From the city of Paris, to castles, British libraries, and more: there are many places in Texas you wouldn’t believe are in Texas. Among them is Adriatica village, a 45-acre lakeside oasis modeled after a Croatian village. This season, you can escape to the Mediterranean heartland just four hours driving from Houston.
Adriatica Village is located in McKinney, Texas 30 miles or so northeast of Dallas. Situated in the center of the Stonebridge Ranch development, the 45-acre village is modeled after the Croatian fishing town of Supetar.
Here, visitors can get a glimpse of the Mediterranean oasis. Complete with stone buildings adorned with wood and iron accents, cobblestone streets, verandas, courtyards, parks, and the landmark bell tower. One of its central attractions is the Bella Donna Chapel, designed in the likes of a 16th-century Croatian church.
While a church it is, the Bella Donna Chapel doubles as a venue available for wedding bookings as well as occasional concert performances.
Furthermore, the old-world, Croatian village in Texas is home to a wide variety of small businesses, retailers, venues, restaurants, and residential areas.
One of Adriatica’s signature businesses is the Guitar Sanctuary. Here, the only thing that could upstage its beautiful design, is its incredible guitar selection featuring models including Stranberg, Sufr, and Collings.
Other retailers in the area include the Karadie Boutique for easy-going apparel as well as the Love Life Store inside the Guitar Sanctuary for trendy high fashion.
Of the area’s dining options, the quaint little village features a trio of options. In Mediterranean spirit, the area features a Napoletana pizzeria. Other options include the Zin Zen Wine Bistro and Waterfront Grill.
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in Texas, add Adriatica Village in McKinney to your travel bucket list. Before visiting, we recommend checking its event calendar to be apprised of any concerts, festivals, or otherwise.
See also: 10 beautiful Texas Hill Country towns to visit this season