40 independent reviews for Croatia vacation, activity week
Reviews for Croatia vacation, activity week
Steve Jacob review 29 Jul 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
It was all amazing! Superb snorkelling, crystal clear waters. Terrific food prepared by Craig and Xania. Daily activities were adjusted to suit ability so all could take part or just relax.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Don’t forget to put sun cream on your feet!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. Local produce and products used in food prep and throughout the accommodation. Recycling and reuse were promoted.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Really, really, really superb! ?? We would love to come back next year.Bronagh Blackwood review 22 Jul 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
All of it!!!! We tried new activities.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Bring about 3 changes of board shorts, rash vests, sun block & good UV protection bucket hat with a draw string for kayaking. Girls - bring a few bikini tops for under the rash vests. Cotten skirts with loose cotton tops and Birkenstock sandals for walking for the evening.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes we ate local seasonal food & drank local wine. Met new people who had different experiences & learned new things & made good friends.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Fantastic really great funKaren Fox review 10 Oct 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Yoga and sea jump after2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
enjoy the food it’s amazing3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
yes definitely4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
very goodMary Bauckham review 31 Jul 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The food that was cooked for us- vegetarian or vegan and mostly gluten free (or if not, pointed out) as I am a coeliac and rarely get to eat this well.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared for some pretty heavy duty kayaking but definitely try the yoga.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes- cloth bags for sandwiches, meals out 4 times, lots of local food and wine.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent.Christina Pagel review 27 Jun 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Spending so much time on the beautiful water- so clear and green and blue! Plus Xania's vegan meals - amazing.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Don't pack lots of warm clothes! max 1 jumper. You just don't need it. Bring shower gel & bike/kayak gloves if you have them. Water shoes make life much easier.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
yes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
FantasticChris Johnes review 12 Aug 2020
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Downhill cycling around Vis though I think kayaking on the Adriatic probably won out for rest of family2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Get water shoes and sun tan lotion; dont bring many clothes3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely benefitted local restaurants and food producers. Vacation itself had ltd environmental impact but we did fly to get there4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Lots of fun, very memorable and worked for parents and older teenagersJessica Stubbings review 12 Aug 2020
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The beautiful Vis coastline and amazing foodprovided by our hosts.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Come prepared for the heat! Walking sandels would be useful for walking from the house to the beach.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Our hosts knew the island very well and through them showed us places and restaurants that supported local people. Plant based food helps supports conservation.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent and highly recommended.Kate Bailey review 12 Aug 2020
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Yoga by the sea each morning was definitely a highlight and exploring the stunning coastline by kayak. The plant-based food was delicious!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Although Craig and Xania will adapt the daily activities to suit their guests - the fitter you are, the more you will get out of it. Take cash to eat out. Take beach shoes.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes - by eating at local independent restaurants and spending a lot of time on two wheels or paddle-powered.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Probably more active than relaxing but that was through choice. Great for our children (teens) and adults alike.Phillipa Colby review 28 Sep 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Meeting an incredible 80 year old adventurer, who taught us all the joy and importance of enjoying every minute of life!!Morning yoga in the waterside amphitheatre was certainly my relaxation highlight but difficult to pick only one activity. Certainly the amazing meals would be worth coming back for!!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
A reasonable level of fitness will probably mean you’ll get the most out of what is on offer, although all activities are tailored to the group and there is no pressure to participate if you’d like a morning or an afternoon (or a day!!) off.Most beaches are stony so do bring water shoes!!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes- all foods were purchased as locally as possible (and if course we drank local wines!) and every effort was made to link us in with local business when we were out and about. Both Xania and Craig were passionate about preserving both the local environment and community on Vis.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent- loads to do but no pressure if you’d like a sleep-in or an afternoon off! Absolutely amazing food- will definitely open your eyes to the world of plant based meals!!!John Kilraine review 16 Sep 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Dave Duggan review 15 Sep 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
