Company Retreats in Dalmatia, Croatia

Ease of connectivity ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Time zone: GMT+02:00
Cost: $$-$$$

Who can travel visa-free: check nationality here

Airports: Zadar ZAD, Split SPU, Dubrovnik DBV
Climate: Mediterranean
Wait time to obtain a visa: 15-30 days

Dalmatia, Croatia's stunning coastal region, is an ideal destination for a company retreat, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and relaxation. The crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, with its numerous islands, provides the perfect backdrop for a range of activities, from sailing and kayaking to simply relaxing on pristine beaches. Historic cities, such as Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik, allow for exploration of UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient architecture, and vibrant local markets.

Dalmatia's Mediterranean climate ensures pleasant weather for most of the year, making it possible to plan outdoor activities and events. The region offers a variety of accommodation options, from private islands, luxurious resorts to charming boutique hotels, ensuring comfort and flexibility for different group sizes and budgets. The local cuisine, rich in fresh seafood, olive oil, and fine wine, provides an authentic culinary experience. With its stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, and welcoming atmosphere, Dalmatia creates the perfect setting for a retreat.

How the Qwello team achieved the goal of reconnecting

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Anca-Simona Balan,
Head of People & Culture at Qwello
IFT team on bikes in Athens
Coastal town in Dalmatia

How to Get There

Reaching Dalmatia from various parts of the world is simpler than it may seem. With its well-connected airports, efficient public transport, and private travel options, the region is well-prepared to welcome international teams.

For most global teams, the easiest way to arrive in Dalmatia is by flying into one of the region’s main airports, followed by convenient transport arrangements to your retreat location. The area is well-equipped for international travelers, making the journey straightforward regardless of your starting point.

Dalmatia is served by several key airports, each providing easy access to different parts of the coastline:

  • Split (SPU) is the central gateway to Dalmatia, with extensive connections to cities across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Located about 23 km (14 miles) from Split’s city center, it offers numerous international and domestic flights.
  • Zadar (ZAD) serves the northern part of Dalmatia. Located approximately 13 km (8 miles) from Zadar, it’s a convenient entry point for those staying in that area.
  • Dubrovnik (DBV) is ideal for retreats in the southern part of Dalmatia. About 22 km (13 miles) from Dubrovnik, it connects to a wide range of international destinations, particularly during the tourist season.

For larger groups or those seeking convenience, hiring a private coach is an excellent option. Numerous companies in the region offer coach services tailored to corporate groups, featuring comfortable, air-conditioned buses for airport transfers, local tours, or transportation between retreat activities.

Why Choose Dalmatia, Croatia for Your Team Retreat

Dalmatia is an ideal destination for an European team retreat, providing a blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. The warm climate and breathtaking landscapes create the perfect environment for productive meetings, engaging team-building activities, and inspiring brainstorming sessions.

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Accommodation for Teams in Dalmatia

Dalmatia provides a diverse range of accommodation options, from private islands, luxurious hotels and resorts to private villas, all tailored to meet the needs of various group sizes. Whether you are seeking a large resort with comprehensive amenities or a more intimate setting like a villa, there is an option to suit every type of retreat.

Most hotels and resorts in the region are well-equipped for business purposes, often featuring spacious conference rooms and halls capable of accommodating over 400 people. These meeting spaces are designed for productivity, offering reliable WiFi, modern AV equipment, and quiet surroundings, making them ideal for work-focused retreats. Additionally, many hotels offer a variety of room types, from standard rooms to suites, ensuring that your team stays comfortable and well-rested. For instance, a typical resort might boast 200 rooms, with multiple meeting spaces and additional breakout rooms, allowing for an effective balance between work and relaxation.

View from inside of an apartment to the sea
Aerial view of costal area and a beach

Fun and Leisure Activities

Dalmatia is a haven for both relaxation and adventure, offering a variety of activities to suit every interest. If your retreat is near the beach, your team can spend sun-drenched days enjoying water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, kite surfing, snorkeling, or paddleboarding in the pristine waters of the Adriatic Sea. Team-building activities and games on the sandy beaches, rocky mountains, or urban areas, are also great options, providing a fun and engaging way to unwind and connect as a group.

