Things to do on the Peljesac peninsula

The Peljesac Peninsula is a picturesque region in southern Croatia, 50 km north of Dubrovnik and 175 km south of Split.

Peljesac is home to charming coastal towns, lush vineyards, and serene beaches, making it a popular destination among travelers.

Exploring the Peljesac Peninsula reveals many activities catering to diverse interests. Visitors can indulge in wine tasting at the famous wineries of Dingac and Postup, renowned for their exquisite red wines.

History enthusiasts will delight in visiting the medieval town of Ston, famous for its impressive stone walls and ancient salt pans.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the scenic trails with breathtaking views and stunning landscapes. Additionally, the crystal-clear waters around the peninsula offer excellent swimming, snorkeling, and diving opportunities, particularly at the beautiful beaches of Orebic and Trpanj.

Whether you want to immerse yourself in culture, embark on outdoor adventures, or unwind by the sea, the Peljesac Peninsula has something for everyone.

What to do on the Peljesac Peninsula?

The Peljesac Peninsula attracts visitors with its natural beauty, rich history, charming sandy and pebble beaches, exquisite red wine, and delectable seafood. Renowned for its premium oysters and other shellfish, Peljesac offers an unparalleled culinary experience.

It is an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility, far from the hustle and bustle of typical tourist destinations. Peljesac retains its quaint and serene atmosphere, free from large hotels and overwhelming crowds. It’s the perfect escape for a relaxing holiday by the beach.

We visit the peninsula whenever we can, sometimes only for a scenic drive and gorgeous views, and other times for serious reasons like wine tasting.

Here is our list of the 18 best things to do on the Peljesac peninsula.

1. Visit The walls Of Ston, Peljesac Peninsula

The walls of Ston are Peljesac’s biggest attraction. According to the Society of Friends of Dubrovnik Antiques, a non-profit association responsible for the walls, over 71,000 visitors visited the Walls in 2023.

The Ston’s Walls are 5.5 km long, making them the longest fortification in Europe. Constructed in the 14th century by the Dubrovnik Republic, their primary purpose was to protect the town’s valuable salt pans, a commodity as precious as gold at the time.

The walls include three forts, forty-one towers, seven bastions, four pre-walls, and a water-filled moat.

Below are a few things to remember when planning a visit to the Walls of Ston.

• The walls can be very steep in places.
• Plan to visit in the morning or early evening in the summer to avoid midday heat.
• The walls are open to visitors year-round. Winter hours (November-March) are daily from 9 am-3 pm. Summer hours (April, May, August) are daily from 8:30 am-6:30 pm; (July) daily from 8:30 am-7:30 pm; (September, October) daily from 8:30 am-5:30 pm.
• From April to October, admission is €10 ($11, £8.5) for adults and €5 ($5.5, £4.3) per child (up to 18 years of age).

2. Harvest Salt in Ston, Peljesac Peninsula

Ston’s salt pans, the oldest in Europe, date back to the 14th century. For many years, salt was the main commodity of Ston and the primary reason the Dubrovnik Republic constructed strong fortification walls around the town.

Today, the salt pans are privately owned and consist of nine basins. Except for one, Mundo, all basins are named after Christian saints. The annual production is approximately 530 tons, and the process remains entirely manual.

Although salt is harvested here yearly, only a small portion is used as food. The basins urgently require renovation to make all the salt edible. Most of the salt harvested in Ston is used for other purposes, such as de-icing roads.

Harvesting takes place from July to September, and you can participate in exchange for food and lodging.

More info at Solana Ston website.

3. Eat local

Peljesac is renowned for its seafood, especially oysters and other shellfish. Mali Ston is the top spot to savor this delicacy, with notable but pricey restaurants like Kapetanova Kuca, Bota-Sare, and Villa Koruna.

For a more affordable dining experience, try Ficovic in Hodilje or Tavern Bakus in Ston. “Sutvid” near Drace (location) offers fresh oysters, shellfish, and prawns from a roadside shack. Konoba Barsa in Lovište (location) is yet another great seafood spot on Peljesac.

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Kobas on the southwest peninsula is a hidden gem favored by boat owners and food enthusiasts. Gastro Mare (location) is arguably the best dining spot, featuring Mediterranean dishes with a unique twist, using homegrown vegetables and locally sourced seafood.

For a hearty meal, visit the rural inns Antunovic in Kuna (by appointment only) or Panorama near Orebic (location).

4. Visit A Winery!

A wine tour is a must-do on the Peljesac peninsula. The local red grape variety, Plavac Mali, dominates 90% of the vineyards, complemented by other white grape varieties like Posip and Grk. Follow the “wine roads” signs to explore the peninsula’s wineries.

