One can also take individual or organized excursions to the nearby national parks and nature parks – Paklenica National Park (65 km), Northern Velebit National Park (80 km), Nature park of Vransko jezero (86 km), Krka National Park (109 km), Kornati National Park (125).

sport & fun

recommendation

Lovers of active holiday and nature can take advantage of numerous sports and recreational facilities. Apart for good tennis courts, sports grounds for football, beach volley ball and other sports, the island offers 115 km of cycling tracks and almost three times as much of walking paths and mountaineering tracks. The cliffs rising vertically above the sea provide a real challenge for Alpinists, while the sea bed hides a magical world waiting for divers to discover it. The Pag bay is ideal for surfing and sailing. The Pag bay is girdled by 27 pebble and sand beaches of singular beauty, washed by the crystal clear seas. One that now enjoys the world fame is Zrće. It offers entertainment round the clock, but the emphasis is on the tumultuous night life which attracts young people from all over the world.

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Biograd na moru

keywords: marinas, numerous

pebble and sand beaches,

centuries old pine woods,

dinamic holiday, national nature parks

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Biograd na moru

marinasThe town has two large and fully, equipped marinas: Marina Kornati (www.marinakornati.com) and Marina Šangulin (www.sangulin.hr). The combined number of berths on offer is over 850, all the necessary technical and technological backup for both maintenance and repair, and an excellent restaurant – the Captain’s Club, able to accommodate some 300 guests. The combination of excellent marinas, a charter boat service and a fair number of regattas organized in the waters around it,, Biograd has become very popular among the yachtsmen from all corners of the world.

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factsBiograd na moru lies on a peninsula surrounded by marinas and a number of green islands strewn through the Pašman canal. Geographically it’s positioned in the heart of the Adriatic, close to several beautiful nature parks. This popular holiday resort is famous for it pebble and sand beaches shaded by mature pine woods. Distance from Zadar Airport is 20 km, and from Split Airport 120 km. Being located only 20 km from the Zadar airport and 120 from the Split Biograd na moru is an easily accessible destination.

The green and blue table of Croatia 4 - 6 June 2010At the start of the tourist season, to be quite precise, from 4 to 6th of June 2010, Biograd plays host to the festival the aim of which is the presentation

of autochthonous and traditional food products, drinks, souvenirs, gifts and priceless folklore heritage from all parts of Croatia. This interesting manifestation, an integral part of which is the presentation and sale of products displayed on the “long” exhibition table (the space is free of charge of the exhibitors), set up on the town waterfront, attracting a great deal of interest. The organizer, the Tourist board of Biograd, tells us that this year’s festival is being devised under the motto of bringing together the Green and the Blue Croatia, and it is therefore expected that the numbers of both participants and visitor are going to reach record levels. And last year that number was over 20 000. One thing is certain, in the three days of the Festival one has the opportunity to savour the flavours and observe the customs from all around Croatia, which makes it a very special event that definitely has to be visited.

Ilirija Hotel (4*), Kornati Hotel (4*), Adriatic Hotel (3*), Camp Soline (4*)situated in a pine wood by the sea www.ilirijabiograd.comIN Hotel (4*) www.hotelin-biograd.com

accommodation

sport & fun

For the families and all those who enjoy a dynamic holiday, Biograd offers a Tennis centre, but also the opportunity for many other sports activities such as biking, jogging, water skiing, sufring, boat peddling, scuba diving, handball, basketball, volleyball on sand, boulles, mini golf, mini soccer...

Biograd Tourist Boardwww.tzg-biograd.hr

contact National nature parks: Kornati Islands, Paklenica national Park, Krka National Park, Vransko jezero (Vrana Lake)

recommendation

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www.katarina-line.com

KATARINA LINE M. Tita 75/I, HR-51410 Opatija

Tel: +385 51 603 400 Fax: +38551 271 372

e-mail: info@katarina-line.hrwww.katarina-line.comHR

-AB-

51-0

4000

9767

comfortable cabins

relaxing

beautiful beaches

CRUISES AND TOURS OF CROATIA

hotel accommodation• roundtrips• transfers and excursions• escorted tours• multilingual guiding• tailor made group and • FIT events incentives and meetings• congresses and • conventionsrent-a car•

CRUISES AND TOURS OF CROATIA

hotel accommodation• roundtrips• transfers and excursions• escorted tours• multilingual guiding• tailor made group and • FIT events incentives and meetings• congresses and • conventionsrent-a car•

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facts

Ninthe royal townThe historical nucleus of the small town of Nin is located on a small isle in the middle of a shallow lagoon, 28 km from the motorway Zagreb – Split (exit Zadar), and 14 km from Zadar. The area of Nin has been continually inhabited since the time of the Liburni tribe, which is over three thousand years. In the Roman times it grew into a significant municipium known as Aenona. As the first Croatian royal town Nin occupies a very important place in the history of the country.

Seven Croatian KingsThe church of St. Nicholas (12th c.) rises on a hill in the

crowning field of Prahulje near Nin. Tradition has it

that seven Croatian kings were crowned in Nin. During

the crowning ceremony the crowned sovereign would

ride to the church accompanied by his splendid

entourage, where he would present himself to the

people and – as a sign of his rule – slash his sword

towards all four corners of the world. This church is

the only preserved example of the early Romanic architecture of this type in Dalmatia.

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In the Museum of Nin Antiquities one can see, among other exhibits, the copy of the Prince Višeslav baptistery, two old Croatian boats known as Condura Croatica (11th c.), and the

copy of the ship Serilia Liburnica (1st c.). among the sights worth visiting are the remains of the largest Roman temple on the weastern shores of the Adriatic, the parish church of St. Anselm, the church of St. Ambrose (13th c.), the small church of St. Nicholas (11/12th c.) - one of the symbols of Nin, the pre-Romanic church of the Holy Cross (9th c.). There is also the Gold and silver of the town of Nin - the permanent exhibition of the church treasury.

