way to croatia no.9

ISSN 1847-1552

Issue 9 September, 2010 / Year II. Not for sale

photo: Istrian Vineyards

Magazine of Croatian tourismSpecial Edition: Wines

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PROGRAMME

Aurora Hotel, Mali Lošinj

23 November 2010 – Tuesday

13.00 – 15.00 Registration, settling in, welcome drink, fitting out work space15.15 – 21.00 Programme prepared by the Host – Nerezine and Osor Opening ceremony and presentation of Flavours of Lošinj22.00 Free time

24 November 2010 – Wednesday 09.00 – 13.00 Business programme: Workshop09.30 – 11.00 Round table on the topic of Tourism – connecting nations for touristic journalists of the region 11.30 – 12.00 Presentation of the project devised by the Association of Angels of Varaždin Festival of Angels, On the trail of Angels, Angelic flavours, Festival of sweet delights, Weddings in the City of Angels13.30 Ceremonial lunch and presentation of the Simply the Best 2010 award16.00 – 18.30 Team building programme - part I 20.00 – 24.00 Dinner to the entertainment programme – part II of team building programme

25 November 2010 – Thursday

09.00 – 13.00 Destination management – best examples from practice09.00 – 10.45 Presentations

11.45 – 12.15 Break – coffee, tea and special presentation of traditional festive time cake of Lošinj 12.20 – 13.00 Presentations13.00 Lunch and departure

12th International Tourism Exch

ange

International Tourism Exchange is designed exclusively for business visitors, is the presentation of the novelties in the supply of products offered by tourist destinations, hotels and travel agencies prepared for the next season. It gives us great pleasure to be able to inform that from this year we have been joined by the Association of Croatian Travel Agencies (UHPA) as our partner and co-organizer, which ensured special participation conditions for their full and associate members. Judging by the initial inquiries and notifications, we can expect the participation of about hundred representatives of agencies from Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Serbia, Macedonia, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, and as almost as many representatives from the hotel industry andtourist sector.

The time allocated for business contacts within the programme also includes interesting discussions on professional issues and professional presentations, as well as active socializing and a comprehensive familiarization with the tourist supply offered by the host – the role on this occasion falling to the Tourist board of the town of Mali Lošinj. As has been the case up to now, all that goes towards making the Bourse as much a special business event as an interesting and valuable study trip. The participation registration can be sent right now, the closing date being 15 October 2010. The registration form can both be found on and sent online at www.vall042.com or by the following e-mail: [email protected]. Please bear in mind that due to the limited number of participants the priority is given to those who register first, which makes the registration valid only upon its confirmation by the organizer.

K VARNER - CROATIA

Issue 9 / September 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. [email protected]

Editor-in-chiefBorislav Šimenc

President of Editors CouncilŽeljko Trezner

Executive EditorDesign & LayoutTanja Bunjevac

Language Editor& TranslatorVolga Vukelja 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

6-8 Opatija Events in 2011.11-13 Biograd na moru16-17 International Hotel, Rab18-21 The Zadar Archipelago22-24 The Solaris Hotels Resort: The Dalmatian Village25 Privlaka 26-27 Events in Zagreb28-29 Ogulin Fairytale Festival30-34 Virovitica

35 Wine

36-41 Agrolaguna & Istriavino: Istria- the land of good wine

42-43 Vrbnik, Island of Krk Žlahtina wine

44-45 Croatian Wine Story

46-49 Wines of Dalmatia and Dubrovnik County

50-51 Green Ring of the Zagreb County

53-55 The County of Varaždin: Wine Routes

57-61 The County of Međimurje: Wine Routes 63-65 The Wine Route of Moslavina

66-68 The Wine Route of Daruvar

69-71 The Ilok Wine Route

72-73 The island of Rab - Geopark

Impresum Table of Contents

Adriatic See

Međimurje (57)

Ilok (71)

Varaždin (53)

Virovitica (30)

Dalmatia (46)

Šibenik (22)

Vrbnik (42)

Rab (16,72)

Ogulin (28)

Moslavina (63)

Biograd (11)

Daruvar (67)

Zadar (18)Privlaka (25)

Opatija (6)

Istria (36)

ZAGREB

Issues to follow:• November, 2010

Highway

WienaBratislava

Budapest

LjubljanaMunich

The number of tourist arrivals to the Crotian Adriatic has reached 8,2 mil.,

which makes almost 52 mil. overnight stays. It is a result which exceeds by

3% or rather 6% that of the last year, and viewed through the realization

of the first eights months it is the best tourist season to date. If this trend

continues in the coming months 2010 could prove to be the best tourist

year in Croatian history. In addition to the satisfaction with the results

achieved, we are also pleased to be able to say that this year many tourist

destinations have prepared many new and attractive facilities, activities

and other products for our visitors, and they range from the cultural

and entertainment events to recreational pastime. One special place in

those novelties has undoubtedly been reserved for the Croatian wine

routes – which is why we have decided, and we hasten to add not without

considerable pride, to devote much of this issue to those most delectable

of places. And well worth a visit they indeed are. (bš)

Editor’s Corner

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OpatijaEvents in 2011JANUARY 1/1 - New Year’s toast by the Mayor of Opatija17/1 January – raising of the Carnival flag

FEBRUARY18-20/2 – Fastival of tango20/2 - Children’s Carnival parade26/2 – Girandola of Opatija27 - Balinjerada

MARCHMarch – the month of open door wellness

4-6/3 – Carnival Cup Regatta12-13/3 – Hairstyle News25-27/3 – Exhibition of the Opatija Riviere camellias 26-27/3 – Cosmetic NewsKvarner Festival, concert

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info Tourist Board Opatija www.opatija-tourism.hr

APRIL16-17/4 – Festival of coffee20-23/4 – Kvarner Expo24/4 12,00 h – Promenade concert on the terrace of Imperial Hotel25/4 - Easter concert in the Church of St. Jacob29-30/4 – Festival of Nordic walking

MAY1/15 - May Day celebration in Veprinac6-8/5 - “Our world is music”- Festival of wind orchestras 13-15/5 – Outdoor sports activities27-29/5 - Old Timer Rally (in cooperation with Slovene and Italian Old timer clubs)

JUNE24-25/6 – Festival of fireworksBeginning of the Opatija Festival programme (concerts, films, other types of perofmances)

JULY1-3/7 - Liburnia Jazz Festival10-12/7 – ACI Regatta15-17/7 - Kaisrernacht Festival of klapas and mandolins23/7-6/8 – Adriatic encounters

AUGUSTUp to 6/8 – Adriatic encountersProgramme taking place on the Summer stage (concerts, film, productions)23-30/8 – Bejahad – the Week of Jewish culture

SEPTEMBER2-4/9 – Roller skates Festival19-25/9 – Vienna week (Viennese Ball, Viennese cuisine)Liburnia film Festival

NOVEMBER Festival of wines and guitars (Opatija Festival)Kvarner Festival - concertGastro-manifestation

DECEMBER2-4/12 – Festival of Chocolate Advent

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keywords: numerous pebble and sand beaches, Marina Kornati & Šengulin dinamic holiday, national nature parks

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Biograd na moru

Biograd 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.

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

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

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Ilirija www.turistbiro.comŠkvertours www.skver-tours.com Leut www.leut.hrVal tours www.val-tours.hr

Biograd Tourist Boardwww.tzg-biograd.hr

agencies info

National nature parks very close to the Biograd na moru are:Kornati Islands, a group of about 130 islands, islets and reefs spread across the deep blue sea of the Adriatic, and covering an area of about 64 sq km. Paklenica National Park - the area of Paklenica National Park stretches across the littoral slopes of southern Velebit. It covers the area of the rapids of Velika Paklenica and Mala Paklenica, and their distinctive canyons carved vertically through the rocks of Velebit and its surroundings. This relatively small area abounds in geo-morphological phenomena and forms, diverse flora and fauna, attractive landscapes and virgin nature. It is an ideal, and a very popular place for hiking, mountaineering and climbing. www.paklenica.hr Krka National Park the realm of the River Krka, the magnificent karstic beauty travelling two thirds of its way to the sea through canyons. In its journey to the sea the river forms seven waterfalls the last one being Skradinski buk with an average flow of 55 cubic meters of water per second. You can visit Park, its ethno museum, the mills on foot and by boat. www.krka.hr Vransko jezero (Vrana Lake), the largest natural lake in Croatia renown for its rare and almost intact natural habitats of water fowl, for its fresh water springs and its biodiversity. It is in fact a karst valley lying below the sea level, and is filled with brackish water. vransko-jezero.hr

