CROATIA INSIDER TIPS
These Insider Tips have been carefully curated through years of firsthand experience exploring Bali, with the goal of helping our guests enjoy the very best that Stari Glog has to offer.
Our dedicated team is always available to assist!
Stari Glog, Croatia
FAQs:
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Mala Vila is located in Stari Glog, a small countryside village near Dubrava, approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) east of Zagreb Airport. The property sits in a peaceful forest setting surrounded by farmland, quiet roads, and rural communities.
Unlike Croatia's popular coastal destinations, this part of the country offers a more relaxed experience centered around nature, local culture, and traditional countryside living. Zagreb is approximately an hour away by car, making it a great option for a day trip.
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We recommend flying into Zagreb Franjo Tuđman Airport (ZAG), Croatia's main international airport and the closest airport to Mala Vila.
Most travelers arriving from the United States will connect through another major European airport, such as Frankfurt, Munich, Amsterdam, or Paris.
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Mala Vila is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Zagreb Airport. The drive generally takes around 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic.
We strongly recommend renting a car directly from the airport so you can explore the surrounding countryside and nearby towns during your stay.
Mala Vila can also arrange private airport transfers upon request for an additional fee.
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Yes! We strongly recommend renting a car. Mala Vila is in a secluded countryside location, and public transportation and taxis are limited in the immediate area.
A rental car will allow you to visit nearby towns, wineries, restaurants, hiking areas, and Zagreb at your convenience.
While bicycles are included in your stay for exploring the nearby countryside, they are not a substitute for a car when traveling farther from the property.
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Northern Croatia experiences four distinct seasons, so the best time depends on what you'd like to experience.
Spring (March–May) brings blooming countryside, mild temperatures, and beautiful conditions for exploring nature.
Summer (June–August) is generally warm and ideal for cycling, outdoor dining, and exploring nearby towns.
Fall (September–October) is particularly beautiful, with changing forest colors, harvest activities, and cooler temperatures for hiking.
Winter (November–February) is colder, with occasional snow. This is a wonderful time for a cozy countryside escape, particularly if you'd like to visit Zagreb's Christmas markets.
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Mala Vila is located inland, northeast of Zagreb, rather than along Croatia's Adriatic coast.
The famous beaches and coastal destinations around Split, Zadar, and Dubrovnik are several hours away and are not practical for a casual outing from the property.
This destination is best suited for guests looking for relaxation, nature, countryside experiences, and cultural excursions rather than a traditional beach vacation.
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Croatia is part of the European Union and the Schengen Area.
U.S. passport holders can generally visit Croatia and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a traditional tourist visa.
Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area and must have been issued within the previous 10 years. We recommend allowing additional validity whenever possible.
Europe is introducing a new travel authorization system called ETIAS. Requirements may change before your trip, so please review the official ETIAS website before departure.
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Croatia uses the euro (EUR).
Credit cards are widely accepted in Zagreb and larger towns, but we recommend carrying some cash for smaller countryside restaurants, local markets, and independent businesses.
You can withdraw euros from bank-operated ATMs throughout Croatia.
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Tap water is safe to drink in Croatia, including Zagreb and most public water systems.
At Mala Vila, complimentary bottled water is provided. For any questions about water directly at the property, we recommend checking with your host.
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Croatia uses European Type C and Type F electrical outlets and operates on a 230-volt electrical system.
Most modern phone chargers, laptops, and other electronics accept both U.S. and European voltages and require only a plug adapter.
Hair dryers, curling irons, and other appliances that are not dual-voltage may require a voltage converter.
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Most U.S. cellular providers offer international roaming plans that include Croatia. We recommend checking with your provider before departure.
You can also purchase a local SIM card or eSIM for mobile data during your stay.
Mala Vila provides complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property.
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Croatia's countryside is casual, so comfortable clothing and practical footwear are ideal.
We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket or sweater, rain protection, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
If you plan to hike around Kalnik, bring sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots. During fall and winter, warmer layers and waterproof footwear are particularly useful.
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Yes, although you'll generally need a car to reach them.
The nearest grocery store is approximately five minutes from Mala Vila, while larger supermarkets, cafés, and restaurants are around 10 minutes away by car.
Each cabin has a kitchenette, and Mala Vila offers pre-arrival refrigerator stocking for an additional fee. Some nearby restaurants also provide food delivery to the property.
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Your five-night package for two guests includes accommodations in one of Mala Vila's boutique cabins, daily farm-made breakfast baskets, housekeeping, two full-body massages, and complimentary bicycles.
Breakfast baskets are delivered to your terrace beginning around 7:30 AM and feature fresh local ingredients such as eggs, homemade bread, jams, honey, cheeses, and pastries.
The property's jacuzzi is available for private hourly reservations. Please coordinate your preferred time with your host.
Additional services, such as grocery stocking and personal training, are available for an additional fee.
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We recommend arranging certain activities ahead of time, particularly winery tastings, guided excursions, horseback riding, and special dining experiences.
Some countryside businesses operate seasonally or require reservations, and English-speaking guides may not always be available on short notice.
Mala Vila can assist with local restaurant reservations and recommendations.
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Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
At restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving approximately 5–10% for good service is common. For exceptional service, guests may choose to leave more.
Small gratuities are also appreciated by drivers, guides, massage therapists, and hospitality staff. Cash tips in euros are convenient.
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Yes! We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to help protect your trip against unexpected cancellations, interruptions, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances.
You can compare travel insurance options HERE.
Excursions & Activities
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SUNSET BOAT TRIP
Take a boat ride in a jukung fishing boat at sunset. This is highly recommended and is a great way to see the coast from the calm Bali Sea.
