Peljesac Peninsula Travel Guide

Peljesac peninsula is Croatia’s second-largest peninsula (after Istria) and one of the most beautiful Croatian regions.

Peljesac peninsula is known for its rugged coast, pebble beaches, salt pans, fortification walls, sleepy villages, Plavac mali red wine, and delicious oysters and other seafood.

The Peljesac peninsula is a heaven for those who love the sea, mountains, and wine, offering a truly unique experience.

Where is Peljesac Peninsula?

Peljesac Peninsula is located in southern Croatia, 50 kilometers from Dubrovnik and 180 kilometers from Split. It is surrounded by the islands of Korcula, Mljet, and Hvar.

The Peljesac peninsula is 70 kilometers long. Its furthest points are Cape Vratnik near Ston to the southeast and Cape Lovisce to the northwest. Sv. Ilija (St. Elijah) is the highest peak on the peninsula, at 961 m high.

Peljesac is connected to the mainland near Ston by a narrow strip of land barely 1.5 km wide. Since 2022, the Peljesac Bridge also connects the Croatian peninsula of Peljesac with mainland Croatia. Before its construction, traveling to and from the Peljesac peninsula required using ferries or going through neighboring countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina.

What is The best time to visit Peljesac Peninsula?

Planning your visit to the Peljesac Peninsula is now easier than ever. With the completion of the Peljesac Bridge in July 2022, the peninsula is now more accessible, attracting a growing number of domestic and foreign tourists.

Despite its popularity, prices remain affordable, making it a budget-friendly choice. The best time to visit Peljesac is from June through October.

In July and August, the average sea temperature is a comfortable 25°C / 77°F, and the air temperature is a pleasant 29°C / 84°F.

In June or September, you can swim and sunbathe with the sea temperature at 23° / 74°F and the average air temperature at 25° / 77°F.

What are the Best towns on Peljesac Peninsula?

Ston is the closest village to the mainland. It is famous for its fortification walls, salt pans, and yummy oysters and is the most visited place on the peninsula.

Orebic (location) is the largest settlement and the most touristy place on the peninsula. Orebic is also a gateway to Korcula, the two being apart with less than 4 km wide channel. Orebic was historically home to many ship captains and seafarers, whose beautiful houses still witness those times. You can also visit a small maritime museum in Orebic and visit a captain’scaptain’s cemetery.

Viganj (location) is a small village 7.5 kilometers north of Orebic, popular among windsurfers. Viganj is simply a windsurfing paradise.

Loviste (location) is a small village in the far northwest part of the peninsula. It attracts those who want to relax by the sea. Many small coves and beautiful pebble beaches are nearby.

Trpanj (location) is a small village on the peninsula’s north shore facing the mainland. It’s a popular tourist spot and a ferry port, connecting the peninsula with Ploce on the mainland. In the vicinity of Trpanj, there is a bay with healing mud.

Other interesting places on the peninsula include Trstenik, Borak, Zuljana, Drace, and Potomje.

Why to visit Peljesac Peninsula?

Peljesac peninsula is a stunning destination for anyone who loves nature, history, wine, and laid-back vibe.

If you’re considering visiting this stunning peninsula during your stay in Croatia, here are compelling reasons to explore Peljesac peninsula.

1. History

The Peljesac peninsula boasts a rich and diverse history that spans millennia.

The Illyrians first inhabited it, and in the 1st century BC, it fell under Roman rule, witnessing the construction of roads, villas, and fortifications.

The Romans also introduced olive growing and winemaking, industries that continue to thrive today. Peljesac is dotted with small, picturesque villages that mirror the history and wait to be explored.

2. Beautiful scenery of untouched nature

The Peljesac peninsula is a testament to nature’s unspoiled beauty. Its mountainous terrain, a shield against urbanization, has preserved its pristine beauty.

The mountains, rising majestically from the sea, depict dramatic, awe-inspiring scenery. And the views they offer, some of the best on the coast, are a sight to behold.

3. Beaches

Peljesac peninsula beaches are surrounded by lush green hills, olive groves, and vineyards, which contrast with the turquoise water and white pebbles or sand.

Famous Peljesac beaches, such as Papratno and Divna, are known for their beauty, but along the coastal road, many small beaches give you privacy, with small pine trees providing shelter from the sun.

What to see on Peljesac Peninsula?

