Sailing, wining, and dining in South Croatia: Recommendations from Pegasus crew
by Pegasus Yachts 7 Mar 2022 14:24 UTC
Telašcica © adriatic.hr
It's all there in the title. This short guide is here to help you eat good food, drink good wine, and navigate your way through the Adriatic.
In case you missed the first part of our guide, you can find it here. Cheers!
1. Telašcica
Ready for a journey to another planet? National Park Telašcica in the Kornati is a place to go. We suggest sailing on the outer side of the island for the most breathtaking sights of the cliffs you really wouldn't expect in the Adriatic. Telašcica is also a perfect shelter when you have to wait for good weather for a couple of days. Marko's pro tip: anchor your sailboat, get into a dingy and visit Taverna GO-RO for an unforgettable dinner. (It might be a bit on the pricey side, but it's worth every penny.) Oh, and have we mentioned there is also a marvelous salt lake on the island itself?
2. Vis
The former ancient city of Issa lies on the most remote inhabited island of Croatia. Now known as Vis, it is a lure for sailors and lovers of peaceful holidays alike. For a long time, Vis was a military area with very limited access for the public. Therefore, there are almost no traces of mass tourism in the interior of the island. Rent a motorbike, and you are about to have a wonderful day trip. In the city of Vis (buoy or mooring), try Restoran Pejoda.
3. Komiža
Not your cup of tea? Try Komiža (pier with electricity). There is an almost universal consensus about the unique yet hard-to-define charm of this little town. Put on your flip-flops (you really won't need any other type of shoes here) and opt for dinner at Jastožera or Konoba Bako.
4. Drvenik Veli
The authentic Robinson island. Make sure to visit Konoba Krknjaši when you feel to need for some company and good food. Not the cheapest of the places, but the ambient, the food, and the anchorage are exceptional. Buoys or anchor.
5. Šolta (Šešula bay)
It is conveniently located close to Split and Trogir and a popular spot for the beginning or the end of sailing trips. Is it already time for another octopus in peka? We believe so. Konoba Šešula is a go-to destination. Are you looking for something more upscale? Marina Maslinica, a place for the most demanding guest, equipped with own heliport, is a mere shot away.
6. Hvar
Hvar is way more than just a massive all-inclusive tourist destination. There are several authentic small places where time runs at a different pace. Stiniva is definitely one of them. Worth a bit of luck, you will meet local fishermen selling fish or even cooking a meal for you in their home. It's hard to find a more authentic Adriatic experience. Bonus: free pier at Hafen Stiniva.
7. Paklinski Islands
The go-to destination for the jet-set bunch. Expect excellent food, excellent wine, a lot of charter boats, and steep prices. Calm down with a glass in Ristorante Palmizana Meneghello or Laganini Lounge bar and Fish house.
8. Pelješac
The second-largest peninsula in Croatia offers many charming spots, although this whole place (especially Viganj) is more suitable for surfers and kite surfers than sailboats. But don't cross it off your list. Pelješac is one of the most dynamic wine regions in Europe, with old traditional masters (Vinery Miloš) and new kids on the block (Korta Katarina) pushing the wine scene forward. At dinnertime, sail to the very end of Pelješac to the village of Lovište and try Konoba Barsa (pier with electricity and water). And don't get scared if you hear strange howling at night - that's just a pack of local jackals.
9. Korcula
Arguably the most beautiful Croatian island and home to beloved late Croatian musician Oliver Dragojevic. Vela Luka offers a marina and buoys, and Konoba Bata takes care of the hungry sea travelers. Talking about travelers? There once was a guy born in the city of Korcula and was very eager to see the world. Perhaps you heard of him... His name was Marco Polo.
10. Lastovo
As we know from physics, time is relative. On Lastovo, one can experience first-hand how it feels when time completely stops. Rent a scooter in the town of Ubli (ask at Solitudo) and take a tour around this blissful island or visit one of more than 40 churches on it. (Why so many? Every time the sailors survived a strong storm on the open seas, they built one to express their gratitude.) Top your stay with a dinner in Konoba Bocvara. Make sure to try a glass of Malvasia Dubrovacka. And make even more sure to stay more than just one day.
11. Šipanska Luka
As quiet as it gets. Not a lot of places to sample good food, but you should not be disappointed in the restaurant Kod Marka.
12. Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik. One and only. Enough said.