Private Tour: Ston and Peljesac Peninsula Day Trip with Wine Tasting

Getting a taste of Croatia’s Peljesac Peninsula is a highlight for lovers of wine, seafood, and scenic coastal views. This private day trip from Dubrovnik, costing $311.72 per person, offers a flexible itinerary that includes visits to Ston, famous for its medieval walls and oysters, and stops at family-run wineries. With a journey lasting approximately 7 hours, the tour provides a personalized experience through the region’s rich culinary and historical sights.

The tour is perfect for those who want an intimate, curated adventure that combines sightseeing, wine tasting, and local delicacies. It features pickup from Dubrovnik hotels, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, and guidance from a private guide. While most travelers find this tour highly rewarding, it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and a full day of exploration.

Key Points

• Private full-day trip from Dubrovnik to Peljesac Peninsula, lasting about 7 hours
• Includes visits to Ston’s medieval walls and salt factory
• Tasting sessions at three family-run wineries along the coast
• Opportunity to sample fresh oysters and mussels in Mali Ston
• Pickup and drop-off at Dubrovnik hotels in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Most travelers rate this tour 4.7 out of 5, citing knowledgeable guides and excellent wine

Starting with a Personalized Private Experience from Dubrovnik

This private tour begins with hotel pickup in Dubrovnik at 10:00 am, setting the stage for an intimate exploration of the Peljesac Peninsula. The journey lasts around one hour, passing over the Franjo Tudman Bridge and along the stunning Dalmatian Coast. The flexibility of a private guide means the itinerary can be adapted to suit your interests, whether that’s more time at the wineries or additional stops along the coast.

The private nature of this tour ensures undivided attention from your guide, who shares insights into the region’s history, culture, and food traditions. The transportation is comfortable and climate-controlled, making the drive smooth and enjoyable even in warmer weather.

Discovering Ston’s Historic Walls and Salt Factory

The first stop is the charming town of Ston, renowned for its 4.3 miles of medieval walls—the second longest in Europe. Visitors have the chance to walk along these ancient defenses, admiring the views and learning about their historical significance as a border of the once-powerful Republic of Ragusa.

Along With its walls, Ston’s old salt factory offers a glimpse into the area’s historic salt production, which contributed wealth and prominence in the region. Visitors can walk through the factory and understand how salt was harvested and processed here, making it a site of both historical and economic importance.

Tasting the Region’s Famous Oysters and Seafood

Mali Ston, a small fishing village near Ston, serves as a perfect spot for a seafood lunch. The tour often includes an oyster or mussel tasting, with some stops offering the chance to sample freshly caught oysters—a delicacy that even Roman emperors might have shipped to Rome. The quality of seafood here is a standout feature, with many describing the oysters as the best tasting in the region.

While lunch is at your own expense, the opportunity to enjoy seafood right by the water enhances the authentic experience of the Peljesac coast. The seafood is complemented by the region’s renowned Peljesac wines, which you will sample at several local wineries.

Visiting Three Family-Run Wineries on the Coastal Road

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the visit to three different small, family-run wineries. Each winery offers a distinct style of wine, with plavac mali as the principal grape variety. The scenic drives between wineries provide stunning views of the coast, vineyards, and the turquoise sea.

Guides introduce the wines with detailed descriptions, and guests have the chance to taste a variety of local wines, often paired with cheese, charcuterie, or other local snacks. Notably, most reviews highlight the quality of the wines and the warmth of the winery owners, making these stops both educational and delicious.

Scenic Coastal Drives and Hidden Gems

Traveling along the undulating coastline of Peljesac, visitors enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. The drive offers several opportunities for photos and to appreciate the natural beauty of this less-visited Croatian region.

Some stops include a coastal fish farm, where guests can sample freshly caught seafood, adding another layer of gastronomic delight. The combination of scenic vistas and authentic local stops makes this a memorable journey.

Flexibility and Personalization of the Tour

Reviews consistently praise the flexible nature of this private tour. Guides are attentive to individual interests, allowing for added stops or extended time at particular sites, such as the wineries or Ston’s walls. This customization makes the experience feel more like a tailored day out rather than a rigid schedule.

Travelers also appreciate the knowledgeable guides, with reviews frequently mentioning guides’ friendliness, historical expertise, and wine knowledge as highlights that elevate the experience.

Logistical Details and Practicalities

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik, making the day seamless without having to worry about transportation logistics. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the roughly 7-hour journey, which includes all stops and tastings.

Since food and drinks, except at the wineries and seafood stops, are not included, guests should plan to bring some cash for lunch and additional purchases. The private format limits group size to 8 people, providing an intimate experience.

What Reviews Reveal About the Tour Experience

While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some mention the importance of timing. For example, starting very early might mean missing out on oysters if the town or wineries are not yet open, as one review notes. However, many praise the flexibility and the knowledge of guides such as Ivan and Drazen.

The wine tastings are consistently highlighted as excellent, with guests enjoying the small, family-owned wineries and the variety of wines sampled. The stunning coastal scenery, combined with fresh seafood and historical sites, makes this tour stand out.

The Sum Up: A Wine and Food Journey through Peljesac

This private tour of Peljesac Peninsula offers a well-rounded experience of Croatia’s coastal charm, culinary delights, and history. The visits to Ston’s walls and salt factory, wine tastings at three wineries, and seafood in Mali Ston are highlights that appeal to foodies and history buffs alike.

The tour’s flexibility, knowledgeable guides, and scenic drives make it a strong choice for those seeking an authentic, personalized day away from Dubrovnik’s crowds. While lunch and additional purchases are not included, the overall value, especially considering the private setting, makes this a worthwhile experience for anyone interested in Croatian culture and gastronomy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those comfortable with walking and a full day of exploring will enjoy it most.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, private guide, and wine tastings.

Are meal options included?
No, food and drinks apart from wine tastings and seafood stops are not included, so plan to bring cash for lunch.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The private guide can tailor stops and timing based on your interests, allowing for a personalized day.

Are the wineries family-run?
Yes, stops include small, family-owned wineries known for their unique wines and warm hospitality.

Can I sample oysters and seafood?
Yes, oysters and mussels are available at Mali Ston, and local seafood is a highlight.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Highlights include Ston’s medieval walls, salt factory, wine tastings, seafood lunch, and scenic coastal drives.

How long is the drive from Dubrovnik to Peljesac?
Approximately one hour each way, with stops along the coast for sightseeing.

Is this tour good value for the price?
Given the private setting, multiple stops, and quality of experiences, most find it offers good value.

How do I book or cancel?
Booking is available via Viator, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts.