Reading retreat in Croatia

Stretching along Croatia’s beautiful Dalmatian coast, Podstrana is a relaxed seaside destination combining sandy and pebble beaches, sparkling Adriatic waters and stunning mountain scenery. This charming coastal area is ideal for those looking to enjoy a slower pace, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, coastal walks, local dining and exploring the surrounding countryside.

In the evenings, we’ll gather over dinner to socialise, connect, and enjoy thoughtful discussions together.

Our Book Club meeting will focus on Red Water by Jurica Pavičić — a compelling story in which a woman disappears after a beach party, and the search for her gradually uncovers Croatia’s complex history, reaching far beyond the fall of Communism.

In addition to our Book Club dinners, we’ll enjoy a special “A Book I Love” evening, where each guest can share a personal favourite — inspiring lively conversation and new literary discoveries.

Books in Places creates exceptional reading retreats and literary escapes for book lovers, offering opportunities to connect with fellow readers and travellers who share your passions. Most guests join us solo, and single occupancy is the standard. However, twin rooms are available for those who prefer to share the experience with a friend or partner.

Your trip organiser will be Books in Places founder Paul Wright, or one of the experienced Books in Places team. Paul spent seven years running large book clubs in Bristol and Exeter before founding Books in Places in 2023. Since then, Books in Places has run more than 60 literary trips and reading retreats, bringing together hundreds of book lovers in destinations across the UK and overseas. Many guests return for further trips, and the focus is always on creating relaxed, sociable holidays where people who love books can enjoy travelling and discovering new places together.

Also included in the holiday is a day trip to Omiš, the Cetina Valley, and Split – Discover the charming riverside town of Omiš, enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Cetina Valley, then head to historic Split. With dramatic landscapes, fascinating history and plenty of time to explore, it’s a wonderful day away from the beach.

Surrounded by endless blue skies and the sparkling Adriatic Sea, 4* Hotel Aria is our exciting new destination for 2027. Set on one of the region’s sunniest beaches, Hotel Aria is the perfect setting for a peaceful getaway, offering time to relax, recharge and enjoy the beauty of the Adriatic. With the beach right on your doorstep, it’s an ideal choice for those who love spending their days soaking up the sunshine, swimming in the crystal-clear waters and enjoying the laid-back coastal lifestyle. Sunbed and umbrellas are available to hire at €10 each per day (subject to change).

Enjoy comfortable, contemporary accommodation, simply relax, or savour delicious cuisine and refreshing drinks with beautiful sea views.

For those who like a beach club, we recommend Gooshter Beach Club. Just 5 minutes by taxi or a lovely 25 minute walk along the seafront.

Helen and Mel from our UK office will be visiting this hotel in October 2026 and will be happy to answer any queries on their return.

Please note for Friendship Travel transfers, flights must land in Split by 16.00.

A local tourism tax of €4.40 per person, per day is payable directly to the hotel.

Enjoy stylish, contemporary rooms where modern comfort meets the beauty of nature. Natural materials, calming tones and thoughtful details create a peaceful space to return to after a day of exploring or relaxing on the beach .

The standard rooms are Economy Mountain View rooms with Juliet balcony. Upgrade to a Mountain View room with balcony for an extra £17.50 per night, or a Sea View room with balcony for an extra £35 per night.