Chef Jamie Lynch's Croatian Seaside Culinary Tour

August 11th to August 18th, 2024

Embark on an exhilarating and exceptional culinary journey as we invite you to join Chef Jamie Lynch's Croatian Seaside Culinary Tour from August 11th to August 18th, 2024. This meticulously crafted experience is brought to you by Chef Richard Gruica, the visionary behind Captivating Croatia Tours, in collaboration with The Gourmet Vacation.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of Croatia while joining the celebrated Chef Jamie Lynch, the corporate chef-patron of the renowned 5th Street Group. This week-long gastronomic vacation promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, featuring a tantalizing array of cuisine, awe-inspiring vistas, and unforgettable moments along the pristine Adriatic coastline.

Our journey will take us to Dubrovnik, often referred to as the Pearl of the Adriatic, followed by an exploration of Croatia's most famous wine region, the Pelješac Peninsula, with a special focus on this area. We will also discover the hidden treasures of the Island of Korčula and much more.

Prepare to embark on a sumptuous holiday like no other, where every moment has been meticulously curated to perfection. It's time to savor, sip, and explore to your heart's content!

Day 1 - Sunday, August 11th: Embracing the Charms of Rural Dubrovnik: A Celebration of Wine, Water and Fire…

Welcome to the captivating city of Dubrovnik, a world-renowned gem, and the starting point for your culinary adventure alongside Chef Jamie Lynch and Chef Richard Gruica. Let the gentle Dalmatian breeze caress your senses and allow the enchanting beauty of Dubrovnik to work its magic. Your luxurious haven is none other than the distinguished Hotel More, a boutique 5-star establishment gracing the picturesque shores of Lapad Bay, just beyond the ancient walls of Dubrovnik's Old Town.

Hotel More not only offers exceptional accommodation but is also home to the unique Cave Bar, a place honored among the top 50 bars globally. This holds a special place in Chef Richard's heart, as he spent his summers in the vicinity at his family's house. To commence our journey in style, savor a refreshing cocktail at the Cave Bar and take a leisurely dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. Relax and cherish this moment before we embark on an extraordinary day in the lesser-explored Konavle Valley, situated to the south of Dubrovnik.

Our exploration of Konavle commences with a visit to a family-owned winery, where you'll have the opportunity to sample their exceptional wines and delve into the secrets of their time-honored winemaking traditions, with a legacy spanning over six centuries. Our journey then takes us deeper into the countryside, where we'll discover a fully operational stone mill—a fascinating window to the past and a testament to the community's sustainable water use throughout history.

Finally, we'll convene at an age-old stone homestead for a sumptuous feast, with the centerpiece being meats prepared using the traditional Peka method. Peka is a beloved Croatian cooking technique passed down through generations, involving slow-cooking meat, often lamb or veal, along with vegetables in a covered, dome-shaped baking dish. The outcome is a succulent, richly flavored dish where the meat becomes incredibly tender and juicy, while the vegetables absorb the delicious marinade's essence. This unhurried culinary process results in a symphony of harmonious aromas and flavors.Peka is not just a culinary method; it's a social and cultural experience, often reserved for special occasions or gatherings that bring family and friends together in anticipation of a shared feast. The unveiling of the Peka, with its aromatic steam escaping, is a moment of excitement and anticipation, signaling the delightful meal that awaits. You'll have the privilege of savoring this unique experience.

What an extraordinary way to commence your journey on the Taste of Croatia Tour! So, prepare to be entranced by the culinary wonders, cultural encounters, and breathtaking landscapes that await you on this exceptional voyage through Croatia.

Please note, that all guests should arrive in Dubrovnik, Croatia within their own timeframe with the tour beginning on Sunday, August 11th. We will have an estimated 2 pm departure time from the hotel lobby to start our adventure. Due to the nature of the ongoing travel industry, we advise that our guests arrive no later than Saturday, August 10th. 

Overnight Stay-5-Star Hotel More 

http://www.hotel-more.hr/ 

On Day 2 - Monday, August 12th: The Jewel of the Adriatic: Discover the Splendors of Dubrovnik, the Real King's Landing

Prepare to dive headfirst into the enchanting beauty of Dubrovnik, as we embark on a day brimming with exploration and culinary indulgence. Following a delightful breakfast at Hotel More, our journey commences within the ancient confines of Dubrovnik's Old Town, steeped in history dating back to the 13th century. As we stroll leisurely along the historic walls, be ready to capture unforgettable moments against the backdrop of the city's magnificent vistas.

