Exploring the Wonders of the Peljesac Peninsula with Friends

Coastal Charms and Culinary Delights in Pelješac

As I sit down to pen this entry, the gentle sea breeze whispers through the open window, carrying the scent of salt and pine. Today marked the beginning of our Pelješac adventure, and what a start it has been! From exploring the historical depths of Orebić to indulging in the region's exquisite cuisine, every moment was a delightful discovery. I'm so eager to share the experiences of our first day with you all.

Our journey began with a scenic drive from Dubrovnik to the Pelješac Peninsula. The landscape was breathtaking; the winding roads offered panoramic views of the Adriatic, dotted with islands that seemed to float on the horizon. Klaus, ever the historian, regaled us with tales of the region's past, pointing out ancient landmarks and sharing anecdotes that brought the history to life. It was a comfortable drive, even though I did realize I forgot my sunglasses!

Our first stop was Orebić, a charming town nestled at the foot of Mount Saint Ilija. The town's rich maritime history is palpable; elegant villas built by seafaring captains line the coast, each a testament to Orebić's golden age. Klaus was in his element, pointing out architectural details and sharing stories of the families who once called these villas home. I was particularly struck by the sense of tranquility that permeated the town; it was a world away from the hustle and bustle of Heidelberg.

We started our exploration with a visit to the Kulturno povijesna cjelina Orebić, a cultural and historical complex that encapsulates the town's heritage. Wandering through the narrow streets, we admired the traditional stone houses adorned with vibrant flowers. It felt like stepping back in time, each corner revealing a new piece of the town's story. The air was filled with the murmur of locals chatting and the distant sound of church bells, creating a serene atmosphere that I found incredibly soothing.


Explore the stunning heritage of Kulturno povijesna cjelina Orebić, a captivating tourist attraction in the heart of beautiful Orebić, Croatia.

For breakfast, we decided to try Old Captains Restaurant, drawn in by its reputation for delicious seafood and stunning sea views. And it did not disappoint! I opted for a classic omelet with prosciutto and cheese, while Klaus chose the grilled squid. Both were cooked to perfection, and the ingredients tasted incredibly fresh. The service was impeccable, with the staff being attentive and friendly. Sipping my coffee while gazing out at the shimmering Adriatic, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. It was the perfect start to our culinary journey in Pelješac.


Experience exquisite seafood dining at Old Captains Restaurant in Orebić, where fresh flavors meet stunning Adriatic views.

Fuelled by our delightful breakfast, we decided to explore the town further. We strolled along the palm-lined promenade, soaking in the Mediterranean atmosphere. The views of the island of Korčula across the channel were simply stunning, and I couldn't resist snapping a few photos. We also visited the Maritime Museum, which showcases the town's seafaring history. Klaus was particularly fascinated by the exhibits, spending ages examining old nautical charts and ship models. I, on the other hand, was captivated by the stories of the brave captains who had sailed the world's oceans from this very town.

Sometimes, the most profound discoveries are not grand monuments, but the simple, everyday moments that connect us to a place and its people.

As lunchtime approached, our stomachs began to rumble once more. This time, we chose Konoba Dalmatinska kuca, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Dalmatian cuisine. The restaurant is in Janjina and is known for its bridge views. We shared a selection of local specialties, including grilled fish, black risotto, and pašticada, a slow-cooked beef stew. Each dish was bursting with flavor, showcasing the region's culinary heritage. The restaurant had a terrace and the staff was friendly.


Experience authentic Dalmatian flavors at Konoba Dalmatinska Kuca in picturesque Janjina - a must-visit for food lovers exploring Croatia.

After lunch, we couldn't resist the opportunity to indulge in a little retail therapy. I had read about Coral Shop Irena, a local gem in Korčula known for its exquisite coral jewelry and traditional Croatian souvenirs. Although the shop is actually in Korčula, Irena has a family tradition of jewelry design. We took a short ferry ride to the island and spent a delightful hour browsing the shop's unique offerings. I ended up purchasing a beautiful coral necklace, a perfect memento of our Pelješac adventure. Klaus, ever practical, opted for a bottle of local olive oil.


Explore unique handcrafted treasures at Coral Shop Irena, a charming store in the heart of Korčula, perfect for memorable gifts.

In the late afternoon, we returned to Orebić and took a leisurely walk along the coast, enjoying the stunning sunset views. The sky was ablaze with color, the hues of orange and pink reflecting on the calm waters of the Adriatic. It was a magical moment, one that I will cherish for years to come. We sat on a bench, hand in hand, simply enjoying the serenity of the surroundings. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.

For our first dinner in Pelješac, we chose Konoba Bakus, enticed by its reputation for serving some of the best mussels in the region. And, oh my, were they incredible! A huge bowl of mussels arrived, steamed to perfection and served over a bed of garlicky risotto. The flavors were simply divine, a testament to the freshness of the ingredients. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively atmosphere that I found incredibly appealing. This was the perfect way to end our first day.


Experience authentic Croatian cuisine at Konoba Bakus in Ston – where fresh seafood meets traditional flavors in a cozy atmosphere.

As I reflect on our first day on the Pelješac Peninsula, I am filled with a sense of excitement for what lies ahead. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Svjetionik Loviste and Stonske zidine. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing the Walls of Ston, which I've heard are truly magnificent. We'll also be dining at Konoba Portun for breakfast, Natura Ston for lunch, and Bota Šare Mali Ston restaurant & oyster bar for dinner, and perhaps enjoy a glass of wine at Wine Bar Cardo Ston.

Pelješac has already captured my heart with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. I can't wait to see what other treasures this enchanting peninsula has in store for us. Until tomorrow, živjeli!

P.S. I must remember to buy a power adapter; my phone is almost out of battery! And perhaps a new pair of sunglasses, the sun here is quite strong, even in August!