If you are seeking a unique and captivating Croatian adventure, the Peljesac Peninsula is an unparalleled destination.

Whether your interests lie in history, culture, nature, or gastronomy, the Peljesac Peninsula promises a wealth of experiences that will leave you enthralled.

1. Ston’s fortification walls

The Ston walls, stretching 5.5 km, are the longest fortification in Europe. The Dubrovnik Republic built the Walls of Ston in the 14th century to safeguard Ston’s salt plains.

The Ston Walls is an impressive structure that features three forts, forty-one towers, seven bastions, four pre-walls, and a water-filled moat.

A testament to the region’s rich history, the Ston walls were meticulously restored by the Society of Friends of Dubrovnik Antiques, a nonprofit association.

2. Salt pans

Salt has been produced on Peljesac since the middle ages. Back then, the value of salt equaled the value of gold. Salt is still produced in Ston using traditional methods. Everything here is done manually.

The best time to visit salt pans is during the harvest, from July to September. You can even join in the gathering in exchange for lodging and food. Find more info here.

3. Beaches

We love beaches on the Peljesac peninsula, from the sandy beaches of Prapratno and Zuljana to the beautiful pebble beaches of Divna and Duba on the northern shores and lovely beaches in Podobuce, Orebic, and Viganj.

4. Sleepy villages

With less than 10,000 inhabitants, the Peljesac Peninsula is a haven of tranquility. Half of the population resides in the peninsula’s main settlements, Orebic and Ston, leaving the other villages blissfully peaceful and serene.

Right, Peljesac isn’t overcrowded. It lacks large hotels (except Orebic), so most tourists stay at private apartments and campsites. It means that you will find your private little spot anywhere you go.

5. Dingac

Dingač is a region on the Pelješac Peninsula, on its southern slopes facing the open sea. In 1967, Dingač became the first Croatian region to receive the designation of controlled geographical origin for its red wine.

This wine, named Dingač after the area, is crafted from the Plavac Mali grape variety, grown in this unique region.

What To Do On Peljesac Peninsula?

There is no shortage of things to do on the Peljesac peninsula, whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure-seeker.

Below are some of the highlights that you should not miss.

1. Visit Ston Walls

Walk along the Walls of Ston and admire the views of the salt pans, the sea, and the mountains. Make sure to go to the fortress, and the church in Ston.

2. Harvest Salt In Ston

Ston is famous for its salt plants, which date back to the 14th century and are still in operation today. You can take a tour of the salt works, learn about the history and process of salt production, and even buy some of the finest sea salt in the world.

3. Taste seafood specialties

The Peljesac peninsula is renowned for its outstanding seafood. Delicious oysters and other shellfish are cultivated in the bay of Mali Ston, while the surrounding seas teem with various fish and seafood.

When visiting Peljesac, indulge in black risotto, exquisite oysters, fresh fish, and locally grown mussels. These traditional seafood dishes are among the best in Croatia!

For an unforgettable dining experience, visit Villa Koruna, Bota Sare, and Kapetanova Kuca, all located along Mali Ston’s charming seafront promenade. In addition to these renowned establishments, we highly recommend the quaint, family-run restaurant Ficovic in Hodilje.

You can also book a boat tour to a shellfish farm to savor oysters freshly harvested from the sea.

4. Discover local wineries

The Peljesac peninsula is famed for its red wine, made of the indigenous grape Plavac mali.

Although only 70 kilometers long, the peninsula has amazing wineries. Visit the wine museum in Potomje and join a wine tour or a wine-tasting event.

Read our impressions of some of the wineries we visited on the peninsula like Saints Hills Winery, and Miloš Winery.

5. Go Windsurfing

Windsurfers worldwide already know that when it comes to windsurfing in Croatia, Viganj, on the Peljesac peninsula, is the place to be. During the summer, a small fishing village turns into a main windsurfers’ beach spot in Croatia.

Accommodation On Peljesac Peninsula

Accommodation on Peljesac includes private apartments and rooms, campsites, and hotels. Prices vary based on accommodation type (with hotels being the most expensive), location (proximity to the sea increases costs), and season (July and August are the priciest months).

In June and September, a 4-person apartment typically costs €70 ($77, £60) per day, while the same apartment in July and August goes for €100 ($110, £85).

