Croatia is a beautiful country with a rich cultural history, stunning coastline, and delicious cuisine. While many people flock to popular tourist destinations such as Dubrovnik or Split, there are also some secret gems that are worth exploring. The British Times took that task at hand, dug deeper, and found five hidden gems. Indeed these beauties deserve their place on the list, but there is no mention of eastern Croatia, which unquestionably has a few gems worth visiting. That's why, in this article, we'll share five hidden spots in Croatia featured in the British Times magazine, and three extra ones that we think are deserving a place on this list.

Vrsar

The first place that found its place on the magazine's list is Vrsar. This charming fishing village is presented as a place with which even Giacomo Casanova, the world's most famous lover, fell in love. Truly, Vrsar's beauty leaves no one indifferent. Surrounded by lush green hills with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, the village offers a peaceful escape from the crowds.

One of the best things about Vrsar is its proximity to the Limski Kanal, a narrow inlet that stretches 10 kilometers inland from the Adriatic. This natural wonder is a great place to explore by boat or kayak. Stop for a swim in Pirate Cave and have lunch at waterside restaurants serving delicious mussels and oysters.

Rastoke

Second on their list is one of the most magical little places in Croatia- Rastoke. Located near the town of Slunj, Rastoke is a small village that is often referred to as the "little Plitvice". It is known for its picturesque waterfalls and cascading streams, which flow through the village and into the Korana River. However, unlike its "big sister" Plitvice Lakes, Rastoke is not jammed with tourists, offering peacefulness.

Rastoke is a great place for nature lovers, with its many hiking trails and opportunities for fishing, rafting, and kayaking. You can also explore the old watermills and traditional houses that have been preserved in the village.

Eastern Mljet

Mljet is an island located off the coast of Dubrovnik, but the eastern part of the island is often overlooked by tourists. Eastern Mljet is a quiet and unspoiled part of the island, with beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green forests. The British Times highlights its secluded beaches, including pebbly Sutmiholjska, sandy Saplunara Bay's beaches, and the Odysseus Cave. The cave is a natural wonder that is said to be the place where the Greek hero Odysseus sought refuge during his journey home. Namely, if you follow the Put Maslina ( Olive path) from the village of Babino Polje, you will reach the rocky ledge overlooking the cave.

Drvenik Veli and Drvenik Mali

Times brings up Drvenik Veli and Drvenik Mali as perfect spots for complete privacy. Drvenik Veli is the larger of the two islands and is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. On the other hand, Drvenik Mali is a much smaller island known for its untouched natural beauty. The island has no cars and no hotels, making it the perfect place to disconnect from the outside world and enjoy a truly authentic Croatian experience. Both offer a laid-back, perfectly relaxed lifestyle.

Lumbarda, Korčula

The last place on the magazine's list is Lumbarda. Nestled on the eastern side of the island of Korčula, Lumbarda is a charming fishing village that's still secret to tourists. One of the highlights is its beautiful beaches, including the famous Vela Przina Beach. This stunning stretch of sand is ideal for swimming and sunbathing and is surrounded by crystal-clear waters. In addition to its natural beauty, Lumbarda is known for its wine production. You can sample some of the local varieties at one of the many vineyards in the area.

Ružica Town , Orahovica

Nestled in the heart of Slavonia, Ružica Town should definitely be on a Times hidden gem list. If you decide to venture here, you'll be rewarded with a charming town that is steeped in history. The place is home to the ruins of a medieval castle, which was once a stronghold of the region's noble families.. It is the largest preserved fortified town in Slavonia, whose first historical mention dates back to 1357. Explore the castle ruins, find out about the legend about the fairies, and take in all the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Karanac

Located in the eastern part of Croatia, Karanac is known for its traditional architecture and peaceful way of life. The village is home to several well-preserved examples of traditional Slavonian houses, which feature beautifully decorated walls. Take a leisurely stroll through the Karanac, stop at local restaurants such as Baranjska kuća, and try out some of the region's delicious cuisine. In addition, the village is surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Vukovar

Vukovar is a city that has seen its fair share of conflict. However, despite its troubled past, the city has bounced back and is now a thriving cultural hub. Visitors to Vukovar can explore the city's rich history, including its role in the Croatian War of Independence. Vukovar is also a home to several museums, including the Vukovar Municipal Museum and Vučedol Culture Museum. And the best view of the city is from the Vukovar water tower.

Croatia is full of hidden spots waiting to be discovered. Whether you're looking for a charming village, a city rich in history, or a stunning natural wonder, Croatia has something to offer everyone. So why not venture off the beaten path and discover the real Croatia? You won't be disappointed!

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