Korcula

The island of Korcula lies about 100km northwest of Dubrovnik a mile offshore from the mainland Peljesac peninsula (the transfer by bus from Dubrovnik Airport took 2 and half hours due to winding cliff top roads). As we drove along the peninsula we noticed a great many grape vines growing. This area of the dalmatian coast is famous for its exotic wines. Trying as many varieties as possible became a major theme of our trip.

We passed through the remarkable walls of Ston where the salt is still harvested in pans dating back to Roman times. From Orebic on the peninsula (where there are some nice sandy beaches) a local ferry crosses to Korcula Town.

What to see in Korcula Town This landing spot is also one of the islands highlights. The medieval town walls surrounding a great jumble of stone houses built on a promontory is a visual delight. For many years, only nobility were allowed to live within the city walls which was only accessible from a drawbridge (replaced by grand italianate steps in the late eighteenth century

With an average summer temperature of 29 degrees centigrade, Korcula is a sunny island so the narrow streets of Korcula old town can be a cool haven in exceptionally hot periods.

Don't miss the 14th century Cathedral of St Mark in Korcula's main square and the treasury museum next door. Other than this there are numerous galleries and a host of good local restaurants.

Where to eat in Korcula Town Ah, yes, the important question goes last. The great news is that Korcula has some great restaurants (konobas) such as Gradski Podrum (the city cellar) at the top of the main gate steps which does excellent local dishes, the Marco Polo is known for for risotto while the recently opened Marinas is getting excellent reviews.

We found it pays to ask the chef what they would like to cook. You often get something exciting and it breaks the ice. On more than one occassion we were kept at a restaurant till the early hours because they would not let us go before we had tried yet one more free glass of 'something special'. The people are just like that. they want to have a good time and want their guests to have a good time too.