Five locations that'll put Croatia at the top of your Wanderlust list

One of our great friends and keen traveller Callum Thompson recently took a trip across the beautiful lands of Croatia in a classic VW Camper T3 as part of his (enviable) goal to set foot in every country on Earth.

We caught up with him to find out how he got on and where recommends you take time to visit when next in the wanderlust mood for a scenic Croatian adventure!

Croatia is a stunning country. Good memories include early morning walks through the old town of Split in search of (yet another) delicious coffee, which would often land me right at the marina in time for sunrise. Incredible.

1. Plitvice Lakes National Park

The journey began from Ljubljana in Slovania, where Callum met a few frineds, boarded their faithful VW Camper and headed for their first stop - the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Plitvice Lakes National Park. Visit Croatia describes Plitvice Lakes - "Sixteen lakes, inter-connected by a series of waterfalls, and set in deep woodland populated by deer, bears, wolves, boars and rare bird species. The National Park covers a total area of 300 square kilometres, whilst the lakes join together over a distance of eight kilometres." This all culminates into an area of stunning natural beauty, well worth the drive/hike/cycle/ride/flight (however you 'adventure'!) to get there. Just don't feed the Bears!

2. Zadar

A place for climbers, off-roaders and hiking enthusiasts as well as those who simply love seeing the beautiful historic side of Croatia amidst a famously gorgeous sunset (as attested by one Alfred Hitchcock!). Zadar is shaped by the Velebit Mountains - the longest and largest in Croatia, and is well worth making this a base with a longer stay to properly adventure the area.

In between Zadar and Krka we wild camped at a place called ‘Paski Most', with an amazing bridge and beautifully clear skies - if you get a chance, you've got to find a way to escape the classic touristy spots and head out into the Croatian countryside.

3. Krka National Park

Krka is a river in Dalmatia, Croatia’s southern-most province. Due to the local terrain the river forms into beautiful waterfalls, including the famous Skradinski Buk falls, one of Croatia’s most famous sights. 

4. Split

Callum stopped by the beautiful marina in Split, the largest city on the Adriatic Coast. Known for its Roman ruins and natural splendour according to Tripadvisor "Split has been under Roman, Venetian, Austrian, French, Italian, and Yugoslav rule. The Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and must-see historic attractions include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and the striking Grgur Ninski Statue." Split has seemingly always been a place to adventure to and around, from generation to generation, so definately makes it on the list of must-see locations in Croatia.

5. Dubrovnik

Known for being a jaw-dropping experience, Dubrovnik should hit most people's bucket list. From the Game of Thrones, to Star Wars this place is a true wanderlust location full of ancient character that'll take you years to unearth every part of - but will no doubt try in under a couple of days! 

I've always loved travelling and value time spent in new places and different cultures. Our time at each stop was pretty tight, but having such a quality watch in the Vazon Ainsdale on my wrist kept me in check from location to location.

With special thanks to Callum Thompson. You can find Callum and follow his travels on Instagram at @callumthompson_uk.