A double room with breakfast in a 4-star hotel costs €200 ($220, £170) in June or €250 ($275, £213) in August.

Campsite rates vary by quality and location, but you can expect to pay about €9 ($9.8, £7.7) per person per day, plus an additional €8 ($8.8, £6.5) per trailer or tent per day.

The most popular site for booking accommodation in Croatia is Booking.com, offering the largest inventory and a flexible cancellation policy. You can cancel your reservation if your plans change or secure a better deal if the hotel offers a promotion.

For private apartments, consider checking both Booking, HomeAway, and Airbnb.

Best hotels on Peljesac peninsula

Most hotels on the Peljesac peninsula are located in Orebic, while only one is in Trpanj. The best hotels to stay in during your visit to Peljesac are listed below.

Heritage Boutique Hotel Adriatic

The Heritage Boutique Hotel Adriatic is a charming 4-star property in Orebic, offering stunning views of Korcula Island.

Housed in a 17th-century building, the hotel features an à-la-carte restaurant, a wine cellar, and six elegantly decorated rooms with antique-style furniture. It is an adults-only retreat and offers free wired internet and air conditioning.

Room rates range from €180-€202 ($198-$222, £153-£172) per night, including breakfast.

Hotel Crystal

Hotel Crystal is a 4-star boutique hotel in Orebic, just 500 meters from the sea. It has 30 eco-friendly rooms with air conditioning and balconies, some with sea views.

The hotel features a restaurant, outdoor pool, fitness center, sauna, and complimentary parking.

In June and September, double rooms with breakfast start at €201 ($221, £171), and in July and August, rates begin at €250 ($275, £213).

Orsan Hotel By Aminess

Orsan Hotel by Aminess is a 3-star hotel in Orebic, located 1.7 kilometers from the town center. It offers a seafront location surrounded by pine and cypress trees.

The hotel features an outdoor saltwater pool, a nearby pebble beach, sports facilities, and complimentary parking. There are 91 air-conditioned rooms with balconies and free Wi-Fi.

Room rates range from €160 to €240 per night, depending on the season, with options for breakfast, dinner, or all-inclusive packages.

Food on the Peljesac Peninsula

The Pelješac Peninsula is renowned for its shellfish, particularly oysters, and other local delicacies.

Traditional food, besides seafood, includes sporki makaruli (pasta with beef or veal sauce), botarga (dried fish eggs), torta od makarula (a cake made with macaroni pasta), zelena manestra (a stew of dried lamb meat and kale), arancini (sugar-coated orange peels), and rozata (a custard pudding).

Most restaurants offer a typical menu featuring pizza, pasta, risotto, grilled meat, and fish. Popular dining spots like Kapetanova Kuca, Bota Sare, and Villa Koruna are well-known for their seafood, especially oysters and mussels.

Another great option for seafood lovers is Ficovic, a charming family-run restaurant in the village of Hodilje. Excellent rural taverns include Antunovic in Kuna (by appointment only) and Panorama above Orebić. Kobas Bay, an off-the-beaten-path destination popular among boat owners, offers a unique gastronomic experience.

A light lunch costs around €20-30 ($22-33, £17-26). The famous black risotto is priced at €17 ($19, £14), while musule na buzaru (mussels in sauce) is €10 ($11, £9) per kilogram. Fish is usually sold by weight, ranging from €55-70 ($61-77, £47-60) per kilogram.

The peninsula is also famous for its wine production, particularly red wine made from the Plavac Mali grape. Several wineries on the peninsula welcome visitors for tours and tastings, including Grgic Vina, Matuško, Saints Hills, Korta Katarina, Bura-Mrgudić, and Miloš Winery.

Peljesac Peninsula Beaches

The beaches on the Peljesac peninsula are exceptional. Throughout the peninsula, you will discover stunning pebble and sandy beaches.

The most popular pebble beaches on the northeastern shores are Divna and Duba, while Creser offers sandy beaches. On the southern side of the peninsula, you’ll find the sandy shores of Prapratno and Zuljana, with renowned pebble beaches near Orebic.

Bars, clubs, and nightlife

Peljesac Peninsula abounds in beach bars ideal for soaking in the serene atmosphere, enjoying chill music, and sipping delicious cocktails by the shore. While it might not be known for exhilarating nightlife, it certainly excels at providing a more tranquil yet fun evening setting.