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recommendation

Karlovac

From April to November rafting on rivers of Karlovac is special - in the spring there is the river Kupa which offers richness of water and beautiful rapids, then in late spring is time to visit the river Korana and gorgeus Rastoke, and finally in summer there is river Mrežnica the absolute queen - fresh, green and full of waterfalls and rapids. Rafting demands certain equipment, knowledge and experiance. Agencies from Karlovac organize rafting and canoe trips with profesional and internationaly certified guides on Croatian waters. Karlovac and its waters do indeed have something to offer. Regardless of whether you are a dedicated carp hunter, or you prefer to fish for pike and catfish, or perhaps your affinity lies solely with white fish – there is always something for all. The lushness of greenery and the beauty of the rivers of Karlovac can only serve to enchant you still more and develop an irresistible draw that will keep pulling you back. The old folks of Karlovac used to say: He who cannot row, swim and has never caught a fish in a river cannot be regarded as the true citizen of Karlovac. And you’d better believe it, there is a great deal of truth in those words. For when a town is lying on four rivers, and that is not counting a whole lot of small rivers, lakes (known as bajyer /read. Bayer/ created thorough the excavation of clay) and canals, a fisherman’s head can frequently be filled with an unusual dilemma: Where shall I go today? The Kupa, the Korana, the Dobra, the Mrežnica, or perhaps lake Šumbar… or maybe…?More information: Tourist Board of the City of Karlovac [email protected]

www.karlovac-touristinfo.hr

Varaždin, 7 May - 16 June 2011

contact: [email protected]

Angels Festival

Looking for a romantic getaway, a quite retreat from your everyday routine or a simple family holiday? Come and stay at Hotel International in Rab and enjoy a perfect holiday in Croatia!

Hotel International is ideally located in the historic city of Rab and is set upon on the edge of the seafront overlooking the bay. Here, you’ll unwind in comfortable rooms with

contemporary decor and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Spend your days by the pool, relax in the wellness or join one of the numerous excursions exploring the amazing natural beauties of the island Rab. Local and international cuisine combined with the finest wines will satisfy even the most demanding palate.Let us make your holidays „once in a lifetime“ experience!

www.hotelrab.com

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YOUR HOTEL IN THE CENTER OF RAB!

www.hotelrab.com I [email protected] I tel: 00385 (0)51 602 000

Hoteli Rab d.o.o., Obala Kralja Petra Krešimira IV 4, RAB

Hotel International lies on the seafront of the historic heart of the city Rab. It boasts 138 fully equipped rooms offering a sea or

city view. The hotel features Dock 69 restaurant and Escape Lounge bar and is equipped with a swimming pool, fitness centre,

massage and sauna facilities.

TheZadar Archipelago

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The Zadar archipelago is a unique phenomenon of more than three hundred islands and islets stretching along the northern Dalmatian coast. Each one of them has its own story and curiosity, and all of them are definitely worth seeing. Most of these islands are uninhabited, so those who visit them by boat can find many examples of natural authentic landscapes and scenery untouched by human hand.

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Islands:Dugi OtokKornatiIstIžMolatOlibOšljakPagPašmanPremudaRavaRivanjSestrunjSilbaUgljanVirVrgadaZverinac...

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Way to Croatia

Dugi OtokIt is about 45 km long and between 1 and 4 km wide, the highest peak Vela Straža is 338 m high. The south-west coast of the island is steep with fascinating cliffs, and with a line of bays, the most beautiful among them Sakarun and Telašćica. The pride of the island is a significant landscape with a dominating lighthouse on the north-west side, and the Nature Park Telašćica on the south-east. The diversity of sea life combined with various rocky soil formations make this island a unique ecological unit.

The Island of Pag The part of the island facing Velebit has no vegetation, due to strong gusts of bora which make the landscape resemble that of the moon. The other side of the island is famous by its peable and sand beaches. The trademarks of the island are the famous Pag cheese, Pag lace, salt, white wine called “žutica”, as well as exceptionally rich folk costumes.

The Zadar region covers the south of Croatia and is therefore an area of sun, warm sea, olives, wine, fish, song, picturesque localities with stone houses, in one word, the real and original Mediterranean.

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Sali is a place surrounded by natural gardens and thousand-year-old olive groves. It flourishes with cultural and sacral heritage from the early centuries of Christianity. The tourist attraction of Sali is well-known and it has the world-known Tovareća mužika (Donkey music). Unforgettable are the Donkey races within the Sali Cultural Summer, autochthonous summer folk manifestations.

Kornati National Park stretches over the area of about 220 km2 including altogether 89 islands, islets and reefs within approximately 238 km of coastline. It’s a place of exceptional beauty, interesting geomorphology, well indented coastline and particularly numerous biocenosis of the sea eco-system. About excursions, sailing, scuba diving, swimming please look at www.kornati.hr

Tourist Board of Zadar Countywww.zadar.hr

contact

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The Dalmatian Village

Way to Croatia

factsThe Solaris Hotels Resort is located in northern Dalmatia, close to Šibenik, Trogir, Split and Zadar – cities of rich cultural and historical heritage. Also close to the resort are four national Parks: the Kornati Archipelago, the Krka Waterfalls, the Plitvice Lakes and the Paklenica Canyon. The resort includes 5 hotels (the 4* Ivan Hotel, the 4* Jure Hotel, the 4* Niko Hotel, the 4* Andrija Hotel and the 3* Jakov Hotel), the 4* Kornati villas with comfortable apartments in 16 villas, a camp site and a marina.

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Take a time leap straight into the history of Dalmatia. An ancient time of leisurely pace of life, simple but mouth-watering food and delicious homemade wines. Capture the moments in 102 years old Water Mill – Mlinica where wheat is ground into flour and turned into, among other things, irrestistably tasty bread, or have a chat with our granny in the Mill. The Solaris Resort is paying special attention to sustainable development of our local farmers and producers. All food and vegetables are locally grown, handpicked and served at the Dalmatian village restaurant. A visit to the Dalmatian village enables one to experience, almost first hand, the times of our grandmothers, taste the tastes and smell the aromas. Experiencing Dalmatian Village will take you to our grandmother’s time with mouthwatering tastes and scents.

The Dalmatian Village

hotels resort, authentic Dalmatian Village,

mounthwatering specialities, wellness & spa keywords:

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The Solaris Hotels Resortwww.solaris.hrinfo & [email protected]

contact

WELLNESS FACILITES & AMENITIES: Complex of 2 indoor pools with heated salt water and 4 indoor pools with natural water, whirpool Saunas: Finnish,Tepidarium, Mediterranean grotto- theme massage rooms, Finnish saunas and the Mediterranean grotto, treatments with medicinal mud. BEAUTY PROGRAMS: Facial and body cosmetics, aromatherapy, manicure,pedicure, waxing, suntanning, lymph drainage SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS: Managerial, anti-stress, relax-energy, vital, retirement, weight-loss programs, yoga and Pilates body-shaping techniques.

Dalmatian Easter21-25 April 2011In the month of April, when temperatures in Dalmatia reach a pleasant 18oC and the scents of vegetation, awoken by the spring sun, herald the arrival of summer, we recommend a relaxing walk by the sea along the 4 km long beach of the Solaris Resort. The combination of invigorating Mediterranean air, gentle and soothing swaying of the sea and delicacies from the Dalmatian village is definitely something not to be missed.

Grape picking25 September - 8 October 2011Dalmatia is one of the oldest wine growing regions in Europe, particularly the area around Šibenik where excellent soil and suitable climate guarantee superb quality wines – like for instance Babić. Every year, starting mid-September, when grapes reach the desire level of ripeness, the harvest begins.

Wellness & Spa CentreSolaris Wellness Centre covers an area of 2500 m2 where peace of mind and soul are the order of the day. So all who come should make sure they leave all their worries outside the door and devote themselves to numerous body and facial treatments with total abandon – be they massage, sauna or just relaxation in the wonderful Mediterranean garden. And while soaking in the scents and fragrances lavender, rosemary and palms you can fortify yourself with juices of freshly squeezed fruits and vegetables.

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Privlaka

Tourist Board Privlaka www.privlaka-tz.hr Tourist agency Kristi tours [email protected]

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. Welcome!

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Lady GagaThe Monster Ball TourArena Zagreb, 5 November 2010 The Monster Ball Tour is the second worldwide concert tour by Lady Gaga in support of her second studio album, The Fame Monster. Gaga’s production team Haus of Gaga designed the poster and the stage for the concert, including the giant contraption called The Orbit. www.eventim.hr

Sting The Symphonicity TourArena Zagreb, 8 November 2010This autumn Sting, accompanied by forty five members of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Steven Mercury, and the quartet comprising Sting’s long-standing guitarist Dominic Miller, David Cossin (multi-percussionist), Jo Lawry (vocal) and Ira Coleman (bas), is preparing an exceptional performance of his best songs like Roxanne, Every breath you take, Desert rose…www.eventim.hr

Prince20Ten tourArena Zagreb, 28 November 2010www.lupapromotion.hr

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contact

Advent in ZagrebDecember, 2010Advent in the heart of Zagreb is a traditional happening which leads up to Christmas. In the very city centre, at Ban Jelačić Square, a variety of musical events and performances bring the spirit of the festive season to the citizens of Zagreb and their guests. Throughout the entire month of December those who come to the main square and the surrounding streets are entertained by numerous artistic groups, children choirs, dance groups, concerts, arts and traditional crafts workshops, all under the watchful eye of Father Christmas. Officially the festive season in Zagreb begins with the lighting of the first Advent candle at the Maduševac Well. As this year’s programme is indeed rich and crammed with events, it is really difficulty to single out any one of them, but you can be sure there will be of lot of fun and entertainment for every age and all interests.

