Enroute to Zagreb we made a stop at Plitvice Lakes National Park, a “National treasure” which is known for a chain of 16
terraced lakes, joined by waterfalls, that extend into a limestone canyon. Back on the coach and off to Zagreb.
Zagreb has grown out of two medieval settlements that for centuries developed
on neighboring hills. Both settlements were surrounded by high walls and
towers, the remains of which are still preserved today. Only time to drop off
our luggage and out the door for for a walking tour of Zagreb that included a visit to
Dalac, the most picturesque open air market in the city, the Cathedral of St.
Stephens and Archbishops Towers and Halls as well as the Stone Gate.
Day 14 – Friday, July 1
Canada Day in Zagreb
Happy Canada Day!!!! The
morning was
started with a tour of the at Korak Wineries in Plesivica where we were treated to wine tasting and homemade
bread, cured meats and a clotted creamed cheese mixture – Croatian style. Our
day had only just begun. Back on the coach for a drive to Sestinski Lagvic to a
lovely hilltop restaurant where everyone enjoyed a farewell lunch and the
spectacular view that overlooked the city of Zagreb. A quick change into our
red and white choir garb and back on the bus pm for transport back to Zrinjevac Square in Zabgreb where HHMAC performed outdoor concert that
was sponsored by the Canadian Embassy. We were greeted by two lovely ladies
from the Embassy and one lady was from Placentia, NL. She greeted us waving the
Newfoundland flag. What a wonderful sight! We performed for 45
minutes in 30 plus temperatures and after the concert we had a short break to
rest or feet and cool off before we were transported to ZG Brewery where celebrated
a Canada Day BBQ with the Croatian Canadian Business
Network, the Canadian Ambassador to Croatia and Kosovo and the staff of the
Embassy. HHMAC started the festivities with the Canadian anthem, the Croatian anthem and the Ode
to Newfoundland. This was a long but really was the climax to the whole trip.
What an honour the represent our country and our province at this event!
Day 15 – No rest for the weary! Up again and on the coach for a guided tour to the Zagorje Region including Trakoscan Castle. The Trakoscan Castle is a 13th Century Castle and is considered one of the prettiest in Croatia. The castle is being carefully restored to reflect the various stages of construction through the centuries and styles of architecture of those periods. After the tour lunch was served at Vuglec Breg, a country retreat featuring cabin accommodations, a wellness centre, a restaurant and a winery on 12,000 hectares of hilltop land.
A late afternoon return to the hotel for stuffing purchases into suitcases and then a farewell reception for choir members and travelling companions. Then off to bed for an early morning departure back home. We started out as choir members and companions, however we all ended up as family.
Day 16 - Homeward bound. Thanks for reading! The HHMAC Bloggers.
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