The Ultimate Road Trip
introducing Croatia
For many people the ‘classic’ festival experience isn’t really very festive anymore. Tickets are overpriced, and the weather is normally terrible. If rain, wind and soggy tents don’t really excite you, you may want to consider a trip to the continental mainland for some festivals with a slightly different feel.
Croatia is steadily building a reputation as one of the best places to go for some festival magic. At the start of July and in perfect timing to serve as a ‘warm-up’ for the massive Exit Festival in nearby Serbia, Garden Festival (06-08 July) was immensely popular this year. Based in Zadar, one of Croatia’s most trendy locations, and the nearby 900 year old beach resort of Petrcane, Garden Festival’s music policy focuses on happy, laid back dance music, and is one of the few Festivals where you can take a dip in the sea between acts. This year saw performances from Norman Jay and Mr. Scruff amongst others. A three day pass costs only L50, and camping can be arranged on arrival.
Garden isn’t the only festival in Croatia however...there are two more delightful events in the same location and only a month later. First up is the Electric Elephant festival (22-24 Aug). Hosted by Electric Chair, one of Manchester’s most established dubstep club nights, Electric Elephant saw King Creosote, Adem, Unabombers, Horse Meat Disco and Ibiza legend Alfredo all perform this year. A three day pass costs only L50. A matter of days after Electric Elephant ends, so begins Outlook Festival (29-31 Aug). Outlook is growing and growing in popularity, with its music policy of dubstep, hip hop, reggae, drum & bass and breakbeat all played in an outdoor amphitheatre irresistable.
These festivals are easily reached. Zadar has its own international airport, and buses run the 20 minute journey regularly, but an even better way to enjoy your experience would be to rent a car. Having a car would allow you to explore what is truly some of the most beautiful coast in the world, and arranging car hire is simple. Holiday Autos have pick up points in both Zadar airport and downtown Zadar, with prices starting at around L35 a day.
The close proximity of all of these Festivals means, in theory, they could all be experienced in one go. An incredible way to take it all in would be a road trip across Europe- perhaps you and your friends have just graduated from University and are looking for a good way to combine a bit of travelling and partying? Or maybe you’re just looking for a great summer adventure. Whatever the reason, if you are taking your own vehicle, make sure you have car insurance. It can be done simply and affordably, especially if you check online. The Co-operative Insurance offers some very competitive rates, with European breakdown cover as standard.
