Krka River Activity Break

Cycling & Kayaking in Central Dalmatia

Summary

Lakes, sea and rivers – kayaking, cycling and swimming in Krka & Zrmanja Valley nature parks.

START/FINISH - Zadar (or Split).

Activity code: CRHK06

Duration: 5 Days

This fun-packed short break offers you the chance to explore some unique areas on foot, by bicycle and from a kayak. Our guides will seize every opportunity to steer you away from the busy everyday life ensuring a truly memorable experience which you will cherish for many years to come.

This activity short break is designed to be included as part of a longer holiday in Croatia; it is a short active holiday based in Skradin town. Skradin is a unique little town hidden in the Krka River estuary, 80 kilometres from Split, on the very edge of the national park. This small picturesque town, rich in history, has a couple of family-run hotels, restaurants, pubs and wineries, a beach and marina - all in friendly atmosphere. The trip consists of everyday activities including kayaking and cycling. There is hardly a better way to get around the area of the Krka River National Park than cycling. This cycling route will lead you through Croatian history whilst enjoying a landscape of forests, hills and monuments. Afternoons will be spent in the relaxing ambiance of Sibenik's old town. Previous kayaking experience is recommended, but not required.

What activities are included ?

Sea kayaking, river kayaking, hiking, cycling and swimming are included in the program as everyday activities and are suitable for all ages with a moderate degree of fitness and swimming ability. The sea and rivers are friendly – they have pleasant temperatures in summer and they are not dangerous or physically too demanding.

Departure Dates

  • Any date between May 15th and September 25th
  • Preferably saturday start day
  • Other dates upon request

Essential Information

Activity level: Trips are designed for flexible, energetic people who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. The daily program is a combination of kayaking, walking, swimming, sightseeing and exploring. You can expect to paddle about 10 miles a day (four hours), but our schedule is very weather dependent. Previous kayaking experience is recommended, but not required.

Minimum age: 8 years - discount available for 8 to 12 years, must be accompanied by parent(s).

Meals: The meals tend to be fairly heavy on the meats, breads and pastries, pastas and dumplings. If you have special dietary needs, please let us know as soon as possible. Vegetarian diets can be accommodated but we recommend that you bring along with you some of your favourite protein snacks.

Weather: The summers are typically warm and sunny. From May to October temperatures are comfortable for hiking, paddling, and swimming. Rain is always a possibility in Croatia so it is essential to bring adequate rain wear and a jacket in case of inclement weather.

Group size: Min 4 – Max 16 per group; larger groups are on request.

Accommodation: the 3* Hotel Skradinski Buk is located in Skradin, only 300 meters away from the coast. Skradin is the official river entrance to the Krka National Park. It is perfectly situated to explore nearby national parks and other sites of interest in Sibenik-Knin County. You will be accommodated in rooms, all equipped with air-conditioning, mini bar, satellite, TV, telephone and private bathroom.

NB. This itinerary can be subject to change due to group abilities and preferences, weather, water levels, special events of interest, etc. Our guides and tour leaders will do their utmost to ensure the best possible experience for you without compromising safety at any time. This may mean changing the original itinerary to avoid discomfort or risk which could be caused by exceptional situations.

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Prices from £644 per person

  • Single supplement (from): £ 129 per person

What does your Activity Holiday include:

  • 4 nights accommodation on HB
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Use of all equipment including kayaks, paddles, life jackets, helmets, canoes, bicycles, etc.
  • Neoprene shorts and booties or sandals in case of cold weather
  • 3 days organized activities
  • National Parks entrance fees
  • Local taxes and river permits
  • Arrival transfer from Split (or Zadar)
  • Departure transfer to Split (or Zadar)
  • Skilled, experienced English speaking guide and full assistance
  • Ground transportation

Highlights

Itinerary

Upon your arrival to Croatia, we will transfer you to Skradin and accommodate you in the Skradinski Buk Hotel. Skradin is a small picturesque town named after the world famous waterfall on the river Krka. It is the oldest Croatian settlement with the status of a town; it was once the capital of the Roman Liburnia and the most important war harbour of Croatia and Bosnia in the 14th century. Apart from a great history, Skradin and its surroundings are places of unique natural beauties. The breath-taking view over the town from the bridge on the highway towards Split was nominated for the prestigious Golden Flower of Europe award for the best sightseeing point on European highways. We will meet in the hotel lobby for a get-together dinner and presentation of the program. You are free to enjoy an evening walk around the town and its pubs.

Meals: Dinner

Transport: Split approx. 1 hour 30 minutes or Zadar approx. 45 minutes

The sea kayaking day starts from Zablaće, a little village close to Šibenik. After a short introduction to paddling, start your expedition to the island of Zlarin, which is only 2 kilometres from the mainland. After paddling along the coast of the island, you will come to the town of Zlarin, a perfect place for a picnic break and some swimming. Finish up your day with paddling along the island and the beautiful Šibenik coastline from where you have the view of its remarkable fortress at the very entrance to the town. After a beautiful day of sea kayaking on the Adriatic Sea and before your return to Skradin, you can make an optional detour to visit Šibenik town for an inspirational sightseeing. An ancient town with lively Mediterranean spirit and its breathtaking cathedral make it an unavoidable destination.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner (lunch - own arrangements)

Activity: Kayaking: 4 -5 hours

Today you will take your bikes from Skradin to the 44m high Skradinski Buk waterfall and visit one of Croatia’s most popular national parks, the Krka River National Park. The fantastic karst formations and travertine waterfalls make it a beautiful swimming area. This is the famous place where the second hydroelectric power plant in the world was built, just three days after the first hydroelectric power plant on Niagara Falls. After walking, sightseeing and taking breath-taking pictures, you will be free to take a swimming and picnic break under the great Skradinski Buk waterfall. After this relaxing first part, continue your cycling day by exploring the countryside surrounding the Krka River National Park. There is hardly a better way to get around the area of the park than cycling. This biking route will lead you through Croatian history all the while enjoying the landscape of forests and hills. Your guide will take you along the shore of Visovac Lake where the boat will take you to Visovac Island and a Franciscan monastery. After sightseeing the monastery and the museum, the boat will bring you back to the shore where there will be a beach break for your picnic lunch. On your way back to Skradin there is a magnificent ride downhill with a scenic view over the Prokljan Lake.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner (lunch - own arrangements)

Activity: Cycling: 4-5 hours

Difficulty Level: Moderate (van support if needed)

Early in the morning drive towards a little village called Kaštel Žegarski and start your expedition down the magnificent wild-west-like canyons of the Zrmanja and Krupa Rivers. The watercraft may be raft, canoe or sit-on-top kayak depending upon the river conditions. When ready push off for an afternoon of refreshing fun on the clear, warm and green waters of these Croatian rivers, considered two of the most beautiful in Europe. Waterfalls and easy rapids, hidden swimming pools, steep sided canyons… It doesn't get better than this!

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner (picnic lunch - own arrangements)

Transport: 45 min each way

Activity: Kayaking or rafting - Class II-III rapids, 4-5 hours

Depart from Skradin for the airport and flight home or onward destination (such as collecting a hire car or hotel or ferry port).

Meals: Breakfast

Transport: Split approx. 1 hour, Zadar approx. 1 hour

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