In Lastovo Islands Nature Park, birdlife and a network of trails shape the view of the archipelago. A total of 145 bird species have been recorded there so far; future surveys may change this number. On islets in the eastern part of the nature park, up to 70 percent of Croatia’s population of Audouin’s gulls (Larus audouinii) breed. This proportion, too, may change with future population surveys. The nature park also has more than 200 kilometres of hiking and cycling trails. Conditions on individual trails may vary.
Coasts, lakes and trails on Mljet
Dubrovnik-Neretva County has a narrow, varied coastline, separated from the interior by a mountain range. On Mljet, the national park adds a distinctive natural feature: it is the oldest marine protected area in the Mediterranean region. Veliko jezero and Malo jezero form a rare geological and oceanographic phenomenon in a karst landscape. From the Montokuc viewpoint, you can look out over the lakes, the open sea and the surrounding islands.
A network of hiking and cycling trails runs through Mljet National Park. A marked hiking trail leads from Babino Polje to Odysseus’ Cave. As lake and trail conditions may affect your visit, it is best to check them before setting out. Saplunara offers a different landscape: this protected significant landscape includes the two sandy bays of Velika Saplunara and Mala Saplunara, framed by dense pine forest and Mediterranean vegetation.
Cultural heritage from different eras
Dubrovnik’s Old Town preserves Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. On the island of Sveti Marija in Veliko jezero stands a Benedictine monastery dating from the 12th century. Vela spila, above Vela Luka on the island of Korčula, offers a glimpse further back in time: the cave is an important archaeological site and a geomorphological natural monument. It contains evidence of continuous human presence since the Early Stone Age.
On Lastovo, the focus is not only on architectural history: the Lastovo Carnival is considered living intangible cultural heritage and one of Croatia’s most treasured customs. During the summer months in Dubrovnik, the Linđo folklore group and its ensemble perform traditional music and dance at the historic Lazareti. The seasonal performance programme may change.
Experience waterways and landscapes
Kayaking is offered in various locations around the county, including in and around Dubrovnik, on Mljet and in Cavtat. Offers and launch points may change, so check current availability before planning. In the Neretva Valley, visitors can take a traditional boat ride through narrow canals and tributaries.
In Konavle, horse-riding excursions pass through vineyards, olive groves and expansive meadows along the Ljuta River, or follow cliffs above the sea. Tour options and routes may vary by provider. The activities described differ in how you get around and which landscapes they highlight.
Regional dishes and travel planning
Green manestra has a centuries-old tradition and was one of the favourite dishes of Dubrovnik’s nobility. The Neretva Valley is known for brodetto made with eel and frog, usually served with polenta. Preparation and availability of the dishes may vary by restaurant and season.
Frequent, regular bus services operate within the county, connecting towns and localities; there are also daily services between major Croatian cities. Regular ferry services also operate daily. Timetables and reservation requirements may change, so check them before making firm plans for a connection.
Discover more destinations: Dubrovnik Municipality, Pojezerje Municipality, Konavle Municipality, Lastovo Municipality, Dubrovačko Primorje Municipality, Slivno Municipality, Župa Dubrovačka Municipality, Opuzen Municipality, Ploče Municipality, Smokvica Municipality, Kula Norinska Municipality, Metković Municipality, Pomena.
Go to the main travel overview: Croatia.
