CHARACTERISTICS OF DALMATIAN REGION

LANDSCAPE

Adriatic Sea - with its well-indented coast with many islands, rocky land, Mediterranean shrubs and mild maritime climate represents the most beautiful part of Croatia and one of the most beautiful parts of Europe as well. There are over one thousand of islands and islets in the Adriatic Sea, 500-600 km of winding coast with tens or even hundreds of towns and small places, whose streets and walls carry more than a thousand-year-long history of Croatia, as well as history of humankind in general.

Islands – The most visited and most interesting islands of Middle Dalmatia, which you should visit, are: island of Hvar with the oldest theatre in Europe, island of Brač with the long sandy beach Zlatni rat (200 m), heaven for wind surfers island of Vis, island of Biševo with the natural phenomenon of the Adriatic Sea – the renowned Blue Cave / Modra špilja, National Park Kornati - archipelago of 89 islands, islets and reefs.

Undersea world – the Adriatic Sea is a unique area for enjoyment in the rich undersea world. Undersea relief, caves, walls, reefs and capes represent a true challenge for unforgettable diving tours.

CLIMATE & ECOLOGY

Climate - Due to the influence of the Adriatic Sea the Dalmatian climate is quite variable. Winters can be very cold due to north wind Bura, which makes the cold almost unbearable. On the other hand, summers are very warm with air temperature exceeding 35 C and sea temperature of 26 C, what makes swimming a very pleasant activity.

Ecology – the fact that people in these areas are closely linked with nature and that they practically live from it, is the main reason for their awareness of nature and importance of its preservation. The Croatian sea is one of the clearest seas in Europe, and the Adriatic hinterland has many water springs with the largest reserves of drinking water in Europe.

HERBS & VEGETATION

Wine Grape - Wine grape is a plant, which represents a symbol of the Mediterranean as well, even though it is not exclusively related to the Mediterranean landscape. It is worldwide well-known, because one of the most delicious opiates is obtained from its fruit – vine. The vine sort of particular importance in Dalmatia is red vine, with the ancient tradition related to the vine-loving Romans. Wine grape is successfully grown in dry rocky soils in Dalmatia, and through lots of hard work yields generous harvests. The effort and love of Dalmatians for this plant is best presented in a vineyard photo in UN, serving as a memento of human effort and hard work.

Olive Tree – The plant well-known for the oil, which is produced from its fruit. It grows solely in the Mediterranean countries due to the mild climate, what makes it a recognizable symbol of this area. Olive oil is obtained through grinding of olives and is widely used – as a food ingredient and for the medicaments and medical preparations. There are several olive sorts, but the most widespread local sort in Dalmatia is so-called Oblica, because it resists temperature changes better than other sorts and has bigger fruits, from which more premium-class oil can be extracted. Olive tree is one of the longest-lasting trees and grows regardless of the amount of hard work invested in it, which is the reason why the olive branch is used as a symbol of peace.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) – Rosemary is a fragrant plant growing by the sea, with aromatic flowers blooming until the autumn – it is a characteristic symbol of the Mediterranean landscape. It is used in gastronomy and as a refreshing bath soap.

Lavender (Lavandula officinalis) – The first association to this plant is its wonderful scent. Therefore, it is not surprising that from ancient times women have used lavender as a fragrance for drawers and wardrobes, as well as a very efficient moth repellent. It is used as a balm for wounds and nerves. Its dried flowers are used for tea preparation, as well as herbal drops, essential oils, bath soaps or inhalants.

Laurel (Laurus nobilis) – Ancient Greeks considered laurel a symbol of glory and victory and used laurel wreaths to crown the Olympic winners. Laurel is one of the most common spices in the Mediterranean cuisine.

Carob Tree (Ceratonia Siliqua) – The Carob Tree is originally from Syria and it is not original autochthonous Dalmatian plant, but it is grown in Dalmatia from ancient times.

Spanish Broom (Spartum junceum) – Spanish Broom blooms in late spring and through its distinctive colour gives spectacular beauty to the landscape.

Sage (Salvia officinalis) – The Latin name for this plant is self-explanatory, because salvare means to heal. It was believed that the one, who grew sage in his garden, cannot be ill. Its flowers and leaves are used for different illnesses; it strengthens the body and improves digestion. It is used as food ingredient as well.

HEALTH

We invite you to visit the Medena Apartments, where you can experience original Dalmatian atmosphere, characterised by mild climate and surroundings of autochthonous healing plants (), as well as harmony of nature and traditional autochthonous architecture – the atmosphere which guarantees fulfilling and healthy holidays.