At a Glance
Take an 8-day guided walking journey through the scenic trails of north Croatia, from historic Zagreb to the stunning Adriatic islands. This hiking adventure will take you through the tumbling waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park, the lush nature of Maksimir Park, and the olive groves of Cres Island. With a local guide leading the way, you'll hike the best trails, including the famous Lungomare coastal walk. This guided hike is the perfect way to explore north Croatia's beautiful islands and lakes in just 8 days.
Your journey begins in Zagreb, with a relaxed exploration of its Upper and Lower Towns, including the colorful roof of St. Mark’s Church, the lively Dolac Market, and the peaceful green space of Maksimir Park. From here, the journey flows into nature as you head ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 7 nights’ accommodation in deluxe hotels on a twin-share basis
- 7x Breakfast, 1x Dinner
- Immersive itinerary with all transport and listed activities
- Group arrival and departure transfers available
- Expert tour leader to enhance your adventure
Itinerary
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Your adventure starts in Croatia’s capital city, Zagreb. A city whose grand buildings from the Austro-Hungarian days still stand proudly beside green parks and relaxed café spots full of life. Since many flights get into Zagreb Airport later in the day or at night, there’s no rush today. You can take your time to settle in, rest, or have a short walk nearby if you feel up to it. By morning, we come together for a welcome briefing and your first meeting with your leader to get a clear idea of everything ahead. Nestled in the heart of the city, mere steps from the main station and Zagreb's vibrant attractions, Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre invites you to discover the local neighbourhood. After a day of exploration, retreat to a realm of comfort and style, where you can unwind at the café, savour artisanal delights, and rejuvenate in our state-of-the-art fitness centre. |
Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre, Zagreb (or similar) 
Dinner  |
Approx. 8 km (5 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 120 m (394 ft), Elevation loss: 120 m (394 ft) After breakfast, say bok (hello) as you meet with your leader and the rest of the group for the first time. Take advantage of the moment to connect and hear more about the trip and what’s coming next. Following the warm introductions, we head out on foot to explore Zagreb. Through both the Upper Town Lower Town, our route passes wide open squares, the famous St Mark’s Church with its bright, colorful roof, and the busy Dolac Market, often called the “belly of the city.” Experience, firsthand, a vibrant market that has been the heart of local life for generations and still thrives today. Along the way, we learn also about the city’s story, both its past and how people live here now. The Upper Town feels older, with narrow streets and Gothic churches, while the Lower Town opens up in elegant streets and grand buildings that take after cities like Vienna. Come afternoon, we slow down the pace with a visit to one of the oldest public parks in Europe. The Maksimir Park, opened back in 1794, was designed to feel natural and open, with winding paths rather than straight lines. Today, it’s a peaceful green space with quiet lakes, shady walking paths, and lots of birds and wildlife if you keep an eye out. More so, it feels like a calm escape from the busy city. Later on, we enjoy a proper Croatian welcome dinner organized by our leader at a local restaurant. No rush, settle in properly and enjoy some deliciously rich Croatian specialties, while sharing your first evening as a group. |
Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre, Zagreb (or similar)
Breakfast  |
Approx. 8 km (5 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 250 m (820 ft), Elevation loss: 250 m (820 ft) This morning, we leave Zagreb behind and set off on a two-hour drive to Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the most famous natural sights in Croatia. This place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its 16 lakes that sit at different levels and flow into each other through a series of waterfalls. The water is incredibly clear and changes color from green to blue, depending on the light and minerals in it. With the guidance of our leader, we walk along wooden boardwalks and easy trails, moving right up close to the lakes and waterfalls. We also learn a bit about how this unique landscape was formed, and if we’re lucky, we might also spot some of the park’s wildlife along this stretch. Post park visit, we continue by minibus for about three hours to one of the largest islands in the Adriatic, Krk Island. Our destination is the charming seaside town of Malinska, known for its relaxed vibe and pretty waterfront. This will also serve as our base for the next four nights, allowing plenty of time to unwind properly while enjoying the laid-back island life. |
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Just a short 5-minute stroll from the heart of Malinska and moments from the beach is your home, the 4-star Hotel Malin. Relax at the heated outdoor pool as well as a heated indoor pool. Dining options include two inviting restaurants: one on the upper floor with sweeping panoramic views, and another situated near the beach amid olive trees. |
Hotel Malin, Malinska (or similar)
Breakfast  |
Approx. 10 km (6 miles), 3-4 hours walking, Elevation gain: 220 m (722 ft), Elevation loss: 220 m (722 ft) A scenic 20-minute transfer carries you to the enchanting clifftop town of Vrbnik, a historic village perched high above the sea and celebrated for its production of Žlahtina, a crisp white wine exclusive to this region of Croatia. Here, you will embark on a circular walk that meanders through the very vineyards where this indigenous grape flourishes. Your path will weave between ancient dry-stone walls and groves of olive trees, leading you to a breathtaking viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas over the glistening Adriatic Sea. Your exploration concludes back in the charming streets of Vrbnik, where a well-earned wine and prosciutto tasting awaits. You will have the opportunity to raise a glass with the local winemakers themselves, gaining insight into the passion and tradition that go into creating their exceptional produce. |
Hotel Malin, Malinska (or similar)
Breakfast  |
Approx. 7 km (4 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 150 m (492 ft), Elevation loss: 150 m (492 ft) After breakfast, we hop on a short, 30-minute ferry from Krk over to nearby Cres. This island is a lot quieter and untouched, and is known for its ancient olive trees, some of which are hundreds of years old, still cared for by local families today. Our walk here follows simple stone paths, winding through these olive groves, with the sea appearing now and then in the distance. We aim to enjoy an easy, peaceful kind of hike, more about taking in the surroundings than rushing anywhere. Before long, we arrive in the small harbour town of Cres, where there is free time to really slow down. Grab a coffee by the waterfront, take a swim if the weather’s right, or just wander the narrow streets at your own pace. We make our way back to Krk afterwards for a relaxed evening. |
