In my previous post, I shared a photo of a signpost with "Italy" pointing to the sea.
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| Bled Castle, Slovenia |
Returning to Croatia, we were swept away by the charm of Rovinj with its narrow, winding streets and stunning coastal views, and Pula, where the Roman amphitheater stands proudly as one of the best-preserved in the world. Opatija offered a touch of old-world elegance with its grand villas and beautiful seaside promenade, while Plitvice Lakes was a mesmerizing paradise of turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls, each turn unveiling another breathtaking view.
Continuing down the coast, we explored Zadar and its unique sea organ, where waves compose nature’s music, then enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of Split with its ancient Diocletian's Palace and bustling waterfront. Omis provided a thrilling contrast with its rugged landscape, riverside adventures, and medieval fortresses perched high above the city.
Crossing into Bosnia and Herzegovina, we visited Mostar with its iconic Stari Most bridge arching gracefully over the Neretva River. The city’s rich, multicultural history and the sights and sounds of its lively bazaars were unforgettable.
Back in Croatia, we reached Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic." Walking its impressive medieval walls and gazing over the shimmering Adriatic Sea, I understood why this city has become a beloved highlight of any Balkan tour.
Finally, we ended our journey in Montenegro’s Kotor, nestled between dramatic mountains and a fjord-like bay. Kotor’s well-preserved medieval Old Town, lined with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and charming squares, was the perfect finale to this extraordinary adventure through the Balkans.
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DALMATIAN COAST FUN FACTS
This coastal area stretches from the island of Rab in the north, off the coast of Croatia to the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro in the south, encompassing both rugged mainland and a chain of beautiful islands like Hvar, Brač, Korčula, and Vis.
The Dalmatian Coast is characterized by a rugged limestone landscape, and when seen from above or from the sea, you can notice dark patches of vegetation contrasting with lighter rocky areas. This patchy appearance, with dark and light areas spread across the landscape, is thought to have inspired the naming of the Dalmatian dog breed, famous for its black or liver-colored spots on a white coat. The breed likely has origins in the region, and this unique coastal landscape gave rise to the dog’s distinctive name and appearance.
The Dalmatian breed has a long history of being used as a carriage dog, a guard dog, and even as a companion to firefighters in more recent times. But its name is a nod to its roots in the Dalmatian region, where it shares a spotted appearance with the landscape that inspired its name!