Beyond the coastline, Dalmatia is steeped in various experiences. Your team can explore the continental part called Dalmatinska Zagora, its mountains and rivers, or historic cities like Zadar, Šibenik and Split, take guided tours of ancient sites, or wander through local streets and markets to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere. The region is also renowned for its culinary delights, with numerous restaurants offering a taste of traditional Croatian and Mediterranean cuisine. In the evenings, your team can enjoy the lively nightlife, whether they prefer relaxed bars or clubbing.

Culture

Dalmatia's culture is a vibrant mix of Mediterranean warmth, deep-rooted traditions, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle. One of the region's most distinctive features is its hospitality. Locals are known for their friendliness and are always eager to share their rich history and customs with visitors. This welcoming attitude helps your team feel at ease, whether they're exploring local attractions or dining at a nearby restaurant.

A unique cultural experience is the bevanda, a traditional drink made of ⅞ red wine and ⅛ water. While it's not typically listed on bar or restaurant menus, asking for it will earn you some Dalmatian points and appreciation from the locals. Coffee, especially Espresso or Macchiato, is a beloved ritual after meals, always served with a glass of water. Another cultural highlight is fjaka – a state of mind. Though some may confuse it with laziness, fjaka is neither laziness nor fatigue; it's about embracing rest. When the sun, sea, and afternoon heat combine, they create the perfect conditions for experiencing fjaka.

As evening falls, you'll find the streets bustling with people gathering in cafés, enjoying drinks, desserts, and listening to music. The relaxed pace of life in Dalmatia encourages you to slow down and enjoy each moment, whether you're strolling through ancient ruins, dining at a seaside restaurant, or simply watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea.

Dalmatian town
Hand holding a passport in front of a world map

Visa Requirements for Croatia

When planning a company retreat to Dalmatia, it’s important to understand visa requirements for your team. Croatia is part of the Schengen area, so some travelers will need a tourist visa, but the process is straightforward.

Travelers who will need a visa to enter Croatia have to submit the Schengen visa application at the competent Croatian embassy/consulate or at VFS Global Visa Application Center.

The visa allows stays of up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism or business purposes.

Travel Medical Insurance is mandatory for a Schengen visa. Get Schengen-compliant Travel Medical Insurance from trusted global insurers.

Always check the official website for current information about visas.

Local Expert: Krunoslav Koprivnjak


"After traveling the world, I've rediscovered my homeland, Croatia, as the epitome of beauty and inspiration. Here, I've found an unparalleled blend of natural wonders, cultural depth, gastronomic delights, and a sense of safety.

Croatia's landscapes range from eastern plains to Adriatic islands, all reachable within hours. Its culinary scene is a fusion of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Mediterranean influences, offering a rich mosaic of flavors.

Along this journey, I've honed a special sixth sense for discovering exceptional food and drinks.”

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Fun Facts you didn’t know about Dalmatia and Croatia

Dalmatia has way too many Islands!

Dalmatia, the coastal region of Croatia, has 1246 islands, isles and islets for you to sail through. The island of Galešnjak located in the Pašman channel is known as the Island of Love or Lover’s Island for its naturally occurring shape in the form of a heart.

Croatia is Full of Natural Wonders

Croatia has 444 protected areas, covering 9% of the country. These include 8 national parks, 2 strict reserves, and 11 nature parks. The most renowned is Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Velebit Nature Park is part of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme.

That Pen you hold in your hand, it’s Croatian

Slavoljub Eduard Penkala was a Croatian engineer and inventor of Polish-Dutch descent, known for his significant contributions to everyday technology. He is best known for inventing the mechanical pencil in 1906 and the first solid-ink fountain pen in 1907. Penkala held 80 patents, including those for a hot water bottle, a rail-car brake, and an anode battery. He also constructed the first Croatian aircraft, the Penkala 1910 Biplane.

Diocletian’s Palace and its Egyptian Sphinx

Diocletian’s Palace, located in Split, Croatia, was built at the end of the 3rd century AD as a retirement residence for the Roman Emperor Diocletian. The structure, resembling a large fortress, includes both the emperor’s private quarters and military garrison spaces. Covering about half of Split’s old town, the palace is a significant historical and architectural landmark. It was constructed near Salona, the then-capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. Today, the remains of the palace are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site designated in 1979.

There is also a genuine Egyptian sphinx in Split’s Diocletian Palace, which was brought in from Egypt by Emperor Diocletian to adorn the entrance to his tomb.

