The island of Mljet
Mljet Island: Croatia's Green Paradise
Odysseus Cave: A Mythical Grotto on Mljet
Explore the mythical Odysseus Cave on Mljet Island: swim in turquoise waters and discover a legend in this stunning natural grotto.
Odysseus Cave, near Babino Polje on Mljet Island, is a stunning natural grotto steeped in legend. Accessible by swimming or a steep hike, the cave features a collapsed vault, creating a dramatic opening to the sky that illuminates the turquoise waters within. It's believed by some to be the cave where Odysseus was held captive by the nymph Calypso.
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A brief summary to Odysseus Cave
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
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Getting There
Driving
From Sobra, the main ferry port on Mljet, drive approximately 25 km to the village of Babino Polje. Parking is available near Tommy's supermarket or along the road. From there, follow the signs for Odysseus Cave. The trailhead is a short walk from the parking area. Be aware that there is only one major road on Mljet. Parking is free.
Walking
From the parking area in Babino Polje, the hike to Odysseus Cave is approximately 2.6 km out and back, taking about an hour each way. The trail is well-marked but rocky, so wear sturdy shoes. Follow the path towards the coast, passing near Hotel Penelopa. The descent into the cave is steep and requires caution. There are no fees for accessing the trail or the cave.
Boat Tour
Several boat tours operate from various locations on Mljet, including Pomena and Polače, offering direct access to Odysseus Cave. These tours often include snorkeling equipment and allow you to experience the cave from the sea. Prices vary depending on the tour operator and duration, but expect to pay around €70-€90 per person. Some tours depart from Korčula or Dubrovnik, with prices ranging from €700-€900 for a private speedboat.
Local tips
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Wear sturdy shoes for the hike to the cave, as the terrain is rocky and steep.
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Bring your swimsuit and snorkeling gear to fully enjoy the crystal-clear waters inside the cave.
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Visit around noon during the summer for the best sunlight and water color display.
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Consider taking a boat tour for easier access to the cave and a unique perspective from the sea.
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Bring water and snacks, especially if hiking, as there are limited facilities near the cave.
Discover more about Odysseus Cave
Odysseus Cave, or *Odisejeva špilja* in Croatian, is a captivating sea cave located on the southern coast of Mljet Island, near the village of Babino Polje. The cave's allure stems from its stunning natural beauty and the ancient legend that connects it to Homer's epic poem, *The Odyssey*. According to local lore, this is the very cave where the nymph Calypso held Odysseus captive for seven years.The cave itself is an egg-shaped grotto with a collapsed vault, creating a dramatic opening to the sky. This opening allows sunlight to stream into the cave, illuminating the turquoise waters below and creating a mesmerizing spectrum of colors. The cave is accessible either by swimming through a 20-meter-long tunnel from the sea or by a steep, rocky path from the land. The entrance from the sea is about 5 meters wide, with only 1 to 1.5 meters of clearance above sea level. The sea depth inside the tunnel reaches 8-10 meters.For those who choose the land route, be prepared for a somewhat challenging hike. The trail from Babino Polje is well-marked but rocky, requiring sturdy footwear. The descent into the cave involves navigating a steep slope, so caution is advised. Despite the challenging access, the reward is well worth the effort. The vibrant colors, unique rock formations, and the crystal-clear waters make it a paradise for swimmers, snorkelers, and photographers. The best time to visit is around noon during the summer months when the sunlight is strongest, creating the most vibrant display of colors in the water.Whether you're drawn by the legend of Odysseus, the thrill of exploring a natural wonder, or simply the desire to swim in a stunningly beautiful location, Odysseus Cave is an unforgettable destination on Mljet Island.
A brief summary to Odysseus Cave
Use Odysseus Cave as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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