Most wineries are situated in the village of Potomje, including notable ones like Madirazza, Matusko, and Milicic. Niko Bura and his sister Mare Mrgudic craft exceptional red wines that warrant visiting their winery in Potomje, even though the facility isn’t impressive.

Just a few kilometers from Ston, you’ll find Milos Winery and, afterward, Grgich Winery in Trstenik. Frane Milos’ Stagnum is a remarkable red wine, making his winery a highly recommended stop.

On the way to Orebic, visit Saints Hills Winery in Zadvarje. The property is stunning! And so are their wines!

In Orebic, you’ll encounter Korta Katarina Winery. Despite a less-than-ideal experience during our visit, their Posip white wine stands out as one of the best we’ve tasted in Croatia. Additionally, there is a fantastic beach just below the winery.

5. Take a scenic drive

When I think of scenic drives in Croatia, Peljesac instantly comes to mind. Below are my favorite driving routes on the Peljesac Peninsula.

• From Trstenik to Potomje through the wine-growing slopes of the Dingac region. It’s simply indescribable.
• Driving around Drace demands countless photo stops. The coastline, adorned with small islands, is beautifully framed by Biokovo and Komarna on the mainland.
• From Orebic to Podobuce through the Postup wine region. One word: breathtaking!
• From Trstenik to Zuljana: this narrow but fully-asphalted road offers stunning views.

6. Go Hiking

Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply enjoy an occasional nature walk, Peljesac has something for everyone. Coastal towns feature what Croats call “lungo mare,” scenic walking trails that hug the coastline and often link neighboring villages. You can easily explore routes like Orebic to Viganj, Trstenik through Dingac, or Trpanj to Blaca Bay without sweat.

The crown jewel of Peljesac hiking is Mount Sv. Ilija (St. Elijah), the peninsula’s highest peak at 961 meters above sea level. Numerous paths lead to the summit, with the most popular starting points being Ruskovica, Bilopolja, and Nakovane. The trail from Nakovane is the easiest, while the route from Bilopolja is the most challenging. All trails are well-marked.

Other notable hiking routes include:

• Trpanj to Oskorusno: This hike begins with a 1.3 km ascent along an asphalt road, continuing through century-old vineyards and olive groves for another two kilometers to the village of Oskorusno.
• Oskorusno to Kuna: This easy, mostly flat hike takes about an hour and a half. The route follows a white road with minimal traffic, save for a few locals heading to farmland. Highlights include the Church in Kuna and vineyards along the way.
• Potomje to Mount Sv. Jure: This route offers unique charm and challenges, making for a memorable hiking experience.

7. Go Windsurfing in Viganj

Viganj, a charming coastal village on the southwest shores of the Peljesac peninsula, is among Croatia’s premier windsurfing destinations.

The funnel-like channel between the Peljesac peninsula and Korcula Island creates ideal wind conditions, perfect for windsurfing year-round.

In summer mornings, gentle winds are great for beginners, while afternoons bring the Maestral, a west wind averaging 20 knots and sometimes reaching 40 knots, ideal for advanced surfers.

The most popular launch spot in Viganj is St. Liberan, a shingle strip between Viganj and Kucisce. Viganj has many windsurfing schools and centers offering various classes and equipment rentals.

The beginner course includes 8 hours of instruction, spread over 2 hours per day, costing €119 ($131, £101) for adults and €99 ($109, £84) for children. A 1-hour trial course is available for €20 ($22, £17). Equipment rental prices start at €10 ($11, £8.5) for 1 hour.

Most windsurfers in Viganj stay at local campsites or apartments. Below are some notable Wind- and Kitesurf Centers in Viganj.

• Liberan Windsurf & Kite Center | Address: Beach Ponta, Viganj | Email: info@liberansurf.eu | Website
• Water Donkey Windsurfing & Kitesurfing Center | Address: Beach Ponta, Viganj | Phone: +385 91 1520 258 | Email: waterdonkey2@gmail.com | Website

8. Explore Beaches

The Peljesac Peninsula is home to some of Croatia’s finest beaches. In fact, many of Croatia’s best beaches are found here. The best part? You can still discover numerous charming and secluded beaches, untouched by masses of tourists. Visiting Peljesac’s beaches is among the top three reasons tourists flock to this Croatian region.

So why not embark on an exploration of Peljesac’s best beaches? Enjoy the sandy shores of Prapratno and Zuljana, the stunning pebble beaches of Divna and Duba on the northern coast, and the picturesque beaches in Podobuce, Orebic, and Viganj.

9. Visit a donkey farm

Antunovic family in Kuna runs a small rural inn but also raises donkeys. A lot of them. You can arrange a visit to their donkey farm where you’ll get a chance to pet donkeys, feed them, ride them, and even milk them.

While in Kuna don’t forget to visit village’s church built in 1682.

10. Go Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is popular on the Peljesac peninsula, which features several intriguing shipwrecks along the coast. Beyond shipwrecks, divers can explore numerous underwater caves, passages, and walls teeming with sea anemones and gorgonians.

Notable sites include the Boka ship, which sank in 1981 at a depth of only 15 meters; a German torpedo boat S-57, which sunk near the Lirica lighthouse in 1944; and a 2,000-year-old Roman ship.

Diving centers on the peninsula offer boat trips, supervised dives, equipment rental, and diving schools.

A single boat trip with a dive typically costs €33 ($36.30, £28). Diving at specific sites, like the German torpedo boat S-57 or a cement freighter, requires an additional permit. Full equipment rental (including suit, tank, respirator, jacket, and ABC gear) is an extra €33 ($36.30, £28).

Popular diving centers:

• Diving Center Zuljana | Phone: +385 99 2162 510, +385 99 2001 222 | Email: divingcentarzuljana@gmail.com | Website
• Diving Center Barbara | Phone: +385 98 757 898, +385 98 9593 458, +385 98 755 785 | Email: divebarbara@gmail.com | Website

11. Rock Climbing

Family Grljusic runs a small rural inn in the village of Gurića Selo, high in the hills above Orebić. Few years ago, they set a climbing site – Hrid, just next to their resort. The site offers seven climbing routes, and they will be adding more.

Experienced climbers can try it themselves, while beginners can learn the basics of rock climbing accompanied by a professional guide.

Contact | a: Gurica Selo, Orebić | m: +385 (0) 98 969 0141 | t: +385 (0)20 713 637 | e: boris.grljusic@gmail.com | Website

12. Explore Orebic

Orebić is a charming coastal town located on the southwestern coast of the Pelješac Peninsula in Croatia. Known for its rich maritime history, Orebić was once a prominent seafaring town and home to many famous captains.

The Maritime Museum in Orebic is an excellent destination for exploring the town’s heritage and culture. Here, you can marvel at exhibits featuring ships, maps, documents, and artifacts that tell the area’s rich history.

In addition, Orebić offers various cultural and historical sites, such as the Franciscan Monastery of Our Lady of Angels, which houses a collection of paintings, relics, and a library. Set atop of the hill, the Monastery also provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding area.

13. Learn about Croatian modern art

Mato Celestin Medović (1857-1920) was a distinguished Croatian painter from the Peljesac peninsula. He is known for his landscapes, seascapes, and religious paintings.

As one of the founders of the Croatian modern art movement, he significantly influenced many artists with his unique style and technique.

The gallery dedicated to Medović is situated in Kuna, in his former house and studio, which have been meticulously preserved and renovated into a museum. It features a collection of his paintings, sketches, and personal belongings, alongside works by his contemporaries and students.

A notable highlight of the gallery is its surrounding garden, offering a tranquil setting where visitors can relax and enjoy the stunning peninsula and sea views. 

14. Visit Nakovanj village

Nakovanj is not a typical tourist destination but a hidden gem that offers a glimpse of the authentic Croatian lifestyle.

Nakovanj is one of the oldest settlements in the area, dating back to the 14th century. It has preserved its traditional stone houses, narrow streets, and rural atmosphere.

The village is surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, and pine forests, offering stunning views of the nearby islands of Korcula and Mljet.

 Here, you can enjoy stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, lush green hills, and ancient stone houses. You can also explore the region’s rich history and culture.

15. Relax at the Papratno camping

Papratno Camping is a charming, family-run campsite welcoming guests since 1964. Nestled on a picturesque pebble beach and surrounded by olive trees and pine forests, it offers a serene escape to enjoy the sun, sea, and nature away from the crowds and city noise.

The campsite provides essential amenities, including toilets, showers, electricity, water, Wi-Fi, a barbecue area, and a small shop. The staff is friendly and accommodating, speaking English, German, and Italian. Prices are reasonable, especially if you book in advance or plan a longer stay.

During the peak season, rates range from €7.5 to €9.5 ($8.3 to $10.5, £6.4 to £8) per person per day. Car and tent fees are from €5.9 to €7.4 ($6.5 to $8.1, £5 to £6.8), and electricity costs range from €5.5 to €6 ($6.1 to $6.7, £4.7 to £5.1).

Contact | a: Papratno, Ston | t: +385 (0)20 754 000| e: camping.prapratno@duprimorje.hr

16. Visit Mljet Island

Mljet, one of Croatia’s greenest islands, is a must-visit destination. Located off the coast of the Peljesac peninsula, Mljet is accessible via a regular ferry line between Prapratno on Peljesac and Sobra on Mljet.