Tuch the toe of Grgur Ninski !Grgur Ninski (Gregory of Nin, 10th c.) was one of the most important Bishops of the Nin Diocese famous for being a fervent champion of the Old Slavonic language, the Glagolitic script and the Glagolitic liturgy. His bronze statue, created by the Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović, is one of the three existing in Croatia. The big toe of the statue has been worn smooth due to the belief that touching it brings luck and fulfilment of wishes.

Church of the Holy Cross (9th c.)Its position and beauty dominates the area in which it stands, while its original ground floor plan rates it among the more prestigious monuments of the old-Croatian church architecture. Due to its positioning and construction in relation to the position of the sun, in the past the church was used as a calendar and a sun dial. Today that gave rise to the Festival of the sun and light.

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Tourist Board Nin www.nin.hr contact

recommendation

Šokolijada (18 July 2010)With the aim of both preserving the „šokol“ tradition, and promoting this unique delicacy of the Nin area, in 2003 the Tourist board of the town Nin has initiated a manifestation which was named Šokolijada. The organizers supply the meat and the hosts, or rather the producers – about thirty of them this year – each have to produce šokols following their own family recepies. Following months of curing the finished products are first presented at the special event where the šokol-makers of the year are declared, and then the šokols are served to the folk of Nin and their guests to the delight of all.

Try medicinal mud of Nin (peloidal mud), which achieves physical, mechanical and chemical results, has been used as a healing remedy since the Roman times. DAR-MA donkey farm in Poljica is a family homestead-cum farm located about ten km from Nin. The farm has 80 0r so donkeys and numerous other domestic animals. The main activity of the farm is the production of she-ass milk which, popular belief tells us, possesses exceptional medicinal properties.

Zaton Holday Resort tourist estate is located only 400 m from the historic nucleus of Nin, in a lovely sandy cove of the Nin canal sheltered from wind and waves. The accommodation is offered in well appointed apartments and in a large motor-camp (one of the best camping sites along the Croatian Adriatic) situated in a thick pine forest. www.zaton.hr

Villa Dupin Aparthotel (3*) www.apartmani-dupin.hrCondura Croatica Aparthotel (2*) www.condura-croatica.hr

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accommodation

Šokol – what is it? Šokol is a local product made of smoked and cured pork neck the tradition of which goes back to the times when the folk of Nin bred pigs on a a regular basis. The production process is rather long and higly specific, with each family cherishing its own little secrets and recepies. One thing that was the same for everybody was the basic process which demanded that meat be left to picle in sea salt for several days, then it was soaked in boiled red wine and finaly coated with spices (pepper, cloves, nutmeg and others). Thus prepared it was stuffed into a casing, tied with a string, exposed first to smoke for a few days and then to bora. And according to the locals, it is the bora – which brings the mountain air saturated with fragrances and properties of the medicianl herbs from Velebit combined with the fresh salt-laden sea air - that lends it its special quality. Today Šokol, or Šoko, forms an obligatory item on the menu of every catering establishment.

On all three sides Privlaka the peninsula is embraced by the beaches of crystal sands. Privlaka the fishing village sits amidst pine woods, fragrant meadows and vineyards. The intricately indented shoreline is replete with small and shallow sandy coves which lend a very special charm to this place. The medicinal black mud also makes it attractive to people with health problems, particularly those suffering with rheumatic ailments, arthritis and skin diseases. Through the history Privlaka has been known for its sabunjari, i.e. people who earned their livelihood by extracting sand from the sea.Apart from the numerous tracks and paths, and 8 km of well maintained cycling tracks, one can also walk across the peninsula and experience it first hand. Come the summer season, the guests are given a choice of numerous events providng fun and entertainment, the best known among them being the Privlaka night – a specially conceived manifestation of traditional character which takes place on 4 August.

Privlaka, a fishing village-cum-tourist resort, lies on a flat peninsula of the same name which is seven km long and four km wide, 33 km from the exit-Zadar, only 5 km from Nin - the oldest Croatian royal town, and 18 km from Zadar, the main town of this part of Dalmatia.

the experience of sandy coves Privlak a

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Tourist Board Privlakawww.privlaka-tz.hr tzo.privlaka@zd.t-com.hr

Tourist agency Kristi toursTel. ++ 385 (0)23 272 145, 367 121zeljko.zanki6@zd.t-com.hr

contact info

Accommodation can be found in over 2000 private rooms and apartments, in the tourist estates of Sabunike and Škrapavac, and in Laguna - a small, four star family hotel.

the experience of sandy coves Privlak a

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accommodation

shallow sandy coves, black

medicinal mud, over 200 beds

in private accommodation

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Way to Croatia

Island Brač

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info

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41 Zlatni rat Bolsuperb quality stone,numerous sheltered coves

keywords:

Island Bračof

tourist offer

facts Brač is the largest island of central Dalmatia. About 40 km long, of the average width of 12 km and with the overall area of 395 km2, it is the third largest island in the Adriatic. Its distance from the mainland, from which it is separated by the Brač canal, ranges between 6-13 km. This is a lovely island which has something to offer for all tastes, but its very special claim to fame is the amazing beach of Zlatni rat in the village of Bol.The position of the island, one of the sunniest and warmest of all islandsGood connection with the mainland and with other islands by ferries and catamaran lines from Split

and Maskarska (www.jadrolinija.hr) make it attractive for both local and foreign tourists. All the places on the island are linked by roads, and numerous field paths and tracks are ideal for walks, be it through the interior or along the shores.

Brač also has its airport able to handle small commercial planes for up to 100 passengers. It is located in Veško polje, some 14 km from Zlatni rat and 30 km from Supetar – the largest settlement on the island. The airport is open the year round, except for charter flights which are restricted to the summer months.(www.croatiaairlines.com)

The Blaca hermitage is located in the valley of the same name, in the southern part of the island. Its beginning was the cave divided by stones – the first shelter of the hermits of Poljica. As time went on the pious and hard working hermits kept adding modest dwellings of different forms and purposes, leaning them against the face of the rocks. In addition to the traditional and antique pieces of furniture one can see astronomic instruments, a fine collection of old weapons and clocks, and the exceptionally rich library with numerous manuscripts that are still waiting to be researched.The Dragon cave and the reliefs in it are the superb monument of the 15th century monastic life of Glagolitic priests in a cave. the Dragon cave can be reached by a rather demanding, 30 min. climb from the village of Murvice, west of Bol.

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Brač is rich in the superb quality stone, and it is no wonder

that stone masonry is a long standing tradition on the island.

This beautiful , ivory coloured stone was used in the construction

of numerous famous buildings, one of which is Diocletian’s

palace in Split. There are claims that is was also used

for the White House in Washington , but the reliable

historic data on the stone of the White House are very

meagre and it is difficult to either confirm or

deny that information .

Supetar

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Vidova gora (the Mount of Vid) is the highest mount on all of the Adriatic islands (778 m ). From the top the view towards the south is spectacular. Lovrećina is is an archaeological site located in a lovely cove not far from Postira. In addition to the finds which tell of the existence of an advanced Roman homestead, Lovrećina is also an important location of the early-Christian finds. The remains of an early-Christian church with a cross-shaped baptistery in its northern section are visible. Today’s Lovrećina is a popular bathing place with a beautiful beach and a good catering facility.Postira - alongside the clean seas and finely maintained beaches this colourful place of small stone houses also offers delicious food which is made even more delicious by the superb locally produced olive oil, sheep milk cheese and wines. The richly indented coast with numerous sheltered coves is just as appreciated by the visitors as it is by the local population. Pastura Hotel**** (www.hotelpastura.hr), Vrilo Hotel**** (www.hotelpastura.hr), Lipa Hotel**** (www.hotelpastura.hr), Marija Apartments**** (www.hotelpastura.hr)Milna It is one of the most finely proportioned small urban settlements of baroque style to be seen on the entire coast of Dalmatia. It is also the best natural port on the entire island. Built of the famed local stone the colour of old ivory, facing the sun, protected from vicious winds and cooled by the afternoon landward breeze, it offers a soothing shelter for people and boats.www.milna.hr Illyrian Resort*** (www.illyrian-resort.hr),La Baia Blue Hotel** (www.labaiabluhotel.com)Pučišća located on its northern coast, is the second largest settlement on the island of Brač. Its mild climate makes it an ideal place for a year round holiday. The symbol of Pučišća is stone, the white stone of Brač that use dot be extracted in a number of stone quarries, many of which have now been closed down. The tradition of the island is being carried on by the stone masonry school in Pučišća, the only such school in Croatia. In addition to the stone Pučišća is also renown for its old olive groves, quality olive oil and excellent wine from the surrounding vineyards. www.pucisca.hr

BolSplitska

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Brač Tourist Board www.dalmatia.hrSupetar Tourist Board www.supetar.hr contact

Supetar is the largest settlement on the island and its cultural, economic and tourist centre. It boasts beautiful beaches, monuments and churches, as well as the works by Ivan Rendić, a famous Croatian sculptor who had spent a part of his life in Supetar. www.supetar.hrHotel Adria**** (www.watermanresorts.com), Bračka Perla Aparthotel**** (www.brackaperla.com), Amor Hotel**** (www.velaris.hr)Britanida Hotel** (www.supetar.hr/britanida), Mandic Hotel** (hotel.mandic@st.t-com.hr), Villa Adriatica Hotel*** (www.villaadriatica.com)Waterman Svpetrus Resort**** (www.watermanresorts.com)Sutivan Sutivan is a small island municipality located in the north-western coastal part of the island, opposite the city of Split which is only 13 km away. This village of the Mediterranean atmosphere, surrounded by old olive groves and vineyards, offers lovely wooded beaches which can be easily reached by well maintained paths perfect for walking, and which are also cycling tracks. In short, Sutivan is a modern tourist destination tailored to family, sport and recreational tourism. www.sutivan.hr Bol is the oldest coastal settlement and the famous summer resort located on the southern side of the island of Brač. The old Bol was the village of vine growers, fishermen and mariners, but today it is a tourist resort with hotels complexes, private homes and apartments. West of Bol is the Zlatni rat beach, undoubtedly one of the largest and most beautiful natural attractions on the whole of the Adriatic. It stretches into the sea for half a kilometre, with the sea currents constantly changing the direction of its tip. The main hotels of Bol are located close to this beach. Restaurants serving original Dalmatian dishes, diving, sailing and tennis clubs, fitness centres and the local port all contribute to this being a highly desirable tourist destination. Bol is also very popular with the surfers and all other water sports lovers. Bluesun Hotels**** (www.bluesunhotels.com), Ivan Hotel*** (www.hotel-ivan.com), Kaštil Hotel*** (www.kastil.hr), Bretanide Sport&Wellness Resort**** (www.bretanide.hr)

Zlatni rat (Bol) Postira

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factsThe Solaris

The Solaris Hotels Resort is located in northern Dalmatia, close to Šibenik (6 km; 15-minutes bus ride), Trogir, Split and Zadar, and close to the 4 national parks: the Kornati Archipelago, the Krka Waterfalls, the Plitvice Lakes and Paklenica Canyon. Solaris is located on a peninsula with a wide, 4 km-long beach, offers a wide range of facilities and the crystal clear sea which ensured that the beach was granted the Blue Flag award for quality.

