Cavtat holidays

Equal parts harbour, history, forest and crystal-clear Adriatic waters, Cavtat is an exciting holiday destination where sun-soaked days meet intriguing sightseeing opportunities. Just half an hour down the road from Dubrovnik, the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', chic, relaxed Cavtat is a great base from which to visit the UNESCO-listed city.

The peninsular location of Cavtat means you are never far from the sea. There are so many splendid sea views that you might even find it disorientating at first. But don't worry - Cavtat is quite small and you will soon get your bearings on this fashionable yet historic destination.

Beaches are pebbly in this part of Croatia, with gentle, impossibly clear waters that are great for bathers of all ages. Water sports are also available, although you can always find a quiet cove where it's just you, a good book, the sunshine and the hushed melody of birds tweeting in the trees and the sea turning over the smooth pebbles. The nearby beach resorts of Mlini and Plat are also blessed with an abundance of lovely bays and coves, so consider booking car hire in Cavtat to see more of this glorious coast.

Find out when the weather is at its holiday best with our quick guide on when to go to Cavtat

The holiday season in Cavtat gets going in May, when average daytime temperatures begin to push past 20C. July and August see the hottest temperatures (around 30C) and are the busiest months in Cavtat. So for fewer fellow tourists and cheaper holidays than those of July and August, consider travelling in June or September.

It might be small, but Cavtat dishes up a large portion of fun and excitement, whatever you are into

Kids and teens: There are many coves and bathing platforms around the peninsula, but if the younger members of your family insist upon building sandcastles then you can head to sandy Zal beach, just a 20-minute walk from the centre of Cavtat.

Romance: Hire a boat from Cavtat and go in search of a romantic spot along the coastline. There are rental agencies in Cavtat that allow all-day hire and will show you the ropes before you set off.

Active types: Diving and water sports are available in Cavtat, with the clear local seas and sunken attractions tempting divers from around the world. Horse riding can also be arranged during your holiday in Cavtat.