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Italy and Croatia 2026
  • Catherine Kidd
  • Catherine Kidd

Italy and Croatia 2026

A 29-day adventure by Catherine Read more
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  • Trip start
    May 7, 2026
  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler

    Italy here we come!

    May 7 in Italy ⋅ ☁️ 20 °C

    We're off on our next adventure. It's so great we can travel again now that John has his bionic knee surgery behind us.

    We fly to Calgary with a 2 hour layover prior to leaving for Rome. No indication of any delays so far.

    The big unknown is whether we will be affected in Europe with the current jet fuel shortage. We've considered some contingency plans, but won't activate unless the need arises.

    I've failed miserably trying out my limited Italian! I have a decided English/French/Spanish accent so far. Hopefully I'll improve once I hear it spoken around me.

    Mantente atento a las actualizaciones. (Stay tuned for updates).    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Canal lined with fishing boats
    1Typical Fiumincino fisherman.

    Fiumincino

    May 9 in Italy ⋅ ☀️ 14 °C

    Today is Saturday. We arrived in Rome airport around 1300 on Friday. The overnight flight was very smooth. We were well looked after. Unfortunately, neither of us slept. Arrived feeling not too bad.

    This was good, as it took over 2 hours to get thru passport control. The Uber that I'd pre-ordered cancelled as they had to wait so long. Got another taxi that took us to our accomodation in Fiumincino. Le Boutique Luxury Rooms.

    Small, yes. Luxury not so much. After an afternoon walk and early pizza and salad dinner, we both crashed asleep by 2000. Awoke again around midnight, then slept again until the alarm rang at 0730 this morning.

    It was a good decision to spend 2 nights here. Gives us some time to adjust prior to the anticipated business of Rome.

    After breakfast, we walked to an archeological area called the Ports of Claudius. Fascinating to walk through the ruins of what was a bustling port with warehouses to accept all of the goods that the City of Rome imported.

    Built by the Emperor Claudius in 42 AD as the Imperial Harbour of Rome, it was enlarged over time by the succeeding Emperors until the 4th Century. Interestingly, a community of the early Christians was established here, as they were not permitted to live within Rome as they refused to bow down to the Emperor and acknowledge him as God.

    Fiumincino started as a fishing village and was enlarged by the Emperors thru building impressive structures that were intended to impress visitors arriving at the port with the glories and wealth of Rome.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Therein of the Imperial port of Rome
    Empower Claudius began this port around 34 AD.Beach where the Tiber meets the Tyrrenian SeaVia della Torre Clementina

    Fiumicino cont'd

    May 9 in Italy ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    After walking through the archeological site,we walked back towards our hotel. We picked up some snacks for lunch at a store nearby.

    It's interesting to learn that what we thought was a canal is actually one of two outputs of the Tiber River onto the Tyrrhenian Sea.

    After a brief rest at the hotel, we wandered to a nearby beach and watched the locals wade in the Sea.

    The Via del la Torre where our hotel is located is a vibrant area with lots of restaurants and locals enjoying the good life.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    From our Air B&B balcony
    Outside our Air B& B

    Rome

    May 10 in Italy ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C

    After breakfast, we took a taxi to the airport and from there the train into Rome.

    After storing our suitcases, we did a Hop on Hop off tour. It gave us an orientation to the hilights of Rome.

    We then took a taxi to the Piazza Navona to find our Air B&B. Had no luck in finding the apartment. Wayne came to rescue us.

    The apartment is spacious and well equipped. It is built onto part of the old Rome city wall which was built around 270 AD.

    Went for dinner at one of the restaurants in the neighbourhood. Bueno!    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Piazza Narvona
    Fountain of the four rivers, Piazza NarvonaPantheonPantheonPantheonOur travelling companionsSanta Almeria Minerva Church c. 1600View from the apartment patioPiazza NarvonaFountain of Four Rivers. Nile, Danube, Ganges and Rio de la Plata.