The resort includes 5 hotels (the 4* Ivan Hotel, the 4* Niko Hotel, the 4* Andrija Hotel and the 3* Jakov Hotel), the 4* Kornati Villas (16 villas with comfortable apartments), a camp site and a marina. Accomodation facilities are surrounded by a pine

forest and the distance from the beautiful pebble beach is aprox. 50 m. Price rooms: from 45 €Price Villas: from 70 €Camp site has capacity of 700 places. It is fully equipped, has its own beach and its suitable for children.

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Hotels Resort

5 hotels and the Kornati villas, relaxation and fun for families, white beaches, Dalmatian village, ....

Solaris Pirate Adventure GolfMini golf like you havent ’t seen before! Pirates theme which offers a game of golf and unexpected adventure on an area covering over 3000 m2 (600 m2 of water surface).

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services & facilities

keywords:

The Solaris Hotels Resort offers: outdoor swimming pools with seawater, Children’s town with trampoline, sand pit and Water park with slides, children and adult animation programmes, excursion programmes, sports facilities, deck chair and parasol rental on the beach. There is also a great Solaris Wellness Spa Centre - complex of indoor pools with heated sea and fresh water.

The Solaris Hotels Resortwww.solaris.hrinfo@solaris.hr

contact

Šibenik, Trogir, Split and Zadar - cities replete with cultural and historic heritage; 4 national parks: the Kornati Archipelago, the Krka Waterfalls, the Plitvice Lakes and Paklenica Canyon.

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Čakovec

Čakovec Zrinski palace, Zrinski guard

Summer in the Zrinski town ,

Međimurje Wine Road

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Čakovec

Čakovec

O c c u p y i n g t h e northernmost part of Croatia, girdled by the rivers Mura and Drava, gentle and green, the region of Međimurje has justifiably been given the name of Hortus Croatiae, or rather the flower garden of Croatia. And it all begins in Čakovec, its, if you will, capital. The history of the town goes back to the 1st century A.D., when it was known as Aquama. In those days it was a Roman resting station between the Rivers Mura and Drava, and area the roman called Insula Muro-Dravana. In the 13th

c. Count Dimitrus Csaky, a high ranking courtier of King Bela IV, had a wooden tower built in that site, and it is quite probable likely that here lie the origins of the name of Čakovec – Csakathum or the Csak’s Tower. In the 14th century the wooden tower was replaced by a fortification

with a palace which was built and continually expanded by the numerous rulers. It was only when the Zrinski family came into the possession of the town in 1546 that its economic and cultural development took off. And when in 1547 Nikola Šubić Zrinski became the owner of the fortification, this castrum became famous for its architectural splendour and its European cultural spirit. His descendants continued to maintain in the same manner. On May 29, 1579 Juraj IV Zrinski granted privileges to the people living at the foot and around the fortification, which created the foundation for the development of Čakovec as the free market town. Today the date is celebrated as the Day of the town of Čakovec. It is therefore not surprising that Croatia perceives Čakovec as the Zrinski town.

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Čakovec tourist offer

And while there, strolling through the historic nucleus of the town, it is certainly worth paying a visit to the exhibition in the Zrinski Palace, the Museum of Međimurje.

The Museum departments contain archaeological and cultural finds from the history of Međimurje, works of fine art produced by the artist of the region, and an interesting ethnographic exhibition about the village life in the old days. This particular exhibition comprises over 2500 exhibits of textile, folk costumes, old trades and skills (pottery, wicker work, rope-making,

carpentry, lace making), furniture and objects related to old customs. In the Zrinski palace one can frequently meet members of the historic unit of the town of Čakovec, the Zrinski guard.

Working hours: Tuesday to Friday, 10h -15h; Saturday and Sunday: 10h – 13h; closed on Mondays and holidays. Price of the entry ticket: 2 €; discount for children and groups; tourist guide provided for a group tour of the exhibition - 10 €. muzej-medjimurja@ck.t-com.hr

Zrinski guard

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Tourist Board Čakovecwww.tourism-cakovec.hr

contact

Čakovec recommendation

tourist guides

events

AwardsIn the last two years Čakovec boast the

national recognition as the best appointed town in the

continental Croatia. And in that lovely green environment one

must not miss the opportunity to savour the delectable cuisine

of Međimurje. Those interested in a more active time in nature can take

a walk into the surroundings of Čakovec, which is bound to satisfy even

the most demanding.

Throughout the year Čakovec is the venue of numerous cultural and tourist events.Carnival of Međimurje (February, March)Summer in the Zrinski town (July, August) - exhibition of traditional trades; music, fine arts, sport and culinary programmes.Advent in Čakovec

Zrinski guard

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Association of tourist guides and companions of the Međimurje County kristijan.kovacic@ck.t-com.hr

The Wine Roadof Međimurjewww.tzm.hr(Way to Croatia 5/2009)

Golf & Spa Resort Sveti Martinwww.toplicesvetimartin.hr(Way to Croatia 4/2009)

Autotrans d.o.o. Rijeka, Trg Žabica 1, 51000 Rijekawww.autotrans.hr, autotrans@ri.t-com.hr060 30 20 10; tel: 051 660 300; fax: 051 211 988

ID Cod: HR-AB-51-040017902

Your travel partner in CroatiaHead Office RIJEKA00385 51 660 334, 660 397turizam@autotrans.hrBranch office Rijeka00385 51 212 224turizam.rijeka@autotrans.hrBranch office Rovinj00385 52 811 218rovinj@autotrans.hrBranch office Opatija00385 51 271 553opatija@autotrans.hrBranch office Cres00385 51 572 050cres@autotrans.hrBranch office Krk0385 51 222 661krk@autotrans.hrBranch office Crikvenica0385 51 243 800 crikvenica@autotrans.hrBranch office Rab 00385 51 774 929 rab@autotrans.hrBranch office Split00385 21 482 353split@autotrans.hrBranch office Varaždin00385 42 300 330varazdin@autotrans.hr

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Autotrans d.o.o. Rijeka, Trg Žabica 1, 51000 Rijekawww.autotrans.hr, autotrans@ri.t-com.hr060 30 20 10; tel: 051 660 300; fax: 051 211 988

ID Cod: HR-AB-51-040017902

Your travel partner in CroatiaHead Office RIJEKA00385 51 660 334, 660 397turizam@autotrans.hrBranch office Rijeka00385 51 212 224turizam.rijeka@autotrans.hrBranch office Rovinj00385 52 811 218rovinj@autotrans.hrBranch office Opatija00385 51 271 553opatija@autotrans.hrBranch office Cres00385 51 572 050cres@autotrans.hrBranch office Krk0385 51 222 661krk@autotrans.hrBranch office Crikvenica0385 51 243 800 crikvenica@autotrans.hrBranch office Rab 00385 51 774 929 rab@autotrans.hrBranch office Split00385 21 482 353split@autotrans.hrBranch office Varaždin00385 42 300 330varazdin@autotrans.hr

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tourist offer

accommodation

Kutina, located 70 km from Zagreb, along the Zagreb-Lipovac Motorway, a small town nestling within the Lonja Range Nature park and the wine growing country on the southern slopes of the Mount of Moslavina (Mons Claudius), has been appreciated for its pleasant climate, idyllic vineyard landscapes and indigenous types of wines since the Roman times. Its location along the Zagreb-Lipovac Motorway, 70 km from Zagreb, makes it easily accessible.The 18th century church of Our Lady of Snow, of baroque interior with exceptionally valuable frescoes, stucco work and relics, is open for viewing every day. In the very centre of town is a beautiful old park of chestnut trees, the Museum of Moslavina and next to it the curia of the Erdödy family, once the most prominent members of nobitily in the region of Moslavina. The Museum holdings contain 4893 items all of which tell a piece of the story of the rich history of this area. The annex of the Museum, the Ausch pseudo-period house, is a Gallery where one can see works by prominent Croatian artists – Miroslav Šutej, Mersad Berber, Ferdinanad Kulomer, Rudof Donassy, Ivan Milat, Stipe Sikirica… Trijem – a traditional wooden house also known as čardakWalking down the street called Crkvena ulica one comes to a unique complex of five houses of the traditional wooden architecture. The three houses of the trijem type and two simple single-storey buildings are soon to become the hub of the cultural and historic complex which will also include an astronomical observatory, a collection of ethno items, presentation of ecological projects and a tourist information centre with a special information service for the Lonja Range. The Villa Kutinska wellness centre, though in the heart of the town, is a veritable oasis of tranquillity and relaxation. www.wellnessvilakutinska.com

Kutina Hotel (3*) www.hoteli-daim.com, vglavica@hotel-kutina.hr

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contact Tourist Board Kutina www.turizam-kutina.hr

The Day of the planet Earth, celebrated by a bicycle ride through Moslavina, takes place every year in April (this year of 17/4) and attracts over 600 cyclists. It is also possible to come a special BIKE-express train from Zagreb. The recreational ride along the marked routes of Moslavina is rounded off with a great party at which lunch is served in the open for all, with lots of music and dancing, and with a selection of sports and games to participate in, including the adrenaline-flowing bicycle rides. MoslaVina – wine exhibition in Kutina is organized in the last week in the month of May (this year from 24 to 30 May). With over 230 exhibited wines, 29 varietal wines, 10 indigenous varieties and 34 škrlet producers, it rates among the largest and most acclaimed wine exhibitions in Croatia, and one of the few which pays special attention to the indigenous varietal wines of Croatia from all the parts of the country – continental, littoral and the islands. In the course of the exhibition a number of events are organized: professionally guided wine tasting, lectures, presentations of vine-growing and wine-making equipment. Encounters of Repušnica in the Lonja Range are organized in June (this year on 21/6). The idea is to introduce the visitors to the exceptional natural wealth of the Lonja Range and the old customs of this area. The encounters provide a chance for an insight into a surprisingly different view of animals and the inhabitants of the Lonja Range, and present a wonderful possibility for a cohabitation of man and nature. The Golden Quince is the national culinary competition organized in Septemebr (this year on 24/9) by the County Association of cooks in cooperation with the Kutina Hotel and the Tourist board of the town of Kutina. The best cooks from all parts of Croatia compete in culinary skills, and the best of all is that visitors can taste themselves how successful their efforts are.

The Wine Road of MoslavinaStrewn along the Moslavina wine road meandering through the idyllic wine-growing countryside, are some ten wine cellars, vineyard huts and wineries – all within a leisurely bicycle or car ride. And all offering it visitors the to taste the local wines – Škrlet, Moslavac, Riesling, Frankovka, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon White… And should one feel the need for some wholesome nourishment the welcoming hosts readily offer their local, home-made specialities like fish stew, grilled carp. We highly recommend food prepared under a peka (a large domed lid made of iron or fire-proof pottery used to cover food arranged on a slab of stone, and then covered with live coals), as well as pastries and cakes. Among the wines to be savoured one need is certain to greatly enhance and experience one might have in any of the establishments here. The Škrlet of Moslavina, produced from the variety of grapes which grow on the clay-rich soil of this area, and practically nowhere else in the world, is the reason that one of the most important annual wine exhibitions in Croatia– the MoslaVina - is being held in Kutina at the beginning of May. The vineyard huts can cater for as few as two and up to 100 people, but the visits should be prearranged. The price per person is about 15 €.

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HLEBINE The magical world of naïve art

The Gallery of Naïve Art is located in the centre of the village, and right next to it is the Sculpture park. The Gallery can be visited from Monday to Friday between 10h and 16h, and between 10h and 14h on Saturdays. The price of ticket for adults is 1,4 € and 0,70 € for children.