Events in Zagreb

www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr

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Ogulin is the homeland of fairy tales and as such a more than a fitting birthplace of Ivana Brlić Mažuranić, the greatest Croatian writer of children’s stories. She found inspiration for her stories in the landscapes around Ogulin and in the old Slavonic legends. Her enchanting story-telling talent has earned

her the status of the Croatian Andersen, while the inspiration she had found in the fantastic world of mythology led, and indeed leads to her being compared to Tolkien. The Ogulin Fairy Tale Festival is a cultural event which celebrates the fairy tale and a fairy tale creativity, and through it supports, realizes and presents artistic and cultural production intended for people of all ages, but particularly for children and families.

The Festival hosts artists and artistic organizations of different expressions and forms, thus strengthening the local artistic and cultural production and intercultural cooperation. Apart from many theatre performances and puppet shows, the event offers a variety of workshops aimed at encouraging and developing creativity and imagination - like the workshops of magic jewellery,

puppetry, drama and stage, costume and set design, music games and the exam in flying on a broom.

The festival audience is especially thrilled by street artists and storytelling programmes where the top storytellers from Germany, France and Croatia break the language barriers and take the audience on a tour through a multicultural world of fairy tales, legends and supernatural creatures.

The Ogulin FairyTale

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Having decided to spin its magic in a wider circles, the Festival has spread its gossamer across the local boundaries so as to capture a number of similar events in other countries, notably the Fiabesque – the fairytale festival from Peccioli in Italy, the Märchenland - Deutsches Zentrum für Märchenkultur from Berlin, and the Scottish Storytelling Centre and network. For several years now the Festival has been successfully cooperating with Katharina Ritter and Nathalie Bondoux, storytellers from Germany and France, as well as with Jasna Held, their only Croatian counterpart. In addition to her primary role of a story teller, Jasna Held is also running storytelling workshops. Among other workshops available to visitors are: Sheep’s follies or as those more down to earth would

say - Felt-making workshop; Make-up workshop organized by the Society of the Magic Touch; Drumming workshop; Film workshop.Delicious fiesta is a competition of pastry cooks in creating gateaux and other deserts inspired by the fairy

tales of Ivana Brlić Mažuranić. Once the jury has reached its decision regarding the respective deserts, the same opportunity shall be enjoyed by all the visitors of the Festival.

The Ogulin Fairy Tale Festival will take place from 10 to 12 June 2011.

The Ogulin FairyTale

The Ogulin Fairy Tale Festivalwww.ogfb.hr

contact

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Way to Croatia

factsVirovitica sits in the north-east of Croatia, in a place where picturesque slopes of Bilogora softly blend into the fertile plain. The town fish ponds, the vicinity of the River Drava, the wide and deep forests replete with game large and small and the vineyards spread along the Bilogora offer a veritable haven for those after a holiday in closeness with nature.

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keywords: fish-pond of Virovitica, river

Drava, Vistas of Virovitica

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Virovitica

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The vineyards and vineyard huts of the “Vista of Virovitica” are scattered across the slopes of Bilogora, with each of the stations of the wine route being in fact a belvedere from which the vistas of the fertile valley of the Drava open up. The combination of the favourable climatic conditions, the average annual temperature of 11oC and the average precipitations of 433,6 mm/m3 per annum, the land configuration and composition of soil have long been recognized as an ideal combination for the cultivation of grape vine the roots of which go way back down the centuries.

Family vineyards also have a long standing tradition of grapes and wine production, and the improvement of varieties and the introduction of the up to date know-how on both the cultivation and wine production have resulted in a number of quality wines. Though the most dominant varieties are Grassevina (Welschriesling) and Pinot Blanc of controlled geographic origin, vineyard huts will surprise their visitors with a whole array of fine home-made products – from mead and a variety of fruit wines to gastronomic delights of the region. For the visitors interested in the wine making and wine keeping process the Vistas of Virovitica have prepared a whole range of activities that take place both in the vineyards and the vineyard huts.

Wine route through the „Vistas of Virovitica“

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WelschrieslingThe most widely represented variety in this particular wine country is Grasseevina (Welschriesling) with a regular yield from medium to high - depending on the length of cutting and the manner of cultivation, and the sugar level of 16-17%, which gives wine of a distinct varietal aroma.Pinot Blanc is a high quality variety of French origin that gives a medium yield and a wine of a noble bouquet and well balanced green-yellow colour which reaches its full development only after maturation in oak barrels. This variety should be more extensively represented.

Chardonnay is a quality variety also of French origin which is gaining in popularity in our wine country. Significant areas are covered by the Frankovka variety that produces quality wine characterized by dark ruby red colour and a tinge of tannin.

Wine-grape varieties

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accommodationNot far from the centre of Virovitica, nestling against the wooded slopes of Bilogora, is the Šulentić Hotel. It provides a quality accommodation, a vicinity to a number of sports facilities, the fish ponds of Virovitica and the hunting grounds, the Hotel boasts a fine cellar known as the Granddad’s Cellar – a must destination for all true oeno-gastro enthusiast. And on those lines we recommend veal done under “peka”, venison a’ la wild, pike-perch the Orly way to go with the lovely wines of Virovitica. www.hotel-sulentic.hr

6th day

The fish-pond of ViroviticaAt the foothills of Bilogora, about 7km from Virovitica, lies a complex of wetland with 12 lakes surrounded by forests. Contained within that complex is a string of 9 fish-ponds, a much favoured excursion site for the citizens of Virovitica and their guests. Incorporated intot he complex are two trails – the educational and the mountaineering trail of the overall length of 20 km.

River Drava - KrižnicaLovers of nature find the pull of the river difficult to resist, as those who just want to relax in downstream boat ride, so those who decide to test its unpredictability or to try their luck as fishermen. Diversity of flora and fauna of the area is amazing, while the sheltered sandy or pebble beaches along the banks offer pleasant rest and recuperation from the energetic “green” adventures experienced across the Virovitica –Podravina County. It is difficult to single out any one particular point on the River Drava that is a must to visit, but if hard pushed we would choose the river meander at Križnica which is reached from the direction of Pitomača across the suspension bridge, or by a short raft ride.

Tourist Board Viroviticawww.virovitickividici.com

contactPapuk Nature Park www.pp-papuk.hr

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When the Earth weeps wine, she's weeping tears of joy. And it is those Earthly tears that so many of us so enjoy in so many situations.For how many things happen in our lives which cannot be aided, improved, made possible to bear or brought to a happy conclusion – to mention but a few possibilities – with a glass of wine. When we hear something that is, to put it kindly, difficult to believe, we say – oh, dear me, what a glass of wine wouldn't do for me right now! When good things come to us or those we care for, we say – this calls for a bottle of fine wine! When bad happen to us or those we care for, we say – give me a tot of something! When we celebrate our holidays, we do it with a drink in our hand. When we say goodbye to somebody, we raise a glass in a toast to them. When we feel we need a break – be it just a short weekend breather or something of a longer nature – we think of a place where we could relax, have a nice aperitif followed by a nice meal crowned by a glass of nice wine. I cannot think of any other example where a crown jewel is moulded out of tears, but wine is most definitely the crown jewel of all the drinks man has ever invented. Libraries have been written about those precious drops, entire philosophies of the business of life have been woven around it. And while on the subject of the business of life, it need not be unduly stressed that without food there would be no such business. And therefore no wine either. So we believe that most of us agree there are very few things better than sitting down in good company, savouring at leisure a fine meal happily married to a just as fine a bottle, or two, of wine. Bon apetit and cheers!

Agrolaguna from Poreč is the leading winemaking company not only in the whole of Istria but also throughout Croatia, as well as being the first in the production of the best quality olive oil and cheese.Within its programme Agrolaguna has two lines of wines: Laguna Histria - quality wines, and Festigia – the best quality wines.

Agrolaguna has at its disposal as many as 520 ha of own vineyards (460 ha of new ones planted in 2003) of white and red varieties of grapevine which yield typical Istrian but also international wines - such as Malmsey, Teran, Muscat, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and others, all well known and liked by the markets.

The Agrolaguna vineyards are located in the wine-growing area of Poreština, extending from the altitude of 270 m – across the gentle, sun-soaked hillsides practically to the shoreline. The ground in the northern section of the vineyards is predominantly red soil, but in the northern part it is white – whence the names of White and Red Istria for those respective parts of the peninsula. Both type of soil are rich in minerals which are then passed on to the wines imbuing them with very special qualities.

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The Festigia top quality wines tell the story of Istria, of the exuberantly fertile red soil, of the special locations by the sea, of the moments that celebrate life – as the name itself says. They are the result of cultivation of carefully selected varieties from the best positions and are aimed at the most demanding of connoisseurs whose taste buds are tuned to the most superb of vinous pleasures. They are matured in French barriques which enhances their specific properties still further. How special and good the Festigia wines is best testified to by the prizes won both at home and abroad – those won at Vinistra, in Italy, Bruxxelles, Canada, Madrid... being only some of them. In the last

two years alone Festigia wines have been awarded 5 world golds!

Name of FestigiaFestigia is the name of one of the rooms within the complex of the Euphrasius’ basilica in Poreč which has been entered into the UNESCO list of the world architectural heritage in 1997, and which used to serve as the venue for celebrations, merrymaking and socializing for both the clergy and the common folk. A segment of the visual identity of the Festigia wines is the mosaic from the basilica depicting Bishop Euphrasius embracing his diocese of Poreč.

Festigia

The Agrolaguna Cellar, which became operational in 1980, is situated in Poreč. The total capacity of the facility is 6,5mil litres. Year on year the company is investing into modernization of both the equipment and technology. One such investment is the new barrique hall built towards the end of 2008 which can hold 446 barrels, most of them made of French oak. That hall is used for maturation of the best red wines bottled under the brand of Festigia – Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah (blended under the Castello label).

Agrolaguna Celler, PorečMrs.Leana Kontić +385 91 442 1011

contact

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Cabernet Sauvignon FestigiaCabernet Sauvignon is one of the best known red varieties of wine producing grape originating from Bordeaux. The first to grow it in our parts was Istria, primarily the areas of Poreč and Pazin. The Festigia Cabernet Sauvignon is obtained from the Mornarica location right by the sea, grown on the red soil rich in minerals that impart themselves into the wine making it full-bodied and robust. Matured in the French oak barriques, of a ruby red colour, this is a wine characterized by intense aroma of wild berries, with emphasis on currents. Prizes won: Gold medal, Monde Selection, Brussels 2010, Gold medal, Emozione dal Mondo, Italy, 2009, Bronze medal, Decanter, London 2009

Merlot Festigia Superb wine matured in oak barriques, of deep ruby red colour and intense aroma of berries and sour cherries, full-bodied and rich in ripe tannins. A new vineyard for the top quality Merlot was planted in 2003 on the location of Faraguda extending over an area of cc 6ha.Prizes won: Gold medal, Monde Selection, Brussels 2010, Gold medal, Vinistra 2010, Gold medal, Emozione dal Mondo, Italy 2009, The best wine selected by journalists, Emozione dal Mondo, Italy 2009, Bronze medal, Decanter, London 2009

Castello Festigia This top quality wine is a blend of two varieties – 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Syrah. Nurtured in barriques, characterized by the robustness of Cabernet and mellowness of Syrah, with a nicely balanced aroma of berries and subtle vanilla, this is a distinctly harmonious wine of a complex and rich flavour. Prizes won: Gold medal, Canada 2010, Gold medal, Vinistra 2010, Silver medal, Bacchus, Madrid 2010 Bronze medal, Decanter, London 2010

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Dajla

The Dajla line of wines tells the tale of Istria - the land of good wine, of the village of Dajla near Novigrad, after which it has been named, since the vineyards are located close to Dajla, on the rich red soil right by the sea. And the wines in question are Malmsey, Teran and Cuvée Dajla – a combination of Merlot, Caberte Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, nurtured and matured in barrique.The cellar is located in Brtonigla, the centre of the winegrowing area of Bujština, and comprises the Old Cellar built at the end of the 19th century, and the New Cellar. Brtonigla is the only municipality in Croatia which has been admitted to the world-renown national Italian association of Citta del vino - Wine towns.

Wines of the Dajla line are aimed primarily at the more demanding of wine connoisseurs. The tasting room in the Brtonigla Cellars offers a traditional interior, the aroma of wine in delicious combination with other gastro-delicacies of Istria like prosciutto and cheese – and all of it accompanied by the sound of roženice (Istrian long flute) - is sure to make the time spent in the Cellar enjoyable and not quickly forgotten. The visit to Brtonigla includes a tour of the vineyards.

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TeranTeran is regarded as the indigenous Istrian variety that once used to be the most widespread red grapevine in all the vineyards of Istria. The Roman Empress Livia, wife of Augusts, used to drink Teran for medicinal purposes and it is to that wine – or so the records tell us – that she owes her long life.

Teran is produced from the grapes produced in own vineyards from the locality of Vela Brajda.

It is of deep ruby-red colour, with black berry fruitiness with a dominance of blackberry. When allowed to age of a year in wooden barrels it develops and attractive spicy note.

Istravino, Celler Brtonigla +385 52 774 717

contact

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Vrbnik on Island of KrkVrbnička žlahtina

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Should you wish to sense the spirit of the olden days carved into stone, celebrated in song by the ancient Chakavian dialect, recorded in the Glagolitic letters of gold - then come to Vrbnik and you will hear the tale that took 900 years to weave. It is located on the north-eastern shore of the island of Krk, perched on a 48m high rock. The architectural harmony of its narrow streets, its stone-built houses on top of steep cliffs above the sea is impressive, while the views of the vineyards and the sea afforded from them are spectacular. And when in Vrbnik, one should not fail to visit its sacral monuments, the parish church, and most definitely take a stroll through what surely is the narrowest street in the world! The invaluable Glagolitic scriptorium in which many valuable books were written and decorated with miniatures and illuminations is borne witness to by numerous interpolations in the stone architecture of Vrbnik, as well as by the collection of the priceless Glagolitic manuscripts of the Vitezić family. But Vrbnik has yet another claim to fame, one of a perhaps more earthly character but no less precious. The nature and the man working in unison – in other words: the location, the soil and the sun plus the traditional cultivation of grapevine, i.e. manual processing without modern equipment, have, in

the opinion of enologists, produced one of the best quality wines in Croatia.Vrbnička žlahtina is a quality dry white wine produced from an indigenous variety, the white žlahtina. This variety is specific as it can be foun only on the island of Krk, and even more specific, only in the vineyards of Vrbnik. is only grown vineyards in Krk and more precisely in the fields of Vrbnik. The name, Žlahtina, is derived from the archaic Slavic word žlahten meaning noble.Connoisseurs describe the wine as “elegant, high-quality, having a unique aroma and freshness, while all the fruity scents and harmonious features of the variety are expertly preserved“.

Mainly white wine varieties grown on the northern parts of the island. Alongside Žlahtina there are also Istrian Malmsey, Draganela and Opačevina.

Some links:AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVE VRBNIK www.zlatnavrbnickazlahtina.com AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVE GOSPOJA (Toljanić) www.gospoja.hr KATUNAR WINERY www.katunar.com NADA CATERING AND TOURISM www.nada-vrbnik.hr ŠIPUN WINEMAKING AND SEEDLING PRODUCTION www.sipun.hr

Tourist Board of Vrbnikwww.vrbnik.hr

Mare-tours www.mare-vrbnik.com

info contact

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Dubrovnik and Pelješac Peninsula - Visit Dubrovnik a medieval city on the Croatian side of the Adriatic coastline and a treasure trove of cultural - historical monuments that were created throughout its thousand-year existence. Continue your travel towards Croatia’s second largest peninsula Pelješac where you cannot miss the splendid vineyards that cover the land. Allow you palate the pleasure of tasting top quality wines at Ivo Skaramuča Vinery. Korčula - one of the most beautiful islands in South Dalmatian archipelago. Known as the birth place of Marko Polo, this town has been justly called “a little Dubrovnik” due to its picturesque squares and medieval atmosphere. We offer wine tasting at Toreta Vinery and Kunjaš Vinery. Next stop is Split – a forever young city with 200,000 citizens who give it its warm Mediterranean temper. This UNESCO protected city has lived its urban rhythm for as long as 1700 years, with its heart in the Diocletian Palace and its soul widespread to embrace you as you are guided through its historical streets. Departure for Island Vis.Island Vis - The beauty of limpid waters and protected submarine world rich with sunken ships and magic marine images that has been hidden for years. Sandy island soil is the best for wine-growing, making the Vis vineyards among best in Dalmatia. Around 20% of arable land on the island is covered with vineyards. Enjoy wine tasting at Lipanović Vinery (at the end of a tunnel that has been drilled into a rock hillside) and Roki’s Vinery (first registered producer of ecological wines in Dalmatia).Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the greatest natural wonders of Europe. Embraced by high wooded mountains, one beneath another lie sixteen beautiful lakes of crystal blue-green water. Connected to each other by a series of foaming cascades and thundering waterfalls, the lakes are fed by many rivers and streams.Istria is indeed a feast for the eyes. Its streams flow to the sea through deep valleys and gullies which bring to mind the ancient local myths about giants. Rolling hills overlook the fields and valleys with little towns perched on the peaks, recalling some old paintings.Poreč is a town located in the heart of the western coast of Istria. A town of culture, tourism, sport and entertainment, it has been recognised and awarded for the beauty of its public spaces and its cleanliness many times over. Since ancient Roman times the streets of Poreč have preserved their original architecture and numerous cultural and historical monuments, such as the Euphrasian Basilica with its distinctive mosaics dating from the 6th century which UNESCO recognised and protected as a world heritage site in 1997. Enjoy wine and olive oil tasting at Agrolaguny Winery.

