The furthest island from mainland
Split, Vis is halfway to Italy and a popular stop for those
sailing the Adriatic, though remains less crowded than the larger
islands. Despite carrying the accolade of one of the beast beaches
in Europe, Stiniva beach doesn’t attract the same hoards – partly
due to the fact the horseshoe, white-pebbled cove is obscured from
view from passing boats and largely due to the difficulty in
accessing it. Choose between descending a narrow, cliff-clutching
path or hop aboard a small vessel from neighbouring Rukavac. When
you tire of the beach, climb Mount Hum for views of Italy across
Komiža bay. Come dinner, Konoba Jastožera is widely cited as securing Vis’
reputation as the culinary hub of Croatia. Head to this old lobster
pothouse for catch of the day grilled, creamed, steamed or paired
with a hearty portion of linguine.

A third of this idyllic island is occupied by Mljet National
Park, while the other part is covered in dense forest with a
smattering of small fishing villages. Better suited for those who
favour walking shoes over bikinis, rent a kayak to explore the two
saltwater lakes and paddle through the channel that connects them
both. Tourists are deposited in Sobra as the lakes make for a
popular day trip, so to avoid any contact with snap-happy
holidaymakers head to the islands oldest hotel, the Odisej Mljet. From here you can explore the lush
foliage before heading to a trio of sandy beaches in Saplunara on
the island’s eastern tip. Resist the temptation to settle on the
first beach and instead continue through to the third, which you’ll
have almost to yourself (though Prince Charles is said to be a
fan).

Nicknamed the “emerald isle”, Korčula is renowned for its
sprawling olive groves and vineyards producing crisp, dry white
wine called grk, cultivated from grapes found only in Dalmatia.
What it’s less well-known for is softly powdered beaches – of which
there are three – that offer a welcome alternative to the otherwise
pebbly Croatian coast. Between early morning wine tastings (island
life has no regard for convention) peddle through the narrow lanes
lined with grape vines to Lumbarda, where a crescent of soft sand
awaits. Ancient Greek settlers dubbed the isle the “black
Corfu” due to its rich resources, yet despite its similarities
it has not yet received an influx of tourists. Take advantage of
the solitude and check into Kis Residence, situated just
outside the bustling city Račišće. Wake up to the soft sounds of
lapping waves and the smell of freshly baked bread, as owner/chef
Veselka “borrows” produce from neighbouring gardens to whisk up an
overwhelming breakfast display each morning.

Probably the most known on this list but still often overlooked,
Brač is a good option for those who still want a toe in the heady
Croatia scene. As the main entry point to the island, Supetar is
the busiest town while on the other side of the island Bol brings
in crowds of sun seekers due its seafront proximity. Ignore both
and opt to stay in Postira, where the rolling hills and fig trees
flank whitewashed buildings. Zlatni Rat beach in Bol is the most
obvious choice for whiling away sun-filled days, so ditch those
packed sands and head instead for the tiny Lovrecina Bay. Best to
bring a picnic, as the single beach bar is limited in its
offerings.

Close to Split in terms of proximity, but miles away in terms of
pace. Wave goodbye to the crowded shores and ride the short ferry
over to Rogač. Although attractive and easily reachable, Šešula Bay
features on plenty of excursions itineraries so go it alone and
travel up to Zaglav Bay. Only a smattering of houses line the
sparkling waters meaning the rocky cove remains largely
undisturbed. Sample the wildflower honey that is unique to the
island, while the olive oil that accompanies every bowl of bread is
worth transporting back home in bulk. Most of the accommodation on
Śolta can be found in charming guesthouses or family-run
apartments, except the converted baroque castle Martinis Marchi. Stealing the
spotlight from the mainland high-end offerings, arrive in style by
speedboat and be whisked away to one of seven exquisite suites.

Car free, carefree and sparsely populated, Lopud is the most
developed of the Elafiti trio – despite being home to just 200
people. The sandy coves of Sanj bay are easily reachable by bicycle
or take a pleasant stroll through the dusty tracks framed lush
vegetation. Venture the seafront promenade of Lopund (also the name
of the islands only village) come nightfall where it is brimming
with feverish activity. Slightly set apart from the small
collection of restaurants hugging the harbour is RobiNzoon. The
family-run affair offers homely dishes like lamb chops served with
rosemary potatoes – a welcome change from the plentiful seafood
offering.

Despite being the most populated island in the Adriatic, Krk is
also one of the most underrated. Connected to the main land by a
bridge, remnants of Roman occupation are evident in the main town,
while the shores of Stara Baška are lined with peaceful, flat-rock
beaches. Stay in the medieval town of Vrbnik, perched on a
limestone outcropping that fiercely juts out to sea. The narrow
labyrinth of lanes lead onto small, organic vineyards harvesting
Žlahtina, a dry white wine produced solely in the region. After
spending a view days sampling the local grape, continue your
Adriatic adventure with ease as Krk is easily connected to the rest
of the archipelago.

Hailed as one of Croatia’s best kept secrets, the sleepy fishing
island of Dugi Otok consist of just twelve small villages, each as
charming as the next. With its sun-bleached houses, summer
festivities and vicinity to nature park Telašćica, Sali is the best
connected. Head to the North side of the island to seek out the
intense, azure waters of Sakarun beach, a paradise void of pebbles
with an uncanny resemblance to Carribean sands. Watch over the
island pines from your lighthouse apartment, housed in the 19th
century Veli Rat (located next to Sakarun beach) the novel
lodgings boasts the arguably the best view on the island, plus the
necessary 21st century mod cons and a lighthouse keeper thrown in.
Should you wish to venture out from your blissful solitude, the
marble-paved city of Zadar is just a two-hour ferry ride away.

Encircled by ancient walls, Rab is a cultural jewel in Croatia’s
crown. Rab Town is a haven of whitewashed buildings, rust-red roofs
and four soaring bell towers. Take time learning the history of the
island (which dates back to 360BC) by visiting the cluster of
churches found in the picturesque old town. Throughout the summer
months, regular fisherman nights are hosted in the marina, where
you’ll more than a bellyful of fresh fish sizzling on ramshackle
barbecues. The secluded beaches, that were once a haven for
naturists (and allegedly scandalous royals), still have a bohemian
edge meaning
clothing is largely optional. Soak up the rays at nudist
Sahara, or cover up at Cifnita.

Cres has stolen the best parts of each island and slung them
together. Beach bums should head to Sveti Ivan; almost always
deserted, the cove twinkles below the medieval village of Lubenice
and the bay is perfectly tranquil for aimless star gazing. Ramblers
should stay in the north of the island in Beli, situated near to
the hiking trails that run through the heart of the Tramuntana
forest. Staying in the mini-capital Cres Town will give you the
best of both. Elements of its Venetian rule are weaved through the
renaissance, pastel architecture and evident in the grand
collection housed at the Venetian palace. When it comes to food,
having once been the site of three entrepreneurial siblings selling
ice cream on the waterfront, MaMaLu now steals the crown as Cres’s best
restaurant. Still family-run, the fish is fresh, simple and the
portions are huge.