The Josip Generalić Homestead comprises the Old house, the Gallery, the Atelier, the Ethno house and wide courtyard. This unique complex tells a comprehensive story about the painter and his work. In the Old house, where the artist lived, one can view the collection of paintings, drawings

In the sixties of the last century Croatian naïve art was in the focus of the world interest. Owing to that the small village of Hlebine, located about 15 km from Koprivnica, in the heart of Podravina, gained the world fame. To this day it has remained the centre of the Croatian naïve art. Nowadays it is slowly getting ready for the year 2011 and the celebration of the 80 anniversary of the birth of that enchanting form of art. It all began in 1931 when the academic painter Krsto Hegedušić visited Hlebine, where the painting skills of the local peasants Ivan Generalić and Franjo Mraz caught his attention. He instructed them in the technical aspect of painting, included them in the first exhibitions and opened the doors to the world. And the naïve art enchanted the world, it regarded as a phenomenon all of

its own – and the fame of Hlebine was born. Among those who in that pleiad of artists stand are Mirko Virius, Josip Generalić, Mijo Kovačić, Ivan Večenaj, Martin Mehkek – to mention but a few. Despite the fact that these days naïve art is no longer at the peak of interest of the connoisseurs of fine arts, in these parts it is still very much alive. The Hlebine circle – which today numbers some 200 names - now includes the surrounding villages of Gola, Molve and Gornja Šuma as well as the areas of the towns of Koprivnica and Đurđevac. They are all linked by the special thematic Gallery road with Hlebine as its heart, its pivotal point and a must destination. For it is here that both the Gallery of Naïve Art and the complex of the Josip Generalić Homestead are located.

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HLEBINE The magical world of naïve art

Easter egg from the heartNaïve art interwoven with the old Easter custom of decorating and presenting eggs as gifts proved a good foundation for the Easter egg from the heart campaign initiated by the Tourist board of the Koprivnica-Križevci County. The naïve artists of Podravina decorate large Easter eggs (2 m tall and 1,5 m wide) which are then sent for a journey around the world. Last year, for instance, these beautifully painted giant eggs have enhanced the Easter holiday in ten Croatian and world cities and towns (among them New York and Budapest). This year, before setting out on their journey, the 12 painted eggs have been exhibited in Koprivnica. One of the eggs has been presented to the Holy Father in the Vatican, while the others ended up in the squares of Milan, Međugorje, Zagreb… In addition to spreading to joy of Easter this campaign is also a charming way of promoting both the naïve art and the Croatian culture with particular emphasis on Podravina and Hlebine – the cradle of the indigenous naïve art of Croatia. www.tz-koprivnicko-krizevacka.hr

and graphics, but also numerous items and photographs depicting the life of the Generalić family. Next to it is the Gallery which contains a large selection of works from the artist’s opus. In it one can buy objects produced in the manner of naive art. The Ethno house is a reconstructed traditional house from the end of the 19th century and it hold a rich collection of items used in a rural household – from the accessories needed to prepare food to the tools to work the land. The complex can be viewed every day between 10h and 15h, or at other time by special arrangement. The price of a ticket for adults is 1,4 € and 0,70 € for children. Next to the homestead is a large parking lot aboe to accommodate several busses. www.galerija-josip-generalic.hr

Naive art, Gallery of naive art

Ethno house, Generalićkeywords: Way to Croatia

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The experience of tradition

Horses and carriages, traditional

crafts, bread oven and the

unleavened round green bread

keywords:

Zlatni klas Otrovanec

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Back in 1977, in a small village of Otrovanec in Podravina, a village which was difficult to find on a map, far from the city crowds and noise, Branko Tkalčec and his wife Marija began to bring their dream to reality. The persistence he showed in its realization paid off. Today, 33 years later, Zlatni klas – or as some would say the Golden ear of wheat – is a popular excursion site and a very specific tourist destination. Due to the ongoing improvements and expansion of services on offer, this rural homestead offers its guests a precious experience of genuine traditional values – opportunity to be with domestic animals, to spend relaxing time in nature, savour wholesome home cooked food and above all enjoy a friendly welcome. The restaurant is built from massive beams, and enhanced with numerous restored items which the peasant of Podravina once used in his everyday life, and which – together with those in the yard – form a very special and valuable ethnographic collection. Thus, while there, one can try one’s hand at grinding wheat on the old hand-driven quern, learn how the loom works, or what the job of a carpenter is, or see bread being baked in a bread oven. And it is thanks to Master Branko and his creative spirit this homestead is being enriched with new elements practically on a daily basis which are sure to make the stay in Otrovanec a memorable one. The estate is located in the centre of a small and picturesque village of Otrovanec, less than four kilometres from Pitomača and the main thoroughfare of Podravina (Varaždin-Koprivnica-Virovitica-Osijek). It can also be approached via the Zagreb-Belgrade highway from direction of Kutina-Veliki Zdenci-Virovitica-Pitomača (99 km), or from Okučani-Daruvar- Valiki Zdenci-Virovitica-Pitomača (115 km). The estate has its own parking lot for both cars and busses.

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Wind in the hairWhen talking about experiencing nature firsthand the most important

is undoubtedly his herd of ten thoroughbred horses. Those with

no experience can learn to ride, but those who already know how to

can visit the surrounding forests on the slopes of Bilogora on a horseback.

Should anyone wish for a more relaxed time, there is a carriage that will take

one for a fifteen minute ride through the orchard (with 1000 plum trees) to

the stream and a small fishpond at the edge of the homestead. For the more

demanding visitors longer excursions are organized to Križnica and the raft

on the River Drava about ten kilometres away, or to the first belvederes on

the Mount of Bilogora.