    ROME DAY 2 part 1

    May 11 in Italy ⋅ ⛅ 21 °C

    Jen and Wayne purchased all the required breakfast foods and we had a relaxed breakfast at the apartment.

    This morning we walked to the Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, the Santa Maria Minerva Church and other landmarks along the way. All are in the area of Rome called Campus Martius.

    Wayne is our guide. He seems to know the city really well. He got us to the best Gelato place for lunch.

    Visited an outdoor market filled with fruits, veggies and other interesting consumables.

    Back to the apartment for a bit of a rest prior to our afternoon activities.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Depiction of what the Colliseum looked likeArch of Constantine2Ruins of the Pax Romana. Built following the final conquest of Jerusalem

    ROME Day 2 B

    May 11 in Italy ⋅ ☀️ 23 °C

    After a rest at the apartment we walked the 25 minutes to the Colloseum.

    On the way we walked past the " wedding cake", which is now a war museum. It was inaugurated in 1911 to honour Italy's first king Victor Emmanueal the 2nd.

    Lots of tourists everywhere. Hard to walk in some areas because of them! Darn tourists! And the traffic!

    The Colliseum was started in 72 AD and took 8 years to complete. Originally called the Flavian Amphitheatre, it was eventually changed to The Collosus of Nero".

    It is mind boggling to try to understand the blood thirsty nature of the Romans and the "games" that took place there. Gladiators were slaves, and expected to fight until only 1 was left standing.

    Christians were fed to the lions and tigers for sport.

    Other so called criminals were also sacrificed.

    50,000 Romans would attend the games. An incredible structure with a macabre past.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Arches at the entrance to St. Peter's Square.
    Columns were taken from the ColloseumSt. Peter's Square

    ROME DAY 3

    May 12 in Italy ⋅ ☀️ 20 °C

    Today we're off to Vatican City. We joined our tour group to go to St. Peter's Basilica. Despite skip the line tickets, we lined up for an hour to get in. It's really busy, but apparently nothing compared to what happens in the summer.

    Interesting fact is that the Basilica and other buildings within Vatican City were constructed from materials taken from Roman structures, such as the Colloseum and Caesar's Palace on the Pallantine hill.

    The tour thru St. Peter's was an hour. It took an hour to get through the security lines before we got inside. The crowds are unbelievable! And it's not even summer yet.

    Note to self: if we come to Rome again, we'll come in March.

    After a quick lunch, including Gelato, we then went on a tour of the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel.

    The treasures there are truly amazing, but again, the crowds made it very difficult to really take them all in.

    A few photos that can't really capture the magnificence.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Jasmine in bloom everywhere. An unforgettable scent.

    Rome Day 4

    May 13 in Italy ⋅ ☁️ 20 °C

    This morning we walked to the market to purchase more fresh produce. Sampled different pestos. Very delish!

    Found a Forno panificio for bread. Boys went back and Jen and I had time to look through some shops.

    We then walked to the Baths of Caracalla. As we walked, we passed by so many ruins! It's amazing really.

    Ruins included the Campus Martius, the Circus Maximus, which was built for chariot races, and other ruins that were unnamed.

    The Baths were awe inspiring. Built by Emperor Caracalla in 250 AD, it could hold up to 6000 people. Hot pools, steam rooms, cold plunge and a huge gym. For men only, of course. Apparently it was rife with pickpockets, but one has to wonder, as in the Baths, everyone was naked.

    The interior had marble and granite floors in intricate designs. Beautiful statues adorned the rooms as did murals on the walls. Almost everything was removed to other places and now reside in the Museums of Rome and Naples.

    Loved the quiet and peace of the area. A stark contrast to the crowds of yesterday. Birds singing. Thunder in the distance.

    We got back to the apartment just before it started to rain really hard.

    We had some Orievetto and chips as we waited for the rain to stop and go to throw our coins in the Trevi fountain and explore the neighbourhood where Wayne suggested we go for dinner.

