From Makarska Riviera : Wine Tasting Grabovac Tour

If you’re looking to combine a relaxed day of wine tasting with some scenic sightseeing near Makarska, the Wine Tasting Grabovac Tour offers a solid option. This experience, operated by SIMPLY ADRIA travel agency, takes you into the heart of Dalmatia’s wine culture and countryside. While it’s not a full-day, vineyard extravaganza, it strikes a good balance between laid-back exploration and cultural insight.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the chance to visit a family-run winery—a place where tradition truly comes through in the wines and hospitality. Second, the stop at the Imotski lakes offers a striking natural backdrop, adding a bit of adventure and photo-worthy scenery. One consideration to keep in mind: the tour’s duration is around 4.5 hours, so if you’re after a more extensive wine journey or a full immersion in local culture, you might want to look elsewhere. But for those seeking a charming half-day excursion that pairs local wines with spectacular views, this fits the bill well. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy relaxed outings with authentic flavors and scenic stops.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit a family-owned winery, learning about traditional Croatian winemaking.
• Beautiful Scenery: Stop at the Blue and Red Lakes of Imotski, offering great photo opportunities.
• Tasty Pairings: Sample five local wines with cheeses, smoked ham, and homemade bread.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle with professional drivers.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; reserve now, pay later.
• Ideal for Relaxed Travelers: A leisurely 4.5-hour tour perfect for those wanting a taste of Dalmatian countryside.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Experience

We haven’t personally taken the tour but based on detailed descriptions and reviews, it seems like a charming way to spend an afternoon outside of the busy coastal towns. The Grabovac winery is a family operation, which often means more heartfelt hospitality and wines that reflect local tradition. The journey begins with pickup from key Makarska locations, including hotels like Valamar Meteor and Hotel Osejava, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

Two things we really like about this tour: First, the stop at the Imotski lakes is a visual highlight, offering a quick but memorable glimpse of Croatia’s dramatic landscapes—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in nature’s beauty. Second, the wine tasting itself is comprehensive, with five wines paired with local cheeses and smoked ham, giving a genuine sense of Dalmatian flavors.

The potential drawback? The tour is relatively short and focused on a single winery, which might leave wine connoisseurs craving a more extensive tasting or vineyard tour. Also, some reviews mention the vehicle’s odor, but overall, travelers find the comfort and professionalism of the transport to be satisfactory. This tour best suits those who appreciate a relaxed pace, cultural authenticity, and scenic beauty rather than a high-energy adventure or a deep dive into Croatian wine production.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Pick-up and Transportation

Starting from central Makarska, you’ll be picked up from one of four convenient locations. The journey to Grabovac takes approximately 50 minutes in a modern, air-conditioned van—crucial in Croatian summer heat, ensuring you stay comfortable on the drive. Travel in a small group probably means a more personalized experience and easier conversations with your guide.

Imotski Lakes Photo Stop

The first highlight en route is the Blue and Red Lakes of Imotski, which are well worth the 15-minute stop. These lakes aren’t just scenic—they’re geological marvels with dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear water. The Red Lake, in particular, looks like something out of a postcard, often described as a deep crater. Reviewers have appreciated this quick detour, with one noting it as “a very deep crater” that looked like a scene from another world. It’s an excellent chance to stretch your legs and take stunning photos.

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The Visit to Grabovac Winery

After the lakes, the journey continues to the family-run Grabovac winery, about a 55-minute drive. Once there, your experience shifts to wine, food, and storytelling. The hosts, who have been producing wine for generations, welcome guests warmly and guide you through tasting five of their best wines. You’ll learn about the region’s winemaking traditions, which adds depth to your tasting.

The wines are paired with local cheeses, smoked ham, and homemade bread, elevating the experience from just sipping to a true taste of Dalmatian culinary culture. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the wines, with one noting, “the wines were lovely, and the food was fantastic.” The setting itself is peaceful, with vines stretching out around you, perfect for a relaxing stroll after the tasting.