Group visits - the premises available can, together with the restaurant, accommodate 300 persons. In the summer months there is room for almost as many people in the yard. The restaurant area also has a smaller hall for some 40 people. The entire estate is fenced and therefore safe and able to cater for groups of children for whom numerous facilities have been prepared. The traditional dishes on offer are: home bread duck, chicken, goose, pork and veal prepared in the bread oven, polenta, green pasta and green mlinci (prepared with nettles), fresh water fish from the River Drava, the simple but delicious cornmeal cake, pancakes stuffed with a variety of fillings, doused with cream and browned in the oven, štrukli. The special, and indeed unusual feature in this type of establishments is the selection of excellent vegetarian dishes based on the traditional gastronomy and ingredients readily available in the villages of Podravina: corn, barley and millet gruel, cabbage, beans, potato, turnip, pumpkin, carrot and other types of home grown root and green vegetables, wild plants and medicinal herbs. Then there are, of course, the home made bread and pogača baked in the bread oven. And all of it washed down with local wines produced from grapes grown on the surrounding slopes of Bilogora.Prices for a complete meal range from 12 to 30 €.

Branko or Bernard Tkalčeczlatni.klas.otrovanec@vt.t-com.hr

www.zlatni-klas.hr

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The Pag cheeseThe special quality of aroma and flavour of the Pag cheese comes from the milk of the autochthonous breed of the Pag sheep which roams free and lives on diet of meagre grass and a wealth of aromatic herbs, and all of it liberally sprinkled with salt brought on by the bora. And it still would not be what it is without the traditional way of production which goes back to the times of the Liburni, and which is being lovingly nurtured by the Cheese Dairy of Pag. To reach it mature stage the Pag cheese has to rest for at least five months and up to a year. It comes as a round of about 2 kg and, of a compact golden-yellow colour. Its flavour is piquant, the aroma specific, it is of a mildly marbled and grainy structure, and is best when served at room temperature. This exception gastronomic delicacy has been recognized both at home and abroad – as the numerous domestic and international acclaims bear witness to.

Pag Cheese Dairy, Island of Pag www.paskasirana.hr

highlights of croatia

The Zlatan pansion and restaurant

The Champion Chef of Croatia

Nikolina Lončar is in many ways a very special person. Be it because of her inclination towards drawing and visual expression, or be it because of her determination and persistence in her approach to work, her unbending will and dedication which drives her in the search for things new, making her ever ready to learn and question – as in her profession and gastronomy, so in the entrepreneurial manner in which she manages the pension. And all that with only ten years of experience in the kitchen. She passed her chef exam in 2005, and

from that moment her path led only forwards and upwards. Few are the chefs whose first five years are characterized by so many successes and acclaims. In just a few years she collected ten or so victories at the Croatian culinary cup, gold and silver medals at the national championship, and to crown it all the greatest recognition that the Croatian professional cooks can award – the Grand Prix at the national championship and the title of the Champion Chef of Croatia for the year 2009.

Nikolina, who by her own admission ended up in the culinary profession due to a certain set of circumstances, is a tireless researcher of the possibilities offered primarily by the local foodstuffs, in particular those used in the local cuisine of rural folk, or those found in the old cuisine of the townspeople of Podravina. Hence the special flavours of her culinary achievements, her creative work with the simplest of ingredients such as the nettles. Yet another dimension is the presentation of the dishes she creates. In fact, before creating a new dish she envisages it, draws it, acquires the ingredients and only then gets down to creating it. As she says, she is a visual type and colours, flavours and fresh quality of ingredients are her best inspiration.

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Specialities by Chef Nikolina Lončar

Specialitiesby Chef Nikolina Lončar

Specialitiesby Chef Nikolina Lončar

contact Nikolina Lončarzlatan@kc.t-com.hrwww.zlatan.hr

Sweet chestnut and vegetable tartlets5 dag chestnut purée 5 dag rough flour5 dag butter5 dag almond slices5 dag honey30 dag mixed vegetables (carrot, celeriac, zucchini)salt, pepperMix the chestnut purée, butter and flour into a dough. Form 4-8 small biscuits 5-6cm in diameter and 1 cm thick. Shape four dumplings from the remaining dough, coat them in almond slices and bake in the oven together with the biscuits at 180oC for ten minutes. Cube the vegetables, fry in butter and add the seasoning. Take of the heat and add honey. Serve so they look like tartlets.

Nettles ravioli 15 dag chopped nettles30 dag flour10 dag cottage cheese10 dag Roquefort cheese5 dag chopped onion5 dag lean bacon5 dag roasted slice of almond or walnut2 dcl fresh cream0,5 dcl oil5 dag butter4 eggsCombine the eggs, flour and nettles into a dough. To make the filling briefly fry the onion in oil and add finely cubed

bacon. Allow to cool and add cottage cheese. Role out the dough, cut into squares 5x5cm, place a teaspoon of filling in the middle, fold over and press the edges firmly together. Place the ravioli into salted boiling water and cook for 10 minutes. Melt the Roquefort in butter, add cream and the cooked ravioli. Sprinkle with almonds or walnuts and serve either as a warm hors-d’oeuvre or a side dish to the main meal.

Specialitiesby Chef Nikolina Lončar

Specialitiesby Chef Nikolina Lončar

Renaissance platterVeal medallions80 dag veal filet

30dag mixed mushrooms (chanterelle, champignon,

edible boletus)1 dcl fresh cream

10 dag chopped onion0,5 dcl oil

Salt, pepper Briefly fry the onion, add

mushrooms and sautée for a while. Add the seasoning and finally the fresh cream. Cook the medallions on both sides

for a short time and serve on a bed of mushrooms.