Viganj, often referred to as a windsurfer’s paradise, boasts some of the most popular beach bars on the peninsula. K2 (location) and Ciriginto (location) are standout spots where visitors can relax with a refreshing drink while enjoying the stunning coastal views and vibrant windsurfing scene.

For wine enthusiasts, Peljesac does not disappoint. In Kuciste, Dino’s Wine Bar & Shop (location) offers an impressive selection of local wines in a cozy environment, ideal for a quiet evening or a romantic date.

Peljesac is also home to renowned wineries with onsite wine bars and tasting rooms, such as Korta Katarina and Saints Hills. These establishments provide an excellent opportunity to sample some of Croatia’s finest wines in a refined but welcoming setting.

Other notable bars on the peninsula include Caffe Bar Skafet in Zuljana (location). This bar features stunning panoramic views and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening out.

While the nightlife on Peljesac may not be the most raucous, the peninsula’s charming beach bars, wine bars, and scenic locales offer a memorable experience for those seeking a more tranquil and enjoyable night.

What to buy on Peljesac Peninsula?

On the Peljesac peninsula, you’ll find unique souvenirs reflecting the local culture, such as pottery, wine, olive oil, salt, embroidery, and lace.

The region is famous for its red wines like Dingac and Postup, both made from the Plavac Mali grape. A bottle of high-quality local wine always makes a great souvenir. You can also buy local liqueurs like travarica, orahovac, and rogačica.

For those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship, a piece of locally made pottery is the perfect souvenir. Pottery making has been a part of the peninsula’s history and culture for centuries, with Janjina being one of the best places to see it in action.

In addition to wines and pottery, lavender and immortelle products are also popular souvenirs from Peljesac. Known for their aromatic scents, these plants are used to create essential oils, cosmetics, decorations, and more. They make perfect gifts or keepsakes that capture the essence of the peninsula’s natural beauty.

For something more delicate and elegant, consider buying embroidery and lace products from the Peljesac peninsula. Shops selling these intricate crafts can be found in many towns, with some of the most famous in Orebic, Viganj, and Kuciste.

Apart from material souvenirs, Peljesac also offers unique experiences that you can take home with you. Join a local cooking class and learn how to make traditional Dalmatian dishes like peka or pasticada, using locally grown ingredients. You can also participate in olive oil tastings, where you’ll learn about the process of making this staple ingredient and sample different varieties.

Finally, remember to bring back some sea salt from Ston, known for its quality and production methods dating back to ancient times. This simple yet essential ingredient is used in many local dishes and makes a practical and meaningful souvenir.

Traveling to Peljesac Peninsula

Depending on your starting point, budget, and preferences, there are different ways to reach the Peljesac peninsula. You can travel by car, bus, or airplane, and each option has advantages and disadvantages.

Traveling by car offers the most convenient and flexible way to reach Peljesac, allowing you to stop and explore the scenic route. However, it is also the priciest option due to gas, tolls, and parking expenses. With the construction of the Peljesac Bridge in 2022, you can now bypass Bosnia and Herzegovina, significantly saving time by avoiding border waits.

The bus is the cheapest way to reach Peljesac but also the slowest and least convenient. You must adhere to the bus schedule, switch buses, and handle your own luggage.

Flying offers the quickest and most comfortable travel option, allowing you to avoid road traffic. However, you’ll need to fly into Split Airport or Dubrovnik Airport, as they are the nearest to the Peljesac Peninsula. From there, you can rent a car, take multiple buses, or hire a taxi to reach your destination.

Traveling to Peljesac Peninsula from Split

Driving is the most convenient option for traveling from Split to the Peljesac Peninsula. The trip covers 170 km and takes about 1.5 hours.

Take the A1 motorway towards Dubrovnik and exit at Ploce. Then, follow the signs for Peljesac and take the coastal road towards your destination. Although there is an option to travel by coastal road all the way from Split, it is not recommended due to potential traffic jams, making the journey last approximately 2.5 hours, despite being a shorter distance.

If your destination is Trpanj, you can take a ferry from Ploce to Trpanj, which operates three to four times per day and takes about 60 minutes. From June to October, the ticket price per person is €5.31 ($5.8, £4.5), and for a car, the cost is €20.44 ($22.48, £17.37). Additional information is available on Jadrolinija’s website.

