All of a sudden there has been a craze in the market to travel to Croatia’s coastline. It is absolutely no wonder, considering Croatia boasts some of the most stunning coasts in Europe. I came across this beauty a couple of years ago and loved it so much I went again this year.

What I loved most about the islands (especially the first time) is the serenity and lack of built up resort style beachfronts that can be found everywhere else in the world. No matter how spectacular a place is, if its panorama is filled with man-made constructions and obstructions that I could also find on the Gold Coast, Ibiza, Cancun etc., then it has lost the unique splendour and appeal that I love about Hvar, Mljet or The Elaphite Islands.

With the Croatian islands still being relatively untouched like this, my travel tip is to see this place yourself. Don’t pay a tour guide or company to show you around! You don’t need to! With fresh fruit markets and ample accommodation in the townships (no matter how small) you save yourself a fortune, compared to paying for your stock standard tour group, which hardly compares to exploring these islands using your own aptitude. The islands are small enough to see on your own and the transport between islands is common, cheap and only a short distance!

You can get a ferry in the morning and be at the next place well before lunch. Hire a moped or bicycle and see more of the islands then any tour could show you. On many occasions I found myself on a beach that was not only magical but I was the only person there. Travel this seaside paradise with no time limits, stay on the islands you love and move on from the locations that you don’t. Explore these islands, use only a small amount of effort and less money than you would spend on the weekend in London - and you can find so much more than you bargained for!

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The catamaran from Split to Hvar takes one hour, and the ferry takes just over two.

If you're not pressed for time (they cost the same - 38kuna or £3.50), take the ferry as you can sit on the top deck and sunbathe as you pass by beautiful islands.

from Split harbour, Jandrolinja ferries/catamarans

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Lovely rocky beach with deck chairs for hire and plenty of shade from forest if wanted. Large area so not crowded. The sea was crystal clear and the snorkelling was great!

one of closest Pakleni islands - take a taxi boat from Hvar town (30kuna/£2.80 return), about 15/20 mins

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Fantastic rustic family-run restaurant, serving Dalmatian tapas. The home-made food was excellent and the family were very welcoming. The drunken figs dessert was great! Might be worth reserving as we had to wait a while. Average price.

Head up hill towards fortress from main square, past Zimmer Frei bar and Paradise Garden restaurant (also excellent). Turn left and walk along until you see the barrel with the restaurant name painted on it on one of the tiny roads leading up off to your right.

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