The Zlatan pansion and restaurant is located in Močile, on the main route

Varaždin-Koprivnica-Virovitica-Osijek, also known as the Podravina Highway. It is only

2km from the centre of Koprivnica and 33 km from the Zagreb-Budapest motorway

(exit Ludbreg). The restaurant is managed by Nikolina Lončar, the first woman to win

the national culinary championship and therefore the champion cook of Croatia for

the year 2009. Her restaurant can seat 250 persons in two halls which can, should the

need arise, be joined into one, and has its own parking lot able to accommodate several

busses. At request live music can be organized for groups of visitors. The pension offers

accommodation in 10 double and 2 single bedrooms, and provides a full services –

which include a fitness centre the use of which is free of charge for the pension guests.

Prices for a complete meal range from 8 € per person for group visits, and up to

25 € for individual visitors. The menu on offer includes specialties of the house (game

dishes, home bread turkey and chicken, veal chine and leg of veal, all kinds of cereals

and pasta made with nettles), as well as dishes prepared in a bread oven and on a spit.

Chicken filet rolled in ham40 dag chicken filet10 dag kale10 dag cooked sweet corn1 egg1 dcl fresh cream5 dag butter 15 dag fine slices of home cured ham 5 dag buttersalt, pepperCut the chicken fillet into scallops. Chop and season the offcuts, add an egg and cream, mix well and coat the escallops with the mixture. Wrap into kale, add sweet corn and role, wrap into slices of ham and roast in the oven for 20 minutes at 180oC.

Events 2010

April 1--9 Lošinj Cuisine Feast www.tz-malilošinj.hr3-5 Asparagus Days Krk, www.kvarner.hr10-18 Croatia Boat Show Split, www.croatiaboatshow.com12-18 In the fairytale world of Ivana Brlić Mažuranić Slavonski Brod, www.slavonski-brod.hr14-18 CroTOUR, international tourism fair Zagreb, www.zv.hr24-29 Days of Apoksiomen Mali Lošinj, www.tz-malilošinj.hr25 The Feast of St. George in Turopolje Velika Gorica, www.tzvg.hr25-26 The fog-catchers’ night Lokve, www.tz-lokve.hr

May1 The First Trip in May Trakošćan, www.bednja.info7-9 Days of Samobor Custard Slices Samobor, www.samoborske-kremsnite.com3-11 International Festival of Small Stage Rijeka, www.theatrefestival-rijeka.hr4-14 BOK Fest, Bjelovar, Theatre festival, www.tzbbz.hr7-9 2nd LOREKO Fishing, Ecology and Rural Tourism Fair, Gudovac www.bj-sajam.hr11-5/6 Nobility Fair Karlovac, www.karlovac-touristinfo.hr15-24 The Festival of the actor Vukovar, www.hddu.hr 16-17 St. Helen International tourney Sveti Ivan Zelina, www.tzzz.hr23-30 VINODAR 12th International Wine Exhibition Daruvar, www.tz-daruvar.hr24-30 MoslaVina, wine exhibition, Kutina24/5-2/6. Festival of modern dance Zagreb, www.danceweekfestival.com

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Events 2010

26-31 Floraart, flowers festival Zagreb, www.floraart.net29-30 The croatian festival of one-minute films Požega, www.oneminute.hr29.5.-5.6. Following the trail of Winnetou Starigrad, Paklenica, www.rivijera-paklenica.hr

June3-13 Cest is d’best Zagreb, www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr10-13 The Ogulin Fairy Tale Festival Ogulin, www.ogfb.hr11-13 Terezijana - theater festival Bjelovar, www.tzbbz.hr12-13 Charcoal burning in Martinac www.cazma.hr12-13 Fiumanka, regatta Rijeka, www.fiumanka.hr15-25 Eurokaz, the international festivalof new theatre Zagreb, www.eurokaz.hr19-20 The Sisak tournament of Chivalry Sisak, www.sisakturist.hr28 Day of the european stork village Čigoć Čigoć, www.pp-lonjsko-polje.hr

July2-4 Days of Rudarska greblica (Miner’s Salty Cake) Rude, Samobor, www.ostrc.hr9-10 Fashion Week Rab, www.tzg-rab.hr18 Šokolijada Nin, www.nin.hr22-23 T-mobile Inmusic festival Zagreb, www.inmusicfestival.com24-28 Dožinky - harvest ceremonies Bjelovar, www.tzbbz.hr25-27 Rabska fjera Rab, www.tzg-rab.hr31 Summer Carnival of Pag

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Experience the vineyard of Ilok

The celebration of the festivity of St. Vincent in the Ilok-Srijem wine country is a long standing tradition which draws vine-growers and their guests. They come every year to partake in the ceremony of blessing and marking the start of works in vineyards. The central celebration takes place in the location of the Cellars of Ilok. This year it took place in true winter environment, at the temperature of -4oC, on the homestead of Vukovo, where hundreds of visitors enjoyed a day savouring the fortifying themselves with grilled Slavonian sausages and bacon, fortifying themselves with the best of wines like traminac, graševina, frankovka - and all of it to the accompaniment of tamburitzas. The merriment went long into the night in the Old Cellar tourist estate, but also in numerous cellars around the town.

Do not miss the next St. Vincent’s Day on January 22, 2011. Contact: www.ilocki-podrumi hr. Danubium tours : info@danubiumtours.hr , www.danubiumtours.hr

SPLIT & DALMATIA COUNTY TOURIST BOARD SPLITPrilaz braće Kaliterna 10/1, PP 430 / HR-21000 Split CROATIA, Tel/Fax: ++385 21 490 032, 490 033, 490 036, E-mail: info@dalmatia.hr

www. dalmatia.hr

Meet You there!Central

Dalmatia

ISSN 1847-1552

Issue 6 March, 2010 Year II. Not for sale

Magazine of Croatian Tourism

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Gastronomic heritageThe Champion Chef of CroatiaThe Pag cheese

Exploring destinationsIsland of RabIsland of BračIsland of Pag

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