Long beaches and tall peaks in Croatia

If you are keen to get active somewhere with a warm sunny climate, long beaches and tall peaks, Croatia has lots of offer.

Located between the well-known tourist areas of Split and Dubrovnik is the resort town of Gradac, which is a great base for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding Makarska Riviera.

Cycling is one of the best ways of seeing the area, which is covered in pine forests and olive groves.

Holidaymakers do not have to worry about bringing their own bike as cycle hire is readily available, including from the local hotels.

There are signposted cycle routes, all of which are graded by how tough they are, and for great views over the islands you cannot beat heading up to the peaks of Biokovo, Croatia's tallest mountain.

Its highest peak is 1,762 metres above sea level, but there are other cycle routes that can take you around halfway up, such as St. Ilija's peak, at 773 m.

Other sights on the mountain include historical monuments and churches, such as St Barbara, which dates from the 1400s, and ruined 17th century forts.

One of the oldest churches is the 11th century St Ivan, located at Gornja Podaca.

As well as cycling, Biokovo is ideal for hiking and mountain climbing. Excursions led by guides are a good way of getting to see the main sights. Among the tour operators with trips to the mountain are Biokovo Active Holidays, which also run rafting, canoeing and cycle trips in the mountains.

If you need to relax after all the activity, Gradac is close to one of the longest beaches in the country - Gornja Vala, and with plenty of seafood and locally grown produce to refuel your energy, Gradac makes an ideal Croatian active holiday location.

Hidden Croatia has a five-night stay in the Marco Polo hotel in November on a bed and breakfast basis from £260, not including flights.

Other tour operators offering stays in the Makarska Riviera include Holiday Options, Bond Tours and Thomson.

For more information see www.gradac.hr and the official Croatia tourist board at www.croatia.hr