Second Longest Fortification System in the World

The Walls of Ston are the longest preserved fortification system in the world after the Great Wall of China.

The Walls of Ston, a defensive wall and one of the largest medieval fortification-urban projects have a total length of 5.5 km, and are strengthened with about 40 towers and 5 fortresses. They connect Ston and Mali Ston. They were built by the Republic of Dubrovnik to protect the saltworks from the Republic of Venice, which was constantly stealing salt.

Famous inventor Nikola Tesla was born in Smiljan, Croatia

Nikola Tesla, an extraordinary inventor and electrical engineer, made groundbreaking contributions that significantly shaped modern technology. Among his most important inventions is the alternating current (AC) system of electrical power distribution, which revolutionized how electricity is transmitted and used, surpassing the direct current (DC) system promoted by Thomas Edison.

Tesla also developed the Tesla coil, a high-voltage transformer that laid the foundation for wireless communication and radio. His pioneering work in wireless transmission of energy, X-ray imaging, and early radio technology further underscores his remarkable impact on the fields of electricity and electromagnetism. Tesla's visionary ideas and inventions continue to influence and inspire technological advancements today.

Two Croatian-born Roman Emperors enjoyed beer

Vinkovci, one of Europe's oldest cities at around 7,000 years old, has long been known for its abundance of water and grains, as evidenced by numerous archaeological discoveries. This rich history contributes to its long-standing tradition of beer production.

Valens and his older brother Valentinian are the only Roman emperors born in Aurelia Colonia Cibalae, now modern-day Vinkovci. While the Romans were predominantly wine enthusiasts, Valens stood out for his preference for beer—a notable deviation from the norm. In Roman culture, beer drinkers were often regarded as barbarians, and Valens was even disparagingly referred to as "sabaiarius," which translates to "beer belly" or "beer drinker" in Latin.

Dalmatia’s Famous Dogs

The Dalmatian is a dog breed known for its distinctive white coat adorned with dark spots. Initially bred for hunting, it also served as a carriage dog in its early history. The breed’s origins trace back to Croatia, specifically the historical region of Dalmatia. It is believed that the Dalmatian’s early ancestors included various pointers and a spotted Great Dane. Nowadays, Dalmatians are popular pets and are frequently entered into kennel club competitions by enthusiasts.

Who said old South Slavs didn’t write?

Croatia played a crucial role in preserving and using the Glagolitic script, an ancient Slavic alphabet created by Saints Cyril and Methodius. While the script was initially used across various Slavic regions, it found a lasting home in Croatia, particularly among Roman Catholic communities. The script was used for both religious and secular texts, with notable usage continuing on the island of Krk into the 1900s. Today, Glagolitic script is celebrated as a significant part of Croatian cultural heritage.

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Activities in Dalmatia

Dalmatia offers a diverse range of activities, providing unforgettable experiences and boosting your team's overall satisfaction.

Rafting and Safari on Zrmanja River

Rafting on the Zrmanja River provides a spectacular adventure along a 14 km trail filled with rapids and waterfalls. Expect hours of pure adrenaline, fun, and beautiful natural scenery. The Zrmanja River will captivate you with its emerald green color, crystal-clear water, and a 200-meter-deep canyon. With its numerous rapids and waterfalls, the river is perfect for wild water adventures. When the water level is high, it's ideal for rafting, while lower water levels make it perfect for kayaking tours. Due to its untamed nature, the river is often referred to as "Beauty and the Beast."

Rafting and Safari on Zrmanja River

Jeep Safari on the Velebit Mountain

Professional drivers guide you through typically inaccessible roads, rugged trails, and steep ascents in Velebit Nature Park. This unforgettable journey across the Velebit mountain range, passing through the Zrmanja River canyon and along the historic Majstorska cesta – a gravel road that was the first to connect Dalmatia with continental Croatia – is packed with adrenaline.

The adventure includes multiple stops where your team can take in the unique views from peaks as high as 1,100 meters. You’ll also visit Tulove grede, one of the most striking mountain summits, offering a breathtaking view of the Zrmanja River canyon.

Additionally, there's an option to enjoy lunch at a family farm in the mountains, where you can savor traditional dishes typical of the region.

Jeep Safari on the Velebit Mountain

Boat Tours and Island Hopping

Boat tours offer companies the perfect opportunity to organize a variety of team-building activities where people can have fun, strengthen relationships, unwind, and collaboratively tackle challenges beyond the scope of everyday tasks. These custom-tailored boat tour adventures are designed to rejuvenate your team's spirit in the midst of untouched natural beauty. Each tour can be fully customized to match your company’s preferences, whether it's a fully-guided excursion for groups of any size or a personalized approach that ensures high-quality, unforgettable experiences.

During these tours, your employees can acquire basic navigational and boating skills while gaining fascinating insights from our experienced local crews. Beyond the learning experience, there’s ample opportunity for relaxation on breathtaking island locations, exploration of captivating landmarks, and enjoyment of the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. The combination of adventure, learning, and relaxation ensures that everyone will return from the trip refreshed, motivated, and with lasting memories of an exciting journey together.

Boat Tours and Island Hopping

Old Town Challenge

The objective is to locate the mystery spots, capture a photo of yourself and your team at each one, and reach the designated finish line. The team that visits the most mystery locations and therefore earns the highest number of points will be the winner – in other words, the team that uncovers the most sites within the allotted time.

Each location is hinted at through a riddle, which must be solved to reveal the destination. You can crack the riddle by asking a local, using your smartphone, or employing similar methods. The Old Town challenge takes place within the historical centers of cities and can be organized in most Dalmatian cities and island towns. Put your team into a different environment and let them solve problems together while having fun.

Old Town Challenge

Beachfront Games

"Stations" are set up along the beachfront, each offering a unique team-building challenge – fun tasks that require coordination and a bit of creativity to solve, but no specific physical ability or fitness level, making these activities ideal for groups of all kinds.

The challenges include games like "spider’s web," "lift the bucket," and other entertaining activities that are sure to make everybody laugh. This approach ensures that every team member is actively engaged throughout the event. If desired, the afternoon can conclude with cocktails, spritzers, beer, or sodas while enjoying the stunning sunset over the Adriatic Sea.

Beachfront Games

Paklenica National Park Hike

Paklenica National Park in Dalmatia provides a wide range of activities ideal for team-building and outdoor adventures. You can hike the Velika Paklenica Canyon, the park’s most popular trail, which winds through a breathtaking canyon with striking rock formations. There are also Educational Trails, such as the Velika Paklenica Educational Track and the Paklarić Educational Track, offering enriching hiking experiences. For those interested in exploring underground wonders, the Manita Peć Cave is open for guided tours. Additionally, several cycling trails are available, offering various ways to explore the park’s diverse landscapes.

Additionally, there are cultural and historical sites to explore, such as the Underground City of Paklenica. This network of tunnels, also known as the "Bunkers”, was constructed in the 1950s and has since been transformed into a multimedia hall, exhibition space, souvenir shop, and coffee bar. Another notable site is the Ethnic House Marasović, a traditional home within the park that highlights local architecture and lifestyle, making it an ideal spot for a cultural break during your visit.

Paklenica National Park Hike

Krka River and Lake Prokljan Kayaking

The rugged terrain of the Šibenik hinterland might not immediately reveal that at the base of Dinara, Croatia's highest mountain, one of the most captivating karst rivers, the Krka River, begins its journey hidden behind a ten-meter-high waterfall. Nearby, the charming historical town of Skradin sits at the river's mouth, and about 20 km away is Šibenik, which is currently enjoying a tourism revival. This makes the Krka River an excellent destination for a day trip into a realm of travertine formations, powerful waterfalls, and a unique landscape shaped by the river's flow.

Though the Krka River is largely protected within Krka National Park and kayaking is not allowed, you can still enjoy paddling by starting from Skradin and making your way to the picturesque Lake Prokljan, where the Krka’s cold waters blend with the sea. You can leisurely all the way down to Šibenik, with a stop at the beach of Bilice for a swim and a taste of local delicacies, such as locally caught eels.

Krka River and Lake Prokljan Kayaking

Sailing Regatta

A sailing regatta serves as an ideal metaphor for teamwork, where the more effectively the crew collaborates, the faster the boat moves. This activity is designed to be inclusive, accommodating both seasoned sailors and novices alike. No prior sailing experience is necessary; the focus is entirely on teamwork and enjoyment. Operating a sailboat naturally fosters bonding within teams. The event sparks a competitive spirit, fosters companionship, and creates lasting memories for all participants.

