THE DALMATIAN COAST

Probably the oldest retirement location in history is the Dalmatian Coast, a 200-mile long, pristine stretch of land rimming the Adriatic Sea and part of the newly named, independent country of Croatia. 

In the 1970s-1980, Croatia and its Dalmatian Coast was the most popular destination for British travelers, who were, and still are, searching for affordable sun.  While Spain has emerged as the “new Britain” since the Yugoslav troubles, Croatia is quickly making up for lost time. 

Northern Europeans flock to the sun- kissed beaches.  Cruise ships sail into the harbors and expose the coastline to people from around the world.  Yachts moor in its snug harbors.  It’s no wonder that Croatia and its coast are becoming popular for those looking for A Change of Lifestyle.

The Dalmatian Coast is unparalleled in all of Europe.  Dotted with tranquil harbors and bays, inlets and coves, golden cliffs overlooking bronze-tinged beaches, promenades under towering palms, and with a night scene worthy of any European city, Croatia's Dalmatian Coast  is a visual dream. 

      
 
                                         SPLIT

Diocleatian (AD245-316) was the first and only Roman emperor to ever retire.  Once he set his eyes on the magnificent Dalmatian Coast, and the village of Split, his career was over and he moved on to the other side of the Sea.  He remained in his palace in Split until his death in the year 316AD. In 1979 his Palace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and it stands proudly above Croatia’s now, second-largest city.

Split commands the northern end of the Dalmatian Coast, and people from around the world are discovering its appeal.  A blend of the ancient world and new age discoveries, plus a few leftovers from the communist era, Split offers a lifestyle reminiscent of that found in any of the Mediterranean island-villages.  The old town area of the city features buildings with history, meandering walkways, a palm tree-lined harbor and the azure sea. 

If living in a medieval environment intrigues you, the walled village of Trogir is only 20 kilometers northwest of Split, also along the Adriatic.  Typical of villages in this part of the world, there are pathways along narrow streets, cafes at every turn, and always a view that will take your breath away.

Traveling south along the Dalmatian Coast, you’ll visit Makarska and notice the newly built villas dotting the hillside.  The years after the war saw a great deal of construction as Croatians worked to return their beautiful coast back to its days of beauty and splendor.

      

                                   DUBROVNIK

Situated at the southernmost end of the Dalmatian Coast is the city of Dubrovnik.  Curiously, just north of the city is a small lip of land belonging to Bosnia and Herzegovina.  One must cross through B&H to enter the southern tip of Croatia.  This is the inlet that is still under discussion between the two countries, and is getting in the way of Croatia being admitted into the EU, as it is the only outlet for the landlocked B&H.  

Known as the coast’s Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik has withstood invaders and marauders throughout its long history.  Yet, it is still standing and takes its place majestically, overlooking the town’s red-tile roofed homes and the yachts moored placidly in its blue-green harbor. 

Dubrovnik resonates with the beat of the past.  Old men and young women take their rightful places in the squares, both drinking to their joy of life.  Street vendors offer freshly grown figs, plums, peaches and melons the taste of which you will remember for years to come.  Your senses will come alive with the aromas emanating from kitchens along your walkway.  You will stop for a moment, just to reflect on all the treasures this exciting part of the world is offering  you.  

History abounds along every nook and cranny of the Dalmatian Coast, and it is no wonder that Europeans, and Westerners are discovering and rediscovering a way of life that is kissed by the sun and splashed by the cobalt sea.