Korula & Ston: Island Charms, Peljeac Delights & Wine Tasting

Exploring Croatia’s coastal treasures becomes effortless with the Korula & Ston: Island Charms, Peljeac Delights & Wine Tasting tour. Priced at $184.97 per person, this full-day journey lasts approximately 10 hours and departs from Dubrovnik. It offers a well-balanced mix of cultural sights, scenic drives, and local flavors, making it ideal for travelers eager to experience both history and nature in one day. The tour includes pickup, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, and a mobile ticket, ensuring convenience from start to finish.

The tour’s highlights include visits to the 14th-century town of Ston, renowned for its long city walls and historic salt pans; a scenic ferry ride to Korcula Island; and a wine tasting session in Peljeac, famous for its Plavac Mali wines. It’s worth noting that this tour is best suited for those comfortable with a moderate amount of walking and a full-day commitment. With a maximum group size of 19 travelers, the experience maintains a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Key Points

• 10-hour guided tour from Dubrovnik exploring Ston, Peljeac, and Korcula Island
• Includes ferry ride from Orebi to Korcula, with logistics taken care of
• Visit iconic sites such as Ston Walls, Salt Pans, Korcula Old City, and Bishops Palace
• Enjoy a wine tasting in Peljeac, sampling the renowned Plavac Mali
• Leisure time for swimming, exploring, or relaxing at each stop
• Transport, WiFi, and audio guide included for a seamless experience

From Dubrovnik to Ston’s Historic Walls

The journey begins early in the morning with pickup from Dubrovnik, after which travelers are transported along the coastal roads. The first stop is Ston Old Town, a picturesque place famous for its impressive city walls that stretch among the longest in Europe. These walls provide stunning views of the town and the salt pans, offering a glimpse into centuries-old defensive architecture.

During the visit, travelers also explore Ston Salt Works, where salt has been produced for centuries. While admission to the salt pans is not included, the visit offers insight into the region’s economic history and the scenic beauty of the salt flats.

Exploring Ston Salt Pans and Its Significance

The salt pans are a key highlight, showcasing traditional salt production methods that have persisted through generations. The 15-minute stop allows for appreciation of this historic industry and the natural landscape. Visitors get to see the brine evaporation pools and learn about their role in regional trade and economy.

This stop offers a quiet, contemplative break before continuing the journey. Though admission is not included, the scenic views alone make it worth a brief visit.

Cruising to Korcula Island on the Ferry

Next, the tour proceeds to Orebi, where a ferry ride transports travelers across the Adriatic Sea to Korcula Island. The 15-minute ferry provides a chance to enjoy breathtaking coastal vistas and feel the gentle sea breeze. The ferry fare is included in the tour, making this a hassle-free part of the experience.

Once on Korcula, the guide leads the group through its old town, highlighting must-see spots like Cathedral of Saint Mark and Bishops Palace. The town’s architecture reflects its rich history, from ancient Greek roots to its role as a Venetian stronghold.

Discovering Korcula’s Architectural and Cultural Gems

With around 3 hours allocated for exploring Korcula, visitors have ample time to wander its narrow streets and soak in the medieval atmosphere. The Cathedral of Saint Mark and the Bishops Palace stand out as top attractions, offering insights into Korcula’s religious and civic history.

The free time allows for optional activities like swimming or simply strolling along the seaside promenade. The relaxed pace lets travelers enjoy the charm of this historic town at their leisure.

Wine Tasting in Peljeac’s Vineyards

A highlight of the tour is the wine tasting experience in Peljeac, where exquisite local wines are sampled. The focus is on the famous Plavac Mali variety, renowned for its bold flavors and deep character. The visit lasts about 1 hour, providing enough time to enjoy the wines and take in the stunning coastal views.

This part of the tour is included, allowing guests to appreciate Croatia’s winemaking traditions firsthand. The tasting takes place at a local winery, giving a personal touch to the experience.

Visiting Orebic and the Ferry Back to Korcula

After the wine tasting, the tour continues through the Peljeac Peninsula, with Orebic serving as a scenic stopping point. From Orebic, travelers board the ferry back to Korcula, completing the 15-minute cruise across the sea. The ferry fare is included, ensuring a smooth return journey.

This ferry crossing provides more opportunities for coastal views and photo-taking, as the boat glides along the shoreline.

Optional Oysters at Mali Ston

For seafood lovers, there’s an optional stop at Mali Ston to taste its famous oysters. Known for their delicate texture and fresh flavor, these oysters are harvested from pristine waters. The 15-minute stop is free, but oyster tasting is an optional activity not included in the basic tour package.

This culinary experience adds a flavorful dimension to the day, especially for those interested in local seafood.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour runs from 7:00 am, with pickup and drop-off included, making it convenient for travelers staying in Dubrovnik. The transportation is air-conditioned, and WiFi is available onboard for sharing moments or staying connected. An audio guide is accessible via smartphone, providing detailed information about each stop.

The maximum group size of 19 travelers ensures a comfortable and personalized experience. The tour is designed to suit most people, but comfortable shoes and swimwear are recommended, especially for the leisure and swimming opportunities.

Reflecting on the Tour’s Strengths and Limitations

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the knowledgeable guide, with reviews highlighting Davor’s hospitality and informative commentary. The scenic coastal drives, stunning views from the walls of Ston, and the wine tasting are consistently appreciated.

However, some reviews note that Late April may offer limited activity on Korcula, as the island can be quieter during this time. The approximate duration can vary depending on traffic and other factors, so flexibility is recommended. Also, admission to Salt Pans and oyster tasting are optional and not included in the base price.

Final Thoughts on the Korula & Ston Tour

This full-day trip offers a balanced mix of cultural exploration, scenic drives, and culinary delights. It’s well-suited for those interested in history, wine, and coastal scenery. The included ferry rides and wine tasting add value, while the small group size enhances the experience’s intimacy.

While it may not be ideal for travelers seeking a highly active or leisurely exploration with lots of free time, it provides a comprehensive taste of Croatia’s coastal charm in a manageable day. Most travelers will appreciate the professional guides, stunning views, and local flavors packed into this 10-hour adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 7:00 am and including multiple stops and transfers.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik are included, along with air-conditioned transport, a ferry ride, and WiFi onboard.

What attractions are visited?
Stops include Ston Old Town and Salt Pans, Korcula Old City with Cathedral of Saint Mark and Bishops Palace, plus a wine tasting in Peljeac.

Is the ferry ride included?
Yes, the ferry fare from Orebi to Korcula and back is included in the tour price.

Can I try oysters during this tour?
Oyster tasting at Mali Ston is optional and not included in the basic tour fee.

How much time is spent exploring Korcula?
Approximately 3 hours are dedicated to exploring Korcula, giving ample time for sightseeing and leisure.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and swimwear may be useful if you plan to swim during free time.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, with the consideration of moderate walking and a full-day schedule. Service animals are allowed.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, a different date or full refund is offered.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 21 days in advance, making early reservation advisable to secure a spot.