Friends, Sunshine and a Croatian Villa: The Ultimate Group Getaway

Our next summer trip of 2026, there were 16 of us in total, four families travelling together with a mix of adults and children of all ages. It was lively, relaxed and full of memories!

We flew into Dubrovnik, then picked up our hire cars for the short 10‑minute drive along the coast to Cavtat. It is close enough to be easy with a group, but feels like its own peaceful little world once you arrive.

Our home for the week was a huge villa with a pool and separate apartments inside, which was perfect for a large group. Everyone had plenty of space and enough bedrooms, so we could be together around the pool and terraces in the day, then retreat to our own corners when we needed some quiet time.

Most days started slowly, with coffee on the terrace and the children in the pool almost immediately. The villa became the heart of the holiday: sun loungers, inflatables, card games and long chats between dips in the water.

We walked to the local supermarket to pick up fresh bread, salads, fruit and whatever caught our eye for the barbecue. Evenings were often spent back at the villa, cooking together, sharing food around a long table and enjoying that easy, barefoot, “villa holiday” rhythm. With several generations together, it worked brilliantly: relaxed, unhurried and very social.

One of the highlights was taking the water taxi from Cavtat into Dubrovnik. Gliding across the water, watching the city walls and terracotta roofs appear in front of us, felt like something from a film. It was such an enjoyable way to arrive, especially for the children.

Spending time in Dubrovnik itself, wandering the old streets and soaking up the atmosphere, was a lovely contrast to the gentler pace of Cavtat. And at the end of the day, heading back by boat as the sun lowered over the water was simply magical.

We also took a full‑day boat trip to visit the islands of Lopud and Lokrum. Cruising between the islands, surrounded by beautiful scenery and sparkling sea.

There were plenty of chances to stop and swim, with clear water that tempted everyone in. Lunch was served on board, accompanied by local wine, and by the afternoon the atmosphere had turned wonderfully celebratory. There was dancing on deck as we passed one island after another, music playing, children laughing and adults joining in. It felt like the essence of a joyful summer holiday.

Cavtat itself quickly charmed us. Evenings were spent wandering along the waterfront, admiring the yachts, and choosing a different restaurant to try. Seafood was a real highlight: fresh fish, grilled simply, and enjoyed with a view of the harbour.

For some of the group, the standout experience was a fishing trip. They headed out early and came back proudly carrying mackerel and snapper, which we later cooked on the barbecue for lunch at the villa. 

Looking back, Cavtat was an ideal choice for our large, mixed‑age group. It offered:

• Easy access via Dubrovnik, with just a short drive to resort
• A spacious villa with a pool and separate apartments so everyone had room
• Simple, relaxed days around the villa and by the sea
• Memorable experiences like the water taxi to Dubrovnik and island‑hopping by boat
• Lovely evenings by the harbour, great seafood and plenty to keep all ages happy

For us, it was the perfect blend of together time, gentle adventure and Croatian coastal charm. If you are dreaming of a relaxed, sun‑drenched escape with family or friends, Cavtat is a destination I would happily recommend.