Today marked our exciting journey to Split, Croatia, where we were eagerly anticipating a ziplining adventure. We kicked off our morning with a hearty breakfast from the extensive buffet at Hotel Pinija. With options ranging from made-to-order omelets to fluffy pancakes, we fueled up quickly, grabbed our luggage, checked out, and hopped into the car, ready to hit the road.

The two-hour drive to Split was nothing short of scenic, with lush mountainside greenery providing a picturesque backdrop along the way. As we approached Split, the imposing silhouette of the Fortress of Klis atop the mountain greeted us, overlooking the city below. Upon reaching our destination, I inputted the meetup spot for the ziplining tour into the GPS, leading us into the heart of the city. However, locating the pickup spot proved to be a bit challenging as there were no clear indicators or storefronts in sight.

After finding a nearby parking spot, we ventured out on foot in search of any sign of the ziplining location. Suddenly, a van pulled up beside us, and the driver inquired if we were there for the ziplining tour. Confirming our intentions, he directed us to wait nearby while he parked around the corner. To our surprise, a group of enthusiastic freshman college girls appeared, joining us as we eagerly awaited the start of our ziplining adventure.

Activity – Ziplining

The journey to the ziplining location proved to be quite an experience, to say the least. The conversations among our fellow riders were, shall we say, on the youthful side, prompting the driver to crank up the radio, perhaps in an attempt to drown out the chatter. Despite the lively banter, we eventually reached the check-in point. Upon arrival, the instructor efficiently outfitted us with all the necessary equipment, including backpacks for our adventure. Once geared up, we piled back into the van and embarked on the ascent to the summit of Mount Kozjak, where our ziplining adventure awaited.

As the van halted on a side road, we found ourselves trekking up the side of a mountain. With no water in tow and the instructors unable to provide any, the trek up the mountain proved to be more challenging than anticipated.

By the time we reached the first zipline, I was already feeling parched and desperate for a drink. Despite the initial hurdle, the instructor briefed us on the ziplining course, which consisted of six ziplines of increasing length, and ending in a suspension bridge.

With a group of eight people, the experience felt prolonged, particularly all the other participants pausing for photos and videos at every zipline. However, the stunning panoramic views of the city and coastline made every moment worthwhile. Ziplining through the mountain terrain was exhilarating, and the temperate weather added to the enjoyment of the experience.

The instructors, while managing the course professionally, also injected moments of levity with their occasional jokes. As we completed the final zipline and crossed the suspension bridge, it marked the end of an unforgettable journey. Making our way back to the check-in point, a short walk down a pathway, brought a sense of relief. I wasted no time in hydrating myself at the water dispenser, eagerly downing several cups of water in quick succession, finally quenching my thirst after the exhilarating adventure.

As we prepared for our return trip to the pick-up spot, we were directed to join a different van, where we found ourselves amidst the “lively chatter” of older college girls. Despite their “animated conversations”, the van driver initiated a pleasant dialogue with us, discussing topics ranging from flights to wine and local attractions. It was a refreshing change of pace and a fitting conclusion to an eventful day of ziplining in Split.

Check-In – Hotel Sunce

Upon reaching the pick-up spot, we decided to head straight to our hotel to check in and unwind after the thrilling ziplining adventure. Although we anticipated arriving about 30 minutes early, we figured most places would accommodate an early check-in. The drive to the hotel was serene once we left the bustling town behind. The streets were lined with hotels, and ours stood out with its quintessential white exterior and gold signage. Pulling into the completely empty parking lot, we made our way to the entrance. only to find it locked. Upon ringing the bell, an older lady greeted us in German.

She was preoccupied on the phone, and she motioned for us to wait. Assuming she would wrap up her conversation shortly, we patiently waited. However, her conversation seemed to escalate in volume, indicating potential frustration. After what felt like an eternity, she concluded the call and apologized. She asked if we spoke German or Croatia, and we said only English, but Despite her limited English proficiency and our minimal German skills, she managed to check us in, albeit not without difficulty.

A malfunctioning machine resulted in a double charge on our card, adding a layer of frustration to the check-in process. Eventually, she handed us a key and kindly escorted us to our room. Entering the room, she promptly removed all the decorative pillows before departing. Despite the initial hiccups, the room was well-equipped for a comfortable night’s stay. However, the highlight was undoubtedly the expansive balcony offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.

Old Town of Split – Lunch: Piccolo

After settling in at our hotel, we were eager to explore the Old Town of Split, a UNESCO World Heritage Site centered around the palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian. I consulted a map to locate the nearest parking garage to Old Town. Fortunately, it wasn’t too far away and conveniently located near the center. Upon parking, we stepped into the charming Old Town, where pedestrian-friendly cobblestone paths led the way.

Along the waterfront Riva, we found a delightful array of restaurants and shops, adding to the picturesque ambiance of the area. Feeling hungry from our Ziplining adventure, we embarked on a culinary adventure along the Riva, browsing the menus of various eateries. Eventually, we settled on a quaint spot called, Piccolo – Snack Bar. It caught our attention with its diverse menu offerings.

The server greeted us promptly and provided attentive service throughout our meal. After perusing the menu, we opted for a delightful spread: spring rolls, a Caesar salad, a mixed meat plate, and chicken Americana. To accompany our feast, we ordered a refreshing draft Heineken and a blue lagoon cocktail.

The Blue Lagoon cocktail arrived promptly and packed a punch, albeit a bit stronger and bitter than I preferred. As the food arrived shortly after, we eagerly dug in.

The Caesar salad, fresh and crisp with perfectly cooked chicken, vanished from our plates in mere minutes. The spring rolls followed suit, offering a satisfying crunch and complemented by a delightful sauce.