Return Journey and Drop-offs

Following the tasting session, you’ll have a bit of free time to purchase bottles from the winery’s shop—a chance to bring home a piece of Dalmatia. Afterwards, you’ll head back to Makarska, with the return journey lasting around 55 minutes. Drop-offs are at the same locations from which you were picked up, making logistics simple.

The Wine and Food: Authentic Flavors and Good Value

The wine selection at Grabovac is frequently praised. Reviewers mention a good range, from reds to whites and sparkling wines, with some noting they were happy to try additional varieties beyond the initial five. The pairings with local cheese and smoked ham add an authentic touch, giving you a real taste of Dalmatian flavors, not just wine.

This experience offers excellent value—for only $82, you receive a guided tour, transportation, five wine tastings, local snacks, and scenic stops. Many guests found it to be a worthwhile spend given the quality of wines and the intimacy of the visit.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

The fact that the winery is family-run means a more personalized experience. As one reviewer explained, “they were so welcoming and knowledgeable,” emphasizing the warmth and genuine passion of the hosts. It’s clear that the focus is on sharing their tradition rather than just selling wine.

Scenic Highlights and Photo Opportunities

Beyond the lakes and vineyard, the tour’s scenic drive itself is pleasant, offering glimpses of Dalmatia’s lush countryside. The lakes are a highlight, but the overall landscape, with rolling hills and vineyards, reinforces why this region has long been a favorite for wine lovers and nature seekers alike.

The stop at Imotski lakes is particularly valued by travelers wanting memorable images or a quiet moment in nature. The lakes’ unique geology and stunning setting make this not just a photographic stop but also an enriching natural experience.

The Overall Experience: Who Will Love It?

This tour is perfect for relaxed travelers, wine enthusiasts interested in Dalmatian varietals, and those who enjoy a mix of scenic beauty and cultural authenticity. It’s also suitable for families or couples seeking a peaceful day out with minimal walking and maximum flavor.

If you’re after a quick but meaningful introduction to Croatian wines and a chance to see some impressive landscapes, this tour fits well. For those craving an extensive winery tour or more adventurous activities, you might want to look at other options.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?

The Wine Tasting Grabovac Tour offers a genuine, enjoyable experience for travelers wanting to taste Croatia’s wines in a relaxed setting. It’s an excellent value for money, especially considering the scenic stops and authentic food pairings. The knowledgeable hosts and intimate atmosphere make it stand out among more commercialized options.

This tour suits those who appreciate good wine, scenic beauty, and local culture, but don’t want to spend an entire day away from the coast. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone interested in a laid-back, authentic Croatian experience.

If you’re looking for a short, meaningful taste of Dalmatia that combines natural beauty with regional flavors, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
Approximately 4.5 hours, including pickup, the lakes stop, wine tasting, and return.

Where does the tour start?
Pickup is available from four locations in Makarska, including hotels like Valamar Meteor and Hotel Osejava.

What is included in the price?
You get wine tasting of five still wines, local cheeses, smoked ham, homemade bread, a welcome drink, transportation in a modern vehicle, and travel insurance.

Can I buy wine at the winery?
Yes, there’s time after the tasting to purchase bottles to take home or give as gifts.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the main focus is wine tasting, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic lakes and the overall relaxed atmosphere, but the tasting component is central.

Are the wines local?
Yes, the wines are from the family-run winery, reflecting Dalmatian winemaking traditions.

What about the scenery?
Expect stunning views at Imotski lakes and peaceful vineyard surroundings—perfect for photos and unwinding.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While primarily for adults, families with older children who enjoy scenic stops and trying local foods could enjoy the experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for a scenic drive and walking around the lakes and vineyards.

How can I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reservation is flexible with the “reserve now, pay later” option.

The Wine Tasting Grabovac Tour provides a delightful mix of Croatia’s natural landscape, authentic wine, and warm hospitality—making it a memorable half-day outing for those in the Makarska area eager to explore Dalmatia beyond the seaside.

You can check availability for your dates here: