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Mljet National Park: Croatia's Emerald Jewel

Discover Croatia's greenest island: Explore saltwater lakes, ancient ruins, and a serene Benedictine monastery in Mljet National Park.

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Mljet National Park, encompassing the northwestern part of Mljet Island, is a stunning protected area known for its two saltwater lakes, lush forests, and rich history. Established in 1960, it's the oldest marine protected area in the Mediterranean, offering a tranquil escape with opportunities for swimming, hiking, cycling, and exploring a 12th-century Benedictine monastery.

A brief summary to Mljet National Park

Local tips

  • Rent a bike to explore the park's trails and reach the best swimming spots around the lakes.
  • Visit St. Mary's Island early or late in the day for a quieter experience at the Benedictine monastery.
  • Bring water and snacks, as options within the park are limited.
  • Check the ferry schedule in advance, especially during the off-season, as services are less frequent.
  • Purchase park tickets online to save time and potentially money.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The primary way to reach Mljet National Park is by ferry or catamaran from various ports. If arriving by car, take the car ferry from Prapratno on the Pelješac peninsula to Sobra. From Sobra, it's a 20km drive to the park entrance. If arriving as a foot passenger, ferries and catamarans from Dubrovnik and Split arrive at Pomena and Polače, which are within walking distance of the park. A one-way ticket from Prapratno to Sobra for a car is approximately €5, plus around €4 per passenger. Passenger ferry tickets from Dubrovnik or Split range from €8 to €25.

  • Walking

    From Pomena, the entrance to Mljet National Park is a short 10-minute walk to Malo Jezero. From Polače, it's approximately a 40-minute walk along a marked path through the woods to Veliko and Malo Jezero. Once inside the park, walking is a great way to explore the lakes and forests. Walking from either Pomena or Polače to the park entrance is free.

  • Public Transport

    A bus line connects the villages within the National Park, running from Pomena to Sobra via Polače. This is a convenient option if you want to explore different areas of the park without renting a car or bike. A single bus fare within the park is approximately €2-3.

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Discover more about Mljet National Park

Mljet National Park, situated on the island of Mljet, represents one of the most enchanting and preserved natural areas in Croatia. Established in 1960, the park covers the western third of the island and is characterized by dense pine and oak forests surrounding two iconic saltwater lakes: Veliko Jezero (Great Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake). These lakes are connected by a narrow channel to the sea, creating a unique ecosystem. The park's beauty extends beyond its lakes. Visitors can explore well-marked hiking and cycling trails that wind through the forests, leading to panoramic viewpoints like Montokuc, the island's highest peak. The island is rich in history, with remnants of Illyrian settlements, Roman ruins in Polače, and most notably, the 12th-century Benedictine monastery on the Isle of St. Mary, located on Veliko Jezero. A boat trip to the monastery is included with the park entrance ticket. Mljet offers a diverse range of activities. Swimming and snorkeling in the clear, calm waters of the lakes are popular, as is kayaking to explore hidden coves. The park is easily accessible via ferries from Dubrovnik, Split, and other nearby islands, with the main entry points being Pomena and Polače. Once inside the park, getting around is best done on foot, by bicycle, or via the park's boat and shuttle services. Mljet National Park is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the busier tourist destinations.

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