The gateway to the Dalmatian Coast, Split balances antiquity and modern life with an easy elegance. At its centre, Diocletian’s Palace is a beautifully preserved Roman complex, its labyrinthine stone lanes revealing design-led boutiques and intimate bars that blend seamlessly into its original structure; while a night at Hotel Vestibul Palace places guests within the 1,700-year-old walls, offering an intimate connection to the evocative setting. Just a short stroll away, one Michelin-starred Krug presents a modern interpretation of Dalmatian cuisine. Thoughtful and ingredient-led, it’s deeply connected to the surrounding land and sea, with each dish presented by the chefs, who share its inspiration. 

Further south, Dubrovnik centres around its UNESCO-listed Old Town, which is enclosed by medieval walls and easily explored on foot. Just outside the Ploče Gate, Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik – housed in a 1913 villa and surrounded by tranquil gardens – pairs its historic setting with spectacular views of the Adriatic. From here, private boat trips to the Elafiti Islands can be arranged with ease, while evenings see diners feast on a menu of expertly prepared seafood, including scallops with romesco sauce and freshly shucked local oysters, as the last light reflects off the limestone walls. 

It’s easy to linger on the mainland, but the Dalmatian Coast’s islands are within easy reach of both Split and Dubrovnik. And while some are well established on the luxury sightseer’s circuit, those seeking a more secret sanctuary should consider the extra sailing time to Vis. Less developed than its neighbours, the island is defined by a quieter pace and a coastline of small coves and secluded swimming spots, including Stiniva Beach – nestled beneath tall cliffs, it promises a private place to make a splash.

Nearby, the ethereal lights of the Green Cave and Blue Cave are best visited by boat and chartering a private yacht allows for a more flexible itinerary, from quiet anchorages to guided dives around WWII wreck sites. Days on the water are typically rounded off with simply prepared dishes featuring stellar local ingredients – lobster, anchovy carpaccio or cuttlefish-ink risotto – served on restaurant terraces close to the shore.

Across the border in Montenegro, the Bay of Kotor offers a contrasting landscape, with steep mountains rising directly from the water. Climb the 1,350 steps of the ancient walls of San Giovanni Fortress for panoramic views of the bay, drive the winding Kotor Serpentine road for elevated views, or head inland to Lovćen National Park.

Wellness experiences along the Dalmatian Coast are closely tied to the natural setting, with a strong emphasis on sea views and outdoor space. On Hvar, Maslina Resort sits just outside the Stari Grad – thought to be one of the oldest towns in Europe – and is designed to sympathetically complement its surroundings using local stone, wood and neutral tones. Its Pharomatiq Wellness centre includes treatment rooms, hydrotherapy facilities and a gym overlooking the water, alongside indoor and outdoor spaces for yoga and relaxation. Two heated saltwater pools and an infinity pool provide different ways to spend time by the water without leaving the property.

While at the entrance to Montenegro’s Boka Bay, One&Only Portonovi similarly ensures that guests are never far from the azure-blue waters. The Chenot Espace facility spans 4,000 square metres and includes holistic treatments, hydrotherapy areas, a hammam and beachfront freshwater pools. 

For outdoor exploration, Mljet National Park offers a quieter alternative to the busier beach areas. Covering much of Croatia’s ‘green island’, the park is known for its dense pine forest and two saltwater lakes, Veliko and Malo Jezero, which are connected by narrow channels. Cycling and hiking trails hug the shoreline, while kayaking and boat trips allow access to sites such as the cavernous Odysseus Cave. The surrounding waters are also perfect for guided diving trips, with good visibility and varied marine life.

And for an even more remote and rural coastal experience, the 65km-long Pelješac Peninsula is known for its wine production and unhurried pace of life. And in Orebić, a traditional Croatian fishing town, Villa Korta Katarina & Winery offers an ultra-exclusive seaside retreat with just eight individually designed suites overlooking the Adriatic. Elegant interiors, exceptional Croatian cuisine and the estate’s own acclaimed winery create a deeply immersive stay, where long lunches on the terrace, candlelit dinners and sunset glasses of wine become part of the rhythm of daily life.

Discover the Dalmatian Coast your way with ASMALLWORLD Bespoke, offering personalised journeys designed around your pace, preferences and passions.