The canals and lakes of the Neretva valley are the stars of this full day tour. You'll glide along the River Neretva on a trupica – a traditional Croatian riverboat – with the chance to spot wildlife as you drift towards Lake Kuti. Nika, one of our local guides, says, ‘Lake Kuti is a haven for wildlife – there are birds such the golden eagle, common buzzard and peregrine falcon as well as reptiles like the Balkan green lizard. It's a green oasis amid the region's karst landscapes.'
Home to an array of diverse wildlife and flora, the River Neretva flows through just 20km of Croatia. But good things come in small numbers here, and as you cast off along the backwaters and canals of the river, you'll see exactly why. Onboard a typical wooden riverboat, you'll get up close with your natural surroundings, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Keep a lookout for turtles, waterfowl and other birds that call the riverbank home, as well as many species of fish.
And once you've built up an appetite, we'll dock at Neretva House tavern, which is accessible by boat only, for lunch. You'll be treated to a feast of traditional Dalmatian dishes, washed down with local wine and fresh water. Then, with a full belly, you'll set off for the return journey along the river. Once you're back on dry land, you'll round off the tour with a pit stop in a secret location – it's guaranteed to be a perfect photo opportunity.
