A 15 minute drive from the gorgeous historic city of Trogir lies a coastal strip of ancient villages known as Kastela.
Covering 20km of coast, these 7 harbour towns and villages built with castles, date to the 16th century. You can walk between some of them, along this pretty stretch of seafront where merging towns await.
There’s some ornate stone buildings, as well as some less perfect ruins, but the overall theme is one of interesting beauty.
Trogir to Kastela
We were staying at Camping Rozac in nearby Trogir and jump in the campervan for the short drive along the coast.
It’s late May but the weather still hasn’t turned to Summer, so rain clouds are looming over us. A break in the rain allows for a walk between the towns but to be honest, I’m not sure where we’re starting from.
Finding a parking space is a bit tricky, but we manage to find one on a side road before stepping out to explore. A little later we find a promenade parking spot further along the coast and continue through these ancient villages of Kastela.
The Kastela towns – Ancient Villages of Kastela
We visit Kastel Luksic, Kastilac, Kastel Sucurac and Kastel Stafilic. In our eyes, each resemble one another, so we’re unsure which we’re arriving at on our coastal walk.
The neat seafront seems to join each together, merging between stretches of ornate stone buildings, a few ruins and beachside eateries.
Not all the Castles are easily noticeable, due to being private homes. Kasel Stafilic however, not only has the Castel Stafileo-Rotondo dating to 1508, but also a Fort and other fortifications.
Maybe those better prepared can fathom out each Kastela but we think it’s quite a place all the same. It’s worthy of a visit and a drink in one of the taverna style bars. However, just sitting and gazing at the beautiful sea is another good enough reason to stop by.
Game of Thrones – Ancient Villages of Kastela
Kastilac was a set for Game of Thrones, being a location for Braavos. It’s easy to see why they filmed here, amongst many other areas of Croatia.
After all, the surroundings, remote feel and historic influences cast a spell on the coastline. The majestic, impressionable buildings with delicate stone architecture and gentle colours reflect a turquoise sea.
Overall, it’s a serene setting amongst these ancient villages of Kastela.
An ancient Olive Tree
There’s one wonder we haven’t come across before – what seems like the oldest Olive tree ever!
Yes, at Kastel Stafilic, there’s a 1500 year old Olive tree which is just has you’d expect – huge, old looking and very much the big attraction.
Situated in a grassy park area, this tree is quite something and we felt quite humble just standing at its base admiring it.
Wow! How wonderful is nature? If there’s one thing to see along the Kastela coast, then this has to be it!
