THE BEST OF THE REST – CROATIAN WEDDING DESTINATIONS

Motovun – Croatia

Perched on the hilltop overlooking the River Mirna Valley, this medieval Istrian town is the stuff of dreams. A long-standing favourite of Croatian couples, its popularity away from domestic shores is quickly growing. The Hotel Kaštel is experienced in hosting wedding parties from abroad and their staff can assist you with all that you need.

2. Island of Veli Brijun, National Park Brijuni

Island of Veli Brijun, National Park Brijuni

Once known as the place where President Tito entertained Hollywood’s golden couple Burton and Taylor, it is now reclaimed as a top tourist destination and a wedding venue operated by the National Park Brijuni. Ceremony settings include the Mediterranean gardens, the Church of St. Germain exhibiting frescos and Glagolitic monuments and the uber romantic ambience of the Verige Bay.

3. National Park Plitvice

Plitvice

Famous for its mass international weddings until 1990, the National Park Plitvice has once again resumed its service to those wishing to exchange their marital vows at the foot of the 76-metre high Great Waterfall. Its top locations are Sastavci, where all the 16 lakes come together and form the River Korana canyon, as well as the banks of the Kozjak Lake.

4. Island of Šolta

Island of Šolta

Martinis Marchi Castle on the island of Šolta near Split is considered a unique wedding venue on the Adriatic coast. This 300 year-old Castle surrounds a peaceful and intimate pool terrace where smaller parties and charming ceremonies can take place, as well as offering a magnificent Mediterranean park surrounding the Castle.

5. Red Island (Rovinj)

Red Island (Rovinj)

Just 15 minutes by boat from the buzzing centre of Rovinj, the Red Island is a sanctuary to more than 180 different plant species and a home to Hutterott Castle. This former summer residence of the Hutterott family used to be a Benedictine monastery and now has become one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Croatia. If you insist on a Saturday wedding you’d do well to book a year in advance.

6. Svetvinčenat

Svetvinčenat

Situated on Istria’s rocky plains and surrounded by forests and vineyards, Svetvinčenat

Village has it all for a perfect wedding photoshoot – the castle, churches and a bell tower. The large square by the castle is thought to be one of the most beautiful Renaissance squares in Istria and its 16^th century Renaissance church a perfect wedding ceremony venue.

7. Cape Kamenjak, Premantura

Cape Kamenjak, Premantura

A nature park at the southernmost end of Istria’s 9 km long peninsula Premantura. This is a gloriously unusual landscape with miles of rugged coastline and beaches, coves and caves to choose from for the perfect setting. Your big day might even be blessed by a school of dolphins or Mediterranean monk seals swimming of the coast.

8. Draguć

Draguć

This small medieval town has no less than four historical churches and a fountain well in the centre square that can be reached via two parallel roads. The Church of the Holly Cross is on the main square and the nearby viewing point Belvedere is known for the most wonderful sunsets. Top marks for romance.

9. Rakalj

Rakalj

Rakalj is situated on the banks of Raška Channel on the Istria’s east coast. Surrounded by a beautiful landscape, sea, sun and peaceful, secluded beaches, its atmosphere is one of freedom and intimacy. The St. Agnes’s Church from 1495 is a perfect venue for a wedding ceremony.

10. Gračišće

This truly is one of Istria’s hidden gems. Gračišće is a medieval town situated among the rolling hills and filled with a great set of historical buildings. Its centre dominate the Church of St Mary from 1425 and the Romanesque Church of St Euphemia from 1383. But even if you forget the history and architecture you’ll never forget the view as you leave the church – the expanse of Istrian hillsides meeting the Učka mountain range in the distance.

So thats it for today, remember «Getting Married in Croatia» is your best option.

If you want to explore hosting a sustainable, zero waste and ethical wedding, feel free to read this GUIDE (click to open).