From Makarska Riviera : Wine Tasting Grabovac Tour

If you’re craving a leisurely way to experience Croatia’s Dalmatian countryside, this Wine Tasting Grabovac Tour from Makarska offers a charming blend of scenic views, authentic local flavors, and expert-guided wine tasting. With a friendly, family-run winery as the star and picturesque stops along the way, this tour promises a relaxed yet enriching afternoon.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances quality wine tasting with stunning natural scenery. Not only do you get to sample five well-curated Croatian wines paired with local cheeses and smoked ham, but you also enjoy a scenic stop at the Imotski lakes, which are worth the journey for their crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.

A possible consideration? The tour’s duration of about 4-5 hours means it’s a good fit for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. If you’re seeking a quick snack or a more active adventure, this might not be your best bet. But if your ideal outing balances good food, fine wine, and lovely countryside, then this tour ticks those boxes.

Overall, it suits those interested in authentic Croatian culture, lovers of good wine, or travelers wanting a taste of rural Dalmatia without venturing too far from Makarska.

This experience made our article of We Rank Makarska’s 3 Top Wine Tours.

Key Points

• Authentic Family-Run Winery: Experience Croatian wine craftsmanship at Grabovac Winery, operated by a family with generations of expertise.
• Stunning Scenic Stop: The visit to Imotski lakes offers memorable photos and a peaceful break from the wine tasting.
• Quality Wine & Local Food: Taste five still wines, each paired with locally sourced cheeses, smoked ham, and homemade bread for a true taste of Dalmatia.
• Relaxed & Well-Organized: Comfortable, air-conditioned transport and friendly guides ensure a smooth, enjoyable outing.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Keep plans flexible with a “reserve and pay later” option and free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.
• Great Value: At $81 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive experience combining scenery, culture, and tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Ease of Booking and Transportation

From the start, this tour stands out for its straightforward booking process. With options to reserve now and pay later, travelers can secure their spot without immediate commitment—a reassuring feature for spontaneous planners or those trying to keep flexible itineraries. The tour’s price of $81 is quite reasonable considering the inclusions, especially since it covers transportation, wine tastings, local delicacies, and insurance.

Travel is in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, which ensures comfort regardless of the weather. The group sizes tend to be manageable, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere—ideal for those who prefer a more personal touch rather than a large bus crowd.

The Scenic Drive & Lakes Stop

The journey from Makarska to Grabovac is not just a boring transfer; it’s part of the experience. En route, the guide or driver points out local sights, and the highlight is the stop at Imotski lakes, particularly the Blue Lake and Red Lake. These lakes are notable for their crystal-clear waters and the dramatic cliffs that surround them—perfect for photos and a moment of tranquility.

One reviewer describes the lakes as “very small and interesting,” with one looking like a “very deep crater.” Such descriptions highlight the lakes’ unique characteristics that set this tour apart from typical wine tastings. The stop is brief but offers enough time to snap some pictures and take in the natural beauty.

Visiting Grabovac Winery

The heart of the tour is the family-run Grabovac Winery. Here, you’re greeted warmly, often with a welcome drink, and then guided through a tasting of five still wines. The wines are carefully selected, and the team takes pride in explaining each one’s background—how they’re grown, the production process, and what makes each varietal special.

The experience of tasting wines in a small, family-run setting elevates the visit. Unlike large commercial wineries, Grabovac emphasizes personal connection, and the hosts often share stories about their traditions and techniques. Several reviews mention the hosts’ knowledge and friendliness, with one describing the host Milan as “amazing” and “very knowledgeable.”

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Food Pairings and Additional Tastings

Pairing the wines with local cheeses, smoked ham, and homemade bread elevates the tasting experience. These are not just snacks; they are thoughtfully sourced and prepared, giving you a true taste of Dalmatian culinary traditions. Guests often comment on the quality and authenticity of the food.

Some reviews highlight the generous wine offering—one guest mentions trying six wines and being able to sample more if interested. This flexibility is a major plus for connoisseurs or curious tasters who want to explore beyond the initial five.

Vineyard & Facilities Tour

Beyond just tastings, the tour includes a walk through the vineyards and a brief tour of the winery facilities. This provides insight into the winemaking process and allows for more photos and appreciation of the craftsmanship. One reviewer notes the “short tour of the facilities,” which adds a layer of context to the tasting.

Free Time & Shopping

After the formal tasting, you’re free to browse the winery’s shop and purchase bottles of your favorite wines—many guests do. This is a nice touch, allowing you to take home a piece of Croatia’s wine culture and possibly gift it to friends or family.

Overall Duration & Atmosphere

The total tour lasts about 4-5 hours, which we think strikes a good balance between sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing. Guests consistently describe the experience as “very enjoyable,” “relaxed,” and “well-organized.” The reviews repeatedly emphasize the friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and delicious wines as highlights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to discover Croatian varietals in a relaxed setting. It’s also suitable for those interested in local culture and authentic experiences, rather than large commercialized tours. The scenic lakes and countryside views make it appealing to anyone who appreciates nature and quiet, picturesque surroundings.

It’s ideally suited for travelers with about half a day to spare, who want a taste of Dalmatia’s rural charm without straying too far from Makarska. If you’re keen on learning about wine production from passionate family growers and enjoying some serene landscapes, this tour checks all those boxes.

Practical Information and Final Thoughts

The tour’s price of $81 offers good value, especially considering the quality of the wine, the scenic stops, and the personal touch of the family-run winery. The inclusion of local cheeses, smoked ham, and bread makes it a flavorful and satisfying experience.

Flexibility in booking and cancellation policies adds peace of mind, while the small group format fosters a convivial, intimate atmosphere. Many guests leave with new wine favorites and a deeper appreciation for Croatian wine culture.

While the tour is quite comprehensive, it’s worth noting that it’s more about the experience than a rigorous tasting session—so if you’re expecting a wine connoisseur’s tasting, you might find it more casual. However, for anyone wanting to combine scenic beauty, local flavors, and a relaxed pace, this tour offers a charming slice of Dalmatia.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, you’ll travel in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, with professional drivers ensuring a comfortable ride.

Can I book now and pay later? Absolutely. The tour offers a “reserve and pay later” option, allowing flexibility with your plans.

What is the duration of the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 4-5 hours, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Are there any food options besides wine? Yes, you’ll enjoy locally sourced cheeses, smoked ham, and homemade bread paired with the wines.

What’s the main highlight? The visit to Grabovac Winery with tastings of five wines, and the scenic stop at Imotski lakes.

Is this suitable for non-wine drinkers? Even if you don’t drink much wine, the scenic lakes and the chance to try local foods make it an enjoyable outing.

Are the guides knowledgeable? Yes, reviews mention guides and hosts as friendly, informative, and passionate about their craft.

Can I buy wine to take home? Yes, there’s an opportunity to purchase bottles from the winery shop.

Is the tour family-friendly? While primarily geared toward adults, the scenic lakes and relaxed environment make it suitable for families with older children interested in scenery and local culture.

To sum it up, the Makarska Riviera Wine Tasting Grabovac Tour offers a well-rounded experience blending delicious local wines, authentic Dalmatian flavors, and spectacular scenery. Its reasonable price, flexible booking, and personalized approach make it an excellent choice for those wanting to explore Croatia’s countryside without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll find this tour offers a memorable glimpse into Croatian rural life with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and tasting some of the region’s best wines.

You can check availability for your dates here: