The island of Korčula will enchant you with its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Korčula is the island of Marco Polo, the world’s most famous traveler, a native of Korčula. The great explorer, Marco Polo, was captured in one of the largest naval battles in the Mediterranean, which took place on September 8, 1298, under the walls of Korčula. Step into the town of Korčula, one of the best-preserved island medieval towns in the Mediterranean, which has always inspired travelers. Discover its charm and island towns: Lumbarda, Smokvica, Blato and Vela Luka, surrounded by fertile fields, coves and forest landscapes.
The island was already inhabited in prehistoric times. Numerous civilizations, starting with the Greek, Illyrian and Roman ones, left their mark throughout history, as evidenced by the findings from today’s most famous archaeological sites of Vela Spilo and Kopil, the remains of the walls of the Illyrian fortress Gradina in Smokvica, as well as the Lumbard Psephism from the 3rd century BC. BC, as the oldest stone fragment in this part of Europe.
Enjoy a walk in the streets where old stone houses cast shadows, the most romantic sunset, the most beautiful beaches, unique dances with swords, taste top autochthonous wines, the sweetest island delicacies and Korčula extra virgin olive oil!
See Things to Do in Korcula Island!
Žrnovo Village
Zrnovo Village is set in the rural hills 3km inland from Korcula old town. The four rustic hamlets that make up Zrnovo sprawl amongst the green hillsides, randomly dotted by red-roofed houses and quaint old churches. It is one of the oldest settlements on the island and provides some of the most scenic views. The area provides for the walking enthusiast, the nature lover, a restful retreat for the busy city worker and outdoor fun for adults and children alike. Nature lovers will be in their element with numerous cycling and walking trails surrounding Zrnovo, suitable for all abilities. Just pack up a picnic and let your feet or wheels lead the way.
Within half an hour walk you will reach the fascinating natural beauty site of Kocje, one of Croatia’s Protected Landscapes. This offers a wonderful walk through, over and around magical rock formations that truly arouse the imagination – great fun for the kids (and the big kids!).
With several traditional and family-run restaurants in Zrnovo, you won’t get hungry. Specialities include slow-cooked lamb, veal or goat meat (peka) and zrnovski makaruni, a local pasta. You need to try peka at an agrotourism restaurant or try to prepare makaruni at a konoba!
Pupnat
With only 600 inhabitants and huddled between hills, Pupnat keeps itself secluded from the more busy parts of Korcula Island. The restful way of life here centres around the parish church, a small supermarket and one of the best restaurants on Korcula, Konoba Mate. There are also fantastic small beaches located close to the village, including the popular Pupnatska Luka and Bacva. You can spend a leisurely day at Pupnatska Luka. The white pebbles and the aqua blue sea reflecting the sun, make this one of the best beaches on the island. Either take some snacks with you or get refreshed at the Konoba Mijo or the small cafe-bar nestled amongst the pines and cacti.
You can take the incredible winding road down off the main road between Pupnat and Blato and follow it to the end where you will reach the divine bay of Bacva. The views on the drive down are incredible and you will be rewarded at your arrival with azure waters. There is a small restaurant on the beach selling traditional food.
If you are feeling a little more energetic, you can follow the old trails behind the village leading up towards the highest point, but not quite to the top of Klupca, which will provide you with fantastic views of the surrounding area. Its location on the island makes Pupnat a great starting point for various hikes. You can also visit the central parish church, Old Lady of the Snows built in 1620 or take a short walk up to the graveyard church of St George. This vantage point also provides views over the village.
Lumbarda
Well known for its sandy beaches, Lumbarda is a great destination for a sunshine holiday on Korcula. However, there’s more to do here than just topping up your tan. Lumbarda has strong historical roots with archaeological discoveries still being made. Today the fertile land hosts numerous vineyards which produce delicious wine Grk. This is the only place in Croatia it is produced. You can enjoy a wine tasting experience at a number of family-run wineries and of course purchase a bottle or two to enjoy at home.
Due to its relatively flat terrain, Lumbarda is a great place to stretch your legs. Cycle amongst the fields carpeted with vineyards or walk through the luscious forest of pine trees to the furthest point east on the island, Raznjic, for fantastic views out to sea and of the island of Mljet. You can hire bikes at an agency in the centre of Lumbarda or it is an easy cycle ride from Korcula, where numerous agencies hire bikes.
A summer holiday is not complete without a summer cocktail and there’s no better place to get your Mojito or Pina Colada from than Antonio’s cocktail beach bar located by Przina sandy beach. You will find along Lumbarda’s beaches several places that are run by locals, offering windsurfing and kayaking equipment which you can rent for a day or two and try some of these activities. There is also a scuba diving school and club in the village so you may consider trying that too.