There are lots of enjoyably times to remember from this vacation but probably the main one for me is swimming several times each day in the warm clear waters ten minutes walk from the base in in Rukavac.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Join in the activities, have a go but do as much or as little as you want. I liked the informal shorts and tee shirts environment.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We used local restaurants when not eating at the base and I think the overall ethos of the vacation is quite environmentally sensitive. OK we fly to get there but then you can use the airport shuttle to get to the port and the ferry to get to Vis.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I really enjoyed it - definitely what is says on the tin " relaxingly active"Sarah Kitwood review 31 Aug 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Morning yoga overlooking the sea, kayaking to stunning coves for hours of snorkeling and exploring an abandoned submarine cave were all great experiences2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
No need to pack towels, take camelback water carriers for cycling and enough cash as lots of the restaurants don't take cards3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yep, we ate locally all the time and spent most our days under our own steam... cycling and kayaking.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Amazing! Craig and Xania are so inspirational and couldn't have been more accommodating. Xania is an exceptional cook, so our hungry children were well supplied with cakes to keep them going until our fabulous evening meal. That we could take the kayks and paddle boards out on our own during free time was great. All in all a fun-filled, active vacation with something for everyoneAnne Goodchild review 29 Jul 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
I loved the kayaking as a group. We kayaked 4 out of 5 of the activity days, visiting different coast lines each time. We swapped between double and single kayaks, picnicked on beaches and tried paddle boarding along the way. Seeing Vis from this beautiful angle was inspiring.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Arrive with an open mind and be prepared to have a go at everything. I managed a hilly bike ride with gentle coaxing along the way and surprised myself. You don't need to dress up, so no need to take anything fancy.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, definitely. The bread and fruit were delivered every day, we frequented local restaurants on four our of seven nights, our activities involved kayaking, cycling and yoga using our own steam to travel with little impact on the environment. Xania and Craig provided vegan meals that were filling and extremely tasty. Since I've returned I'm looking at reducing packaging, eating more plant-based meals and cycling to work.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I feel this vacation has had more of an impact on me than most other vacations I've been on. I was thoroughly impressed by Craig and Xania's philosophy and outlook on living life and sharing their home with others. I came back feeling fit and healthy and I look forward to retuning with family members to share the experience with them.Abigail McMillan review 7 Jul 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
even on the day off, the whole family wanted to be out and about on kayaks, feeling confident and relaxed enough to explore the coast a bit.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
this is the perfectly balanced week of activity and relaxation, bring lots of books, be prepared to learn new skills and meet fascinating new people, be well fed and rested and generally feel like you had a month's vacation, when in reality it was just a week.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, environmental impact of the guest house and food was small. Travel around the island was usually on wheels or waves. Craig and Xania recommend local businesses and buy locally-sources goods.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It's been voted our best ever family vacation.Jim Deuchars review 1 Jul 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Easy access to water based activities in the warm and clear seas around Vis. Starting the day with yoga, on flat rocks overlooking the sea. And jumping in after the session. Social dinners with delicious food. We are not vegetarian but all loved the food.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Get up for the yoga and make the most of the day.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We hope we benefitted local people by eating out 3 nights and having the odd drink in local bars.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Fantastic vacation, where we were looked after excellently by Craig and Xania. Beautiful island.Tracey Mitchell review 16 Jun 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
For me this vacation does 'exactly what is says on the tin'. I returned home feeling fit and relaxed. Being a veggie that tries to be vegan, the home prepared food was outstanding. I loved all the activities and the opportunity to challenge myself.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Bring lightweight long sleeved tops to help with sun protection.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Craig and Xania clearly care about the island and the community. Food and wine are locally sourced. A lot of thought and effort goes into protecting the environment and keeping waste to a minimum. They actively help clean the local beaches of the depressing plastic waste that gets washed up. I loved all the glass containers that are used, washed and reused for food storage. Even the picnic lunches were packaged in reusable bags.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Fabulous fun filled 'relaxingly active vacation'. Vis is a beautiful, unspoiled island. I fully intend to go back.Anne Roberts review 8 Jul 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
We loved all the activities in the sunshine and the Island of Vis was beautiful. Slacklining and jumping off caves were 2 particular highlights for our sporty teenagers.... plus the delicious daily cake2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Whilst the activities are optional be prepared to have a go - you may be surprised how many hills you can climb on a bike...or how far you can paddle a kayak...3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely - we didn't need to hire a car. We mainly travelled by ferry, bike , foot or kayak. The vegetarian food was locally sourced and delicious.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
We all had a super tripEmma Medina-Wallace review 23 Sep 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Kayaking in the incredibly clear blue waters of south Vis, and cycling to Komiza bay. The meals were also really delicious and the best we have had on vacation.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Buy swimming shoes before you go, as most beaches are pebbles. Spend a couple of nights in Vis town or Split before/ after the vacation to explore more of what Croatia and Vis have to offer. Pack lots of swimming gear!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, our hosts used local suppliers for food and other services, and promoted use of local businesses. We also travelled under our own steam most of the time (kayaks, bicycles, walking).4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent! Wish we could have stayed for 2 weeks!Marissa Mastellone review 23 Sep 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
There’s no way to pick just one. Our hosts Craig and Xania were absolutely incredible. Every day’s itinerary was spectacular from sunup to sundown. I think the highlight would’ve been living outside my comfort zone and kayaking and biking and doing yoga on a cliff just really pushing my limits every day.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Just come prepared to have the time of your life. And don’t let the active part of the vacation put you off because you’re totally capable of doing anything at your own pace. This is also a trip for people who like to meet other people.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
10 our of 10Kimberly Null review 11 Jul 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
I loved kayaking into the cave and jumping off the cliffs! And the food and wine was wonderful. I couldn't have asked for a more well balanced vacation. Active and relaxing, and flexible to have plenty of down time.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Pack light. It was pretty warm already there in June.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. I think most activities benefited local restaurants, etc. I think it definitely supported conservation by eating at the house many meals and not on the go (less packaging, etc.). Being on the island also demonstrated that trash can impact small local beaches in such a beautiful place.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Definitely 5 stars! I'm not walking away saying "I wish there was this or we did that"Shehnaz Bharwani review 29 Jun 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
There's were two, slacklining over the water in Submarine Cave and also freewheeling in to Komiza after cycling uphill for an hour.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Pack mosquito repellent, bit cream and antihist ermine tablets if you are prone to insect bites. You'll need some extra cash for eating out on a couple of occasions.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I hope it benefited local people, all the food we ate was fresh and locally sourced.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
The vacation was excellent and you could do as much or little as you wanted without any pressure. Xania and Craig were fantastic hosts and guides...truly inspiring people. The food was amazing and they were able to cater for me being Vegan. I'll be booking a trip to their place in Austria and I'm looking forward to trying even more new things.Alex Golding review 16 Jun 2018
We thoroughly enjoyed our vacation in Vis, your fantastic hospitality, excellent organisation and guiding of activities was superb – you could even say it was relaxingly active. We appreciated the balance you managed to accommodate the preferences and abilities of the whole group - in going at the speed of group when all together, or Mountain Biking flat out when I just cycled with Craig. We also appreciated you both being so considerate of sea kayaking with Helen, who was 16 weeks pregnant, in a 2 person kayak at certain times. When the group of 8 wanted to do a mixture of activities, all requests were considered with you suggesting ideas and routes that would work for everyone and facilitated by dropping some people off in different locations. You resolved our minor room issue within an hour of us reporting it, the room was lovely. The food provided for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner was delicious. The variety of cooking of vegetarian and vegan meals was eye opening and highlighted some new food approaches we will take when we cook at home. Vis is a lovely Island and we would recommend the vacation. I still need to buy that slackline!Louise Bracey review 2 Jul 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Paddle boarding on the sea, slack lining in the most beautiful leafy location while listening to the noisy cicadas and the food!!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be ready for a particularly irritating type of Mosquito!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It was a beautiful place on a stunning unspoilt Island with some gorgeous pebbly beaches a short walk away. The activities were great but not for the faint hearted...one trip was a 12km (though beautifully scenic) Kayaking trip! The food cooked by Xania was very good, full of flavour using fragrant herbs and spices. The local restaurants are pricey but good mostly.Robert Solomon review 26 Jul 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Craig and Xania's warm hospitality, the natural beauty of Vis island and the awesome Adriatic.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Try to participate in all of the activities on offer.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Very much so4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
The most fantastic week I have spent with my teenage sonFelicia Norman review 15 Jul 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Swimming and kayaking in picturesque bays with turquoise seas.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Relax when relax time is offered! Take plenty of local currency cash to Vis - many places don't take credit cards.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The local restaurants, and it was a low environmental impact vacation.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Superbly organised, great food and company, and amazingly active!Katie Gormley review 11 Jul 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Coming from a stressful job in the U.K. the best bit for me was the yoga by the sea. I have never done yoga but it was taught very well so I could follow along with ease. It was so relaxing and jumping into the sea afterwards was refreshing and truly revitalising!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
I would advise them to take more spending money than I did! You need enough money to eat out atleast 4 or 5 times so take lots!!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I don't think it had any negative impact at all, they seem to fit in well to the local area.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I thought this was an excellent vacation for a solo traveler as I was. All the activities were geared around the ability of the individual, i am a fitness freak and have found it frustrating in previous vacations when you have to go at the pace of the slowest person, this vacation I was free to go as fast as I wanted and do extra if requerid! The scenery was beautiful, the people were all friendly and fun, and the food.....OMG the vegetarian food cooked by the hosts was some of the BEST I have ever tasted, absolutely delicious. Accommodation was very nice and spacious and clean. Bikes to ride were in excellent condition, kayaks all in good working order!! All in all, amazing.Annabel Chater Davies review 11 Jul 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Cycling 11 miles on the island of Vis up and downhillbin 38 degrees2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Do this week vacation. It'll sort you out.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
You can change your life around in six short days. Their formula of a challenging yet supportive programme of exercise, more than enough chill time, on demand if need be, the beautiful beaches and scenery of Vis and outstanding, 5 star vegetarian cooking is an all round winner. Great for solos and couples alike. Do it.Steve Clarke review 4 Jul 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
It was also nice to meet new people in an environment that quickly builds bonds.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
With the amount of things you get to do it also works out pretty cost effective too, if you were to book each thing individually it would work out about the same without having the continuity.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I couldn't recommend highly this enough. Craig and Xania made me feel extremely welcome and the itinerary they set out works perfectly. My trip was excellent thank you.Alix Kulig review 10 Jun 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Getting to know the island and discovering hidden places on bikes + kayaks. It's a beautiful place and this vacation really immerses you in the local area.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Stay a night in Split before, air bnb are the cheapest I found and v close to the old town / center. Don't bother taking any towels, the beach sarongs provided are sufficient. Water socks advisable for pebble beaches. The vegetarian food is delicious, most of the guests were not vegetarian and loved it so be open minded - you can get your meat/fish fix on dine-out evenings.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely, they use as much locally grown organic food (and soap) as possible, are solar powered, recycle and promote this ethos through everything they do. You explore the island by bike and kayak so all self powered and truly beautiful and they make all efforts to avoid the increasing speed boat traffic.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
One of the best activity weeks I have been on. I'm sad to be home but have wonderful memories. I travelled solo but hope to return with friends some time.Emma Dicksee review 15 Aug 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
We loved everything! Exhilarating activities, delicious food, a fantastic location and wonderful hosts!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Craig and Zania tailor the vacation to suit your abilities but being reasonably fit certainly enables you to access more!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely! This was a really eco friendly vacation and we felt like a part of the local community on Vis.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It was truly wonderful! It will be hard to top this experience. We felt that it catered really well for a mixed age group and differing ability levels. Relaxingly active is a perfect description!Annabelle Monks review 13 Aug 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
