It's slightly out of order by that how it rolls when your on holidays.
Arriving in Zadar, we knew nothing of this small Croatian walled town within a larger modern city on the edge of Adriatic Sea. The mountains on the other side were hidden by the low clouds all day. I would love to see how high the mountains rose behind the city.
The long horizontal line of clouds hide the potential views of mountains.
One of the unique attractions of Zadar was the beautiful sounds of the 'Morske Orgulje', the sea water organ. Set into the steps along the waterfront, the motion of the waves creates the sounds from the under-water pipes. This continuous music is surpringly harmonious and soothing. This might be because of the rather calm waters while we were there. It would be very interesting to hear the organ pipes in more blustery conditions.
(Once I have suitable internet connection I'll try to upload the footage of the pipes so you can hear them.)
The view of the walled city from above is fantastic.
Like we had experienced in Kotor, the water around Zadar is incredibly clear despite being right in the middle of the port areas. Fish of varying sizes could easily be seen swimming right beside the town wharf. Michael, as he had done is several of our ports was keen to go for a snorkel among the sea life.
Inside the Zadar city walls is completely different to the other cities we have seen. It's quite modern in part, due sadly to the war with Serbia in the 90s. But they have also kept their history with the very old roman ruins (BC) proudly shown off and preserved within the town. The streets are spotless - no litter anywhere but the unfortunate scourge of modern society - graffiti is quite prevalent.
As it is a Sunday the majority of shops are closed but the nearby gardens and park is a very pleasant (and after Venice, an inexpensive way!) to sit and watch the world go by and see the local families enjoying their day of rest. A cafe comprised quirky groups of furniture including tables made of the tops of roman columns, laid back sun deck lounges, swing chairs and fancy plastic table and chair settings.
We had arrived early so it seemed an uncrowded and relaxed city. Later on in the day as the tourist influx hit, it lost that feeling a little.
In contrast to Zadar, Dubrovnic is far more well known and the crowds along its walls and streets made it difficult to negotiate at times. There were 5 cruise ships in port! And this isn't even peak season!! We escaped for a couple of hours on a private tour including to the Fort Imperial where most tourists arrive at the top by cable car. A wise move given that the wind was gusting and the queues were beginning to build up.
Having a private driver meant we could explore more than just the walled city. Our route to the top took us along narrow roads that in Australia would be designated 'One Way' only! Passing another car called for skilful driving. We also stopped at the area of Dubrovnic made famous for the forest scenes in Game of Thrones. Not a show I watch but can see how it fits into the script.
From here we could see houses in the neighbouring country of Bosnia. Our driver told us that he and his family often drive over the border for dinner as it's much cheaper than the now very touristy and hence expensive, town of Dubrovnic.
We also travelled through the hills to what was described as the smallest river in Croatia. Forty metres long it has a small waterfall and provides wonderfully fresh drinking water.
Then it's back to climbing more steps. The legs are screaming as once again I'm climbing hundreds of steps up (and down) the very steep walls of Dubrovnic. But for the views it is totally worth it. The wind died down and the sun was now shimmering over the water.
The people in Dubrovnik were always very friendly and helpful, answering our questions in good English. It made the travelling easy for single language Aussies.
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