Croatia & Montenegro: Hike, Bike & Raft

Beginning and ending in medieval Dubrovnik, this week-long active adventure will see you hiking, biking and rafting through Croatia and Montenegro’s natural landscapes. Go snorkelling and kayaking around the Elaphiti Islands in the Adriatic Sea, then head to the mountains of Montenegro to Durmitor National Park – famous for its glacial mountain lakes, dramatic limestone peaks and the UNESCO-listed Tara River Canyon. Cycle and hike here, then travel along the Serbian border to start your rafting adventure along the bright-blue Tara River. Finally, explore old-world Kotor, hiking up to its fortress for panoramic views before ending back in Dubrovnik.

Day 1: Dubrovnik
Dobro Dosli! Welcome to Croatia – a place of sunshine, bright waters and medieval cobblestone streets. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm in Dubrovnik – the undisputed jewel of the Dalmatian Coast, the Old Town is surrounded entirely by the city walls and is easily covered on foot. As there’s not much time in Dubrovnik on this trip, it’s recommended you arrive a couple of days early. If you do, why not head out to one of the Elaphiti Islands, like Lopud – a quiet island with great hikes, clean beaches and a ruined castle. There are also many monuments to explore in the city, including the 15th century Rector's Palace, monasteries and gardens, and baroque churches with copper domes.
Day 2: Elaphiti Isands Kayaking & Snorkeling / Dubrovnik
Take the morning ferry from Dubrovnik to one of the Elaphiti Islands – Kolocep, a sleepy enclave with walks for every fitness level – for an opportunity to escape crowds and experience Adriatic island life. When you arrive, jump in a kayak for a paddle around the island, stopping to snorkel, swim and explore hidden caves. After, you can choose to return to Dubrovnik or stay on the island and soak up everything it has to offer, whether that’s walking, more swimming or chilling out on the coast until sunset.
Day 3: Durmitor National Park Hiking / Zabljak
Head to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Durmitor National Park this morning for today’s hike along the circular Three Lakes trail, weaving through forest and meadows. As you hike, you’ll have beautiful views of the Dinaric Alps mountain peaks. The trail is relatively easy, ending in a rewarding view of Tara River Canyon. When you get there, watch as the sun sets into the deepest canyon in Europe (and the second deepest in the world, second only to the Grand Canyon). The lush valley and river below make for a spectacular sight!
Day 4: Durmitor National Park Hiking / Zabljak
Wake up to another beautiful day exploring Durmitor National Park – this time, on two wheels. Your cycling route will be along the southern part of the scenic ‘ring road.’ With plenty of photo stops along the way, you’ll see why this is Montenegro's largest protected area. For lunch, you’ll stop in at a family-owned property on Durmitor Mountain for a home-cooked feast. Try things like homemade fritters with sour cream, prosciutto and cheese, all made on the mountain! The rest of your afternoon is free to relax or explore at your own pace.
Day 5: Tara River Rafting
Your active adventure will see you rafting on Tara River today. First, you’ll drive to the Komovi Mountains to the Brstanovica reservoir – your starting point. Along Class 2 and 3 rapids, float, paddle and weave through the last 18 km of the Tara River – the most popular spot for rafting in Europe and for good reason! This area is incredibly scenic, with high mountains and greenery everywhere you look. Finish in Scepan Polje, where the river meets Piva River and creates the famous Drina River. Then, have lunch and take in your gorgeous surroundings. Tonight, you’ll stay on the river – be sure to look up at the stars after nightfall!
Day 6: Kotor Fortress Hiking / Dubrovnik
Leave the Tara River early this morning for the drive to Kotor – one of the best-preserved medieval cities in southeastern Europe. When you arrive, you’ll head out for the Fortress Hike, which takes you from Kotor’s city walls to St. John’s Fortress. When you arrive, soak up the views over the Old Town and the Bay of Kotor below. Then, hop back in the car for the drive back to Dubrovnik, where you’ll spend your last night. Maybe find one of the hole-in-the-wall eateries and toast to an incredibly scenic active adventure with your group.
Day 7: Dubrovnik
With no further activities planned after breakfast today, your trip comes to an end in Dubrovnik. If you’d like to extend your stay here and take a Game of Thrones walking tour or soak up the views from the city walls a little longer, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.