Exploring the Wonders of the Peljesac Peninsula with Friends

A Day of Coastal Charms

Today was one of those perfectly balanced days that travelers dream of – a blend of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence that truly captured the spirit of the Peljesac Peninsula. It's days like these that remind me why I love sharing my travel experiences; hopefully, my stories can inspire others to seek out these hidden gems. And of course, doing it all with friends made it even more special.

Our day began with the promise of sunshine and the gentle lapping of waves, a siren call to Žuljana plaža. After a restful night, I was eager to start the day, especially knowing the itinerary held a mix of beachside relaxation and underwater exploration.


Experience the serene beauty of Žuljana Beach, a hidden gem on the Dalmatian coast, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.

Beach Bar Bliss

We kicked things off with breakfast at Beach Bar Adriatic. The sea air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and salt as we settled in for a delightful meal. I opted for a simple, yet satisfying omelet with local cheese and herbs, while Klaus enjoyed some fresh pastries. Sipping my coffee, I gazed out at the turquoise waters, feeling grateful for the simple pleasures in life. The bar was lively, with other early risers enjoying the views and planning their day’s adventures. It was the perfect way to start our day of exploration.


Experience coastal bliss at Beach Bar Adriatic – where delicious food meets breathtaking views in Orebić.

Sun-Kissed Shores of Žuljana plaža

Žuljana plaža itself was a sight to behold. The beach is known for its soft sands and shallow, turquoise waters, making it ideal for families and anyone looking for a relaxing swim. The sun was already warm as we spread out our towels and settled in. Some of my friends immediately dove into the water, while I took a leisurely stroll along the shore, collecting seashells and enjoying the feel of the sand between my toes. The beach was lively, but not overly crowded, allowing for a perfect balance of social energy and personal space.

The water was incredibly clear, and I couldn't resist taking a dip myself. The gentle waves were refreshing, and I spent a good hour swimming and floating, letting the sun warm my skin. It was pure bliss. I thought about my genealogy research; sometimes, I get so caught up in tracing the past that I forget to enjoy the present. Moments like these are a good reminder to appreciate the here and now.

The best days are those where you find beauty in simplicity and joy in shared experiences.

Diving into History: The Sunken Ship Adventure

After a couple of hours of sunbathing and swimming, it was time for the highlight of the day: exploring the sunken ship. Žuljana is known for its diving spots, and the allure of an underwater wreck was too tempting to resist. We had arranged a guided diving tour with a local company, Dive Barbara, which I would highly recommend. They provided all the necessary equipment and a knowledgeable instructor who briefed us on the history of the wreck and safety procedures.


Explore a unique underwater world at the Sunken Ship of Donja Banda, where maritime history meets vibrant marine life in the Adriatic Sea.
As we descended into the depths, the world transformed. The water became cooler, and the sunlight faded, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The sunken ship emerged from the gloom, a ghostly silhouette against the blue. It was a German torpedo boat S-57 sunk during World War II. Swimming around the wreck was an incredible experience. The ship was covered in marine life – colorful corals, sponges, and schools of fish darting in and out of the decaying structure. It felt like entering a different world, a silent, underwater museum.

Our guide pointed out various features of the ship, explaining its history and how it came to rest on the seabed. It was fascinating to learn about the vessel's past while exploring its remains. I felt a sense of awe and respect for the sailors who had once served on this ship. The dive was a truly unforgettable experience, blending history, adventure, and natural beauty.

A Taste of Local Flavors at Fjaka-OPG

After our underwater adventure, we were all ravenous. Luckily, our lunch spot was just a short drive away: Fjaka-OPG. This charming family-run restaurant is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, using fresh, local ingredients. The setting was rustic and inviting, with outdoor seating surrounded by lush greenery. We were greeted warmly by the owner, who led us to a table overlooking the vineyards.


Discover authentic Croatian cuisine at Fjaka-OPG in Žuljana – where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes for an unforgettable dining experience.
The menu was filled with traditional Croatian dishes, and we decided to share a few different plates. We started with the grilled octopus, which was tender and flavorful, followed by the lamb peka, a slow-cooked dish that was melt-in-your-mouth delicious. We also sampled some local cheeses and homemade bread, all washed down with a crisp white wine from the Peljesac region. The food was simple, honest, and incredibly satisfying. It was a true taste of Croatian culinary heritage.

As we ate, we chatted and laughed, savoring the food and the company. These are the moments I cherish most when traveling – sharing a meal with friends, surrounded by beautiful scenery and delicious food. It's a reminder that the best experiences are often the simplest ones.

Wine Tasting at Monte Cristo Wines

No visit to the Peljesac Peninsula would be complete without indulging in some wine tasting. After our satisfying lunch, we made our way to Monte Cristo Wines, a local winery known for its Plavac Mali. The drive itself was stunning, winding through rolling hills covered in vineyards and olive groves.


Experience the essence of Croatian winemaking at Monte Cristo Wines, a charming wine bar in Kuna Pelješka offering exquisite local selections.
Monte Cristo Wines was a charming, family-run operation. We were greeted by the owner, who gave us a tour of the vineyards and explained the winemaking process. He was passionate about his craft, and his enthusiasm was infectious. We sampled several different wines, each with its unique character and flavor profile. The Plavac Mali was rich and full-bodied, with notes of dark fruit and spice. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey.

We purchased a few bottles to take back to our rental home, promising ourselves to enjoy them later while watching the sunset. As we left the winery, I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude. Today had been a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence – a true celebration of the Peljesac Peninsula.

Reflections on a Wonderful Day

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's adventures. From the sun-kissed shores of Žuljana plaža to the depths of the sunken ship, from the farm-to-table flavors of Fjaka-OPG to the rich wines of Monte Cristo, every moment had been a delight. It was a day that perfectly captured the essence of the Peljesac Peninsula – its natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality.

And sharing it all with friends made it even more special. These are the memories that I will cherish long after I return home to Heidelberg. As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures – a visit to Uvala Prapratno and some water sports at Zaton – I know that the Peljesac Peninsula still has many more treasures to reveal. Until then, I'll savor the memories of this perfect day in Žuljana. Perhaps I'll even try my hand at a Montenegrin dish, inspired by the flavors I encountered today. And maybe Klaus will help; he's always been a good sous-chef! Good night from Croatia!