Riviera Dubrovnik

The beautiful and extremely well-fortified city of Dubrovnik lies in the very southern region of Croatia and has had a special position for centuries. The former city republic is still a Croatian enclave, separated from the Croatian mainland by a narrow sea access- derived from the time of the Ottoman. This sea passage belongs to the neighboring country Bosnia and Herzegovina. The people of Dubrovnik appreciate both their culture as well as their very freedom. For a period of more than four centuries, this Croatian city was called the independent Republic of Ragusa. As long as the Republic of Ragusa was in existence it was exposed to constant attacks by the Venetians, Ottomans, French and other nations. But that did not deter the fortified inhabitants from resisting-successfully- their would be conquerors attempts. The greatness of the defense fortifications the big city of Dubrovnik once had must still be taken into consideration even though the imposing ramparts and fortifications no longer serve to keep strangers at bay. On the contrary, Dubrovnik and its surrounding areas along with its associated islands rank among the most preferred destinations of many tourists coming to Croatia. The region is quickly and easily accessible due to the international airport of Dubrovnik. Here visitors can see everything the heart desires: a rich and well-preserved cultural heritage, wonderful beaches, secluded coves and unspoilt, typical Mediterranean landscape. In addition, concerts, festivals, museums, exhibitions, archaeological sites and a variety of adventure sports make it attractive for a relaxing yet interesting holiday.

Dubrovnik - Pearl of the Adriatic

Dubrovnik, also known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic" by many because of its special location as well as its beauty, offers interested visitors a variety of attractions. Since already 1979, the old town has been under protection of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Dubrovnik is equally protected by several forts too. Every year both the Music Festival as well as the traditional Summer Festival of Dubrovnik take place here- a special treat indeed for all those interested in culture. Popular souvenirs from Dubrovnik are, notably, the handmade homeopathic ointments and tinctures from the Franciscan Monastery. These are made in the oldest pharmacy in the world. Uninterrupted since 1317 the monks here have produced remedies – unfortunately up until now. In the south, some 20 kilometers from Dubrovnik, is the small, very picturesquely situated town of Cavtat. This enchanting, ancient-looking city of Cavtat is situated in a green, wooded oasis on the Peninsula Rat. Like Dubrovnik the place is a cultural and historical treasure chest: visitors in the face of historic architecture and the many significant sights are transported several centuries into the past. Those seeking peace and seclusion without having to give up the excitement of city life, will feel comfortable in the town of Mlini, which is only 11 km away from Dubrovnik. Cavtat is also only 12 kilometers away and there is regular service running between the cities. Mlini is known for its beautiful and tranquil beaches surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation.

Enchanting Places in the Dubrovnik Region

Even in the small village of Bosanka, only four kilometers from Dubrovnik, guests feel like they have been transported back to past centuries. The place is located on its namesake hill, and those who make it up here will enjoy a wonderful view of both Dubrovnik and of the sea. In earlier times Bosanka was an important starting point for the trade caravans of the Republic of Ragusa. One can enjoy a view of the magical Elaphiten archipelago from the small village of Brsecine situated about 20 kilometers from Dubrovnik. Here there is a wonderful calmness- perfect for a holiday far away from any stress and noise. The village lies between Slano and Trsteno, two small port locations, which both have quiet coves for swimming and places to anchor. There are also archaeological sites, where there are relics derived from Roman times. Trsteno is also popular among tourists for having the only botanical garden on the eastern Adriatic coast. Other islands of tranquility can be found in Cibaca (a village between Mlini and Dubrovnik) and in Cilipi, which is just five kilometers from Cavtat. This is a place visitors should not miss, because, in Cilipi, the traditional Croatian customs are still regularly maintained. You can take delight in the sumptuous costumes and ancient dances that still take place here every Sunday between Easter and October. Located between the two cities of Zaton and Mokosica very near to Dubrovnik - only six kilometers to the northeast - is the still quite young Lozica village. Mokosica, a growing town, is picturesquely nestled between the high mountains of the Dinaric mountain range and the Rijeka Dubrovacka Bay directly on the Adriatic. Nestled among the tree-pine forests along the quiet, very sheltered bay on the coast is the village of Zaton and it consists of the districts Zaton Mali, Zaton Veliki, Stikovica and Vrbica. If you drive on the curvy coastal road, along the Adriatic highway, you will be able to reach the city of Orasac between Trsteno and Zaton. This city is known for both its beautiful beaches, centuries-old olive groves as well as for the historical castle of Soderini. The latter now houses a restaurant. More charming places on the coastal road are Mihanići, Mocici, Plat, Popovici with the popular Pasjača beach, Radovčići, Rozat, Sladenovici and Zastolje. All these villages belong to the historically and very scenic Konavli region, Here nestled between mountains and sea, this region has spectacular scenery, picturesque settings and numerous beautiful beaches. The region is ideal for hiking, sightseeing - and for active holidays with the whole family. Campers will feel at home while staying in one of the most beautiful campgrounds in Croatia, the Soline campground. Even the fishing town of Srebreno has a very nice campground. Easily and quickly reachable are the numerous wonderful beaches which are often flat and therefore suitable for families with children. Particularly charming is the village of Molunat and its surroundings. Here, visitors will find themselves at the southernmost tourist destination in Croatia. This fishing village nestles itself into the bay that is gently shaped by the Gora od Molunta peninsula and thus well protected.

Islands of the Dubrovnik Region

Of course, there are many interesting islands to be explored in this region of Dubrovnik. This especially includes the island of Lokrum, which is located directly upstream from the old town of Dubrovnik. The only 0.8 square kilometer island has many beautiful beaches on its 4.8 kilometer long coastline and a remarkable Benedictine monastery. The small Portoc harbor can be reached from Dubrovnik within only 10 to 15 minutes by boat. The beautiful and wonderfully tranquil sandy beaches of the archipelago of the Elaphiten can be regularly reached from Dubrovnik and is definitely worth a visit. The enchanting Sustjepan Island is right in front of the peninsula of Cavtat and is a popular destination. Under no circumstances should visitors miss the impressive bay of Kotor which is surrounded by high, steep mountains and fjord-like winds that blow 30 kilometers inland. Parts of the inner bay are considered UNESCO World Heritage Sites.