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Skradin is a unique town hidden in the Krka River estuary, 80 kilometers from Split, on the very edge of the Krka National Park. The 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. If you plan to spend your vacation in Croatia you will find a wide range of holiday possibilities, but if you search for something more extreme this is the trip for you, you can stop searching.
ITINERARY
1. Arrival to destination – Skradin town
Arrive to Croatia and 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 harbor of Croatia and Bosnia in the 14th century. Apart from a great history, Skradin and its surroundings are places of unique natural beauties. The breathtaking 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. Once you settle into your rooms 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 town and its pubs. Find out which is your favorite Croatian wine, beer or gelato (ice-cream).
3*Hotel Skradinski Buk; Meals: D; Van drive from airport: Split 1:30 min or Zadar 45 min
2. Sea kayaking Skradin — Prvić Luka
Our first day of sea kayaking takes us from Skradin through the channel to the open sea towards Šibenik and its archipelago. The coastal waters of Šibenik contain an archipelago of numerous islands stretching out over 157sq km. In this constellation of islands, only six have a permanent population that totals less than 7000 people. Needless to say, these little islands make marvelous getaways if you're looking for rustic vacation experience. The first destination we need to reach is the island Prvić. The first settlers were probably recluses. Later, in 15 century, the place became a noble seaside resort and it was inhabited by the priests of the Benedictine and the Franciscan order, who built a monastery and later the two churches. Over time, the population grew; a dense population peak was reached in the early 20th century, when there were about 1300 people. During the 20th century, the population has steadily declined and at the beginning of this century, came down to about two hundred.
3*Hotel Maestral or camping option; Meals: B and D (lunch on your own); Sea kayaking: 5 h; Distance: 25 km
3. Sea kayaking Prvić Luka to Zlarin
Zlarin is a small island on the Dalmatian coast near the Croatian town of Šibenik. It is situated in the Zlarin channel. It has the area of 8.2 sq. kilometers and it is located 2.5 nautical miles from Šibenik. Zlarin is also the only larger settlement, and the inhabitants are fishermen, seamen, coral divers and spongers. The remains from the Neolithic and antiquity were discovered on the island. The baroque parish church was built from 1735 to 1740. Zlarin highest point is Klepac at 169 meters above sea level. During sunny days, from this point you can see Mount Velebit and volcanic island in the Adriatic Sea called Jabuka meaning “Apple”. The inner parts of the island are uninhabited and covered with dense forest. Zlarin is one of the few islands in the Adriatic, which does not allow access to cars. In winter time the island has a population of 276 people, but from March to October the population grows significantly, due to summer vacations.
3*Hotel Maestral or camping option; Meals: B (lunch and dinner on your own); Sea kayaking: 4-5 h; Distance: 25 km
4. Sea kayaking Prvić Luka-Kapriji-Kakan
We leave Prvić behind and continue our kayaking trip towards Kaprije Island, which is located in the central part of the Šibenik archipelago. The island with the area of 6.9 sq. kilometers with very indented coast and covered with lush vegetation. The only settlement, the main and only village on the island is also called Kaprije, surrounded by hills among which the highest is 129 meters above the sea level. Kaprije was sanctuary for the refugees before the Turks. The church was built in the 16th — 17th century. The island was named after the Mediterranean caper plant whose buds serve as spice for traditional Croatia meals. From its south side Kakan island has stunning examples of the traditional stone walls called “suhozid”.
Guest house Kaprij; Meals: B and D (lunch on your own); Sea kayaking: 4-5 h; Distance: 25 km
5. Sea kayaking Žirje island-Kaprij
Žirje Island is the only permanently inhabited offshore island among the islands of Šibenik. It is located in front of the National Park Kornati archipelago. It consists mostly of limestone, with a few fertile karst fields. The dominant vegetation is macchia that is used for pasture. The inhabitants have vineyards, olive-groves and orchards. They are also fishermen. The only larger settlement is Žirje. The highest peak is Kapić 131 meters above the sea level.
Guest house Kaprij; Meals: B and D (lunch on your own); Sea kayaking: 5 h; Distance: 25 km
6. Sea kayaking Kaprij to Prvić Luka
On our way back to Prvić Island we will take the outside coast line. There are two settlements: Prvić Luka and Šepurine. The inhabitants live of vineyards, olive-groves, orchards and vegetable gardens, and fishing.
Šepurine was founded by the inhabitants of Srima in the 16th century. The painting »Our Lady with the Child«, the work of some master from Titian's school, the portrait of Faust Vrančić from 1605, and the statutes of Šibenik and Trogir are kept in what used to be the palace of the Draganić-Vrančić family from Šibenik.
3*Hotel Maestral or camping option; Meals: B and D (lunch on your own); Sea kayaking: 4-5 h; Distance: 25 km
7. Sea kayaking Prvić Luka to Skradin
On our last sea kayaking day we head back towards Skradin. Upon our arrival to Skradin, depending on time, you can make an optional visit to the National Park Krka River, an afternoon walk from Skradin to the 44-meters high Skradinski Buk waterfall. The fantastic karst formations and travertine waterfalls make it a beautiful swimming area. This is the famous place where the second hydro plant in the world was built, just three days after the first hydroelectric power plant on Niagara Falls. After walking, sightseeing and taking breathtaking pictures we will make a swimming and picnic break under the great Skradinski Buk waterfall.
3* Hotel Skradinski Buk; Meals: B and D (picnic lunch on your own); Sea kayaking: 4 h; Distance: 25 km
8. Departure
Depart from Skradin for the airport and flight home. You are welcome to schedule your homeward transport for any time. If you decide to spend more time in Croatia, our guides will be happy to recommend other beautiful places to visit — especially those you won’t find in tourist guide books.
Meals: B; Van drive to airport: Split 1:30 min or Zadar 45 min
Accommodation:
The 3* hotel “Skradinski Buk” is located in Skradin, only 300 meters away from the coast. Skradin is the official boat entrance to the Krka River National Park. You will be accommodated in completely renovated and refurbished rooms, equipped with air conditioning, mini bar, satellite TV, telephone and bathroom. 3* Hotel Maestral located in Prvić Luka. Rooms at Hotel Maestral are decorated in traditional Mediterranean style with original stone walls, wooden parquet and wooden windows with typical Dalmatian shades. All the rooms have private bathroom with shower and WC, telephone, and TV. Rooms are air-conditioned in summer months and heated in the winter. Most of the rooms have sea view which is only meters away from the hotel. On Prvić Island there is an option for camping instead of the hotel. While on the Island Kaprij you will be based in a private guest house.
Activities:
This activity program is a well-balanced mixture of activity, nature and culture. Your days will be filled with sea kayaking and exploring stunningly beautiful islands around Šibenik archipelago.
Activity level:
Trips are designed for flexible, energetic people who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Our daily program is based on sea kayaking. You can expect to paddle about 20 — 25 km per day (five hours), but our schedule is very weather dependent. Previous kayaking experience is recommended and required.
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.
Note on Itinerary:
This itinerary is subject to change due to group abilities and preferences, weather, water levels, special events of interest, etc. Raftrek Guides and Trip Leaders will do their utmost to ensure the best possible experience for their clients 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. Raftrek reserves the right to alter the itinerary without prior notice.
Questions— Feel free to contact us; if you still have any questions or concerns. We’re here to help you.