    Dinner was excellent!    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Bullet train
    Refreshment along the way to the Air B&BThe apartmentOur streetOut shopping in the arra1

    Naples here we come

    May 14 in Italy ⋅ ⛅ 19 °C

    After breakfast, we said arrividerci to Jen and Wayne, and took a taxi to Roma Termini for our train to Naples.

    The traffic is horrific, drivers, cyclists and pedestrians are crazy!

    Everywhere you look you see ruins, beautiful statues, buildings and fountains. The taxi ride took about the same time as it would have if we'd walked, but didn’t want to pull our suitcases over the cobblestones and broken pavement.

    The train to Naples is a fast one. Travelling up to 240K per hour.

    When we arrived, the taxi driver told us he couldn't take us to our Air B&B because there was a bike race on. True enough, we saw many cyclists and the roads were closed off.

    It is stage 6 of the Giro d'italia. This stage is 142K. If only we'd known we could have entered!

    The city is alive with lots of people. We walked about 15 minutes to get to our apartment. On the way we stopped for a washroom break and refreshments.

    Once settled on our apartment, we walked in the area. Lots of high end stores, restaurants and beautiful sights.

    Got some groceries and decided tonight we'd eat in with a chicken salad.

    After dinner, walked through the Spanish district. People, motorcycles, restaurants. A lively and interesting area. Made it back without being run over by a motorcycle or car.

    Decaf coffee and Venchi chocolate for dessert.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Bay of Naples
    Bay of NaplesBeautiful Mansions along the Bay.Mt. VesuviusCastel Dell'OvoCastle Saint d'Elmo

    Naples Sight Seeing

    May 15 in Italy ⋅ ⛅ 19 °C

    After breakfast we walked to the Maschio Angioino, a Medieval Fortress, where we took a Hop on Hop off tour.

    On this ride through the city, we left the old town and headed along the coast, passing beautiful homes, tree lined streets, and views of the Bay of Naples. We could also see Mt. Vesuvius, which today, was topped by clouds.

    Naples has a history of over 2700 years, making it the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world.

    In the 8th C. BC, Greeks established a colony. In 470 BC the city was rebranded as Neapolis, and the layout of the city remains roughly the same today.

    After the first tour, we decided to have lunch. We shared Parmigiana de Melanzane (eggplant parmesan) and a Napolese classic dish called Baccala alla Napoletana (salted cod with tomatoes, olives and capers).

    The second Hop on Hop off tour took us through the old city sights. Throngs of people, mad traffic.

    Following that we walked back to our apartment to rest.

    Late in the afternoon we took another stroll through the streets surrounding our apartment. Rush hour on the streets and sidewalks.

    We were going to have pizza at the oldest pizza restaurant in Naples (3 minutes from the apartment) called Pizzeria Brandi. It was serving pizza in 1889. We were there at 1900. It didnt open until 1930. We decided not to wait and went next door for pizza. A very lively street. Light showers while we were eating, but we were dry.

    Back to the apartment for coffee. Early morning tomorrow as we look forward to Pompeii.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Gladiator exercise area and housing
    1Greek theatre from 6th century BC.Water fountains found throughout the townMural in a homeOutdoor dining room in a wealthy home.Restaurant where amphoras were used to keep food hotLivingroomHorses died in their stableMt VesuviusAmphora in fast food joint.Door of a house. Beware of dog.Ruts in the street from wagons and chariotsHouse built on top of the ash in 1700's prior to the discovery of the ruins

    Pompeii

    May 16 in Italy ⋅ 🌧 14 °C

    Last night we woke to very active lightning and thunder and pouring rain. Glad we were safe in our bed.

    We were up early to go to the bus for our Pompeii tour. It rained off and on. Glad we had our waterproof jackets!

    In Pompeii the weather mostly cooperated. We had an amazing guide, who is a restoration specialist and has been working in the ruins for decades. Her family has been in Pompei for centuries. She was so articulate and informative. So greatful to be able to see Pompei again.

    Pompei existed for 700 years prior to the eruption of Mt Vesuvius in 79 AD. In 62 AD a major earthquake damaged Pompei, and some of the areas, such as the temples to the various gods, were still under reconstruction when the eruption occurred.

    After the earthquake, it was believed that many left the town, leaving around 10, 000 still living there. It is thought that roughly half of those were able to escape the volcanic ash.

    The ash is 20 to 25 feet above street level. Pompei was a busy port, with lots of ships off loading goods for Rome. The harbour was filled with ash by the eruption, and the Bay of Naples is now about 2 K from the ruins.

    As a major trading hub, there were all sorts of eating places, brothels, and other stores that the seamen would visit. It was a wealthy town, and many beautiful houses had been built by those who profited by the trading.

    The townsfolk had entertainment with gladiators at the theatres, communal spas, and theatre performances.

    Pompei is a major archeological site that has revealed amazing details about the people who lived there. Because it was engulfed by ash rather than magma, it's been a treasure trove of archeological finds as so many things were found intact.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Mt. Vesuvius
    The end of the Bay of Naples. Now the Tyrrhenian Sea.Along the coast.PositanoPositanoAmalfiAmalfiHotel viewHotel viewHotel groundsFrom our balcony.Balcony view3Balcony view

    Amalfi Coast

    May 17 in Italy ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C

    This morning we take a high speed boat to Amalfi, the closest port to where we are staying in Ravello.

    We have a stop in Positano and then take another boat to Amalfi.

    The sea is quite rough, but so far I'm able to keep sea sickness at bay.

    We arrive at Positano, and there is a line up of boats waiting to dock. Usually they allow as many as 5 boats to dock at once. Today, because of the wind and waves, only one birth is open. We are 3rd in line. Thankfully the boat we take to Amalfi is behind us in line!

    Positano is breathtaking, perched on the cliffs and climbing up the hills, away from the Azure sea.

    Getting off the boat was a challenge with high waves moving the gangplank, but we made it safely.

    On the dock it was mayhem with masses of people waiting for their boats going to Capri, Naples and of course, Amalfi. We were surprised that they were actually able to get us onto our boat.

    A 15 minute ride to Amalfi. It is crowded too, but there is a breakwater, so the boat has no difficulty docking.

    We walked a short way and found a taxi stand. We took a taxi to our hotel, the Villa San Michele. It's beautiful. I can feel myself relaxing, even after paying 50 euros for a 10 minute ride. We weren't ripped off. It's the posted rate.

    Jen and Wayne recommended this place. I can see why they've stayed here twice. It's half board, which means breakfast and dinner. We'll do our exploring from here starting tomorrow. This afternoon I'm enjoying Prosecco and chips in the sun on our deck and drinking in the views.

    Dinner tonight was wonderful. We had mushrom risotto, and I had prawns, John chicken. Wonderful meal! I feel so blessed and greatful.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Minori Beach
    MinoriChurch in MinoriMinori from "the balcony" on the Lemon Trail towards MeioriProof we were there.Our hotel(white building) from MinoriMinori from the balcony.Gardens that hug the cliff sides.Famous bakery.Atrani street viewMinori street viewHotel gardensHotel gardensHotel gardensAtraniOur hotel on the cliffs face

    Ravello and Minori

    May 18 in Italy ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C

    After an amazing dinner last night we slept well. Awoke to sunshine and currently enjoying our first cup of coffee on our balcony.

    Our plan today is to take a bus to Minori to explore the town that's not too far away.

    The bus ride was quite the experience. The buses take over a full lane, and around corners they take up the whole road.

    Minori is picturesque. It claims to have the best beach on the Amalfi coast and it is where the Italians prefer to come.

    After a coffee at a beach Cafe, we wander thru the town, past the church and a lemoncello factory and went up the Lemon Trail towards Meori. Many steps to reach a lookout over Minori. We sat for awhile, and John took pictures for tourists. He should have charged for that to help defray the cost of the taxi yesterday!

    Back down we went and found a famous pastry shop owned by the best pastry chef in the world (so TripAdvisor says), Sal de Riso. Not cheap but tasty!

    We wandered Minori some more, then decided to take a bus back to our hotel for a rest.

    Mid afternoon we walked to an small town called Atori. It is an ancient fishing village which has a small beach and lots of restaurants and bars.

    It's an interesting walk along the road. No sidewalks and buses, cars, vespas and motorcycles pass by quite close.

    Upon returning to our hotel, John counted the steps down to our room from the road. A total of 130.

    Today of the 9,000 plus steps we've taken, I'm sure greater than 50% were on stairs.

    Before dinner, we walked down from our room to the area where we could go onto the sea. Another 160 steps. This hotel is amazing. The staff are wonderful.

    Tonight for dinner we had ravioli stuffed with swordfish, followed by a green bean dish (John loved it and he hates green beans!) And salt cod in a tomato sauce. So good. John had lemon Gelato and I had panacotta for dessert.
    So greatful to have this experience!    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    16th C cloister at the entrance.
    Ceramic panel in the CloisterVilla CourtyardVilla CimbroneWater well on the CloisterThe avenue of immensityStatue of CeresDavid and GoliathThe rose gardenThe tea roomPicture from the terrace of infinity

    Ravello

    May 19 in Italy ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C

    Today we took a harrowing bus ride up to Ravello. Horns honking, drivers yelling. Quite the circus.

    We arrived unscathed and made our way to the Gardens of Villa Cimbrone.

    In the late Roman times, this vast estate was valued for its timber and fertile lands suitable for farming.

    At the end of the 19th century, the abandoned lands were purchased by Lord Grimthorpe from England. Determined to bring the estate back to life, he turned it into a work of art. Today it is considered the most important example of the landscape, botany and culture of England created in the Mediterranean area.

    Some of the gardens are based on the early gardens laid out in 11th century. Most are a result of landscape architects who combined both English and Italian styles.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler

    Arrivederci Ravello

    May 20 in Italy ⋅ ⛅ 23 °C

    After another wonderful breakfast, we said goodbye to our lovely room with its spectacular view, and goodbye to our wonderful hosts. Such a treat to stay at this boutique family run hotel.

    A quick taxi to Amalfi, where we took the ferry back to Naples. Today the water was very calm.

    We walked from the ferry terminal to our B&B which is across from the train station. A very busy area. We'll have no trouble getting a cab in the morning to go to the airport.

    We found a restaurant close by for dinner. The Vino della Cassa (house wine) was from Ravello. We ordered the bianco. One bottle for 8 Euros!

    John had pasta. I ordered pizza. Had to have another in the birthplace of the pie.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Guisseppe Garibaldi
    First glimpse of DubrovnikHarbour by a city gate.City wallThe steps of shame from Game of ThronesThe crest from family who originally had the building we stayed inOur streetStreet viewDinner location.

    Dubrovnik Bound

    May 21 in Croatia ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    Today we fly to Dubrovnik. Jen and Wayne are already there, and they're really enjoying it.

    We went to a patisserie near the B&B for croissants and coffee. Best croissant yet on this trip! Plain croissant with apricot jam.

    We then had a short walk to stretch our legs a bit. A statue of Guisseppe Garibaldi welcomed us. He was instrumental in the unification of Italy.

    The flight went very well. I sat beside a young woman from Kelowna.

    Wayne and Jen met us at the bus stop at Old Town. So good to see them.

    Wayne escorted us to our accomodation, only a minute or so from where they're staying. It's a beautifully renovated studio in an old building.

    After dropping off our luggage, went for drinks and catch up on each other's adventures.