Wine StoryCroatian Wine StoryCroats have been famous for their skills in vine cultivation and wine production since 7th

century. Croatia used to provide wine for the majority of Europe, including France during the 19th century! Our beautiful country still holds the first place in the number of local varieties grown across a unit area. Come to Croatia, the land of 1000 islands, enjoy our delicious wines that will cheer up your taste buds, walk through picturesque vineyards, find out about old methods of wine making, be amazed by our rich cultural and natural heritage, visit Dubrovnik – “The pearl of Adriatic” and UNESCO World Heritage Site, be enchanted by one of the greatest natural wonders - Plitvice Lakes and its

Wine Storybreathtaking waterfalls… All that and much more we offer you in our Croatian Wine Story tours that were inspired by excellent new documentary film “Croatian Wine Roads” by Mandrak Production. This film takes all of you through coastal and continental Croatia, following the magical world of winemaking. Meet the people, the places, taste the foods and wine from this historic region. And of course, each person that goes on one of our tours will get this complimentary DVD and a little hand-made barrel as a souvenir. Our mission is to make your visit to Croatia memorable!

Carlson Wagonlit Travel partner for Croatia www.globtour.hr

Istria - the most famous vine region in Croatia, among others, offers wine tasting at Marino Markežić – Kabola (producing wine with a thousands years old technique - in buried amphoras closed for few months) and at Moreno Coronica Vinery.Zagreb is an important tourist center, not only in terms of passengers travelling from Western and Central Europe to the Adriatic Sea, but also as a travel destination itself. Since the end of the war, it has attracted around half a million visitors annually, mainly from Austria, Germany and Italy. The wider Zagreb area has been continuously inhabited since the prehistoric period, as witnessed by archaeological findings in the Veternica cave from the Paleolithic and excavation of the remains of the Roman Andautonia near the present village of Ščitarjevo. The picturesque former villages on the slopes of Medvednica, Šestine, Gračani and Remete, maintain their rich traditions, including folk costumes, Šestine umbrellas, and gingerbread products. In this region we invite you to experience wine tasting at Mladina Cellar in Jastrebarsko and wine tasting at Family Tomac Vinery. Slavonia is a geographical and historical region in eastern Croatia. It is a fertile agricultural and forested lowland in the Pannonian Basin, bounded, in part, by the Drava river in the north, the Sava river in the south, and the Danube river in the east. It offers excellent conditions for winegrowing and winemaking. In the past, the wines of Slavonia were often found on the tables of emperors and noblemen and it is this tradition that the present Slavonian vineyards derive from: Srijem, Baranja and Ðakovo in the east and Kutjevo in the west of Slavonia. Slavonia has truly excellent capacities for production of large amounts of premium wine, especially white wine. The most famous are Ivan Enjingi Cellar, Kutjevački Cellars and Vlado Krauthaker Vinery.The largest city of Eastern Croatia, Osijek is unique with his valuable and unique historical sites, sporting, haunting and fishing activities, endemic plants and animals, gastronomy delights and richness of culture and history. We suggest wine tasting at Iločki podrumi (Old Cellar) and Zdjelarević Vinery.

Price per person: from 1.150,00 EUR Price includes: nine bed & breakfast accommodation in double room in 3* hotel; transfers; tour leader; city tours with professional guides; entrance tickets to National Park Plitvice Lakes; wine tasting according to programme; VAT; Prices are based on minimum 15 persons. Programme may be adjusted according to your preferences.

The area involving the islands of Hvar, Brač, Korčula and Vis, and the Pelješac peninsula is in fact the most important wine growing zone in Croatia. It is there that on hard, poor, stone based soils, but in ideal climatic conditions, Plavac mali is grown, one of the most precious of all Croatia indigenous varieties. Apart from the ever more varied range of Plavac wines on offer, this part of Dalmatia also produces several premium white wines, mostly from Pošip, yet another indigenous variety. Great potentials also have varieties Grk from island of Korčula and Vugava from island of Vis.

The Island of HvarThe most consistently constant red wine in Croatia produced, needless to say, from Plavac mali, is Zlatan plavac, produced in the village of Sveta Nedjelja on the island of Hvar by winary of Zlatan Plenković (Zlatan otok). Its highly recommended to visit the restaurant Bilo Idro, with its wine cellar under the sea and exquisite seafood prepered in Dalmatian manner. Besides red wines Zlatan Plenković makes excelent white and rose wines and an exquisite, thick, sumptuous Prošek. In contrast to the majority of other Prošeks, which are based on a blend of white varieties, his is produced from Plavac mali.www.zlatanotok.hr

Wines of Hvar, Brač, Vis Korčula, and the PelješacWines of the islands

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Wines of Hvar, Brač, Vis Korčula, and the PelješacWines of the islands

Besides the Zlatan otok winery in Sveta Nedjelja, there is a excelent winery Bastijana of Tomić family situated in Jelsa, a small coastal town with a long winemaking tradition. Tasting hall of Tomić family is buried in stone bellow the winery, and modelled upon ancient Roman dining rooms. We recommend wine the Plavac mali Barique and excelent Prošek Hectorovich. www.bastijana.hr

The Island of BračThe most striking vineyards on the island of Brač are located on its southern slopes that rise above Bol. Here the grapevines have found shelter on the small, steep fields and terraces, while some are squeezed between rocks and cliffs that swoop towards the lovely beaches beneath. Due to the steepness of the terrain the vineyards enjoy a perfect exposure towards the sun.

Tourist Board of Dalmatiawww.dalmatia.hr

info

Looking at them from the tourist resort of Bol, one can enjoy a fine meal of the island cuisine and wash it down with a glass of the dark-red, thick Plavac of just the rite level of dryness and a special bouquet. The top quality wines produced from the grapes from these localities is bottled by Agricultural Cooperative Bol, Hrvoje Baković and Jakov Carević.

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DalmatiaThe island of KorčulaČara, a typical old village of vine growers with about 700 inhabitants lies on the main island road 25 km from the city of Korcula. Čara was built on the south slope of a hill under which spreads a large fertile polje covered with vineyards. The Agricultural Cooperative of Čara on the island of Korčula is one of the two main producers of wine from Pošip, a superb indigenous variety. The other producer is the Jedinstvo Agricultural Cooperative of Smokvica. Pošip wines from Čara do make perfect a companion to lobsters, the larger fish and scampi.www.visitkorcula.netwww.posip.hr

The island of VisRoki’s Winery on the island of Vis, owned by Nikša Roki, could metaphorically be described as an authentic punk project among Croatian wine producers. To wit, this winery produces a range of quite untypical wines from typical varieties, first and foremost from Plavac mali and Vugava. In Roki’s Winery you can taste fine Matadur and Vugava wine.www.tz-vis.hr

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DalmatiaThe Pelješac peninsulaDingač of Pelješac is the best known wine-growing location in Croatia. It’s located on the southern slopes facing the sea, which means that all day the wineyards of Plavac mali are exposed not only to direct sunlight but also to the reflection of the sun off the sea. The wine Dingač has a deep ruby red color, remarkably distinctive and rich bouquet and subtly pronounced varietal aroma. Wonderfully balanced and full-bodied flavor that lingers on the palate is what makes this wine so unique. Chilled to 18oC, Dingač pairs incredibly well with delicious

dark meat dishes and quality food fish.

Adjacent to Dingač is the locality of Postup, the second most valuable location on Pelješac peninsula. Often referred to as Dingač’s “baby brother” Postup, as well as Dingač, has dark ruby red color, it is delightfully balanced in flavor, with a faint note of tartness.

Postup makes a fine match with dark meat dishes, game and grilled oily fish or squids. It should be served at a temperature of 16-18oC.

