Island life. Two words that sum up the very essence of a holiday; that delicious sense of crossing the seas and leaving the mainland behind, disappearing into a smaller world, with its own individual culture, tradition and stories.
Croatia brims over with islands – 1,244 to be specific, although only 50 are inhabited – some of them firmly on the tourism map, others happy to remain under the radar.
What unites them all is a glorious mix of history, tradition and unspoilt natural beauty – whether Mljet’s densely beautiful pine forests (which cover 70% of the island), Hvar’s shimmering purple lavender fields or the great hook of sand that forms Zlatni Rt beach on the island of Brac. Vineyards roll out around picturebook hilltop villages, elegant coastal towns boast historic Venetian piazzas and Roman harbours, lined with traditional konoba restaurants serving traditional dishes such as mussels buzara (in a rich tomato sauce) and crni rizoto (risotto made with black squid ink).
The good news is that you don’t have to pick just one. An efficient network of ferries that run between the best islands in Croatia, as well as relatively short distances, make hopping between them easy; a chance to pair the glamour and glitz of Hvar with the tranquillity of Vis, or the natural beauty of Mljet. It’s worth remembering though – once you adjust to island life on any one of these idyllic Croatian isles, it’s tempting to stay forever.
Korčula
As the ferry from Orebic glides closer to the island, it’s not difficult to see why Korcula is called ‘little Dubrovnik’: a patchwork of terracotta roofs between the towers and ramparts of the medieval citadel, almost entirely surrounded by sea. Inside the walls, a lattice of winding streets and elegant piazzas is home to luxury hotels, traditional konobas and shady cafes.
Beyond the main town, the hills are covered in olive groves and vineyards, while beaches such as Vela Przina and Punatska Luka – which has a gorgeous beach bar – are perfect for lazy afternoons after mornings exploring. Fine dining doesn’t come better than the Michelin-starred LD restaurant while Konoba Mate in Pupnat is the place to taste the island’s best produce.
Where to stay: Tara’s Lodge has a sleek, contemporary feel with white-washed rooms facing out over the tranquil bay, and fresh seafood and local wines at Mimi’s Bistro. For a truly memorable stay, the luxury loft at the Ismaelli Palace is a two-bedroom bolthole in a medieval palace, with every 21st century mod con.
