Exploring the Wonders of the Peljesac Peninsula with Friends

Savoring the Peljesac Peninsula: A Day of Wine and Wonder

Today was an absolute delight, a sensory journey that immersed us in the heart of the Peljesac Peninsula. From the first sip of wine to the last bite of dinner, every moment was filled with the warmth of Croatian hospitality and the beauty of its landscapes. It’s days like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the magic of travel with all of you.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Estravaganca. The restaurant is located in Duba Bay on the Peljesac peninsula. The views across the bay on the island of Korcula are something special. The bay is surrounded by green pine woods, and there is a slightly crescent pebble beach. The old fishing house was lovingly restored in 2012 and now houses the family Konoba Estravaganca. I savored a traditional Croatian breakfast, the gentle sea breeze carrying the scent of pine and salt. It was the perfect start to a day dedicated to exploring the peninsula's treasures. Klaus enjoyed a strong coffee, remarking how it reminded him of our travels in Montenegro. He always appreciates a good, robust brew to kickstart his day. I must admit, I've grown quite fond of it too.


Discover Estravaganca in Lovište - where fresh ingredients meet stunning coastal views for an unforgettable dining experience.

With our appetites sated, we set off for our first winery of the day: Marlais Winery. As we drove, the landscape unfolded before us, a tapestry of vineyards clinging to the steep slopes, basking in the warm August sun. The Peljesac Peninsula is indeed known as a place where top wines are made. Upon arriving at Marlais, we were greeted with warm hospitality. The owners' passion for winemaking was immediately evident. We tasted a variety of high-quality wines, accompanied by local white cheese and olive oil.


Explore the enchanting Marlais Winery in Boljenovići, where exquisite wines and stunning landscapes create unforgettable memories for every visitor.

Their premium dry wine, *Škrapa*, is produced from 30 to 60-year-old Plavac Mali vines. *Rapsodija* Rose wine is an excellent choice on hot summer days and can be combined with food. I found myself particularly drawn to their *Rukatac*, a delightful white wine with a light gold color and fresh flavor. Klaus, ever the connoisseur, appreciated the robust *Plavac Mali*, noting its complex, fruity taste. We learned about the meticulous process of hand-picking the grapes, hand-bottling the wines, and hand-labeling each bottle. It’s this dedication to quality that makes Marlais wines so special.

The best wines are the ones we drink with friends.

Next on our itinerary was Winery Bartulovic, another gem on the Peljesac Peninsula. This family has a long tradition of growing vines and producing wine. The modern period began in 1989 with the separation from the cooperative winery. The vineyards are spread over 3 hectares. About 80% of the production is the red variety Plavac mali, and 20% is the white variety Rukatac. The Bartulovic family continues a proud legacy of crafting wines and olive oils utilizing full circle farming methods. Mario Bartulović is known to his friends as Maro. He personally takes care of every aspect of the vineyard, from the tillage to wine promotion.


Discover the taste of Pelješac at Winery Bartulovic, where tradition meets modern winemaking for an unforgettable experience.

We savored their *Plavac Mali*, a wine that embodies the terroir of the region. The rocky and slate soil gives the wine a distinctive character. I was particularly intrigued by their *Vranac*, a bold and flavorful red. Klaus, with his background in archaeology, was fascinated by the family's history, which dates back centuries. He regaled Mario with stories of ancient wine-making practices in Europe, drawing parallels to the traditions upheld at Bartulovic. I purchased a bottle of their *Obitelj* Rukatac, known as Maraština, which is offered in both fresh and macerated versions at the Bartulović winery.

After our delightful wine tastings, we took a detour to Treasury Unique Handmade Jewelery. While technically located in Korčula Old Town, it was a short trip well worth the effort. I have always appreciated unique, handcrafted items, and this boutique was a treasure trove of exquisite designs. The jewelry is inspired by the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. From delicate necklaces and earrings to statement rings, each piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. I found a beautiful silver bracelet adorned with coral, a perfect reminder of our time on the Adriatic coast.


Explore the artistry of Treasury Unique Handmade Jewelry in Korčula, where each piece tells a story of heritage and craftsmanship.

The artisans were incredibly welcoming, sharing insights into their creative process and the stories behind their designs. It’s these personal touches that make shopping for handmade items so special. I learned about the significance of various styles and materials used in their creations. Klaus, ever the romantic, surprised me with a pair of earrings featuring intricate filigree work, a traditional Croatian design.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we made our way to Agroturizam Kapor for dinner. This charming restaurant is located in the picturesque village of Stankovići. Agroturizam Kapor invites visitors to indulge in an authentic culinary experience that reflects the heart and soul of Croatian gastronomy. The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every dish bursts with freshness and flavor. We savored traditional recipes passed down through generations, presented with a modern twist.


Experience authentic Croatian cuisine at Agroturizam Kapor in Stankovići – where local flavors meet tradition in a picturesque setting.

We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, accompanied by homemade bread and olive oil. For our main courses, I opted for the *pašticada*, a traditional Dalmatian beef stew, while Klaus chose the grilled fish, fresh from the Adriatic. Each dish was a celebration of local flavors, expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The rustic decor complements the natural beauty surrounding the area, creating a perfect backdrop for dining. As we savored our meal, we enjoyed stunning views of the Croatian countryside, enhancing our overall experience. The ambiance was warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy a leisurely meal.

As we drove back to our rental home, the stars began to pepper the night sky, casting a magical glow over the peninsula. We reminisced about the day's adventures, the tastes, the sights, and the warmth of the people we met. The Peljesac Peninsula had truly captured our hearts. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Žuljana plaža and the Sunken ship. I'm particularly excited to see the Sunken ship, as I've always been fascinated by maritime history. Klaus is looking forward to relaxing on Žuljana plaža, soaking up the sun, and perhaps taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters.

I am so grateful for days like these, where the simple pleasures of life – good food, good wine, and good company – come together to create unforgettable memories. I hope you enjoyed reading about our day on the Peljesac Peninsula. Stay tuned for more adventures!