Savoring Croatia: Wellness, Wonder, and the Warmest Welcome

Shauna Damboise
Nov 3
3 min read

I just returned from twelve unforgettable days in Croatia and I am officially in love! During my time in Croatia, I traveled more than 650 miles, crossed the Adriatic on four ferries (spending five hours at sea) and met with twenty-five inspiring new suppliers and hoteliers. What amazed me most was how Croatia’s energy shifts from place to place. It can feel like Greece, Italy, Hungary, California, New England, and even the lakes and coastlines of Maine, all rolled into one.

First, where is Croatia? Croatia is directly across the Adriatic sea from Italy! Growing up we knew it as Yugoslavia, but in 1991 they declared their independence and severed ties with Yugoslavia, causing the Croatian War of Independence, which ended in the summer of 1995. You've heard of the dalmation coast before? That's the southern tip of Croatia! Croatia has 1,244 islands, islets, and reefs in the Adriatic Sea, making it one of the most island-rich countries in the Mediterranean.

During my trip up the coast of Croatia, I stayed in five different luxury hotels that were all five star properties. Three of the hotels I agree that they are definitely 5 star properties, 2 hotels I would call them Four Star, not Five. One outshined them all! If you have worked with me before, you know I have strong opinions about hotel ratings. A five-star rating in Europe can mean something very different than it does here in America. Grading changes from country to country, and a high rating on paper does not always mean a hotel will live up to your expectations. This is why I never recommend or book anything below four stars. It is not about being a hotel snob. It comes from truly knowing the industry and understanding what makes a stay feel special.

My journey took me from Dubrovnik (King's Landing in Game of Thrones!) to the shimmering island of Hvar, where sunlit harbors, hills of lavender, and a the Adriatic Sea was never a glimpse away. Hvar feels both vibrant and peaceful, with sweet air, blue water that almost glows, and lively cafés along the marina. Evenings there are made for watching the world drift by and soaking in the easy island rhythm.

Opatija brought a new kind of charm. This elegant town stretches for miles along a sparkling coastline, anchored by its famous Lungomare promenade that runs nearly eight miles from Volosko to Lovran. Walking this path offers endless sea views, lush gardens, historic villas, and stylish cafés at every turn. It is the perfect place to slow down, soak in the scenery, and feel the timeless spirit of the Riviera.

Food was a highlight everywhere. Seafood came straight from the Adriatic, and local produce tasted like sunshine. Every meal, from a simple market snack to a waterfront lunch in Hvar or a quiet dinner in Opatija, felt fresh and memorable. Croatians put so much pride and love into what they serve, and you can taste it.

Throughout Croatia, I noticed how wellness is a way of life. People are always out walking, hiking, or cycling. The coastal air feels so fresh and alive, and meals are unhurried, local, and always centered around yumminess. Did you know that Croatia is known for its lavender, especially on Hvar? Croatia ranks among the top producers of lavender in Europe. If you visit in late June or July, the hills are awash with purple blooms and the scent of fresh lavender radiates thru the air.

Olive oil here also really deserves its own spotlight. While Spain and Italy may produce more, Croatian olive oils are winning awards for quality and a rich, warm, and peppery flavor. Many coastal groves have thrived for centuries, and tasting the local oil is something I always recommend. We sampled five different varieties from one orchard and I really could tell the difference! A lot of bread and cheese (really good with Olive Oil, who knew?) was eaten that day!

What I really loved was everywhere was the pride Croatians have in their country. The national flag waves from houses, telephone poles, and buildings in every city and village. I've never seen a a country in Europe that held such pride in their flag like we do here in the USA. Every Croatian that I met was so hospitable and friendly (and wicked tall!), and they always welcomed us in.

Traveling through Croatia, you feel the layers of history and a sense of celebration in the air. Whether you are sailing, biking, savoring local specialties, wandering ancient alleyways, or simply breathing in the lavender and sea breeze, this country invites you to slow down, connect, and enjoy every moment.