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Dubrovnik-Neretva County has for centuries attracted many visitors. In the beginning they were mostly traders from the interior and neighboring countries – diplomats, pilgrims, explorers, travelers. Nowadays this area is a favorite destination for guests who want a tour of magnificent antiques, as well as nature lovers and active vacationers, among which everyone will surely find something for themselves.
Let’s start from the lovers of nature, to whom we recommend a visit to National Park of Mljet, one of the most beautiful Adriatic islands with two deep bays called lakes due to the very narrow links to the open sea, and lush and diversified Mediterranean vegetation. Mljet is also proud of the rich cultural heritage, and the most impressive example is the complex of the Benedictine monastery from the 12th century.
We should mention the special nature reserves – the southeastern part of the Neretva River delta, the habitat of many fish species and of rare species of birds. This site is visually appealing and easily accessible thanks to the existence of the road to the river mouth. Then, the Mali Ston Bay, which is a well-known mussel farm and gastronomic center of the County, famous for particular geological features and natural flow of nutrient salts. We should also highlight the islet of Lokrum near Dubrovnik, which boasts Holm oak trees and Maquis with Aleppo pine.
The fans of sightseeing will not be disappointed – we recommend a tour of the medieval town of Cavtat built by the Dubrovnik principles of harmony, marked by valuable works from all historical periods. Visit Trsteno, the oldest arranged Renaissance Park in Dalmatia rich in exotic plants, and beautiful Gothic Renaissance monument in the town of Korčula – St. Mark’s Cathedral, whose altars are decorated with many paintings by Jacopo Tintoretto and the other Italian artists.
And for active holiday enthusiasts, this region also has a lot to offer. Domestic and foreign nationals may engage in recreational and sport fishing, and guests can enjoy a unique diving experience. Numerous hiking trails reveal the unspoiled nature, and for those who are a bit more demanding, we recommend visiting geomorphologic monuments – a number of interesting caves!
Finally, we should not forget the gourmet-minded visitors. In the Neretva Valley you can try eel or frog stew, delicious wild animal meals, particularly a wild duck (coot). From there the road leads us to Ston, where you may try oysters, mussels, and freshly made fish. On the islands of Mljet, Šipan, Lopud and Koločep you can enjoy delicious dishes of dried fish or seafood in restaurants and taverns, and in Dubrovnik and Župa Konavle you will be offered with prosciutto, cheese in olive oil, green pasta and other delicacies.
This post is also available in: Croatian