It was all great - beautiful island, good food, tasty wine, lots of sunshine.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
It was good to spend a night in Split before going to Vis to get to see it properly. Take bug repellent as there seem to be quite a few bitting things...although I never actually saw what they were. You don't need to take a beach towel as sarongs provided. You will eat very well so no need to take extra snacks!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Xania and Craig have a very good relationship with the locals and point you in the direction of restaurants and local producers. As you mainly walk/ kayak/ cycle around it doesn't feel like you're having a detrimental impact on the environment.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Really good. Especially as I was a single traveler. There is lots to keep you occupied, plus time to yourself.Alison Fraser review 5 Aug 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
I discovered paddle boarding and I love it! The crystal clear waters, the sunshine, the food...I could go on. But it is Craig and Xania, the owners and hosts, who really make it. They are not only "relaxingly active" but also "relaxingly organised" and just lovely people.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
I went on my own it is by far the best vacation I have done as a solo traveler.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, the vacation gives you the chance to eat out at lovely local restaurants and I also went on a boat trip with a local man who had just set up in business.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Great - I'll be looking at their place in Austria for the winter.Karina Keane review 7 Jun 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The stunning scenery - simply breathtaking. We loved the home cooked food - every mouthful was packed with flavour and was delicious. Our hosts were exceptional - very professional, warm, accommodating and knowledgeable. The yoga overlooking the beach was fantastic and we loved the kayak along the coast - and the delicious picnic and chocolate brownies topped off a perfect day!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Just do it! You won't regret it. Follow Craig & Xania's advice for what to do and where do eat out. Their expert knowledge was really appreciated. Rent a scooter on your "Yoda" day or explore the island's flora and fauna on foot, and ask about a military tour of the island - it was fascinating.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. We ate locally produced organic fruit, vegetables, eggs, honey and wine etc every day. We recycled everything we could and minimized the plastic we used. We drank tap water (infused with fresh fruit and herbs - yum!) every day. The showers were heated using solar water heaters. We cycled, kayaked, walked and used mostly "no engine required" power for our trip! It was a very low carbon vacation and we were delighted with everything.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
5 star. Most rewarding and fun vacation experience ever. We'll definitely be back!Karl Fitzhugh review 25 Aug 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
It's impossible to single out any one thing as everything was great, but I loved the overall change of pace - starting the day with some yoga by the sea (optional) followed by a relaxed breakfast, then the day's activity and returning to home-baked cake and a siesta afterwards. "Relaxingly active" does sum it up perfectly! Then either a lovely home-cooked evening meal or a trip to a restaurant.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
As others have mentioned, gloves can be good when kayaking (I used old mountain biking gloves) and remember not to grip the paddles too tight! I also found a Camelbak or similar hydration pack very useful on the bike rides & walk. The Croatian Airlines shuttle bus from the airport is great, costing about 1/10th of a taxi and getting you there almost as fast. Also, if your timings allow it get the catamaran between Split/Vis (from the Krilo/Kapetan Luka ticket booth at Split port) - it was only 1 kuna more than the standard ferry (55 kuna rather than 54) but is an hour quicker!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, in several ways, from eating at local restaurants to the fact that Craig & Xania use local produce for the meals, including local wine and craft beer! We paid for a great boat trip with a local operator on our day off, and although some days' activities involved journeys in the land rover this was kept to a minimum, and we got around a lot by kayak, bike and on foot.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Absolutely fantastic - I was traveling alone but Craig & Xania (and Ela, their current assistant) made me 100% comfortable and the 3 other couples on the trip were all lovely and very friendly. Craig & Xania give you free access to all the communal areas of their lovely home, and do everything they can to ensure everyone is happy - for example, one couple loved kayaking so did it on every activity day, while others of us chose to cycle/walk. The group can decide what they want to do (with suggestions from Craig/Xania) and there's no obligation to stick with the group if you fancy doing something different!Claudine Schlieffers review 29 Jul 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
There wasn't really just one - Xania and Craig definitely challenged us with the biking and kayaking. I think we all felt quite proud of what we did manage to do! We got an insight into Vis, Croatia that we otherwise would not have gotten in a traditional hotel. It is the most magnificent island we have ever been to and we hope to go back soon!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