Hotel Malin, Malinska (or similar)
Breakfast  |
Today is completely free for you to enjoy Krk however you like. You may choose to start your morning with a slow coffee by the harbour in Malinksa, watching small boats come and go. Continue to one of the island’s clear, pebble beaches for a swim in the bright blue water. Feeling more active? Join a boat trip to explore the hidden bays and quiet coves that are only reachable by sea, or take a wander through nearby villages and soak in the mix of stone houses, small churches, and simple seaside spots that give you a real feel of local life. Alternatively, take it easy in one of the shaded spots while enjoying the sea breeze, and let the day move at its own pace. There’s also the option to walk the Paradise path, if you feel like stretching your legs. This 10 km (6 miles) coastal trail links Malinska to the nearby village of Porat with mostly flat and relaxed roads that take you through shady pine trees, small seaside chapels, and the well-known stone Fumak cross (one of the largest stone crucifixes in the area. Take advantage of the plenty of spots along the way to stop for a swim or just sit and soak in the view, before heading back at your own pace. |
Hotel Malin, Malinska (or similar)
Breakfast  |
Today, we head north on a 1-hour 30-minute drive to the stylish seaside town of Opatija, once a favourite gateway for wealthy visitors from Vienna. Even now, you still feel that old elegance in the grand villas, neat gardens, and calm waterfront. Here, we take a relaxed walk along the Lungomare. This scenic coastal path was built in the late 1800s when Opatija became a popular spa resort. The path stays close to the sea the whole way, with gentle waves behind you, shaded sections under trees, and beautiful views out over the Adriatic. We follow one of the nicest stretches of the trail, walking from Opatija through the small seaside spots of Ičići and Ika, all the way to the town of Lovran. Also, this path passes quiet beaches, little harbours, and holds villas tucked between greenery, allowing you to soak immersively as we go. In Lovran, we pause for lunch, and although small, the town is known for its laid-back feel, fresh seafood, and charming old streets, making it the perfect place to pause and enjoy the moment. Later in the day, we hitch a two-hour bus ride back to Zagreb, where the evening brings with it one last dinner together as a group. |
Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre, Zagreb (or similar)
Breakfast  |
After a wonderful week, we start our last morning in Zagreb with one final breakfast. The past few days have been full of amazing sights and experiences. Savour one last breakfast or a refreshing dip in the pool, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey. Bid your farewells for your onward journey. Alternatively, if you’d like to stay longer, please contact us. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
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Breakfast More Info
- The departure and finish point is Zagreb
- The closest airport to Zagreb is Zagreb Airport (ZAG), also known as Franjo Tuđman Airport.
- Airport transfers are only included with scheduled group transfers from Zagreb Airport (ZAG). We provide one group transfer from the Zagreb Airport (ZAG) to the hotel, which you can join at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Alternatively, joining location starts in your accommodation in Zagreb making your own arrangements there. The start hotel is approximately 20 minutes’ drive from Zagreb Airport. Airport transfers can also be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us.
Croatia has one of the sunniest climates in Europe, and some regions are notoriously free from rain. We generally travel off-season, so you should expect some variation in temperature and possibly some rainfall. Temperatures can be high, particularly in July, averaging around 30C (86F).
The walking level on this trip is rated Level 3 Moderate.
Level 1 Leisurely: Experience is not necessary; anyone fit and healthy enough to complete a weekend walk will thrive. Walks are often optional. Trails are seldom flat, so expect a reasonable number of ascents and descents. You normally walk for two to five hours per day; daily ascents will likely be around 985ft to 1,640ft (300m to 500m), perhaps with the odd day around 1,970ft (600m).
Level 3 Moderate: Expect easy, medium-length walks or harder, shorter walks. Some experience is useful, but not essential. Good health and reasonable fitness are important. There will be walks at higher altitudes and some longer, harder days. Generally, though, the underfoot conditions will be fair. A walking day is normally five to seven hours; daily ascents will likely be around 1,640ft to 2,625ft (500m to 800m), perhaps with the odd day around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m).
Level 5 Challenging: Fitness is vital with extended walking in mountainous terrain. You might also experience high altitude, challenging climates and remote locations. Trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident in your physical condition. Walking days are usually between six and eight hours, although they may be longer for passes or peaks. Daily ascents can be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Level 7 Tough: Trekking experience is essential and preferably at altitude. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. You may encounter extreme altitude and weather conditions and may need to use ice axes and crampons. Stamina is essential as walking days last six to nine hours (sometimes more on occasions). Daily ascents will likely be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Split and optional grades: Where a trip falls between two grades, an intermediate or ‘split’ grade is used. For example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). Occasionally there are optional ascents available; in this case, the grade will be highlighted.
Suitability: Most of the hiking routes are on clearly defined paths. The paths can get steeper in places and some sections can be rocky. No specific technical experience is required but we recommend you are comfortable hiking in hilly and mountainous areas. Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness should be comfortable with the daily distances and height gained.
Flexibility: The distances and times stated in the itinerary are maximums; however, the tour leader may alter the hikes based on several factors, including climate and overall group pace.
Water safety: This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 100 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 100 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 100 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 100 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