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SNORKELING
Enjoy world-class snorkeling from many of the nearby beaches, or enjoy a day of snorkeling at different sites via private boat charters.
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MAHA GANGGA RICE TERRACE
Visit the nearby rice terraces where you can enjoy a variety of activities, including guided hikes of the terraces.
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COFFEE PLANTATION
Visit a traditional Balinese coffee plantation and sit for a coffee and tea tasting, including the famous Kopi Luak coffee.
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TIRTA GANGGA WATER PALACE
A stunning array of pools, statues, and gardens overlooking the mountains and the ocean. The palace was once the home of the royal family and is now open to the public.
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VISIT A WEAVING FACTORY
You’ll watch as these talented artisans spin beautiful scarves and other textiles, all of which are available for purchase.
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SILVER PLACE
Half or full-day visit to a silver shop featuring unique Balinese designs made by locals. Located in a small, artisan village on the outskirts of Amlapura.
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MT BATUR & LAKE BATUR
Tour the second-highest mountain in Bali. The drive meanders through the beautiful countryside and past beautiful local stands. Along the way you will enjoy some of the delicious fruits Bali has to offer.
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BALI BIRD & REPTILE PARK
Enter a fascinating world of exotic sights and sounds at the Bali bird park. Hundreds of the world’s most beautiful birds greet you as you stroll through the tropical gardens. Next door is the reptile park, which houses several Komodo dragons.
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RIVER RAFTING
Our staff can arrange for you to enjoy a fun day of rafting along the beautiful Telagawaja River.
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COOKING CLASS
Learn how to create traditional Balinese Dishes with the help of our local staff at the Garden Cafe.
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SCUBA DIVING
Amed is world famous for SCUBA diving. We work with a local dive center, and can arrange for you to experience various dives in the area, including the famous Tulamben Sunken Ship dive. Guests can get internationally certified in 2-3 days, with the final dive taking place at the world-renowned WWII USAT Liberty shipwreck.
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YOGA CLASSES
Our staff will schedule a local yoga instructor to lead a class on-site.
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ROB’S ROAD TO BANGLE HIKE
Our staff will arrange a driver to take you up the river valley to the small village of Bangle. From there, it is an easy hour-long downhill walk back along the road, where you will see stunning vistas including many rice paddies. You can stop along the way at Warung Agus, a local craftsman, to view his hand-carved wooden tableware and crafts.
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MASSAGE
Book a massage at our on-site spa or if you’d like to book additional spa services, let our staff know and they will be able to assist and recommend other local spas. We love the Griya Spa!
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PURA LEMPUYANG TEMPLE
Also known as the Gates of Heaven, this holy temple requires that you wear sarong upon entering the temple (available for purchase upon upon arrival). We recommend going earlier in the morning for sunrise, as that is the best time to avoid crowds and get a beautiful picture!
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MOTORBIKE RENTALS
If you wish to ride around the area on a local motorbike, we can arrange rentals for you.
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MONKEY FOREST
Visit the world-famous “Monkey Forest,” whose resident monkeys will be happy to grab your sunglasses (or any bananas you have)! Located in Ubud.
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UBUD MARKETPLACE
Located in the town center, the Ubud Marketplace is a fun and colorful place for discovering a diverse array of local crafts and foods.
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UBUD DAY TRIP
The town of Ubud is in central Bali about two hours from Amed. It is the cultural heart of the island: museums and galleries abound. Shoppers will stumble upon beautiful, handcrafted items, including intricate woodcarvings, fine fabrics, and unique jewelry. Museum Puri Lukisan displays Balinese art and offers painting, dance, and carving workshops. The royal palace, Puri Saren Agung, is also located in the center of town. We recommend a full day tour to truly experience the beauty of Ubud!
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SUNRISE FISHING EXCURSION
Embark on this one-of-a-kind experience in a traditional fishing boat accompanied by a local fisherman. This early-morning excursion offers the chance to catch beautiful fish such as Mahi Mahi and Yellowfin Tuna as the sun rises, illuminating the island.
RESTAURANTS IN AMED
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AMED ESPRESSO
Best espresso and coffee Amed. Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner including American dishes and local Balinese dishes.
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ADI RESTO
Conveniently located just steps away from your accommodations, this spot serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and features a full cocktail bar!
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WARUNG ENAK
Popular spot in Amed serving local Balinese dishes as well as western food options with sensational desserts.
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SAFKA RESTAURANT & TERRACE
This restaurant and Bar is located at a nearby hotel called the Griya. They have an incredible daily happy hour up on the terrace overlooking the sea.
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BASANTI INDIAN RESTAURANT
A beautifully designed Indian restaurant in Amed serving some of the most flavorful and well-balanced Indian dishes in Bali.
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AMED KEDAI
Amed Bar & Cafe is owned by Regge, one of our wonderful drivers. His full bar features nightly live music and serves both Balinese and western cuisined.
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ENTROPY
A stylish and delightfully quirky Amed spot where creative cocktails, original dishes, and warm, attentive service come together. Don’t miss their desserts, created by a French pastry chef.
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GUSTO RESTO
Features sea views from the patio, great cheeseburgers, pasta, seafood and Balinese dishes. Well-known for their daily fresh-baked bread!
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GALANGA
Vegetarian friendly cafe with an outdoor dining area. Features local dishes as well as fresh juices. The Veggie burger is stellar!
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TRATTORIA AMED
Enjoy Italian dishes such as Pizza, Pasta, and traditional meat dishes. Features stunning views of the sea from your dining table.
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NATNAT THAI COMFORT FOOD
Traditional authentic Thai food in a welcoming environment.
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SMALL TIME COOKS
Casual Burger spot for a quick bite to eat. The menu features various meat and vegetarian options as well as salads and milkshakes!