Next on the menu is Chef Richard Gruica's exclusive "Sights and Bites" culinary and historical walking tour—an endeavor close to his heart and Croatia's pioneering Food Tour. Be prepared to experience a gastronomic odyssey, where your taste buds will dance to the tune of traditional flavors and customs that define the Old Town. While winding your way through the gleaming white limestone streets and captivating narrow alleys, you'll find yourself immersed in a storybook-like ambiance. This distinctive tour offers you the opportunity to savor the essence of the Old Town, sipping and savoring its rich history and culinary heritage.

Following the culinary tour, you'll have some leisure time to explore Dubrovnik at your own pace. Whether you yearn to delve into its compelling history, meander through its charming streets, or uncover hidden gems, this is your chance to craft your personal Dubrovnik adventure. For those wanting a little bit more adventure, we will experience the enchantment of Dubrovnik like never before with a Sunset Kayaking Tour. We will embark on a serene journey along the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. Paddle gently beneath the ancient city walls, watching as the warm hues of twilight paint the sky. With the tranquil sea beneath and the city's majestic silhouette above, this tour promises a magical and unforgettable Dubrovnik sunset. The night is yours to do as you wish. 

We recommend comfortable walking shoes, sneakers, or sandals to ensure that you can fully relish the city's cobblestone streets and picturesque corners. Get ready to be spellbound by the enchantment of Dubrovnik as we delve into its history, relish its culinary treasures, and etch unforgettable memories along the way.

Overnight Stay-5 Star Hotel More

http://www.hotel-more.hr/ 

On Day 3- Tuesday, August 13th: Our Wine Country Adventure Awaits: Delight in Croatia’s Coastal Scenic Wonder

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Get ready for an incredible journey as we head to the beautiful wine country. We'll be driving along the scenic coastal road with stunning views, heading to the famous Pelješac Peninsula, less than a couple of hours away from Dubrovnik. Our cozy retreat for this part of the trip is the Aminess Grand Azur Hotel, right by the Adriatic Sea in Orebić.

Our day begins with a visit to Mali Ston, a charming seaside village known for its delicious oysters and mussels. We'll hop on a boat and cruise through the pristine waters, surrounded by quaint villages and majestic mountains. You'll get to see how they farm and harvest oysters, a tradition that goes way back to ancient times. These oysters are so good that even ancient Roman emperors were fans!

As we continue our journey through Pelješac, we have a fantastic treat in store for everyone at the Milos winery, one of Croatia's most respected. We're excited to visit their newly opened tasting room to try their famed wines. After settling into our hotel, we'll gather for a private wine tasting, in the home of an organic family winery where we will have a chance to savor their wines while we enjoy a homemade dinner filled with Croatian flavors and warm hospitality, with most of the products coming from the family. 

This day is all about immersing yourself in the world of wine, surrounded by the beauty of Pelješac, and savoring the delicious wines it produces. It's a day that combines natural wonders, great wines, and exquisite food for an unforgettable experience.

Check-In and Overnight Stay-The Aminess Grand Azur 4-Star 

https://www.aminess.com/en/aminess-grand-azur-hotel

On Day 4- Wednesday, August 14th: From Water to Wine and some Pizza!

Today, we embark on an exhilarating journey through the Dingač wine region, starting with a boat trip along the glistening Adriatic, immersing us in its vibrant blue expanse. Accompanying us is a skilled local fisherman, a master of freediving and spearfishing. We'll have the privilege of witnessing his expertise firsthand as he showcases his craft, all while we bask in the refreshing Adriatic surroundings, leaving room for a refreshing swim.

Amid our aquatic adventure, we'll also savor the excitement of hunting for delicious sea urchins and other surprising Adriatic delicacies. After a thrilling coastal experience, we'll return to land, hopefully with a bountiful catch, to a hidden oasis surrounded by lush greenery. Here, we'll grill our freshly caught treasures, paired with the savory delights of stewed octopus and black risotto, both renowned Dalmatian specialties. Shaded by trees, we'll relish the family's exquisite wines, elevating our meal even higher. 

Following this gratifying feast, we'll retreat to our hotel for some leisurely downtime, allowing us to recharge and prepare for the perfect evening finale. Beneath the enchanting night sky, we'll wrap up the day with a memorable dinner featuring mouthwatering pizzas and pasta, savoring every delectable bite.

