Have you always wanted to swim in the Dead Sea? Well, why not do it while you’re on vacation in Croatia? While you’re enjoying a sun holiday in this gorgeous part of the world you can also take in some rather extraordinary and unexpected sights...
If you have found a villa in Dubrovnik-Neretva and are exploring the region, it is likely that a day-trip to Dubrovnik will be on the agenda. Whether you’re a Game of Thrones fan looking to take a tour of iconic filming locations from the beloved HBO show or you simply want to discover the endless charms of this stunningly beautiful historic city with its cinematic good looks, there is plenty to see and do. However, if you want to add an extra-special little excursion to your trip, then we suggest hopping on a ten-minute ferry out to the island of Lokrum. Highly visible in the bay of the city, this small island is a lush gem steeped in history and natural beauty.
Lokrum’s Dead Sea
As noted, this island is home to Europe’s own Dead Sea, or Mrtvo More. On a much smaller scale, this salt lake on the south of the island is fed from a series of caves and is believed to have been formed from the collapse of a large cavern. Surrounded by rocky formations, this little lake, like its namesake, is so salty that it cannot support plants or living life its waters. So, while you swim in this popular spot, you won’t encounter anything else other than fellow bathers. This charming little swimming spot is ideal for those who want to go for a dip with their children or any non-swimmers looking to cool off.
The Botanical Gardens
Another place to stop as you explore the island is Lokrum’s Botanical Gardens. The whole island is a UNESCO-awarded and protected natural reserve of considerable beauty thickly covered in Mediterranean trees and flora including laurel, oak, pines, cypress, black pine, olive, and palm trees as well as agaves, cacti, and magnolia. Established in the 1960s, the Botanical Gardens are home to around 500 species, with 200 succulents in the greenhouse. 725m of paths cut through the gardens, allowing guests to wander among these exotic species. While not the flashiest garden in the world and under reconstruction in recent years after a period of decline, this relaxing space is a lovely spot to take a breath and go for a nice walk while on the island.
The Benedictine Monastery
This beautiful medieval monastery was home to Benedictine monks until they were forced to abandon it in the 15th century. Now made up of a restaurant overlooking charming gardens and a museum, it was also given the spotlight when used as the filming location for scenes of Daenerys in Qarth in season two of Game of Thrones. A reproduction of the Iron Throne from the show is also on display because of this connection and you can have the opportunity to perch on it for a picture. If you are staying in a vacation rental in Dubrovnik-Neretva and you have come to Lokrum for the day, this is an ideal spot to grab lunch while you admire the surroundings, walk the iconic cloisters, and act out your Essos dreams.
The Path Of Paradise
For some of the best views in the island, take the Path of Paradise along a tree-lined walkway up to the Fort Royal Castle, the highest point on the island. From there, you can take in sweeping vistas over the island itself and the coast. While you’re at this 19th century fortification, be sure to explore a little and take in this remnant of Napoleon’s occupation of Croatia.
The Beaches
If you’re on the island, escaping the crowds of the city, you might also want to take advantage of the beautiful beaches that ring Lokrum. With some coves offering shade from the tall pines of the forest, some with rocky slabs overlooking the water and providing a perfect spot to sunbathe, some with crystal-clear waters ideal for diving, a nudist beach, and more, there are all sorts of stunning stretches of the coast of this island to explore. Plus, if you’re already planning a swim in Lokrum’s own aforementioned Dead Sea and you’re willing to brave it, you can swim through an underground passage from the lake that will bring you out into the open sea. With something for everyone, be sure to bring your swim suit if you’re heading to Lokrum for the day!
Tips
There are a few things to keep in mind while you’re on the island. The most important is that you cannot stay overnight so be sure to keep an eye on the timetable and get the last ferry home for the day when you visit. Another important thing to keep in mind is that you will see beautiful and colourful peacocks roaming around the island that were introduced by Archduke Maximilian Ferdinand of Habsburg in the 19th century, be sure to only admire them from a safe distance and do not bother them. It is also worth bearing in mind that smoking is not permitted anywhere on the island.
With all of this in mind, be sure to plan a day-trip to this incredible island for a magical excursion during your vacation in Croatia and a stay in one of our holiday rentals in Dubrovnik-Neretva.