Away from the coast, you'll find unspoilt nature and crystal clear water of Zrmanja river

If you ask a random foreigner about Croatia, most will cite Dubrovnik, Split and other wonderful coastal cities as the most popular tourist destinations. When it comes to urban areas, tourists usually check into hotels or book private apartments, but there's another type of accommodation many travellers opt for: camping.

Those who lean towards a more Robinson-style vacation will be happy to spend a couple of days in a trailer or in a tent, recharging their batteries and unwinding in their own patch of shade at one of many campsites in Croatia. Here's an idea – in case you want to escape the crowds, skip the camps on the coast and shake things up with a visit to one of the understated natural wonders: the Zrmanja river.

Zrmanja is a 69-kilometre river stretching from southern Lika to northern Dalmatia. It's a popular rafting destination, but even if you're not the active-vacation type, you'll find dozens of fantastic spots to set up your tent and enjoy a quiet weekend in the company of friends, a loved one... or even alone. Turn off your mobile phone every once in a while, look up at the night sky, and enjoy the silence.

If you're passing through Lika, make sure to first stop at Majerovo vrelo, a natural spring at Gacka river. The village of Sinac houses a traditional mill, a lovely remnant of an age when more than 60 mills used to operate along the shores of Gacka.

A bit further south, prepare yourself for a stunning palette created by Mother Nature herself.

The emerald river curving through the canyon like a thick, lazy snake; the off-whites and greys of the steep hills, the mesmerising green scenery everywhere you turn.

For those who are using their vacation to get away from their computer screens and depressing headlines, the unspoilt nature of Zrmanja will provide the best opportunity to relax their weary eyes.

Every now and then, you'll find a proper campsite where you'll be accompanied by other enthusiasts taking a dip in the refreshingly cool water. At other spots, you might not be able to find another person in sight for miles... but you might end up making new friends anyway:

Thanks to Žorž Appolo for sharing these gorgeous photos.