Overnight Stay-The Aminess Grand Azur 4-Star 

https://www.aminess.com/en/aminess-grand-azur-hotel

On Day 5-Thursday, August 15th: Krazy for Korcula…Marco or Marko?

On this special occasion, we'll set sail aboard a car ferry, transporting us to the illustrious island of Croatia known as Korčula, a place intricately linked to the legacy of Marco Polo, who may surprise you with his Croatian origins. Our journey through Korčula begins with a guided tour of the city, where we'll meander through its historic, narrow streets.

Later, we'll be treated to a truly exceptional gourmet experience at the renowned LD Restaurant, boasting a prestigious Michelin star. Here, Chef Marko Gajski, one of Croatia's esteemed culinary maestros, skillfully melds the country's finest culinary treasures, offering a symphony of flavors in a multi-course meal paired with some of Croatia's finest wines.

Following this exquisite feast, we'll make our way to one of the island's most distinguished wineries, where you'll have the pleasure of indulging in a delightful wine tasting. Immerse yourself in the aromatic notes and rich heritage of Korčula's celebrated wines, savoring every sip.

As our time on the captivating island of Korčula draws to a close, you'll have some leisurely moments to explore, shop, and savor a personal culinary adventure before we regroup to board the ferry that will whisk us back to our hotel.

Overnight Stay-The Aminess Grand Azur 4-Star 

https://www.aminess.com/en/aminess-grand-azur-hotel

On Day 6-Friday, August 16th: One with the Land 

Indulge in a leisurely morning as we embrace a later start to our day. With the Pelješac Bridge seamlessly reconnecting mainland Croatia, we are delighted to introduce our esteemed guests to a realm of extraordinary new experiences. Today, we set forth into the bountiful heart of Southern Dalmatia, where the enchantment of the Neretva Valley awaits. This area is the agricultural hub of Southern Croatia and home to the country’s renowned citrus production. 

Our journey unfolds with a visit to the captivating Narona Archaeological Museum, which unveils the remarkable discovery of an Augusteum—a temple devoted to the veneration of the Roman Emperors, erected around 10 BC. Here, we shall immerse ourselves in the tapestry of the region's illustrious history.

Our odyssey continues with another delightful maritime escapade, as we glide gracefully aboard the "copulas" or "lada's" through the tranquil freshwater, weaving through the famed mandarin groves. A rustic culinary feast beckons, harmoniously set against the backdrop of the meandering Neretva River, accompanied by wines hailing from a local winery, offering an authentic taste of the region's genuine flavors.

We'll return to the hotel with ample time to relish the captivating surroundings before the sun sets. Take a refreshing dip in the pool or simply lounge by the water's edge, enjoying the serene ambiance of the Adriatic Sea. 

Overnight Stay-The Aminess Grand Azur 4-Star 

https://www.aminess.com/en/aminess-grand-azur-hotel

On Day 7-Saturday, August 17th: The Best of What is Around…BOWA, Our Island Oasis

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As we return to Dubrovnik, we'll embark on another unforgettable culinary voyage, via luxury speedboat, this time setting our course for the captivating island of Sipan, where BOWA awaits us, reminiscent of a Caribbean paradise. In this seaside haven, the owners personally catch the finest fish, ensuring the freshest culinary delights for our pleasure. The experience unfolds to the rhythm of Mother Nature, allowing us to savor leisurely swims between courses, fully embracing the tranquil atmosphere.

Subsequently, we'll make our way back to Hotel More, our former sanctuary in Dubrovnik, where we'll reconvene for a brief stroll to catch the mesmerizing sunset, before embarking on a leisurely walk to one of our cherished restaurants in Dubrovnik for our farewell dinner. It's a moment to raise our glasses, toasting to an extraordinary adventure with the heartfelt Croatian expression, "Zivili!" Here's to an incredible week, and a perfect conclusion to our journey.

Check-In and Overnight Stay-5 Star Hotel More 

http://www.hotel-more.hr/

On Day 8-Sunday, August 18th: Till the Next Time…

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 Guests will gather for breakfast at their leisure, before departing for the Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) via private transfer to the airport.

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-As with any trip of this nature, we are at the discretion of Mother Nature and the schedule might change based on weather or other variables outside of our control. Captivating Croatia strives to give all guests the best possible experience, so rest assured that even if things happen you are in very capable hands.

We look forward to hosting you alongside Chef Jamie…

Culinarily yours,

The Captivating Croatia Team, The Gourmet Vacation and 

Chef Richard Gruica