German family cuts Croatia holiday short over heat and lack of shade

A family of four found accommodation on the island of Ciovo in August for 63 euros, staying in a caravan with basic amenities. The sea was just a few steps away, with two beaches nearby. They prepared most meals themselves, bringing an electric grill to cut food costs. The parents noted the absence of TV and video games as a bonus, as the children were screen-free throughout the holiday.

Nikola Borić and partner Zorana sold their home on Papuk and moved into a camper. After 100 days, expenses roughly halved, though fuel and food costs rose.

A camper family ended their stay at CP Lavanda campsite in Orebić, Pelješac peninsula, after five nights, despite praising the sanitary facilities, restaurant, and beach. The main reason was the lack of shade on their pitch, which was unbearable in the heat. Additional complaints included sewer smell, weak Wi-Fi, and a steep path to the beach. The family was able to leave without cancellation fees, which they noted as unusual. Other campers in comments praised front-row pitches by the sea, where shade was sufficient.

Croatia's state inspection (DIRH) recalls campers from ten brands due to a faulty ISOFIX bracket weld, increasing child injury risk in crashes. Some Adria models are also recalled for panoramic roof glass issues.

Zadar police report two burglaries and one theft on August 23–24. At a highway rest area in Jasenice, a suspect broke into a camper owned by a 38-year-old German citizen and stole cash, causing damage of several thousand euros. In Zadar, on Obala kneza Trpimira, a catering facility was broken into and coins and cigarettes were stolen, with damage of several hundred euros. On a beach in the Karma area, a 54-year-old woman's handbag was stolen. Police are investigating.

Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung tested three Croatian campsites: Mon Perin Camping Resort in Bale, Porton Nature Hideouts near Rovinj, and Falkensteiner Camping Zadar in Zadar. Mon Perin offers glamping villas with whirlpool and golf cart, supermarkets open until 22:30, 24-hour room service, and an AI assistant. Porton Nature Hideouts features houses with private pool and sea view, but the beach is across a road. Falkensteiner Camping Zadar includes 30 sqm houses, pool, spa, and a Tommy supermarket with meat counter; prices there are not significantly higher than elsewhere.