Tourist Board of Dubrovnik-Neretva County visitdubrovnik.hr

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The County of Zagreb not only encircles the Croatian metropolis of Zagreb with its green belt of undulating hills, woods and copses, fishponds and vineyards, but it also preserves and guards the time-old traditions and customs. As in other parts of the country grapevine has been cultivated here for hundreds of years, and owing to the generous nature, climate and experience accumulated through generations, the range of wines is highly varies and original. There are two wine routes which stand out: the Plešivica route and the Zelina route, each of which has one indigenous wine – Kraljevina of Zelina and Portugieser of Plešivica. And when you have visited the local wine cellars and savoured their contents together with the local cuisine, seen the

ethno-collections and the traditional craftsmen like weavers and

The Green Ring

millers at their work, we wholeheartedly recommend you traverse the green hills on a horseback. If, however, cross-country chase is not what you are after, take a leisurely coach ride through this lovely land of vineyards wine, or treat yourself to a bird’s eye view of it by flying over it in an air-balloon. Your welcoming hosts will take pride in showing you their homesteads, traditional houses and domestic animals – and perhaps challenge you to try you hand in milking she-goats , a moment not easily forgotten.The food served: home-cooked local dishes and trout from ecological fish farms.The activities to engage in: grape picking, coach riding, horse riding, fishing, paragliding, tennis.

The Zelina wine routeWines on offer: Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Chardonnay Barrique, Kraljevina Zelina, Midsummer Day drops, Grassevina (Welwschriesling), Rhine Riesling, Duetino (Kerner), sparkling wine – Anita, Anita Rose, Traminer, Zweigelt, Čegec – Croatia first ecological wine, Sauvignon. Family homestead can host groups from 30 to up to 120 persons.

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Kraljevina of Zelina is produced from the variety of Kraljevina, the variety of the region of Prigorje, its predominance being the greatest in the area of Sveti Ivan Zelina. It is a quality dry wine of clear yellow with a ting of green, vivacious and harmonious. In Zagreb it is known as a jolly and social wine. This variety was also grown by the Counts of Zrinski, and the wine was known to be enjoyed by Ludwig van Beethoven.

The Green Ring of Zagreb County

Tourist board of the Zagreb Countywww.tzzz.hragencies: www.globtour.hr, www.ibus.hr

The Plešivica wine routeWines on offer: Portugieser, Grassevina (Welschriesling), Chardonnay, Rhine Riesling, Neuburger, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Traminer, Sauvignon, Green Sylvaner, Yellow Plavec, sparkling wines Režek, Šember and Ružica, Müller-Thurgau (Rizvanac; a cross between the Riesling and the Sylvaner), Muscat Ottonel, Prädikat and Archive wines, sparkler Mladina; Home-brewed brandies (rakijas): grape brandy, plum brandy (slivovitza), serviceberry brandy, Calvados. Along the Plešivica Route there are some 30 family homesteads which can host groups from 30 to up to 120 persons. Portugieser is wine produced from the Blauer Portugieser which is traditionally cultivated on the slopes of the Mount of Plešivica, and is the first wine to be drunk in autumn after picking. It is said that Portugieser is for Croatia what the famous Beaujolais is for France. It is best served chilled to 14oC, and goes particularly well with roast duck and goose, and roast chestnuts.

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Friendship is a place of choice. It is a sanctuary which we seek when life becomes a bit too much. When we feel the need to be somewhere where no questions are asked except “how are you?” Or “would you like something?”; where all we are expected to do is please ourselves for a little while; where we can abandon ourselves for a few days to living a dream; being and doing exactly what we want. And when that happens to be a place where friendship and hospitality are cherished above all else, where a friend, a guest is someone to be protected against all and everything, where doors never stay closed, where one is always welcome to share whatever the bountiful nature has provided and diligent works have perfected through hundreds of years – things can hardly get much better. A place which guards its traditions and customs lovingly, but welcomes things new that enhance the things of old.

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In the north of Croatia, in a mountainous and hilly area of Ravna gora, Kalnik and Ivanščica, were the forests, meadows and vineyards covering their slopes gradually blend into the Pannonian plain, there lies the County of Varaždin. Family homesteads on wine routes can host groups from 30 to top 120 persons, and some are also offering accommodation. Wines on offer: Grassevina (Welschariesling), Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Traminer, Rine Riesling, Green Sylvaner, Muscat Ottonel, Yellow, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot NoirActivities to be enjoyed: grape picking, cycling, mountaineering, walking (marked trails), tennis, five-a-side footballLocal dishes: roast turkey with mlinci (local type of pasta first baked into pancake shapes but not too thin, and then broken up and cooked briefly in boiling water, drained and served with meat and plenty of gravy or roasting juices), štrukli (a type of a rather rustic strudel but one that can be boiled or baked, boiled and then baked, it can be sweet or savoury, it can be a soup, a main course or a desert – all in all, quite a versatile dish), gibanica (a kind of cottage cheese, smetana and egg pie), zlevanka (cornmeal and cheese cake)...

Written documents testify to a continuous cultivation of grapevine and wine production around the village of Jalžabet from the late Middle Ages, which provides quite a guarantee that wines to be had here are very good indeed. There are altogether eight rural homesteads along this route and in addition to viticulture and wine-making, some of them are also engaged in bee-keeping and fruit growing. The opportunity to taste, and indeed enjoy, honey and honey brandy should not be missed. The same goes for the superb wines of the late harvest, and particularly for the ice wines (grapes allowed to freeze on the vine, picked with the greatest of care and pressed before they thaw) at the Crnko rural homestead.

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Those searching to experience some of the local life should join in grape picking which is one of the most important events in the annual circle of nature, and one of the merriest.

Varaždinske toplice is a small town surrounded by undulating hills and rolling meadows, vineyards, orchards and forests. The town grew up around the warm water springs which gave it its name. Ever since the Roman times (archeological finds of Roman thermal bath Aquae Iasae) Varaždinske Toplice has been a well known spa, while the vineyard covered hills surrounding it for centuries yield exceptional varieties of wines. We recommend a visit to the Cellars and the restaurant of Zlatne gorice where one can enjoy mouth-watering food and experience numerous surprises up and down the Old Slavonic wine route. Among those surprises some are of the sweet kind – like the home baked cakes in the Slatka hiža (Sweet house), while others offer a different type of refreshment in the water park of the Minerva Health Resort and Hotel in Varaždinske Toplice (www.minerva.hr).

This route is located in the northern part of the Varaždin County, in the municipality of Cestica on the border with the Republic of Slovenia. The roots of winegrowing in these parts reach all the way to the Celtic times, while during the Roman rule the quality of wines produced here was such that they were being ferried to Rome under military guard. The route is made all the more interesting by the ten rural homesteads and tasting rooms, where excellent white wines, wines of late harvest and ice wines are a must. Red wines in these climes are not too common, which makes them all the more interesting, and the local Pinot Noir, Frankovka and Portugizac are really nice.

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Tourist Board of Varaždin Countywww.turizam-vzz.hr www.vinske-ceste-vzz.com

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Anastasia TravelT U R I Z A M

GROUP PACKAGE TOURSCroati a | Slovenia | Bosnia and Herzegovina

Serbia | Montenegro

TEL ++385 51 317 277, 317 310 FAX ++385 51 317 278

E�MAIL [email protected] WEB www.anastasiatravel.hr

Tradition has it that the Romans were the first to plant grapevines on the gentle hills of Međimurje. Today, good asphalt roads, connecting about thirty wine cellars and tasting rooms, run through the picturesque landscape streaked with more than 2,500 acres of vineyards. There, one can taste excellent white wines (Sauvignon, Moslavac, Chardonnay, Welschriesling, Rhine Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Traminer, Zeleni Silvanac, Yellow Muscat…) and some red wines. The wines range from excellent blended wines, through high quality varietal wines, to the superior wines– late harvests and ice wines. Wine tastings in nicely furnished tasting rooms also offers a possibility to taste traditional home-made cold cuts. Individual visits to wine cellars and tasting rooms should be arranged by phone at least a few hours prior to the arrival. Individual visits to the wine road can be made by car, by bike or on foot. In addition to a car, organised tourist groups can visit the wine road by a special wine train. All access routes and facilities are marked by tourist signs. The quality of both the wines and the tasting rooms makes sure that this wine road is rated among the best that enology has to offer in Croatia.

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The Wine Routes of Međimurje

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FEEL THE DESTINATION

Anastasia TravelT U R I Z A M

GROUP PACKAGE TOURSCroati a | Slovenia | Bosnia and Herzegovina

Serbia | Montenegro

TEL ++385 51 317 277, 317 310 FAX ++385 51 317 278

E�MAIL [email protected] WEB www.anastasiatravel.hr

The Štampar Family The family estate with a winery and some of the vineyards is located at Sveti Urban near Štrigova. Bojan Štampar is the fourth generation to run the family estate, which translates into a century long tradition of wine making. Štampar nurtures his very own style of wine which - notwithstanding the fact that its most important property is freshness and fruitiness, as is the case with most wine makers – is additionally enhanced with a rustic note that draws its origin from the large wooden barrels.

White varieties: pušipel (Pušipel is a protected trade mark, wine produce from the variety locally known as Šipon), Grassevina, Silvaner Grünling, Sauvignon, Rhine Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Gelber muscateller

Red varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Gamay

The wine apart: Yellow Muscat, late harvest ’06

Despite the fact that Štampar’s Sauvignon is always excellent, as are the supreme wines produced from pušipel, I have still decided on the Yellow Muscat as the wine apart simply because it is very rare that a Muscat reaches three years in a bottle, let alone that it remains to be of a supreme quality. The bouquet is wonderful, its freshness has been fully preserved, the aromas are those of a fresh Muscat grapes combined with the sweetish flowery note. That taste is superb, primarily sweet, but in a fine balance with distinct acids which impart the necessary does of friskiness. The aftertaste is that of sweetness with the hanging aroma of sweet grapes on one’s lips. Very nice indeed.

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The Novak Family The Novak winery has been undergoing constant improvement both in quality and quantity of wines it produces. At this point in time they are working with the produce obtained from about 10 ha of vineyards, and they also have a very up to date wine cellar clearly demonstrating their ambition to produce light and smooth wines with distinct fruity aromas. Incorporated within the winery is a nicely appointed area which can accommodate groups of up to 45 guests.

White varieties: Pušipel, Sauvignon, Rhine Riesling, Grassevina, Chardonnay, Gelber muscateller

Red varieties: Pinot Noire

The wine apart: Chardonnay ‘08

In Međimurje Chardonnay can yield quite a few stylistic expressions which can vary from a vivacious citrus fruit freshness, through the creamy and strong sur lie examples, to the sweet supreme wines. Probably, however, the style adopted by the family of Boris Novak is the most effective for this region. It produces wines with distinct fruity aromas and a flavour finely balanced between freshness and sweetness. The fruity element in the bouquet is manifested through the rich aromas of apple and apricot, and in the flavour through the mellowness of the taste which is of the result of a delicate play between a low level of unfermented sugar with the always solid body of Chardonnay and superbly controlled acids.

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The Cmrečnjak Family The Cmrečnjak family has been running a successful winery for decades, and by the capacity. The area under vineyards and the number of varieties cultivated they are at the top of the family wine making in Međimurje. The winery, which includes a tasting room of rustic design, is located in Sveti Urban in the middle of a 16ha vineyard. White varieties: Pušipel, Silvaner Grünling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Pinot Gris, Grassevina, Rhine Riesling, Sauvignon, Gelber muscatellerRed varieties: Pinot noir

The wine apart: Silvaner Grünling ‘08One of the most pleasant Silvaner Grünlings in Croatia. Due to the specific micro-climatic conditions of Međimurje the otherwise timid fruity flavour of this variety has been enhanced, thus demonstrating that it is at its best in this particular region. The bouquet emanates freshness encouraged by the aroma of green apples accompanied by an abundance of lime and traces of herbal notes. Very lovely. The taste is lively, of gently accentuated acids which lend it refreshing character, making it mellow, sophisticated and light. This is a wine which wins you over with an irresistible combination of gentleness, freshness and fruitiness. It is an ideal start to any lunch.

The Belović Family

The Belović winery is located in Železna Gora. From the terrace of the tasting room one is treated to a wonderful view of the lovingly tended family vineyards and the landscape of Međimurje. The family is now working with 12ha of vineyards which contain 9 different varieties of grape.

White varieties: Chardonnay, Grassevina, Gelber muscateller, Pušipel, Rhine Riesling, Sauvignon, Silvaner Grünling, Traminer Red varieties: Pinot noir

The wine apart: Traminer, elective harvest ‘07The best possible face of traminer. Its bouquet is exceedingly rich, abounding with aromas of most varied characters. The profusion of flowery aromas of rose and violets blends with the sweet hints of honey and spicy shades of noble mould. The taste is sweet, but it is sweetness which dominates only as long as the first impressions last, for it soon turns to piquancy and strength – the result of the effect of combined sweetness, spiciness of mould and strong alcohol. The flavour is rounded off by a long-lasting warmth and the return of sweetness which lingers on one’s lips for many minutes.

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The Lovrec Family On its estate at Sveti Urban the Lovrec family is continuing the centuries old tradition of wine cellars and wine growing of the aristocratic line of Ferić. They were the first to introduce the system of dense planting and a low burden of yield, which always results in a sufficient level of sugar in the grape. The Lovrec are also the pioneers in the production of supreme wines and ice wines, as well as being the one who adopted numerous other innovations aimed at improving the quality of wines. It is therefore not surprising that their wines belong to the very forefront of the Croatian wine stage.

White varieties: Pušipel, Silvaner Grünling Sauvignon, Rhine Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Gelber muscateller, Traminer.Red varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah

The wine apart: Viteško crno 07 (Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah)Excellent combination of ripeness and freshness, of a full bodied taste and softness, of mellowness and richness, in short this is harmony in the full sense of the word. The bouquet is dominated by fruity aromas the most prominent of which if black current with hints of blueberry and blackberry, and shades of spices. The taste is rich and full, but despite its strength it is well tamed and luscious, abounding with the extract that additionally emphasizes the fruity quality, and leaves a delectable and long-lasting aftertaste.

contact Mura Agency www.mura-travel.hrEtnoArt Travel www.etnoart-travel.com

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Exploring destinationsZadar, city of culture and festivalsIsland of KrkOgulinKastav

Just imagine: a long range that has it all - �oodplain, wetlands and marshes with wide pastures and forests

of common oak between them, often described as the European Amazon, almost encircled and criss-crossed by rivers, streams and backwaters which provides a habitat for a rich and varied animal

world, particularly birds. To be exact, 243 di erent types of birds, mostly waterfowl, and storks among them - so many storks, in fact, that in 1994 the village of Čigoč was declared the

�rst European Village of Storks; villages on high ground with rural homesteads where people have been living in harmony with nature for

centuries, and which o er the experience of that way of life; rural homesteads, in most of which one can still see the traditional

timber houses, �nd cosy accommodation and enjoy delicious wholesome local food and wines; and see quite a few

domestic animals indigenous to the area grazing on those wide pastures. Here one can �nd one’s own corner of tranquillity.

w w w . l o n j s k o p o l j e - k l a s t e r . c o m [email protected]

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The Wine Route of Moslavina

autochthonous wines of

Škrlet and Moslavina,

Lonja Range, Papuk

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& carp on a forked branchtraditional wooden houses

factsMoslavina wine route hugs the area around the small town of Kutina nestling within the Lonja Range Nature Park, along the wine-growing southern slopes of Mount of Moslavina (Mons Claudius). Kutina is 70 km away from Zagreb, next to the Zagreb-Lipovac motorway.Wine growing and wine production in Moslavina started as early as the roman times, with good geography and climate, along with the knowledge and effort of wine-growers of Moslavina produced fine, autochthonous wines of Škrlet and Moslavina.

The Wine Route of MoslavinaStrewn along the Moslavina wine route 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, Moslavina, 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, carp on a forked branch. 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

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wineyard huts& the Škrlet of Moslavina

ŠkrletA very rare white indigenous variety which captivates with its specific, gentle aroma and distinct bouquet. The wine is of a crystal clear pale yellowish colour with a hint of green. In a glass it is translucent, of a nicely developed varietal aroma of white fruit, fresh apples and pairs, and a touch of vanilla.

It goes well with all types of fish and other seafood specialities, white meat dishes, cold salads with pasta, all types of thick and cream soups.Best served chilled to 10 – 12oC.

FrankovkaA variety of the Pannonian region, adopted almost as an indigenous variety in the continental part of Croatia. The wine is of intense ruby red colour, of medium density and refreshing fruity flavour, and the aroma dominated by sour cherry. If allowed to age in the barrique it acquires the aromas of oak, vanilla and a tinge of smokiness…It is particularly suited to the red meat dishes, small game, even to flavours of piquant character, but especially to fine cheeses.Best served slightly chilled (16oC).

info Tourist Board Kutina www.turizam-kutina.hr

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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Daruvar Wine RouteGrapevine growing in the Daruvar wine-growing area began over 2200 years ago and has continued to this day, where the production of high quality wines is taking it to a higher level.The proof that the Romans also enjoyed these precious golden drops is testified by an imperial wine cup made of glass discovered in 1789, and known as the Vas diaferfum Daruvanense. The 9 km long wine route of Daruvar starts in the town centre and leads through vineyards and woody areas to the mountain lodge at Petrov vrh (Peter’s peak, 615m). The most distinguished wine of the area is the Vrhunska Graševina Daruvar (the best Daruvar Welschriesling). Besides its top class wines, beautiful nature and welcoming hosts, this wine route also provides rich gastronomic offer. The traditional local specialities definitely worth tasting are the Czech cuisine dishes and game dishes.

