Island of Mljet★★
The greenest Croatian island—one-third national park. Two saltwater lakes (Veliko and Malo Jezero) with a Benedictine monastery on an island in the lake. Mljet is the antithesis of noisy Hvar: it's a place to unwind, cycle, and kayak.
★★★ Mljet National Park
The western part of the island encompasses the two lakes and dense Aleppo pine forests. Circular hiking trail around both lakes (12 km, 3–4h). Boat to the monastery island (included in the ticket). Bicycles available for rent at the entrance (6€/h).
Entrance: Summer 18€, otherwise 10€. Boat to the monastery every 30 min.
★★ Odysseus Cave
On the south coast: a sea cave where, according to legend, Odysseus was trapped for 7 years by the nymph Calypso. Swimming in the cave is possible, with a spectacular view from above.
Tips
- Plan at least 2 nights—there's little to "see," but much to feel.
- Kayaking on the lakes at sunset—absolutely magical.
- Few restaurants and shops—dine in the accommodation towns of Pomena or Polače.
- Catamaran Dubrovnik → Polače/Pomena (Mljet): 1h 45, 12€ (Krilo).