Once it was an ancient fort overlooking the Adriatic Sea, now, due to the great work and perseverance of the kind owners, Villa Judita is a cute little tow-bedroom house in Zadvarje not far from the enchanting city of Split in Croatia. Upon arrival, we are greeted by the stunning exterior of the villa, which exudes a traditional charm. The Stone Villa Judita, dating back to the 17th century, has been meticulously renovated while still maintaining its historical essence. The two-story villa boasts modern amenities that ensure our stay is as comfortable as possible. From the complimentary Wi-Fi and Netflix in all the rooms (better not tell your teens if you like to see them still during your stay) to the flat-screen TV and air conditioning, every detail has been thoughtfully considered.

The private pool

Inside the villa, the living room welcomes us with its cozy atmosphere. The fully equipped kitchen, featuring a dishwasher, toaster, kettle, Nespresso coffee machine, and dining area for six people, meets all our culinary needs. An added convenience is the separate toilet and washing machine, which prove to be quite handy during our stay. The bedrooms in Villa Judita are equally delightful. The first bedroom, located on the lower floor and accessible via a spiral staircase from the living room, features a comfortable double bed, a TV, a ceiling fan, air conditioning, and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. The second bedroom also offers a double bed, a TV, a ceiling fan, air conditioning, and its own en-suite bathroom with a shower. The thick stone walls of the bedrooms keep us naturally cool, ensuring a restful sleep even during the warm summer nights.

Everything you need is present

The highlight of the villa is undoubtedly the outdoor area. The private heated pool, measuring an impressive 32 square meters, offers a refreshing escape during warm Croatian days. We enjoy spending time in the pool, basking in the panoramic views of the Biokovo mountain and Zadvarje landscape. The outdoor dining area, complete with a traditional barbecue, is perfect for enjoying meals al fresco. With four sun loungers and a parasol, we can relax and soak up the sun in style.

Zadvarje is situated in the Dalmatian Hinterland, a region known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich history. Zadvarje is approximately 40 kilometres northeast of the city of Split, making it easily accessible for day trips or as a base to explore the surrounding area. One of the main attractions in Zadvarje is the Cetina River, which flows through the village. The river offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, and canyoning. These activities allow visitors to experience the breathtaking scenery and enjoy an adrenaline-filled adventure.

To the left what remains of the old forts’watch tower

If you're interested in history, Zadvarje is near several noteworthy sites. One such site is the ancient Roman city of Salona, located near Split. Salona was once the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia and is now an archaeological park where you can explore well-preserved ruins, including an amphitheatre, basilica, and Roman baths. Nature lovers will be delighted by the proximity of Zadvarje to the picturesque Biokovo Nature Park. This park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, as well as its hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Adriatic Sea and the nearby islands.

Furthermore, Zadvarje is surrounded by charming villages and towns that are worth exploring. Imotski, located approximately 20 kilometres away, is known for its stunning Blue and Red Lakes, natural phenomena that attract visitors with their vibrant colours and unique geological features.

One notable day trip we embarked on was to Omis, where we hiked up to the castle, immersing ourselves in the rich history of the region. The castle, known as the Fortica or Mirabella Fortress, is a historical site that offers stunning views of the town and the Adriatic Sea. Perched high on a hill overlooking the Omis Riviera, the fortress has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. To embark on the hike up to the fortress, we start from the town centre of Omis. The trail begins near the old town, and there are signs guiding visitors towards the fortress. As we ascend, the path gradually becomes steeper, but the panoramic views and the anticipation of reaching the top keep us motivated.

Admiring the view from the castle

The hike offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse ourselves in nature while exploring the historical surroundings. The trail winds through a dense Mediterranean forest, with trees providing shade and a cool breeze. As we make our way up, we pass by ancient stone walls and remnants of the fortification system that once protected the town. Along the way, we encounter several viewpoints where we can pause and admire the breathtaking scenery. The turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea contrast beautifully with the rugged cliffs and lush greenery of the surrounding landscape. After a moderate ascent, we finally reach the top of the fortress. The reward is worth the effort, as we are greeted by views that stretch as far as the eye can see. The town of Omis lies below, with its red-roofed houses and narrow streets, while the vast expanse of the Adriatic Sea sparkles under the sunlight. The view encompasses the Cetina River, the nearby islands, and the dramatic cliffs that define the Omis Riviera.

Exploring the fortress itself is a captivating experience. The stone walls, towers, and ruins evoke a sense of medieval history. We walk along the ramparts, venture into the towers, and imagine the soldiers who once stood guard, protecting the town from invaders. The fortress also houses a small museum that provides insight into the region's history and showcases artifacts found during archaeological excavations. As we make our way back down from the fortress, we take our time to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding us. The hike down allows us to appreciate the panoramic views from a different perspective and provides a peaceful and serene descent.

It quickly becomes clear our six nights by far will not be enough to experiences all the sights in this amazing region in Croatia. So, we must choose and although not an easy task we all agree on visiting the famous city of Split. Split's history dates to the 3rd century when the Roman Emperor Diocletian decided to build his magnificent palace here. This palace complex served as a retirement residence for the emperor and was known for its grandeur and luxurious amenities. Over time, the city grew around the palace, and today, it stands as a remarkable testament to the Roman Empire.

Downtown beautiful Split

As we step into the old city of Split, we are immediately captivated by the rich history that surrounds us. The ancient streets seem to whisper tales of the past, enticing us to explore every corner of this remarkable place. Our first stop is the imposing walls of Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through the monumental gates, we are transported back in time. The narrow streets within the palace complex are bustling with activity, lined with enticing shops and charming cafes.

Detail of Roman palace

For beautiful views of Split, consider taking a walk along the ancient city walls. From the top, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the city, coastline, and surrounding islands. The children might enjoy the adventure of climbing the stairs and exploring the historic fortifications. Capture memorable family photos against the backdrop of the stunning Adriatic Sea.

But history doesn't always have to be confined to the past. Here in Split, we embark on a modern twist on history with captivating virtual reality (VR) experiences. We step into a time machine and find ourselves transported to the palace's past glory, as if we were truly there. With VR headsets on, we walk through the palace's corridors, interact with historical figures, and witness grand events unfold before our eyes. The attention to detail is well-thougt, as every architectural element, every piece of decor, is faithfully recreated in the virtual realm. As we explore ancient landscapes, we feel the ground beneath our feet and breathe in the scents of the past. We can virtually stroll through the bustling streets, observing the daily life of the Roman inhabitants.

Beyond the palace, Split offers an additional wealth of activities and attractions for families. Take a stroll along the vibrant Riva promenade, lined with restaurants, cafes, and gelaterias, where you can savour delicious local treats. Visit the Marjan Forest Park, a lush green oasis with hiking trails and panoramic views of the city. Don't miss the opportunity to relax on the beautiful sandy beaches, where children can build sandcastles and splash in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea. Or take a boat tour to the nearby islands of Hvar or Brač, known for their picturesque beaches and charming coastal towns. For a unique adventure, embark on a thrilling ziplining experience through the Cetina River Canyon, where you can zip across the stunning landscape surrounded by nature.

Ships to take you around the islands

If you time your visit right, you may have the opportunity to participate in local festivals and events. Split hosts various cultural and entertainment events throughout the year, showcasing traditional music, dance, and folklore. From summer music festivals to Christmas markets, there's always something happening that the whole family can enjoy.

WOW

# Villa Judita proved to be the perfect retreat for our family vacation, offering a blend of relaxation and adventure.

# Both nearby Split and Omis offer a perfect blend of historical and natural attractions, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

# The private heated pool of the Stone Villa is simply stunning! With its impressive size and mesmerizing views. You'll be wowed as you take a refreshing dip or relax on the sun loungers, enjoying the tranquillity and beauty of your surroundings.