    Wayne and Jen selected a restaurant for us to have dinner. It was a spectacular choice!

    So much beauty all around us in this medieval city.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    1

    Exploring Dubrovnik and Joining the Cruise

    May 22 in Croatia ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    After a light breakfast, we got a cab with Wayne and Jen to drop our suitcases off at the Harmonia. She is a beautiful boat. Built in 2012 she is considered a luxury yacht. Her owner is the engineer on the ship and he has a contract with Island Hopping Boat Bike tours. She is well maintained with gorgeous wood everywhere.

    We wandered the port area, checked out a few shops and then had lunch.

    We boarded the boat at 1400 and settled ourselves in our cabin. We'll be very comfortable here.

    We had orientation in the salon from one of the two tour guides, Mirta and Max. Both of the guides are very approchable.

    After the orientation, we were off for a tour in the Old Town of Dubrovnik. The guide was very informative about the past and recent history of the town. So tragic the war that occurred in the early 1990s. Restoration is still underway in the town.

    We had a wonderful dinner and enjoyed the meal with others on the boat.

    Everyone agrees it's going to be a great time.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Sun deck
    Our first stop for a dip.BobbingSipanska LucaSipanska LucaSipanska LukaBike routeMedieval Villa in SudurandSudurandSudrandBike group

    Off to Sipanska Luka

    May 23–28 in Croatia ⋅ ⛅ 25 °C

    This morning as we were having breakfast we left the port in Dubrovnik. It's been wonderful, but we're looking forward to exploring the quieter side of Croatia, and, of course bike riding. The breakfast was fabulous.

    We stopped about an hour after departure and swam in the Adriatic. It was somewhat cool. I didn’t last long.

    We continued on and tied up in Sipanska Luka, our destination. The crew off loaded our bikes, and we had an opportunity to adjust them to our liking prior to a session on how to use the bikes and road safety.

    After an incredible lunch, we had an hour to rest, and then we set off for a 13K practice run across the island.

    We passed by lovely vineyards and small farms where they were growing various crops. There were also Medieval ruins from the 1500s. Churches, Villas, and other buildings. During this era, there were around 7000 people on this island. Some lived here permanently. Others were the wealthy from Dubrovnik who vacationed here.

    Today, there are around 500 full time residents, most of whom are retired.

    We reached our destination, a town called Sudurand. A quiet village with many restored homes and some very derelict.

    When we returned to our boat, we changed into bathing suits and rode our bikes to a nearby beach. Had a quick dip then returned to the boat to shower and get ready for dinner.

    After another beautiful meal, we were treated to a beautiful sunset.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    View along the way.Roman ruins4th in lineKorcula fortressKorculaKorculaKorcula1Too much protein.

    Next Stop Miljet

    May 24 in Croatia ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    This morning we are on our way to the Island of Miljet. We will cycle 33K from the town of Sobra to Pomena. We will travel across the middle of the island to meet the boat.

    It was a hot day, but a great ride. Along the way we went through a national park. Heavily treed, lots of birds and wonderful views. We stopped for a look at some Roman ruins of around the 4th C that were built by an exiled Roman.

    After the bikes were loaded on the boat, we left for the island of Korcula, where we will spend the night.

    We arrived in Korcula. It is truly a gem. We walked around the town a bit and then returned to the boat to clean up.

    At 1830 we're going on a guided tour. Following this, we'll find somewhere to have dinner ashore.

    The tour thru the old town was very informative. The fortified city with was built by the Venetians in the 1300's. They claim this to be the birth place of Marco Polo.

    We had dinner with Wayne and Jen at a restaurant that had a outdoor grill. I had a mixed grill. Far too much meat, but very tasty. We shared a bottle of local white wine called Gyk. It was delicious.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Lunch time swim.
    LunchToday's rideOur guide Mirta

    Korcula Island

    May 25 in Croatia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    Today will be our longest bike ride. 60 km along the Island.