The island’s northwestern half is a protected national park renowned for its lush vegetation, seawater lakes, and dense pine forests.

Despite the influx of tourists, Mljet maintains a tranquil ambiance punctuated by small, picturesque villages. The southern part of the island boasts the stunning sandy beach – Saplunara.

Practical Information for Visiting Mljet

• The ferry operates year-round with different schedules for summer and winter.
• Each crossing takes 45 minutes, with a one-way adult ticket costing €5.6 ($6.16, £4.8).
• Sobra, the ferry port, is a small village. To explore the island’s attractions, renting a car is advisable.
• The nearest entrance to the national park is in Pomena, just a 15-minute walk to Malo Jezero (a small lake).
• The national park is open from 8 am to 8 pm during summer.
• The park’s online admission fees are €13.5 ($14.9, £11.5) per adult in the low season and €22.5 ($24.8, £19.1) from June to September.

17. Visit Korcula Island

Korcula Island, accessible primarily via the Peljesac peninsula, is separated from the mainland by a narrow channel. You can reach Korcula easily from Orebic, Viganj, or Kucisce, with numerous passenger boats operating daily in summer and a year-round ferry service from Orebic.

Korcula is a charming island rich in history, quaint old towns, stunning beaches, vineyards, and olive groves. The island’s largest settlement, Korcula Town, often called “Little Dubrovnik,” developed under the Dubrovnik Republic and is encircled by defensive walls. Korcula Town is believed to be the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo.

The ferry from Orebic to Domince on Korcula Island runs every 30 minutes to 1 hour. It offers a quick 15-minute journey at a cost of €4 ($4.4, £3.4) for those over 12 years old, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option for your island adventure.

Other notable places on the island include Vela Luka, known for its beaches, and Lumbarda, Smokvica, and Cara, known for their picturesque vineyards.

18. Visit Dubrovnik or Split

Dubrovnik and Split are the most renowned cities in Dalmatia, offering exciting day trips from Peljesac that are both manageable and rewarding.

Dubrovnik, located just 50 kilometers from the Peljesac peninsula, has a rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views. The drive to Dubrovnik takes less than an hour by car. Alternatively, a bus from Orebic to Dubrovnik takes 2.5 hours, with tickets priced at €13 ($14.2, £11).

Split, Croatia’s second-largest city after the capital, Zagreb, is celebrated for Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visiting Split requires a bit more time, as the journey by car takes approximately two hours. There is also an option to travel by bus for €19 ($21, £16.2). However, this is a night ride, with the bus arriving in Split at 1 am.

Peljesac Peninsula, Croatia: Know Before You Go

Peljesac Peninsula, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Before you embark on your adventure, we provide essential information about Peljesac Peninsula, Croatia to make your trip enjoyable and hassle-free.

In this section, we’ll answer some key questions.

• Is it worth visiting the Peljesac peninsula, Croatia?
• When is the best time to visit Peljesac, Croatia?
• How long should you plan to stay in Peljesac?
• What are the best accommodation options on the Peljesac Peninsula, Croatia?
• How can you reach the Peljesac Peninsula?
• What is Peljesac, Croatia famous for?

Is the Peljesac Peninsula worth visiting?

The Peljesac Peninsula is definitely worth visiting. Peljesac offers exceptional wine and gastronomy, stunning natural beauty with activities like hiking and swimming, and rich cultural heritage with historic towns and medieval architecture.

What is the best time to visit the Peljesac Peninsula, Croatia?

The best time to visit the Peljesac Peninsula is June, early July, and September. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and local attractions fully.

How long should you stay on the Peljesac Peninsula, Croatia?

A stay of 3 to 4 days is ideal for experiencing the Peljesac Peninsula. This timeframe allows you to explore the main attractions, enjoy the local cuisine, and indulge in outdoor activities without feeling rushed.

What is the best accommodation on the Peljesac Peninsula, Croatia?

• Luxury: Villa Korta Katarina & Winery
• Mid-Range: Aminess Bellevue Hotel
• Budget: Bed&Breakfast Agroturizam Antunović

How to reach the Peljesac Peninsula, croatia?

The most convenient way to reach the Peljesac Peninsula is by car or private transfer from Dubrovnik or Split. However, bus and ferry options are also available.

What is the Peljesac Peninsula famous for?

Peljesac is renowned for its high-quality wine production, particularly red wines such as Dingač and Postup. It’s also known for its oyster farming in Mali Ston Bay, where you can enjoy some of the freshest oysters in Europe.

The Peljesac region also has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with notable landmarks such as the Walls of Ston and the medieval town of Orebic.

The peninsula’s beaches are also popular for their crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings. For outdoor enthusiasts, Peljesac offers various activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports.

These are just some of the reasons to visit Peljesac Peninsula.