Mljet – the first large island you come upon while sailing the from the southeast in Croatian waters.
**Island Mljet: A Hidden Paradise Beckons**Nestled in the azure embrace of the Adriatic Sea, the enchanting Island of Mljet stands as a testament to nature's mastery, inviting travelers to step into a realm of unparalleled beauty and tranquility. Tucked away from the bustling tourist trails, Mljet is a hidden gem that promises a rejuvenating escape from the ordinary. With its lush landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a captivating history that echoes through time, this Croatian island beckons adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and seekers of solace to embark on a journey of discovery.**A Natural Haven**Mljet's allure lies in its untouched natural splendor, where verdant forests and pristine beaches coexist harmoniously. Known as the 'Green Island,' Mljet boasts a diverse ecosystem that is a testament to its protected status as a national park. Visitors are welcomed into a realm of untamed beauty, where dense pine forests intertwine with fragrant Mediterranean flora, creating a mosaic of colors and scents that captivate the senses. Hiking trails meander through this pristine wilderness, offering breathtaking vistas of rolling hills and mirror-like lakes, casting a spell of serenity on all who venture here.**Two Lakes, One Mythical Tale**The heart of Mljet's natural wonders lies within the embrace of not one, but two saltwater lakes - Veliko and Malo Jezero. Linked by a narrow channel, these ethereal bodies of water are nestled within the embrace of lush greenery, their calm surfaces mirroring the skies above. Veliko Jezero, the larger of the two, cradles a small islet that holds the remnants of a 12th-century Benedictine monastery, steeped in legend and history. This mythical backdrop sets the stage for exploration, where kayaking, swimming, and leisurely boat rides become gateways to discovery.**Time Travel Through Ruins**Beyond its natural wonders, Mljet's history is etched into its landscape through ancient ruins that whisper tales of civilizations long past. The Roman Palace in Polače stands as an imposing testament to the island's historical significance, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the past. As you wander through these remnants of bygone eras, a sense of timelessness washes over you, connecting the present to the echoes of those who once called Mljet home.**Culinary Delights and Local Charms**A journey to Mljet is incomplete without savoring its culinary treasures. Local restaurants serve up delectable dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, tantalizing taste buds with a blend of Mediterranean and Dalmatian flavors. From seafood feasts that celebrate the bounty of the Adriatic to traditional delicacies that embody the island's heritage, every meal is a celebration of culture and community.**Embrace the Tranquility**Mljet is not merely a destination; it's an invitation to embrace the rhythm of island life, to immerse oneself in the embrace of nature's wonders, and to find solace amidst the ever-changing tides. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Mljet promises an experience that transcends the ordinary, leaving an indelible mark on your soul. As the sun dips beneath the horizon, casting a golden glow over the landscape, you'll realize that the real magic of Mljet lies in its ability to awaken a sense of wonder and reverence for the world around us. So, come, let the island's gentle embrace soothe your spirit and weave unforgettable memories that will linger long after you've departed from its shores.
Mljet is Croatia’s greenest island with lush Mediterranean vegetation, clear and clean sea, a gentle, sandy shoreline and a wealth of underwater sea life. This island is well known for its southern sorts of white and red wine, which receive a special flavour and aroma from the sun and the specific Mljet soil. The island is also well known for its goat’s cheese and honey which, in the past, was served in emperor’s courts, and mostly for the warmness with which the islanders greet visitors to their island.
The Island of Mljet has a daily ferry connection with Dubrovnik and in the summer, with the Islands of Korčula and Lastovo. The ferry which connects Prapratno and Sobra is in function throughout the year. During the height of the season, the island is connected with Dubrovnik, Korčula, Hvar, Split and Rijeka by ferries.During the summer months, numerous tourism and excursion boats arrive to the area of the Mljet National Park (at the harbours of Place and Pomena) from Dubrovnik, Korčula, Makarska and the Pelješac peninsula.
History – Mljet
In historical times, the entire island was inhabited by the Illyrians. The Greeks, on their way to Lumbarda (island of Korčula) and other Adriatic settlements arrived there stayed due to the water and bad weather. The island was also inhabited by the Romans, who left behind archaeological remnants, the most significant of which is the palace in Polače harbor, as well as the names of the island heights, hills and reefs, unquestionable proof of their residence on the island.
The island has various names in documents from the past: de Melita, de Meleta, da Mlete, de la Melida, da Melta, da Malta, di Meleda, Melitensis, Melitae – all equally beautiful and melodious, as is the island itself.The word Melita – Melite in Greek has the same meaning as the Latin word for honey – mell, mellis. The meaning of the name of the island comes from the word for honey, as in the past, its woods were inhabited by many swarms of bees. Those who first come to this island instantly fall in love with it, and always gladly return.The island’s past recalls many things and people: Odyssey and his nymph Calypso, the apostle Paul, the poet Opiana, the Roman Emperor Augustus, the German military leader Odoacer with his “comes domesticorum” Pierius, the ancient Illyrians, the Croatian-Slavic inhabitation of the island and their battles with the Roman army, the Dubrovnik nobles who ruled over the island, as did the Abbots of St. Mary and later, the Venetian knights, the fall of the Dubrovnik Republic, the arrival of Napoleon’s army and the English war ships, the hundred years of Austrian rule, the first Italian occupation of the island, the rule of the anti-people’s regime under the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, the second occupation and the annexation of the island by Mussolini’s Italy from 1941 to 1943, the anti-fascist movement and the liberation of the island in 1944, and the half-century of Communist rule.Since 1990, Mljet, together with the remaining Croatian islands has been an indivisible part of the free and independent Republic of Croatia, which was the centuries long dream for many generations of the people of Mljet.