    The boat repositioned early in the morning so that they can disembark our bikes.

    We started our ride at 0900. Lots of uphill. Some beautiful views at the top.

    We stopped for lunch at the Hotel Punto Mare in the town of Brna. They had washrooms and change rooms for us, so we had a dip in the sea, a shower and then lunch. A 2.5 hr stop. We're halfway thru today's ride. Hopefully the afternoon won't be too exhausting.

    We made it! A couple of hills, one really steep for 4 K. Went thru lovely countryside all day, passing by vineyards and olive groves. I would love to have a garden here. The flower and vegetable gardens look beautiful.

    We arrived at our destination, Vela Luka. The boat was there, and we looked forward to some refreshment.

    Tonight is the Captain's dinner. Our captain sat at our table. He was very engaging.    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    Entrance to VisVisVisHighest pointCopper ornaments.Carob treeVis from on highTunnels in the wineryWinery

    Next Stop Vis

    May 26 in Croatia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    Today we sail to Vis, the island where Mama Mia was filmed. I hope we get to see the set, especially the church on the hill. We arrive around 1200.

    Too bad. The church on the hill is on another island. Didn't see any sets from Momma Mia.

    Our morning ride to the town of Komiza was a long uphill climb. It was hot, but we made it! Along the way, the scents of rosemary and pine were evident. We were rewarded at the top of the climb (690 meters) with a magnificent view of the town below.

    The descent was steep and filled with switchbacks. The views fantastic. In the town we parked our bikes and had a light snack for lunch. A beautiful historic town, known in the middle ages for its salted fish, which it exported to Venice. Pirates frequently attacked the town and boats, and not only stole the valuable cargo, but sold the sailors to be used as galley slaves.

    This island was at one time used by Yugoslavia as a military base. A series of caves were dug to provide areas for the military, including bunkers for Tito. They developed defensive placements to defend their country from Germany.

    After lunch, another long upward climb until we got to an area of vineyards and olive groves at the summit. Then down we went back to our boat in Vis. A total 31.6 K today.

    After a quick shower we went to a winery that produced and stored their wine in a series of caves from the Toto era. This small company produces all their own grapes. It was a fun time.

    Back to the ship for another incredible dinner. Another great day!    Read more

  • Catherine KiddItaly and Croatia 2026Traveler
    HvarSt Stephen's church c. 1600FortressHvarHvarHvar2HvarRefreshment 1/2 way thru the rideView from the topSwim area

    On To Hvar

    May 27 in Croatia ⋅ ☀️ 23 °C

    This morning we set sail for Hvar.

    When we got there, the bikes were unloaded and the Harmonia left to meet us around noon at our destination on the north side of the island, at a town called Stari Grad.

    We had an hour of free time to wander Hvar before our bike ride started. It has a decidedly Venitian influence in its architecture.

    There is a large fortified fort at the top of a hill overlooking the town. There has been a fortress there since BC, but it has obviously been further fortified and expanded during medieval times. It overlooks the old town and it's walls extended down towards the sea to provide protection to the old town area.

    Lovely narrow streets in the old town. Hvar is apparently very busy with tourists, many of them young. They like to party all night. As a consequence, our boat will stay for the night at quieter Stari Grad.

    This morning we ride 20 K. 10 K up and 10 K down to our destination. Stari Grad was settled by the Greeks around 300 BC. It has a natural harbour that protected the area from winds and marauders.

    We wind our way down through lavender fields. The views are amazing.

    When we reach our destination, we have the opportunity to find our own lunch. I had octopus salad, John had Greek salad.

    There is an option for taking a 25K bike ride leaving at 1500. John and I decide to skip it for sitting at the local beach for the afternoon and taking in some rays.

     This is a beautiful town. Lots of boats have come into the harbour over the afternoon and the restaurants are busy.

    Another wonderful dinner tonight. Can't believe tomorrow is our last biking day.    Read more