In order to enjoy it properly, it would help to be physically fitter than we are! We were not really prepared for 5-6 full days of biking, kayaking, climbing, yoga - sometimes all in one day.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Xania cooked just about everything from scratch - all locally bought food. There was very little waste.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Definitely 4 stars. As a family, we would have liked a bit more R&R and creature comforts for the siesta time in particular. The food was absolutely delicious; the location perfect and our hosts felt more like friends!Alex Habermehl review 3 Jul 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Too many to pick just one! From snorkelling in crystal clear waters, beautiful beaches to relax on, morning yoga by the sea, and white water kayaking around coves, to the amazing weather and incredible scenery, and delicious food.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
P20 sun cream! Boat shoes or similar and my cycling gloves proved useful while kayaking. Craig and Xania are extremely knowledgeable about the local area, which proved especially useful in finding the best restaurants and quiet beach spots for time off.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, it's clear that Xania and Craig are part of the community, they create wonderful home cooked meals with local produce and I ate at a number of restaurants owned by locals, overall the trip felt very positive and not at all 'touristy'.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Fantastic! I worried beforehand about being a solo traveler but needn't have - Craig and Xania were wonderful hosts, and very accommodating. Great mix and choice of fun activities, and still plenty of time to relax. Such a memorable experience - I have already recommended to a number of friends.Veronica Thompson review 3 Oct 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Having never undertaken an activity vacation (and both in our sixties) being encouraged and guided by 2 consummate professionals gave us a chance to try things never done before. The kayaking by Craig was a really enjoyable experience and one we would now wish to repeat,. The thrill in coming down the 5km steep hill into Komiza was memorable, as was the exhortation from Xania - "just keep pedaling you can do it"! We eat loads of veggies but never knew vegetarian food could be so varied or so good - Xania is a fantastic cook.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
If you don't take regular exercise be prepared to push yourself a little - but there is no pressure to do so and Craig and Xania are well able to gauge what you can and can't do. They don't make you feel inadequate if you don't try or complete all the activities. Some more tourisy and waterfrontt restaurants are not good value and it's worth checking out reviews before you decide where to eat out. Craig and Xania also ensure arrangements are made where necessary for you to eat out.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely as you eat out a lot and use a range of local facilities.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
An amazing experience and it has given us an incentive to consider how we become fitter, eat more vegetarian dishes and how invigorating it is to try new things. Never too late to try!Cordelia Howitt review 9 Aug 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Kayaking anlong the cost with not a human soul in sight (apart from our group), having dinner with Xania and Craig and snorkeling which was like a documentary from David Attenborough.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Bring a foldable chair for Split airport (or be prepared to sit on the floor in the departure lounge), be careful on the roads when cycling (no crash barriers).3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Probably, we drank refrigerated tap water so didn't waste any plastic bottles. We went to local restaurants owned by Croatians. We stayed in a small house not a large hotel that spoils the countryside.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Fabulous if you're into activity vacations that are not too crowded.Graeme Everard review 28 Jun 2014
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Kayaking and cycling around lovely Vis, early morning yoga by the sea, Xania's cooking, playing picigin!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Give yourself time to spend a few nights in Split before or after your week on Vis. It's a beautiful place with lots going on.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes - Craig and Xania support local businesses and are very much part of the community.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
A excellent week - Craig and Xania work extremely hard to give their guests a memorable vacation.Nancy Lauby review 17 Oct 2013
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
It is difficult to choose just one thing...the hospitality was outstanding, Vis is absolutely beautiful, and our hosts were wonderful.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
If you have flexibility with your dates, let Craig and Xania group you with people of similar interests (e.g. I traveled with my 18 year old son and another family was on vacation with this company with 3 kids around the same age.)3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The vacation gave me an appreciation for a country and a way of living that was new to me. Each day we explored the island by kayak or bicycle. Xania and Craig introduced us to some great restaurants and people on the island and I was pleased to support the local economy.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent, superb, outstanding.Holiday Reviews
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