Simplicity & Authenticity in the Adriatic

Learn to live the chilled-out Adriatic philosophy of pomalo with our friends from the Adriatic Travel Collection so that your next excursion to this glittering part of the world is done the right way. . .

A couple looking at the waterfalls in Krka National Park in Croatia from a private boat

All photos courtesy of Adriatic Travel Collection

True indulgence is no longer defined by how much you have but rather in how deeply you connect. It’s found in moments of stillness, in stories shared over a meal, and in the art of living slowly. This philosophy is at the heart of pomalo, a Dalmatian expressing meaning, “Slowly, take it easy.” This idea shapes every single itinerary that Poe Travel creates in conjunction with our friends at the Adriatic Travel Collection, our on-the-ground partners in the Adriatic. Visit this part of the world, and you will be invited to breathe, savor, and rediscover the quiet beauty of life. 

Luxury, in the minds of the experts at ATC, means freedom—the freedom to pause, to relish the taste of an oyster just lifted from the sea, or to feel the cool current of a river against your skin as you dine. It’s a celebration of authenticity and presence rather than excess, and their curated journeys reflect this renewed spirit. 

We sat down with our beloved Vanja from ATC and asked about their signature journeys that best showcase this way of thinking. Here are but a few. . . 

Lunch on a private island in Mali Ston Bay outside of Dubrovnik in Croatia

The Private Island Experience 
A Taste of the Adriatic’s Soul  

The first signature journey on the list leads you to a secluded private island in Mali Ston Bay outside of Dubrovnik, a peaceful retreat surrounded by mesmerizing turquoise waters. After a short sail across the bay, you’ll arrive at a family-run oyster farm where the day unfolds at an unhurried pace.  

Fresh oysters, opened before your eyes and paired with crisp local wine, set the tone for an afternoon of swimming, snorkeling, and pure relaxation. With the island all to yourself, you’ll take in that rare luxury: silence, but for the gentle sounds of the sea and complemented by the warmth of the sun. 

Krka National Park 
Beyond the Beaten Path 

Venture inland to discover a quieter side of well-known Krka National Park, north of Split. Far from the crowds, this journey takes you through secret canyons, tranquil lagoons, and bird-filled wetlands that few travelers ever see. Guided along peaceful trails, you’ll find yourself immersed in nature’s rhythms, surrounded by cascading waters and vivid greenery. This experience culminates in a riverside lunch, where your table is set directly in the water. As you dip your feet into the cool current and taste dishes made from local ingredients, you’ll understand that true luxury is found in simplicity and stillness. 

St. Nicholas Peak 
Sunset Above the Sea 

Set off on a scenic drive through Hvar’s hidden interior, where your guide will lead you past terraced hills, ancient stone villages, and fields scented with fragrant wild herbs. This is a sensory tapestry of nature, history, and tradition as you make your way to Hvar’s highest point: Sveti Nikola (St. Nicholas Peak). 

At the summit, a surprise pop-up bar awaits, with drinks and nibbles arranged just for you. Take in the sweeping sunset views over the Adriatic with a private toast to the beauty of the moment. This is a truly unforgettable vantage point with only the simplest of additions to heighten the moment. 

Because in this day and age, luxury isn’t about grandeur—it’s about living pomalo and finding beauty in simplicity. 


Contact Poe Travel for your own customized itinerary to the Adriatic, with any or all of these experiences included.