Croatian hillsides cloaked in forestry run right to the waters edge. Water-taxis take the scenic route from town to town. Summer concerts draw the crowds to ancient amphitheatres. Along a thousand miles of shore, a thousand tiny islands are sprinkled in a sapphire sea. In such a setting, relaxation is carried on the breeze.

Washed by the clean, clear waters of the Adriatic, Croatia has more than a little of the southern Mediterranean character. Like Italy and Spain, the vast majority of Croatias population is Roman Catholic, regular church-goers are the norm, and family values form the fabric of the nation. As in most of the Mediterranean countries, an afternoon siesta is observed and balmy evenings begin with the traditional primping and preening of the stroll on the seafront or city square. Like many Med-hemming countries, Croatia celebrates a host of national days and religious feasts. 

Tradition, in this very new country, has evolved through a very long history. An independent democracy since 1991, its national treasures include Roman relics, medieval walled cities, Byzantine basilicas, 13th century ramparts and 16th century palaces. Cobbled streets in its character-filled towns have chimed to the footsteps of countless generations, and bell towers in Baroque churches have rung the changes of a chequered past. So the keen or curious historian could sightsee for weeks and still leave plenty for next time, were it not for the fact that contemporary Croatia tempts you to a feast of alternative attractions.

On a coastline where sandy bays are few and far between, there is nothing to cloud the clarity of the surrounding seas, making them perfect for swimming, snorkelling and diving. With rocky beaches, pebble coves and man-made bathing platforms, it is easy to make the most of the water, and for those who would rather be on it than in it, there are island hopping ferries to many of the offshore islets and outcrops. Little fishing ports are liberally scattered along the shoreline, ensuring a fresh supply of seafood for delicious Croatian local dishes, while, away from the coast, glorious rural scenery lines your route to timeless tiny villages. 

Nowhere is crowded in Croatia, in the hills there is an almost tangible awareness that you are well off the beaten track of tourism. It is a rare and refreshing feeling, Croatian Holidays make the perfect historical retreat.