Alternatively, you can travel by bus for €19 ($21, £16.2), but this is a night ride. The bus departs from Split at 1 a.m. and arrives in Orebic at 5.55 a.m.

Traveling to Peljesac Peninsula from Dubrovnik

From Dubrovnik, drive along the D8 road towards Ston, then follow the signs for Peljesac and continue on the D414 road. Due to the coastal route’s single-lane roads, the journey from Dubrovnik to Orebic spans 90 km and takes about 1.5 hours.

Alternatively, a bus ride from Orebic to Dubrovnik takes approximately 2.5 hours and costs €13 ($14.20, £11). If you prefer a taxi, the fare from Dubrovnik Airport to Orebic is €160 ($176, £136).

Traveling to the Peljesac Peninsula from other places

A direct bus route connects the Peljesac Peninsula with Croatia’s capital, Zagreb. Departing from Zagreb at 7:30 p.m., the bus arrives in Orebic at 5:05 a.m. A one-way ticket costs €38.5 ($42.4, £32.7).

The Peljesac Peninsula is also linked to Korcula Island by a ferry. The ferry operates between Orebic and Domince on Korcula Island, running every 30 minutes to 1 hour. The journey takes 15 minutes, with a one-way ticket priced at €4 ($4.4, £3.4) for passengers over 12 years old.

Additionally, there is a ferry service between Papratno on the Peljesac Peninsula and Sobra on Mljet Island. During the summer season, seven trips are scheduled daily, starting at 7 a.m. The ride lasts 45 minutes, and a one-way ticket for an adult costs €5.6 ($6.16, £4.8).

Transport on Peljesac Peninsula

The roads on the peninsula are narrow and windy, requiring caution at all times. Traffic isn’t dense, and the landscapes are beautiful, so driving slowly should give you lots of pleasure. The main transverse road connects Ston with Orebic and Ston to Trpanj.

Unfortunately, there is no public transportation connection between places on the Peljesac peninsula. However, you can rent a bike or e-bike for up to 6 hours, one, three, or seven days, and the price starts at €22 ($24, £19). Scooter rental is also available for €35 ($39, £30) per day.

Parking on Peljesac Peninsula

Parking on the Peljesac peninsula can be challenging, especially during peak season, but it’s not impossible. It just takes some planning and patience.

Parking in Ston can be tricky due to limited spaces and traffic. There are three public parking lots available. The best option is the large lot near the main entrance to the town, next to the bus station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the town center. Parking costs €1 ($1.1, £0.85) per hour or €11.9 ($13.1, £10.1) for a daily ticket.

Parking in Orebic is easier, as the town has more spaces and less traffic. During summer, the hourly rate is €1.4 ($1.54, £1.19), and a daily ticket costs €16 ($17.6, £13.6). The best spot is the large parking lot near the ferry port. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk to the town center and main beach, or you can take a taxi. This lot is also convenient for day trips to Korcula Island, as you can leave your car and hop on the ferry. Another option is the small lot near the Franciscan monastery, though it often fills up during peak season and is a bit farther from the town center and main beach.

Car Rental On The Peljesac Peninsula

If you rent a car, you can do so on the peninsula or in larger cities like Split or Dubrovnik before arriving in Peljesac.

Renting from bigger cities affords you a better selection of vehicles, lower rental prices, and a greater overall supply.

Most car rental companies in Croatia charge a one-time fee for taking a vehicle on ferries, which is useful to know if you plan to visit Korcula or Mljet.

A few companies offer car rentals directly on the Peljesac peninsula, with various options from small cars to vans.

You can book your vehicle online or by phone, and many companies provide free delivery to your accommodation or the ferry port.

Renting a car on the peninsula allows you to rent only for the days you need, saving on rental costs.

However, the downside is the limited availability of vehicles during peak season. To avoid inconvenience, ensure you book your car well in advance.

Peljesac Peninsula: further reading

• Three reasons to visit Peljesac peninsula this summer (photos)
• Peljesac wine tour
• Peljesac through photos
• A visit to the Milos Winery
• A visit to the Saints Hills Winery
• Slow Roads Croatia: Borak Peljesac
• Slow Roads Croatia: Trstenik Peljesac
• Slow Roads Croatia: Zuljana Peljesac

What’s your take on the Peljesac peninsula? Have you visited it, would you like to visit it? Let us know in the comments below.