A particularly exciting destination for families with older children, Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coastline offers a long season to enjoy the blend of historic city exploration with breath-taking natural surroundings sailing along its coastline. Starting in Dubrovnik which is one of the world’s most magnificent baroque walled cities and Croatia’s most upmarket destination, the pedestrian Old Town is packed with aristocratic palazzi and elegant Baroque churches protected by ancient 13th century city walls which are fun to walk along, while beyond the perimeter are delicious seafood restaurants, outstanding family-friendly luxury boutique hotels and trendy wine bars. Sightseeing highlights are the Cultural History Museum with a great array of historic costume, furniture and clocks and the Maritime Museum housed in St John’s Fortress exhibiting model ships, ancient navigational equipment, flags and maps. At sunset take the cable car up to Mt Srđ to catch the view over Elafiti Islands or relax with an artisan ice cream to rival Italian gelato.

Sailing in the privacy of a skippered luxury yacht is something all the family enjoy and there are many wonderful islands offering their individual magic en route to Split. A short sail takes you to Melita Island which sits in the middle of Mljet National Park, home to a12th century Benedictine monastery which is now a café. Sail a little further to Korcula, a hilly, pine-forested island with vineyards, olive groves and many monuments to admire while strolling through the medieval town that is the birthplace of Marco Polo and origin of the Silk Road. Hvar is the most happening island, charming with its 13th century walls, hilltop fortress, lavender fields, pristine Cesminica beach and many coves. A stop at the more populated Makarska Riviera can take in the Molluscs Museum showcasing Adriatic shellfish and Kotisina Botanical Gardens. Blue flags fly at beaches of Punta Rata, Berulia and Stomarica, a lovely long waterfront promenade and a pretty limestone centre that turns peachy orange at sunset. Disembarking at Split, where the beach waters remain crystal clear, the charm and history of this town immediately embrace the eye. Enjoy strolling around the 4th century Diocletian’s Palace, World Heritage Site and like a walled town housing Roman ruins and medieval churches where Game of Thrones season 4 featured its basement halls. Challenge the kids to climb up to the bell tower of St Domnius Cathedral or simply enjoy the beautiful views from above St Duje’s Cathedral.