Daruvar Welschriesling,

Celler in Jankovič Castlekeywords:

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Points at the Daruvar wine route are:

Kovačević Family Homestead Wines produced: Grassevina (Welschriesling), fragrant Traminer, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot NoirThe Kovačević Family homestead boasts a five generation tradition of wine making and barrel production. It is a typical Slavonian holding, and the guest rooms furnished with pieces specific for the region exude the tranquil atmosphere of olden times. www.daruvar-vinarija-kovacevic.hr

Badel 1862 d.d – Daruvar wineryWine-tasting room in the Janković Castle CellarWines produced: Grassevina (Welschriesling), Rhine Riesling, Chardonnay, Prädikat winesThe most attractive part of the old Janković Castle in Daruvar are its cellars whose thick walls have been sunk several metres into the ground. The temperature remain between 10-14°C throughout the year, which provides for ideal conditions for the care and maturing of high-quality wines. The cellar has a storage area for high quality wines of the Daruvar Winery with a wine boutique set between the museum exhibits from the Roman times, and a show wine tasting room (40 people).Group wine tasting of 4 varietals is guided by an enologist.

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Lotada WineryWines produced: Grassevina (Welschriesling), Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, TraminerAdela and Oto Leniček are true experts in the filed of planting noble grapevine and wine production, and winners of numerous gold medals in recognition of the quality of their wines. In addition to the vineyards and a tasting room able to accommodate up to 70 guests, they are particularly proud of their cellar with the capacity of 120,000 litres of wine. We warmly recommend the tasting of the Lotada Winery wine in the company of an expert enologist. Contact: [email protected]

Queen Coffee HouseThe establishment, which can seat 130 guests, serves Czech cuisine and wines of the Daruvar wine country. www.kavana-queen.hr

Biogal cheese dairyCheeses produced from goat and cow milk: fresh cheese (cottage cheese), hard, smoke-cured, pickled in oil, with herbsBased on the old traditional recipes of the area Biogal produces some ten types of cheeses from goat and cow milk: fresh, semi-hard, hard, smoke-cured, pickled in oil and cheeses spiced with herbs. The visitors can have a tour of the cheese production area and taste a variety of cheese delicacies that have received numerous acclamations for their quality.Contact: [email protected]

info Tourist Board Daruvar www.daruvar.hr

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The ILOK WINE Route

You may be a true wine connoisseur of only trying to become one, but as soon as you taste the majestic Traminac, or as some woud say Traminer, and the first-rate Welschriesling (Graševina) of the Ilok vineyards, you will understand that here winemaking is much more than just a profession. It is an art and a lifestyle. Your hosts, and the winemakers of Ilok are hospitable folk, will treat you to a veritable hedonistic trip through the twenty wineries located within the two kilometre strech along the Danube river, refresh you with the majestic drops from the Ilok wine-growing hills and home made delicacies. Welschriesling, Chardonnay, Green Silvaner, Blaufrankisch, Traminer, Pinot Blanc, Cabernet Souvignon, wines of distinction adn other fine wines from the Ilok winegrowing hills received numerous international awards and medals for their extraordinary quality. Travelling the Ilok wine route you can visit old wine cellars dug into the hills as well as the equally attractive, state-of-the-art wineries. And when here, do not miss the opportunity to look around one of the oldest and largest wine cellars of Europe The Old Cellar (Stari podrum).

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Traminer

The Old Cellar has an excelent wine-tasting room for some 40 people and the restaurant with terrace for 150 people. Next to the restaurant The Old Cellar offers accommodation for thirty people.

The Country Estate Principovac Nested on a hill, surrounded by the wineyards of Ilok, the tourist resort is 1,5 km away from the centre of Ilok. It encompasses the reconstructed country house of count Odeschalchi with a belvedere, two new accommodation objects with 6 aparments and 1 Presidential Suite, a la cart restaurant, champagne bar in the belvedere on top of the castle, a tennis court, volleyball and badminton courts. Ideal for a quiet and active holiday, walking, in-line-skating or bicycling along paved roads through the wineyards.

The Old CellarThis cellar, where the top class winemaking tradition began in the 17th century with the Odescalchi family, is famous for its Traminer of the highest quality, the royal wine served at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The Old Cellar Restaurant is located within the Old Cellar itself, it is appointed in the traditional style of Srijem and serves a menu that includes indigenous and delicious local dishes knowingly combined with the best of the wines of Ilok.

The Old Cellar, Mr.Ivica Pavetić+385 99 239 14 19

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Traminer from the Queen’s wine collectionIn almost 300 years of the Traminer production in Ilok, this wine has acquired the leading position of its variety in Europe, the best proof of it is that is was served at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, and that it is now a prat of the Queen’s collection of wines. It is golden-yellow in colour, of pronounced varietal aroma, with a distinct note of rose petals and honey, full-bodied and harmonious. This year the Traminer from the Cellar of Ilok has won the Giold medal at Vinalies International in Paris, one of the most prestigious wine competitions.

info Ilok Tourist Board www.turizamilok.hr

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The island of Rab is renown for its exquisite sandy beaches which are a rarity of the eastern side of the Adriatic, its preserved woods of holly-oak and its rich history that the good folk of Rab bring faithfully to life during their annual fiesta known as Rapska fiera, and the Night of Lopar, and for its wonderful klapas (a capela singing groups) which number no less than nine.

Lately Rab has been expanding its image into one of an active holiday destination for all generations and interests that reaches beyond the main season, this drive stemming primarily from the island’s abundant natural heritage of its exceptional geo and bio-diversity that has provided the basis for the formation of the geo-park. The visitors can obtain all the information in the Geopark info-centre in Lopar, and by a prior agreement with the staff they can join the organized tours of the island geo-trails.

Student groups

The island of Rab

To date there are over 50 km of marked geo-trails with info-panels which are aesthetically tailored to their environment, and which provide relevant and information in four languages: Croatian, English, German and Italian. Quadri-lingual brochures containing maps of individual trails and descriptions of specific geo-points have also been printed in order to facilitate the understanding of the geological structure of the island. The network of trails is being steadily upgraded, and every year 10-15 new km are being opened up with some ten marked points, and together with the existing 100 km of mountaineering trails they enable the visitors to traverse the entire island. They can do it in a leisurely walk along the Premužić trails or opt for the more demanding mountaineering tours. In the near future several rocks and cliffs are to be made available to Alpinists and fans of free climbing.

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A professional guide will take a group around the more remote parts of the island explaining its specific fauna and flora, as well as geological features, and the walk-about is made all the more pleasant by the fact that there are no poisonous snakes on this island. For the students of geology, geography, biology, ecology and forestry the Rab Geopark is an ideal destination for in-the field lectures. Should any groups so require, be they of professional or laymen profile, it is possible to organize courses that supply either general or specific information, either through demonstration excursions or comprehensive theoretical and practical-cum-theoretical tuition.

One of the specific features of the island of Rab – and a rarely seen one, is that in a small space one can observe the current environments in which the same sediments, that have formed the rocks the island is made of, continue to settle.

“Stonehange” of Rab

Climbing rocks

The island of Rab Geopark

In other words, Rab is a natural laboratory where the processes which have been going on in the seas and oceans some fifty or more million years ago can be seen at work. Although the Rab Geopark is still in its formation phase, it has de facto been very active for several years. And each of those years the info-centre in Lopar has been visited by few thousand visitors, while thousands more have been roaming the park trails. The combination of excellent accommodation facilities, mild climate, hospitality of the islanders, developed infrastructure with a modern, well equipped Medical centre, chemists, shopping centres, petrol pumps and Rapska plovidba – the island’s own shipping company which maintains regular links with the mainland, all goes towards offering the visitors an excellent opportunity to rest, learn and discover the island’s “secrets” the year round.

Agency Uniline www.uniline.hrcontact

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walk with us...

www.biokovo.net

hiking :: canyoning :: cycling :: rafting :: kayakingcroatia :: montenegro :: bosnia & hercegovina :: albania

Lots of activitiesOnly one partner

www.ibci .hr

Excursions and transfersLighthouses

Hotel and pr ivate accommodation

IBCI Tourist Agency | IDK: HR-AB-21-060120581 Lučica 4 | 21000 Split | CROATIATel: +385 21 32 33 33 Email: [email protected]

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ISSN 1847-1552

Issue 9 September, 2010 / Year II. Not for sale

photo: Istrian Vineyards

Magazine of Croatian tourismSpecial Edition: Wines

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way to croatia no.9

Documents

business programme

presentation of flavours

participation registration

entertainment programme

special business event

tourist supply

representatives of agencies

association of angels