Everyone aboard gets the chance to be the ship’s captain, regardless of their role within the company. Every individual's contribution is crucial to the success of the sailing team. Before the regatta begins, teams participate in a brief sailing tutorial, after which they are divided into sailboat crews of approximately 6-10 people, depending on the size of the boat. Each sailboat will be guided by a professional skipper to ensure everything proceeds smoothly and safely.

Sailing Regatta

Make a Short Movie or an Ad Video

The group is divided into teams, each assigned their own conference room. They have about 60 minutes to get creative and develop engaging content for a short movie or ad video, which they'll film later in the day. The theme of the video can optionally relate to one of the company’s products, services, the business itself, or anything else.

Teams must decide on the roles each member will take, such as performers, camera operators, directors, and so on. Each team is provided with a camera and a clapperboard to help organize the shots they want the editor to use in the final cut. Once filming is complete, it may take up to 24 hours for us to edit the videos and add music if needed.

The next day is Awards Night. The film crew members arrive at the venue, walking down the red carpet and posing for the paparazzi in front of a press wall featuring the company logo. During dinner, the short films or ads are screened, and nominees are announced in various categories like “Best Actor/Actress in a Leading Role,” “Best Picture,” “Best Director,” and more. The envelopes are opened: “And the winner is…” As the winners accept their statuettes, heartfelt acceptance speeches are expected and warmly applauded.

Make a Short Movie or an Ad Video

Paintball

This game is designed to deliver a thrilling experience that fosters team-work and enjoyment among players. Through this dynamic activity, players build self-confidence, enhance their decision-making abilities, and cultivate self-initiative, which can be applied in various aspects of life. The excitement of the game is matched by the challenges it presents, ensuring that every participant feels both invigorated and accomplished.

The outdoor area where the game takes place is beautifully designed, with attention to detail that enhances the overall experience. The space is expansive, offering a generous playground equipped for a wide range of activities that can engage all participants. The lush, scenic surroundings contribute to a refreshing and immersive environment, making every moment spent here enjoyable. Whether you're strategizing with your team or exploring the area, the setting itself adds to the thrill of the game.

Paintball

Dalmatian Cuisine Food Tour

This food tour offers an experience that feels like strolling through the city with a local friend eager to share the stories, history, and hidden gems of their hometown. It's an intimate journey where the guide's passion for the city and its culinary delights shines through, making you feel like you're exploring with someone who genuinely wants you to feel the city just as they do.

Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to sample dishes at carefully selected establishments, each offering a unique taste of the city’s diverse culinary landscape. As you move from one restaurant to the next, your knowledgeable guide will share insights into the city’s history. The portion sizes are thoughtfully curated, ensuring that you’re satisfied without feeling overly full or left wanting more. This balance allows you to fully enjoy each dish without any discomfort, making the journey from one eatery to the next a pleasure. Expect top-notch service at every restaurant, reflecting the care and attention the organizers have put into selecting the best spots and the most enjoyable walking route for this tour..

Dalmatian Cuisine Food Tour

Cetina River Zip Line

If you're seeking a blend of thrilling adventure and breathtaking scenery in stunning natural surroundings, a visit to Omiš and the zip line above the crystal-clear Cetina River canyon is a must. Available year-round, this impressive zip line system features a series of platforms connected by eight steel cables, stretching a total of 2,100 meters. The longest cable spans 700 meters and soars 50 meters above the ground, offering an exhilarating ride through the canyon’s stunning landscape.

Completing the entire course, under the guidance of experienced guides, takes about two and a half hours. From the moment you step into the canyon, your eyes will be captivated by the surrounding beauty. The vibrant greens of the vegetation, the deep blues of the river, and the stark whites of the rocky cliffs blend seamlessly, creating an otherworldly and mesmerizing scene that you won’t soon forget.

The Cetina River, on its 104-kilometer journey to the sea, has carved out a remarkable 300-meter-deep canyon in the limestone bedrock between the Mosor and Omiška Dinara mountains, making for a truly unique geomorphological wonder. Whether you're a beginner just starting your outdoor adventure journey or a seasoned thrill-seeker, the Cetina River canyon offers something for everyone. This year-round destination promises adrenaline-pumping fun in a spectacular natural setting that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Cetina River Zip Line

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Chart source: meteoblue.com

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