Elaphiti Islands

The much-traveled Irish writer George Bernard Shaw once referred to Dubrovnik as "Paradise on Earth". Located just outside the southern Croatian city is the archipelago of Elaphiti (also Elafite), which can in turn also be viewed as the paradisiacal Garden of Eden on earth. The archipelago consists of 13 islands, of which only the three largest - Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan - are permanently inhabited. The island is serviced several times a day by a ferry from Dubrovnik and all have their own port.

The Enchanting Nature Gem

The Elaphiti are truly an impressive gem of nature. They provide the viewer a magnificent view of its lush, subtropical vegetation, its diverse landscape, as well as its beauty. The forests and on the cliffs you will find the homes to numerous birds nests. The archipelago is a paradise not only for humans but also for rare bird species. There is a reason why the islands are a popular destination- here the most beautiful Croatian archipelago also offers many opportunities for adventure. In addition to impressive monasteries, palaces and other cultural attractions on the Elaphiti, there are also sandy beaches gently sloping into the sea. The sea around the island group, therefore, is not only wonderful for swimming, but also for snorkeling. The year-round mild climate makes for a very enjoyable beach holiday. Those who do not feel like taking a swim, can wander through the wonderfully fragrant pine forests and climb the island mountains. From there, hikers can enjoy an extensive and beautiful view over the sea and the mainland. The rugged, high cliffs on the coast attract cliff-divers, while those fond of sailing are impressed by the idyllic tranquility in the bays. On the islands juicy citrus fruits, delicious olives and wine, palms and sweet figs thrive.

Attractions

The Elaphiti is also a popular diving area. Right before the shores you can find the rare red coral which is easy to to discover in the crystal clear waters. The sea is rich in seafood such as lobster, mussels and crabs- always freshly prepared straight from the sea in the numerous fine restaurants. On the islands you will find perfect hiking and cycling, due to the dense network of paths crisscrossing the islands. Canoe trips also are very popular due to the archipelago's beauty which is best admired from the water. The largest island of the group is Sipan with 16.5 square kilometers and at the same time is the only island where cars are allowed access. Both Kolocep as well as Lopud are car-free. The two largest towns are also located on Sipan - Sudurad lies to the east and Sipanska Luka in the west of the island. The village of Sudurad is especially interesting with its fascinating historical buildings, the village of Kolocep where the chapel of St. Antonius and the impressive lighthouse from 1873 are located. Lopud city is located on the island with the same name and is just waiting to impress visitors with its charming houses from the 15th and 16th century as well as with its historical religious buildings. Definitely worth is a visit is the Franciscan Monastery situated directly at the harbor entrance and the Church of St. Spilice of Maria. Moreover, numerous traces of earlier settlement from the Greeks and Romans can be found everywhere on the archipelago.

How to get there

Although situated between Dubrovnik and Peljesac, the Elaphiti consist of a total of 13 islands- only the largest three, however are inhabited. It is no wonder, then, that only Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan have regular ferry services. The main connection is the route number 807 operated by the Jadrolinija company between Sudurad (Sipan), Lopud, Kolocep and Dubrovnik. The ship makes up to four daily trips (except on Sundays and public holidays). In the high season, the route is operated four times a day, even on Sundays and public holidays, between late June and late August, but you must be aware because it will run at different times depending on the day. Otherwise, visitors and residents must be content with two trips per day. Another Jadrolinija ferry, the route 831 runs at lease once a day, depending on the day of the week, between Sudurad (Sipan), Lopud and Dubrovnik. A direct route, the 9807 is operated by the P&L ship company and brings visitors and locals from Luka (Sipan) to Ubli (Lastovo), Sobra (Mljet, Polace (Mljet), Korcula and Dubrovnik once daily by catamaran. This ferry is faster and therefore a little more expensive than the Jadrolinija connection – with the trip between Sipan and Dubrovnik only lasting about 35 minutes.