Croatia – Jewel of the Adriatic
An often overlooked destination, Croatia is an ideal location for a wide variety of events.
This month we’re focusing on Dubrovnik; there is much more to this beautiful coastal area than the UNESCO protected old city but that seems a pretty good place to start …
With walls that run almost 2 km (1.24 mi) around the city, varying from four to six metres thick on the landward side (but much thinner on the seaward side), it’s easy to be charmed by the maze of trinket shops and century-old churches. Incredible work has been done to repair the shell-damage the city suffered during the war; just a few shrapnel marks on a church facade and a small photography exhibition hint at the true scale of the destruction.
Effective Travel Solutions’ incentive group packages include a private tour of the area, with a local guide to explain the ‘hidden’ secrets – from ancient graffiti to the old orphanage building and other such wonders that the average tourist would miss!
Groups can enjoy a range of dining options in the old city, from the terrace of luxury restaurant Nautika housed in the Navy Academy building to the 16th century Sponza Palace which can be booked exclusively for private events.
Your time in Dubrovnik isn’t limited to life within the city walls though, a trip up into the surrounding hills can be taken by cable car, bicycle, jeeps or our personal favourite; a convoy of classic Renault 4s driven by your guests!
Equally the crystal blue seas provide many options for water activities, whether it’s a relaxing yacht cruise out to the Elaphite islands or adventurous sea-kayaking that takes your fancy, there are a wide range of vessels to suit any size of group.
But don’t be fooled into thinking this charming destination is just for incentive groups, it offers just as much for conferences and meetings.
One of Effective Travel Solutions’ favourites is the Valamar Lacroma 4 star hotel, located just under 10 minutes drive from the old town the modern property also boasts stunning sea views (best enjoyed with a glass of local wine on their lovely terrace …)
Valamar Lacroma has a multifunctional congress centre offering flexible space for up to 1,200 delegates alongside 400 onsite bedrooms (two additional sister properties within walking distance can be used for overflow rooms). The main space can be split with air-walls to allow breakout sessions or exhibition space in addition to the range of smaller meeting rooms on the next level (also flexible to your needs!)
The event space has road access allowing easy build for complex events and has a brilliant blank canvas ‘plateau’ level which can take marquees in winter or be used as open-air catering area in the summer months – although the sunshine and pleasant temperatures stretch well into spring and autumn too!
Whatever the size of your group or nature of your event, Dubrovnik has something to offer – get in touch with our team today to discuss tailored options for you and your company.