Explore Dalmatia’s hidden gems in just half a day—historic castles, panoramic views, award-winning olive oil, local wines, and a delicious traditional lunch in our family olive grove.
Hinterland Hidden Treasures – Half-Day Countryside Experience from Zadar or Šibenik (12:30–17:00)
Uncover the heart of Dalmatia on this intimate, sensory-filled journey through its hinterland—where dramatic history, rich landscapes, and unforgettable flavours come together.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive inland from either Zadar or Šibenik through rolling countryside to our first stop: From Sibenik, Okit Hill. From this breathtaking viewpoint, you’ll take in sweeping vistas across olive groves, vineyards, and the shimmering Kornati Islands. Here, you'll also learn about over 2,000 years of regional history—from Illyrian tribes and Roman conquests to medieval resilience and modern upheaval.
From Zadar, your adventure begins with a scenic drive inland from Zadar through the peaceful Dalmatian countryside. Our first stop is the tank memorial from Operation Leap, a powerful symbol of Croatia’s struggle for independence. Here, you’ll hear stories of recent history and gain insight into the conflict that helped shape modern Dalmatia.
We continue to Benkovac Castle, a 15th-century fortress that bears witness to centuries of conflict, culture, and community. As you explore its ancient stone walls and commanding outlook, you'll gain insights into the turbulent past of this strategic crossroad between coast and hinterland.
Next, we arrive at our family-owned olive grove and award-winning mill in the peaceful village of Lepuri. You're welcomed with a glass of local sparkling wine—Dalmatia’s answer to champagne—before a guided stroll through the olive trees as we share how the land, climate, and tradition combine to produce oils with exceptionally high polyphenol content and remarkable flavour.
Inside the mill, discover how we transform olives into liquid gold using modern cold-press techniques rooted in generations of experience. A guided tasting of our award-winning extra virgin olive oils follows, with expert insights into aroma, balance, and health-giving properties.
After the oil tasting, enjoy a guided sampling of local red and white wines, each crafted from native Croatian grape varieties and reflecting the soil and soul of the region. Then, relax under the olive trees for a traditional Dalmatian lunch, made from seasonal local ingredients, generously drizzled with our finest oils—and accompanied by your favourite wine.
We finish the day at Kamenjak Nature Park, perched high above Lake Vrana. This hidden gem offers one of Dalmatia’s most stunning panoramas, stretching over the Kornati Archipelago—a perfect place to reflect on all you’ve seen, learned, and tasted.
This is more than a tour—it’s a journey into the landscapes, traditions, and authentic flavours of Dalmatia. A half-day experience you’ll never forget.