How Croatia became the UK's new favourite holiday destination

Croatia enjoys a gorgeous Mediterranean climate with plenty of summer sunshine and little rain. It’s a great choice if you love warm weather but want to avoid the intense heat of more southerly holiday destinations.

Average summer temperatures hover around a pretty comfortable 25°C and cooling breezes often blow along the coast during the afternoons – ideal for wind sports such as sailing and windsurfing.

Croatia is easier to visit than ever, with many airlines offering direct flights from airports all over the UK. After a short two and a half hour flight, you can touch down in the sun, ready to start your holiday.

Significant investment in the country’s infrastructure during recent years also means that travel around the country is simple and enjoyable, as you drive along some of the best roads in Europe.

Transfer times toAlana Beachclub take just 45 minutes from Zadar and 1 hour 45 minutes from Split.

If you love history, you’ll love discovering the fascinating story of Croatia’s past. From its ancient roots to its sometimes-turbulent modern history, there’sa lotto get stuck into.

The country has experienced several periods of independence – the most recent being declared in 1991 – but has also fallen to outside rule from everyone from the Romans to the Nazis.

Of Croatia’s nine UNESCO-listed sites, the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace in Split is a real must-see. Used as a filming location for TV sensation Game of Thrones, it’s a breath-taking example of Roman architecture.

Croatia has no less than eight national parks, containing a staggering variety of natural landscapes from the majestic waters of Plitvice Lakes to the unspoilt island seascapes of Krka.

Paklenica National Park, with its towering peaks, rocky canyons and fantastic trails, is one of our favourite outdoor playgrounds for hiking, biking and rock climbing.

With over 3,500 miles of coastline, Croatia boasts some amazing beaches. Many are picturesque pebbly numbers, ideal for snorkelling, diving and swimming in crystal clear waters, but you’ll also find some sandy shores on the Dalmatian coast.

Croatia is home to over a thousand islands, all with their own unique charms. Whether you love wildlife-watching, sailing, festivals or sunbathing, there’s an island visit with your name on it.

We could happily spend all of our time in Croatia exploring its wild natural landscapes but if you love to mix in a bit of city time, you won’t be disappointed.

The chilled-out ancient city of Zadar was voted ‘European Best Destination 2016’, beating off stiff competition from the likes of Madrid and Paris. We love exploring its historic old town, sleek marinas and quirky public art installations. The wave-powered Sea Organ and solar-powered dancefloor are among the coolest.

Other top destinations include the medieval UNESCO city of Trogir with its glowing marble streets and Renaissance architecture, the lively coastal city of Split and, further south, the popular walled city of Dubrovnik.

Croatian cuisine is influenced by a delicious mix of cultures, most noticeably that of Italy. Think fresh, sun-drenched Mediterranean ingredients and simple techniques. With all that sunshine, you’ll find plenty of barbequing going on, cooking up mouth-watering chargrilled meats and seafood. Favourite dishes include fresh octopus salad and dramatic black risotto, cooked in squid ink and full of the flavour of the sea.

The wine industry is booming here, so expect to sample some excellent local tipples. And with the Croatian kuna not performing quite as well as the Euro, you’ll find prices are pleasantly affordable

The chance for some adventures in the dual playground of sea and mountains is a huge draw for visitors of all ages.

Croatia offers unbeatable opportunities to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, from sailing to climbing. Whether you fancy a tranquil hike or something to get your adrenaline pumping, this is the place to do it.

Our newly-refurbished Alana Beachclub is set on next to a gorgeous private pebble beach at the foot of Paklenica National Park’s soaring limestone peaks.

Inclusive activities include kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, windsurfing and dinghy sailing in the beautiful waters of the Adriatic, as well as some fantastic mountain biking – amongst others!

For a small extra charge, you can set off on a rock climbing adventure in glorious Paklenica, one of the best free climbing spots in Europe. Or simply kick back in the relaxing spa or the alfresco terrace restaurant near the water’s edge.