Exploring the Wonders of the Peljesac Peninsula with Friends

A Day of Sun, Sea, and Savoring Zuljana

Today was exactly the kind of day Klaus and I, along with our friends, envisioned when we planned this trip to the Peljesac Peninsula. It was a harmonious blend of relaxation, adventure, and culinary exploration, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Adriatic coast. As a librarian specializing in Balkan history, I often find myself drawn to places where the past and present intertwine, and Zuljana certainly offered that in abundance.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Konoba Panorama. Perched high above Zuljana, the restaurant offered, as the name suggests, a panoramic view of the bay. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and sea salt. I savored a simple yet satisfying meal of *fritule* (Montenegrin donuts) and strong coffee, while Klaus opted for a more substantial plate of *pršut* (prosciutto) and cheese. The others enjoyed omelets filled with local herbs and vegetables. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of beachside fun.


Experience breathtaking views and authentic Croatian cuisine at Konoba Panorama in Podgorje.

After breakfast, we made our way to Uvala Prapratno. This beach is renowned for its fine sand and shallow turquoise waters, making it ideal for families and, well, for those of us who prefer a gentle dip to more strenuous swimming. The beach was quite busy, but we managed to find a spot under the shade of some pine trees. I was immediately struck by how clear the water was; I could see tiny fish darting around my ankles as I waded in. Klaus, ever the history buff, pointed out the remains of an old Roman villa nearby, reminding us that this idyllic spot has been enjoyed for centuries.


Discover Uvala Prapratno, a tranquil bay in Metohija, Croatia, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking natural beauty.

The younger members of our group were eager for more action, so they headed off to Zaton Water Sports. Though Klaus and I opted for a leisurely stroll along the beach, we watched with amusement as our friends tried their hand at kayaking and paddleboarding. The bay was alive with activity, the sound of laughter and splashing filling the air. I must admit, the jet skis looked tempting, but I decided to save that adventure for another day. Perhaps when my knees are feeling a bit less… librarian-like.


Dive into adventure at Zaton Water Sports in Dubrovnik, where thrilling boat tours and water sports create unforgettable experiences on the Adriatic Sea.

The best stories are found between the pages of a passport.

For lunch, we gathered at Jadran, a charming restaurant right on the waterfront. We secured a table with a view and ordered a variety of local specialties. I couldn't resist the grilled fish, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. Klaus, always adventurous, tried the black risotto, a dish made with squid ink that is both striking in appearance and delicious in taste. The others shared a platter of seafood pasta, declaring it the best they had tasted on the trip so far. The meal was accompanied by a crisp, dry white wine from the Peljesac region, which perfectly complemented the seafood.


Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Jadran in Orebić – where every dish tells a story and every meal is a celebration.

After lunch, we decided to explore the local shops. Aromadria in Janjina caught my eye. This charming shop is known for its wide selection of aromatic products, including essential oils, natural cosmetics, and traditional Croatian herbs. The shop was a sensory delight, filled with the scents of lavender, rosemary, and sage. I purchased a few small bottles of essential oil to take back to Heidelberg, a fragrant reminder of our time on the Peljesac Peninsula. Klaus bought some locally produced olive oil, declaring it the perfect addition to his salads.


Discover Aromadria in Janjina: A shop celebrating local craftsmanship and aromatic treasures from the heart of Croatia.

As the afternoon wore on, we returned to Uvala Prapratno for one last swim before dinner. The beach was less crowded now, the sun casting a warm golden glow over the sand and sea. We floated in the crystal-clear water, reflecting on the day's adventures. It was a moment of pure bliss, a feeling of contentment that I knew I would cherish long after we returned home.

For our final meal of the day, we chose Bistro GIOVANNI. This cozy restaurant had been recommended to us by several locals, who praised its traditional Croatian cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. We were not disappointed. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with the chatter of locals and tourists alike. I ordered the *pašticada*, a traditional Dalmatian beef stew, which was rich, flavorful, and incredibly comforting. Klaus opted for the grilled lamb, which was cooked to perfection. The portions were generous, the prices reasonable, and the service impeccable.


Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Bistro GIOVANNI in Orebić—where every meal is a celebration of local ingredients and stunning seaside views.

As we walked back to our accommodation under the starlit sky, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared today. Zuljana had exceeded all our expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and culinary delights. It was a day that I knew we would remember for years to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Apparition Hill and Poluotok Peljesac. I am particularly excited about Apparition Hill, as I have read so much about its history and significance. I'm also looking forward to trying Konoba Dalmatinska kuca for breakfast, Agroturizam Šeput for lunch, and Kapetanova kuća for dinner. And, of course, we'll be sure to stop by Cafe and Cocktails Bar Laganini for a nightcap before heading back to our rooms.

As I sit here writing, with the gentle sound of the waves lapping against the shore, I feel a sense of peace and contentment. The Peljesac Peninsula has captured my heart, and I know that I will be back again someday. Until then, I will carry the memories of these sun-soaked days and starlit nights with me, a reminder of the beauty and magic of Croatia.

And who knows, perhaps I'll even try jet skiing next time.