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Sailing Through Croatian Gems: An Explorer's Guide to Enchanting Islands and Tours

Sailing Through Croatian Gems: An Explorer's Guide to Enchanting Islands and Tours

Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting waters of Croatia, where each island beckons with its own unique charm and allure. As a local expert, we share with you a curated list of our favorite destinations /islands to explore and tours to take during a week of sailing in Croatia.

From the historic military sites of Vis to the vineyard-draped hills of Hvar, the rugged landscapes of Brač, the culinary delights of Ston, and the serene beauty of Mljet, each stop along this itinerary offers a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of Croatia's coastal treasures. Join us as we set sail, immerse ourselves in these idyllic islands' rich history, flavors, and natural wonders, and create unforgettable memories on the shimmering Adriatic waters.

Island Vis

Military tour

Vis has a fascinating military history, having been occupied by the British, French, Austro-Hungarians, Italians, and Germans over the centuries. On a guided tour, you can explore the remains of WWII bunkers, tunnels, and abandoned military sites. You can also learn about the island's strategic importance and see stunning views from the former military installations.

The tour takes you to the Submarine Cave, a secret tunnel built by the Yugoslavian navy to hide submarines. You'll also visit the remains of the Tito Cave, a former military hospital and command center. Other highlights include the Perukica Tunnel, the Hum Fortress ruins, and the Titov Rat military complex with its bunkers and cannons.

ex-military-bunker-for-ships-on-the-island-of-vis.jpgEx-military tunnel in Rogačić bay, Vis Island

Scuba Diving

The clear waters around Vis are perfect for scuba diving, with numerous shipwrecks, caves and underwater cliffs to explore. Dive sites range from beginner-friendly to advanced. Spot colorful marine life like groupers, moray eels and nudibranchs. Many dive centers offer equipment rental and guided dives for all levels.

Some of the top dive sites include the SS Vassilios wreck, a Greek freighter sunk in 1981. You can penetrate the wreck and see the cargo hold and engine room. The Barracuda Point dive site is known for its large schools of barracuda. The Ravnik Blue Cave is a stunning natural wonder, with a blue glow illuminating the cave interior.

scuba-diving-vis-fortunal-boat-wreck.jpgFortunal boat wreck, by the island of Vis

Island Hvar

Wine tasting - Tomić, Jelsa

Hvar is famous for its excellent wines, especially the red Plavac Mali grape. Visit the Tomić Winery in Jelsa for a tasting of their award-winning wines like Medvid and Prošek. Tour the vineyards and winery, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy a delicious pairing of local cheeses, prosciutto, and olive oil. The Tomić family has been making wine on Hvar for generations. Their vineyards are located on the steep, sun-drenched slopes of the Pitve valley. You'll learn about the unique terroir and climate that produces such exceptional Plavac Mali grapes. The winery tour includes the fermentation tanks, oak barrels and bottling line. The tasting showcases the complex flavors and aromas of Hvar's signature wines.

Plenković Winery, Sveta Nedjelja

Another top winery to visit is Plenković in Sveta Nedjelja. Their Plavac Mali wines are some of the best on the island. Taste their Plavac, Medvid, and Prošek while taking in the stunning views of the vineyards and the Adriatic Sea. The Plenković family has been making wine since 1892. Their vineyards are located on the steep, sun-exposed slopes of the Sveta Nedjelja hills. The winery uses traditional methods combined with modern technology to craft its award-winning wines. The tasting includes their signature Plavac Mali, a full-bodied red with notes of dark fruit, spice, and herbs. You'll also sample their sweet Prošek dessert wine. The highlight of the tasting is their wine cellar built under the sea.

zlatan-otok-winery-hvar.jpgPhoto © Zlatan otok; Restaurant and Marina Bilo Idro

Island Brač

Quad Tour to Vidova Gora

Take an exciting quad bike tour to the top of Vidova Gora, the highest peak on the Adriatic islands. Ride through olive groves, vineyards and pine forests to reach the summit at 778m. Enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic and nearby islands. Stop at the charming village of Dol and visit the Hermitage of Blaca. The quad tour starts in the town of Bol, known for its famous Zlatni Rat beach. You'll ride along dirt tracks and paved roads, passing through the picturesque villages of Murvica and Dračevica. Stop for photos at the Dragon's Cave, a natural wonder with a dragon-shaped rock formation. At the top of Vidova Gora, you'll be rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding islands. On the way back, visit the historic Hermitage of Blaca, a former monastery built into the cliffs.

the-view-of-bol-and-hvar-from-vidova-gora-mountain.jpgThe view from Vidova Gora Mountain

Blaca monastery trekking

Trekking to the historic Blaca Monastery from the picturesque cove of Blaca offers a journey through time and nature on the island of Brač. As you embark on this scenic hike, you'll traverse rugged terrain, winding paths, and lush landscapes, immersing yourself in the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings. The monastery, dating back to the 16th century, stands as a testament to the resilience and dedication of its former inhabitants, who sought solace and spirituality in this remote mountainous setting. The trek to Blaca Monastery from the cove of Blaca provides a physical challenge and a spiritual and historical experience, offering a glimpse into the island's rich heritage and the harmonious coexistence of man and nature in this captivating corner of Croatia.

Pustinja Blaca hermitage on island Brač.jpgPustinja Blaca Hermitage on the island of Brač

Island Korčula

Wine tasting - Bire

Korčula, an island steeped in history and natural beauty, captivates visitors with its rich tapestry of experiences. Nestled in the heart of the Adriatic, Korčula is a haven for wine enthusiasts, boasting the renowned Bire Winery in Lumbarda. Here, amidst the sandy soil of Lumbarda, the indigenous Grk grape thrives, producing a unique and exquisite wine that embodies the essence of the island. The Bire Winery, with its maze of renovated stone houses and a stunning tasting room, offers a glimpse into the winemaking process and a taste of the rare Bire Plavac Mali, a true gem of Croatian viticulture.

Windsurfing

As the sun sets over the azure waters surrounding Korčula, the island comes alive with the exhilarating sport of wind foiling and windsurfing in the Korčula Canal near Orebić. Adventurers and water sports enthusiasts flock to this idyllic spot to harness the power of the wind and glide across the crystal-clear waters, experiencing the thrill of wind foiling and windsurfing in one of Croatia's most picturesque settings. The Korčula Canal, with its perfect wind conditions and stunning coastal views, offers an unforgettable playground for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled escapade amidst the beauty of the Adriatic seas.

windsurfers-heaven-in-korcula-canal.jpg

Windsurfing heaven in Korčula Canal (between Korčula and Orebić)

Peninsula Pelješac

Oyster Tour - Bota Šare

Pelješac is famous for its delicious oysters. Take a boat tour to the oyster beds in Mali Ston Bay and learn how these succulent bivalves are farmed. Enjoy a tasting of freshly shucked oysters paired with local wine. You can also visit the historic town of Ston, known for its impressive medieval walls. The oyster tour takes you to the oyster beds in the middle of Mali Ston Bay. You'll learn about the traditional farming methods used to cultivate the oysters. Taste the oysters freshly shucked, served with lemon and a glass of local white wine. The tour also includes a visit to the town of Ston, known for its impressive 5km long medieval walls, the second longest in the world after the Great Wall of China. Ston is also famous for its salt pans, which have been in operation since ancient times.

oyster-fishing-boat-on-pelješac.jpg

Island Mljet

National Park Bicycle Tour

Mljet is home to a stunning national park, with two saltwater lakes surrounded by lush forests. Rent a bicycle and explore the park's trails, stopping to swim in the lakes and visit the 12th-century Benedictine monastery on St. Mary's Island. Spot wildlife like deer, rabbits and over 1000 plant species. The bicycle tour takes you through the beautiful landscapes of Mljet National Park. You'll ride along the shores of the two saltwater lakes, Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero. Stop to swim in the clear, turquoise waters. Cycle to the small island in the middle of Veliko Jezero, where you can visit the historic Benedictine monastery and church. Keep an eye out for the island's wildlife, including deer, rabbits, foxes, and over 1000 plant species. The tour also includes a visit to the Odysseus Cave, where, according to legend, the hero Odysseus was shipwrecked and held captive by the nymph Calypso.

mljet-bike-tour.jpg

As our journey concludes, the experience of sailing in Croatia will remain with you. Each island, with its unique attractions, has provided a wonderful adventure. From the historic sites of Vis to the natural beauty of Mljet, this trip through Croatia's waters has been truly memorable. If you would like to set the sails in Croatia, contact us to plan your next adventure.