Exploring the Wonders of the Peljesac Peninsula with Friends

A Fond Farewell

As my Peljesac adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences I've had over the past couple of weeks. From exploring charming coastal towns to indulging in exquisite wines, this peninsula has truly captured my heart. Today, on our final day, we decided to soak in as much of its beauty as possible, knowing we'd soon be heading back to Heidelberg.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Old Captains Restaurant in Ston [i]. The morning air was crisp and invigorating, a perfect start to our last day of exploration. I savored the fresh flavors of the local cuisine, reminiscing about all the wonderful meals we've enjoyed throughout our trip. It's funny, isn't it? How food becomes so intertwined with our memories of a place. I know I'll be trying to recreate some of these dishes back in my own kitchen, hoping to recapture a little bit of this Croatian magic.


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

Fueled up and ready, we set off towards Počitelj Fortress, a historic site just a short drive away. As we approached, the fortress loomed majestically on the horizon, a testament to the region's rich and storied past. Built in 1383 by King Tvrtko I of Bosnia, it once controlled a vital trade route. Climbing the ancient stone steps, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. The views from the top were simply breathtaking – a panorama of the Neretva River valley, stretching out as far as the eye could see. I imagined what life must have been like centuries ago, defending this strategic stronghold against invaders. Klaus, ever the history professor, was in his element, pointing out architectural details and sharing fascinating anecdotes about the fortress's past. I always appreciate his insights; they add so much depth to our travels.


Explore the historical wonders and breathtaking views of Počitelj Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Sometimes, the most beautiful places are those that whisper stories of the past.

After immersing ourselves in history, we decided to embrace the present and head to Uvala Vućine, a beach known for its pristine waters and secluded setting. The August sun was high in the sky, promising a perfect afternoon of relaxation. As we arrived, the turquoise waters shimmered invitingly, beckoning us to take a dip. The beach itself was a mix of white pebbles, surrounded by a fragrant pine forest. It felt like a hidden oasis, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I quickly changed into my swimsuit and plunged into the refreshing water. The temperature was just right, a welcome respite from the summer heat. I floated on my back, gazing up at the clear blue sky, feeling utterly content. Even Klaus, who usually prefers exploring historical sites, couldn't resist the allure of the beach. He joined us for a swim, and we spent the afternoon laughing and splashing around like children. It's moments like these that make traveling with friends so special – sharing simple pleasures and creating lasting memories.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Uvala Vućine in Žuljana, Croatia, where stunning waters meet serene landscapes.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we reluctantly packed up our things and headed back towards Ston. But our day wasn't over yet! We had one more culinary adventure in store for us: dinner at Natura Ston. This restaurant had been recommended to us by several locals, and we were eager to try it out. Known for its fresh seafood and traditional Dalmatian cuisine, Natura Ston promised to be the perfect finale to our Peljesac journey. And it certainly didn't disappoint. We started with a platter of freshly shucked oysters, sourced directly from the nearby bay. They were briny, succulent, and utterly divine. For our main courses, we opted for grilled fish and homemade pasta, both prepared with local ingredients and bursting with flavor. The meal was a true celebration of the region's culinary heritage, a fitting end to our gastronomic exploration of the Peljesac Peninsula.


Experience exquisite seafood and local wines at Natura Ston - a top destination for food lovers in beautiful Ston, Croatia.

To cap off our day, we took a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Ston, soaking in the ambiance of this historic town. We even popped into a souvenir shop, hoping to find a memento to remind us of our trip. I ended up buying a small piece of local pottery, a reminder of the beautiful landscapes and warm hospitality we encountered along the way. It will certainly have a place of pride on my shelves back in Heidelberg.


Discover unique Croatian crafts and culinary delights at Ston's enchanting souvenir shop, a must-visit for every traveler.

As I sit here now, writing this final blog post, I can't help but feel a tinge of sadness that our Peljesac adventure is over. But I also feel incredibly grateful for the experiences we've had, the people we've met, and the memories we've created. This peninsula has exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. I know I'll be back someday, eager to explore more of its hidden gems.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey home, filled with stories to tell and photographs to share. Thank you, Peljesac, for an unforgettable experience. Until next time!

Looking back on our trip, I am reminded of a quote by the great travel writer, Freya Stark:

One is more often a traveler than a tourist.

That really sums up our experience. We didn't just see the sights; we immersed ourselves in the local culture, savored the flavors, and connected with the people. And that, to me, is what true travel is all about. Safe travels to you all, and I hope my stories have inspired you to explore the wonders of the Peljesac Peninsula yourself!

Breakfast at Old Captains Restaurant
We started our final day with a delightful breakfast at Old Captains Restaurant in Ston. The restaurant is known for its seafood and stunning seaside location. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.

Visit to Počitelj Fortress
Next, we ventured to Počitelj Fortress, a historic site with well-preserved medieval architecture. The fortress, built in the 14th century, offers panoramic views of the Neretva River valley. Exploring the fortress provided a fascinating glimpse into the region's past. I could almost hear the echoes of battles fought and lives lived within those ancient walls.

Relaxing at Uvala Vućine Beach
After our historical excursion, we relaxed at Uvala Vućine, a beautiful beach known for its white pebbles and clear waters. Surrounded by pine forests, the beach provided a serene and picturesque setting for swimming and sunbathing. The cool water was so refreshing, and the shade from the trees offered a welcome escape from the August sun. It was the perfect way to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Peljesac.

Shopping at Souvenir shop Ston
Before dinner, we stopped by Souvenir shop Ston to pick up a few mementos. The shop offered a variety of local crafts, including handmade jewelry, pottery, and regional delicacies. I found a beautiful piece of pottery to remind me of our time here. It's always nice to bring a little piece of the places we visit back home with us.

Dinner at Natura Ston
Our final culinary experience was at Natura Ston, a restaurant renowned for its fresh seafood and Dalmatian cuisine. The restaurant sources local ingredients and offers a cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed fresh oysters, grilled fish, and homemade pasta, savoring the flavors of the region. It was the perfect way to end our Peljesac adventure.

As we prepare to leave, I am filled with gratitude for the memories we've made and the beauty we've experienced on the Peljesac Peninsula. It's a place I will always cherish, and I hope to return someday soon.