Tucked away on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, Dubrovnik is a city that has gained renewed fame in recent years for its breathtaking scenery, having been used as a location for the hit TV series Game of Thrones. With its rich cultural variety, beautiful sea, and excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas, Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast.
In this article, we will delve into the world of Dubrovnik and its surroundings, exploring seven nearby islands and towns that are sure to captivate your senses. From snorkeling in Lokrum Island to discovering underwater archaeological parks in Cavtat, we will uncover the hidden gems that make this region so special.
A Brief History of Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik’s history dates back to the 14th century, when it was a major trading center in the Mediterranean. The city’s strategic location on the Dalmatian coast made it an attractive destination for various cultures and empires, including the Venetians, Genoese, and Habsburgs.
The Gothic and Baroque architectural influences that can be seen in Dubrovnik today are a testament to its rich cultural heritage. The city’s walls, which date back to the 16th century, are still some of the best-preserved in Europe, making it an ideal location for Game of Thrones fans who want to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters.
Lokrum Island: A Snorkeler’s Paradise
Located just off the coast of Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island is a lush green paradise that is home to peacocks and colorful fish. The island is connected to Dubrovnik by ferry, with daily departures that take just 15 minutes.
Lokrum has been the subject of many legends over the years, including the story of Richard the Lionheart, who was shipwrecked on the island during his return from the third Crusade. Today, visitors can explore the island’s beautiful beaches and coves, or take a snorkeling trip to see the island’s famous peacocks in their natural habitat.
In addition to its natural beauty, Lokrum Island is also home to several historical landmarks, including the Fort Royal and the Botanical Garden. The garden is one of the oldest in Europe and features over 800 species of plants and trees.
Elafiti Islands: A Natural Wonder
The Elafiti Islands are located about 15 kilometers off the coast of Dubrovnik and are known for their stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear sea. The islands are rich in Mediterranean vegetation, including ancient olives and fragrant lemon trees.
Today, the Elafiti Islands are a popular tourist destination, with frequent connections from Dubrovnik and numerous facilities to cater to visitors. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on one of the island’s beautiful beaches.
The islands are also home to several historical landmarks, including the Forte Cupeco and the Church of St. Nicholas. The fort was built in the 17th century to protect the island from pirate attacks, while the church is one of the oldest in the region.
Cavtat: A Town with a Rich History
Located on the peninsula of Rat, Cavtat is an ancient town that has been inhabited since the 14th century. The town was once a major trading center in the Mediterranean and was known as Ragusa Vecchia in Italian, while Dubrovnik was known as Ragusa Nuova.
Cavtat is home to many historical landmarks, including the monastery of Our Lady of Snow, which dates back to the 15th century. Visitors can also explore the town’s underwater archaeological park, where over a thousand amphorae containing olive oil, olives, and grains are conserved.
In addition to its rich history, Cavtat is also known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear sea. The town has several beaches, including the popular Beach of Kelo and the secluded cove of Pucareva.
Cattaro Bays: A Natural Wonder
Located in the southern region of Dalmatia, Cattaro Bays are some of the deepest fjords in Europe. The bays have inspired writers and poets like Lord Byron to call them “fate of the sea” and “spouse of the Adriatic Sea”.
Today, the Cattaro Bays are a popular tourist destination, with frequent connections from Dubrovnik and numerous facilities to cater to visitors. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on one of the bay’s beautiful beaches.
The bays are also home to several historical landmarks, including the Church of St. Nicholas and the Fort of St. John. The church is one of the oldest in the region, while the fort was built in the 17th century to protect the town from pirate attacks.
Mljet Island: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Located in the Adriatic Sea, Mljet Island is a true natural paradise that is almost entirely covered with vegetation protected by a National Park. The island can be visited by boat, kayak, or bicycle and bike, allowing visitors to explore its stunning marine areas and two salt lakes.
Mljet has been known for centuries as a popular destination for both military and vacation purposes. It is believed that the island is actually the island of Ogigia mentioned in The Odyssey, where Ulisse was imprisoned by the nymph Calipso for seven years before later marrying her.
The island’s natural beauty is also home to several historical landmarks, including the Church of St. Mark and the Benedictine Monastery. The church is one of the oldest on the island, while the monastery dates back to the 12th century and features beautiful frescoes and architectural details.
