Island Mljet: A Natural Wonderland with 7 Amazing Attractions

01.07.2024.

Mljet is Croatia’s greenest island, a natural wonder hosting a wonderful National Park. The allure of Mljet covers lush forests and tranquil trails with fascinating views. It’s a pure paradise with an exquisite sense of the Mediterranean where time stays still.

The marvel of turquoise colours is abundant on Mljet as you admire its panoramic images. Retreating yourself on Mljet will offer you a unique experience of the pristine island’s nature.

I visited Mljet several years ago on my hiking adventure to Mont Kuc and would love to return. Being so picturesque, Mljet is a perfect place to create incredible photos.

If you’re visiting Croatia, be sure to enrich your itinerary with the journey to Mljet Island. It’s a stunning alternative to the popular Hvar and its aromatic nature or the fantastic treasure of Brač. The most famous Croatian beach Zlatni Rat on Brač is usually on the itinerary of many tourists, but let’s look beyond.

Exploring National Park & its saltwater lakes

Visiting the National Park of Mljet means absorbing the immense allure of nature while enjoying the seaside trails. Covering the entire northeast part of Mljet, it would require the whole day to explore its treasure. Costing 25€ per person, the tickets are valid also the next day.

Established in 1960, the National Park is a stunning oasis of lush pinewoods and some endemic species. The ticket includes a visit to St. Mary’s Island with solar-powered boats that run from Pristanište ferry port.

The two enchanted lakes inside the National Park are Veliko i Malo Jezero (Big and small lake). Given the possibility of swimming, you can also delight in the stunning scenery on the kayak rides.

The lower salinity of Veliko Jezero than the Adriatic sea is a result of its seclusion. Only the narrow Solinski Channel connects Veliko Jezero to the Adriatic sea. Swimming in Veliko Jezero during the summer is pretty cozy as the water is even warmer than the sea.

The islet of St.Mary & its monastery

Sveta Marija Monastery is a picturesque place stretching on a tiny island inside the National Park, particularly at Veliko Jezero. The old church from the 12th century is a lovely place to explore, made in a Benedictine style.

Every hour the boat departs from Mali Most or Pristanište so it’s easy to reach the Monastery. An unusual way to come here is by kayak and you can enjoy the swimming.

There’s a little restaurant onsite so take your time to chill. The boat ride is included in the National Park ticket.

Odysseus Cave

Odysseus Cave is a testimony of legends and a possible highlight of your trip to Mljet. Nestled near Babino Polje on the southern corners of the island, Odysseus Cave is an impressive rock formation. Swimming inside or jumping from the cliffs makes it even more astonishing. There’s even a rope above a cliff and a little staircase to return from the cave.

To reach Odysseus Cave you will need to hike about 45 minutes from Babino Polje through the rocky terrain. It takes place close to the Hotel Penelopa, straight after following the Tommy Supermarket.

The legend of Odysseus throws back to a shipwreck that Odysseus experienced at this cave. Capturing a love story with the nymph named Calypso, Odysseus remained on Mljet for 7 years.

Hiking to Mont Kuc

Mont Kuc Summit compasses the breathtaking views inside the National Park. Within the well-marked path, the challenge of the rocky terrain will reward you finally. The majestic panorama includes the allure of Veliko and Malo Jezero, and even towards the Pelješac peninsula and Lastovo.

In only 40 minutes you’ll reach the peak starting from either the National Park car park or the small town of Solina.

Saplunara Beach

This beautiful sandy stretch of paradise absorbs the refreshment of the pine trees. During our hiking trip on Mljet we went there to clean the beach from garbage. It’s a fantastic spot to recharge and enjoy the crystal-clear water, one of the most impressive beaches on the island.

Saplunara Beach is a family-friendly place that absorbs the vibe of the golden sand. You can enjoy a lovely restaurant on the beach, a supermarket and a free market. Playing volleyball is pretty popular on the beach.

Blace Beach (Limuni Bay)

Another awesome beach lies southeast of Saplunara, Limuni Beach. It’s a peaceful oasis in the embrace of a fantastic pine forest, characterized by shallow waters. A beach Caffe nearby makes it an ideal stop to enjoy the beach.

Pomena, lovely seaside village

Pomena is a charming fishing village in the western corners of Mljet. It’s an ideal place to enjoy the perfect sunset on the island, particularly at Vista Mare Beach Bar.

Hosting the only hotel on the island- Hotel Odisej Mljet- Pomena is an awesome basis to rent bikes and tours on Mljet.

Blatina Lakes

Blatina Lakes or literally the „mud lakes“ is the hidden gem near the town of Blato. The three similar lakes stretch near Kozarica, Blato and Sobra. Blending the seawater and rainfall, Blatina Lakes create a scenic atmosphere.

These cute lakes are quite deep being a treasure for animals and plants. Seeing ducks, coots, eels , frogs and turtles in the natural ambiance is so cute.

Prožurska Luka

Prožurska Luka is an astonishing bay near the lovely village of Sobra in the North of Mljet. Its impressive beauty is a feast to the photographers, full of local fishing boats.

Covering the charming beach, Prožurska Luka is particularly popular with sailors who stop here on the way to Dubrovnik.

At Prožirska Luka you can enjoy the delicious local seafood, particularly in Marijina Konoba (Marija’s Tavern).

Where to stay on Mljet

As already mentioned, Hotel Odisej in Pomena is the only official hotel on the island.

Mljet is a fantastic place to go camping and you can choose between the three camping sites.

Mungos is the largest camping site, located between the Odysseus Cave and Sutmiholjska. Enjoying its restaurant will give you an extra level of coziness.

Lovor Camping near Kozarica is a bit smaller offering delightful sunsets.

Marina is the smallest camping site, set near Babino Polje.

The many apartments and guesthouses would be your ideal slice of heaven to enjoy Mljet.

Boutique Accommodation Mljet is a lovely place in the oldest village on the island Goveđari, very close to the Mljet National Park.

Pine Three Boutique Apartments is a luxurious choice lying near the peaceful bay, at Saplunara Beach. Covering the delicious food and infinity pool you’ll feel like in paradise.

How to reach Mljet

With the direct catamaran lines from Split, Hvar, Brac, Korcula, Lastovo, Sipan & Dubrovnik you can easily reach Mljet. Not all catamarans will stop at the same port, so consider this when booking a ferry. The island has three main ports: Sobra, Polače and Pomena.

Mljet is the closest to Dubrovnik, and the regular ferry lines depart year-round.

How to get around Mljet

The best way to explore Mljet is by bike which you can easily rent at several places inside the National Park. Exploring the National Park by bike is a rewarding way to enjoy the scenery and even let yourself admire the whole island.

Alternatively, you can use the bus service which isn’t very frequent. Renting a car is another option to absorb Mljet with coziness and consider Mini Brum. Close to the ferry port of Sobra lies their main office.

Final thoughts

Mljet offers an incredible touch of nature, an island unique in its enchanting invite. It’s a place to relax out of the tourist tracks and feel the marvels of the island.

The turquoise colours of the National Park are the mesmerizing rhythm of the scenic shine, that dwells in peace.

Mljet is more than exploring its National Park, it deserves soaking in the atmosphere of the pretty beaches. Discovering Mljet by bike is a breathtaking adventure, particularly absorbing the alluring lakes. This island like no other offers one of the most beautiful coastal hikes and a recharging atmosphere.

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