Property
Croatia may have just jumped from “the-new-hot-spot” to “so-last-year” for the European set but it’s still a great place to visit with children.  History lovers will be drawn to the famous medieval walled city of Dubrovnik, once Venice’s fiercest rival for sea trade in the Adriatic and Mediterranean seas.  It has glorious walls with unparalleled views of the sea, great beaches and fantastic wine and seafood.  But if you go in summer, the white stone walls heat up like an unrelenting pizza oven, making the right place to stay that much more important.

Location
Croatian Villas DU028 (romantic name, no?) is located in the town of Cavtat, a charming village just a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik and an even shorter taxi ride to Dubrov’s International Airport.  This three-bedroom-villa is located in the old town, a stone’s throw away from the harbor, the rocky beaches and some lovely local restaurants and wine bars.  And the place is complete with microwave, washing machine, dishwasher and satellite TV, a balm for even the crankiest traveling Mom.

Sleeps
Up to six.  There is a second villa next door that can also be rented for larger parties.

Highlights
The daily ferry ride to Dubrovnik is inexpensive and a big hit with kids.  It takes about 25 minutes – just long enough for them to be thoroughly enchanted but not long enough for them to try to jump overboard (more than once, at least).  But the best part of this villa is its large upstairs terrace.  Perfect for playing board games, watching the boats dock in the harbor or just to sit and unwind from the day’s adventures.

Good to know
Both Dubrovnik and Cavtat are very close to the Bosnian border.  If driving around to cultural villages in the area, stick to the main roads when possible to avoid a potential international incident.  Also, many religious pilgrims stop in the area on their way to Medjugorje, a famous religious site. So don’t be surprised if a lovely English-speaking couple stops to bless your child.  It’s all very well meant.

Contact
http://www.croatianvillas.com/index.asp?action=hotel&id=43

Written by Kayt Sukel