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Korcula Island: A Town with a Rich History
Located off the coast of Dubrovnik, Korcula Island is one of the largest islands in Croatia. Vicinity to the coast, only 15 minutes away from which, was once a witness to battles between Genoese and Venetians during which Marco Polo was taken prisoner.
Many believe that Marco Polo was originally from Curzola, although there are no historical evidence to support this theory. Nonetheless, visitors can visit what is claimed to be his birthplace in Korcula, as well as the city of Korcula and its historic buildings, including the cathedral and watchtowers like the Veliki Revelin.
In addition to its rich history, Korcula Island is also known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear sea. The island has several beaches, including the popular Beach of Lopud and the secluded cove of Povljana.
Hvar Island: A Mediterranean Paradise
Located in the Adriatic Sea, Hvar Island boasts the highest number of sunny days among Croatian islands. The island is home to a medieval walled town, but archaeological findings suggest that the island has been inhabited since the Neolithic period.
The most famous beach on the island is Dubovica, located on the southern coast, with levigated pebbles that make the sea floor sparkling. Visitors can also enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters or take a tour to discover stunning caves, including the Blue Cave, known for its unique light effects that occur inside it.
In addition to its natural beauty, Hvar Island is also home to several historical landmarks, including the Hvar Fortress and the St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The fortress was built in the 16th century to protect the town from pirate attacks, while the cathedral dates back to the 13th century and features beautiful frescoes and architectural details.
Getting Around and Accommodation
Dubrovnik is well-connected to the surrounding areas by bus and ferry services, making it easy to explore the region. Visitors can also rent cars or bicycles to get around, although driving in Dubrovnik’s narrow streets can be challenging.
Accommodation options range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and apartments, so there’s something for every budget and preference. Some of the top-rated accommodations include the Hotel Excelsior, the Hotel Bellevue, and the Hotel Dvorjanski.
Tips and Recommendations
- When visiting Dubrovnik, be sure to walk along the city walls and take in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
- For a unique experience, take a boat tour around Lokrum Island or visit one of the many secluded coves on Elafiti Islands.
- Cavtat is a great place to learn about Dubrovnik’s history and culture, with several museums and historical landmarks to explore.
- When visiting Mljet Island, be sure to explore the National Park and see some of the island’s unique wildlife, including the rare species of birds and plants.
- Korcula Island is home to several beautiful beaches, so be sure to visit one or two during your stay.
Conclusion
Dubrovnik and its surroundings are a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and historical landmarks. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling, exploring underwater archaeological parks, or simply relaxing on one of the region’s beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone in this incredible destination.
So why not start planning your trip to Dubrovnik today? With its stunning scenery, fascinating history, and warm hospitality, this Pearl of the Adriatic is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
FAQs
- How do I get to Lokrum Island from Dubrovnik?
You can reach Lokrum Island by ferry from Port Bay in Dubrovnik, with daily departures that take just 15 minutes. - What are the best beaches on Elafiti Islands?
The islands are home to several beautiful beaches, including the popular Zlatni Rat Beach and the secluded coves of Lopud and Šipan. - Can I rent a car in Cavtat?
Yes, there are several car rental companies in Cavtat that offer a range of vehicles for hire. - What is the best way to get around Cattaro Bays?
The bays can be visited by ferry or boat tour, with frequent connections from Dubrovnik and numerous facilities to cater to visitors. - How do I visit Mljet Island?
The island can be reached by catamaran with two possible landing points, Sobra and Polače, with daily departures that take one hour and twenty minutes. - Can I see the birthplace of Marco Polo in Korcula?
Yes, visitors can visit what is claimed to be Marco Polo’s birthplace in Korcula, as well as the city of Korcula and its historic buildings, including the cathedral and watchtowers like the Veliki Revelin. - What are some of the top-rated accommodations in Dubrovnik?
Some of the top-rated accommodations include the Hotel Excelsior, the Hotel Bellevue, and the Hotel Dvorjanski.
Additional Resources
- For more information on visiting Dubrovnik and its surroundings, visit the official website of the Dubrovnik Tourist Board.
- To plan your trip to Dubrovnik, use the online booking platform Book Now.
- To get more information on accommodation options in Dubrovnik, visit the official website of Booking.com.
