Hailed as Croatia’s greenest island, Mljet sits off the coast of the Peljesac Peninsula, located at the southern end of the Dalmatian Coast. The largest island in the Dubrovnik Archipelago, over 70% of the land is covered in verdant Aleppo pine forests and other Mediterranean vegetation.
Unlike some of its neighbouring islands – including Hvar and Korcula – the attraction of Mljet is not chic restaurants nor vibrant nightlife but its natural beauty and historic charm. With a small population and just one main road running through the island, there are very few cars, which adds to the relaxed island feel.
Along the island’s 135-kilometre coastline are plenty of bays, coves and beaches; most of the swimming spots are pebbly or rocky, though there are two sandy beaches on the island’s southeastern tip. The surrounding waters are crystal-clear and rich in sea life, a paradise for snorkellers and divers. Moreover, divers can visit the wrecks of a third-century Roman ship and a World War II German torpedo boat.
A protected National Park covers around a third of the island. It is home to two saltwater lakes, Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero, where visitors can swim, snorkel or kayak in the calm and warm waters or explore the surrounding trails on foot or bicycle. In the middle of Veliko Jezero is St Mary’s Island, a pretty islet home to a 12th-century Benedictine monastery.
Dotted throughout the national park are several small and picturesque villages to visit. 18th-century Govedari sits on the hills inland from the coast, charming Pomena is known for farming and fishing, and picturesque Polace features the island’s largest bay and a popular ferry port.
Farther along the coast, the village of Sobra is home to the island’s main ferry port and a charming fishing harbour. Finally, on the far-eastern tip of the island is Saplunara, a large bay known for its sandy beaches flanked by dense pine forests.
Along with its lush vegetation and sparkling waters, Mljet is known for its local wine, olives, and goats’ cheese.
The island can be reached by boat from Dubrovnik or Split on the mainland or from the neighbouring islands of Hvar, Korcula or Brac, which are great for day trips.
See our collection of luxury villas in Mljet below.
See
- Crystal-clear waters with vibrant underwater life
- Verdant pine forests covering 70% of the island
- Stunning views to Peljesac and Korcula from the top of the island
Experience
- Rent a bike and cycle through the island’s extensive national park
- Kayak on the calm waters of Veliko Jezero to St Mary’s Island
- Explore the ruins of a 5th Century Roman settlement in Polace village
