Mljet: Lakes, Monastery Culture and Historic Sites

Protected landscapes, historic buildings and local traditions come together on Mljet. Mljet National Park lies within the municipality of Općina Mljet. Veliko jezero and Malo jezero are two deep bays referred to as lakes; they are connected to the open sea via the Solinski Channel. This special combination of lakes and sea provides the setting for excursions, cultural sites and activities on the island.

Monastery Island and Historic Sites

In the southern part of Veliko jezero lies the Island of St. Mary, with a Benedictine monastery and the Church of St. Mary. The monastery was built between 1177 and 1198; the central part of the church has retained its Romanesque style. Opening times and boat connections may vary seasonally. If you are planning a visit, check the seasonal options in advance.

Polače also reveals traces of different eras: it is home to the remains of a Roman palace and an early Christian church dating from the 5th to 6th century. In Babino Polje are the 15th-century Church of St. Blaise and the 16th-century Prince’s Palace, locally known as Palac. Access to the interior of the Church of St. Blaise may depend on services or local arrangements.

Kaštio defines the character of Prožura: the square defensive tower dates from the 17th century. The feast day of St. Roch is also commemorated there every year on 16 August with a procession. Ask about that year’s programme before your visit.

On Foot, by Bike or on the Water

The Mljetska planinarska obilaznica runs from the National Park area to the island’s centre. Trail markers and stamps at checkpoints mark the route. As trail conditions can change, check them before setting out. Another specifically described hiking option leads from Babino Polje to Odysseus’ Cave: the walking path is considered not very demanding and is also suitable for parents with small children. Actual trail conditions may vary by season.

If you would rather cycle around the lakes, the “Biciklom kroz park” tour offers a cycling loop around Veliko jezero and Malo jezero. This gives you different ways to get around: a marked hiking route towards the island’s centre, a walking path from Babino Polje to the cave, and a cycling loop around both lakes.

In the southwest of Mljet lies the Štit Reef, a dive site with abundant marine life. Experienced divers may find red coral jewellery there. The reef can be reached by boat from Pomena; availability with operators and sea conditions vary. Polače is a deeply indented bay considered one of the preferred nautical bases and surrounded by four small islands. Ask locally about anchoring and mooring rules.

Arrival and Orientation

The only ferry terminal on Mljet is in Sobra. Ferry timetables are seasonal and may change, so it is worth checking the current schedule before travelling. There is a charging station for electric vehicles next to the petrol station in Sobra; infrastructure may change.

The places mentioned offer different starting points for planning your trip: Polače combines archaeological remains with a bay shaped by nautical activity; Babino Polje has historic buildings and the walking path to Odysseus’ Cave; and Prožura has its defensive tower and procession. Sobra is where the ferry terminal is located, while Pomena is mentioned as the starting point for a boat trip to Štit Reef. If you are looking for a hotel on Mljet, first consider which of these interests you want to shape your stay.

Regional Cuisine and Recurring Events

Mljetski makaruli is a traditional pasta dish made with homemade goat’s cheese, garlic and olive oil. Whether it is on offer depends on the individual restaurant. Eels caught in Mljet’s saline natural lakes are served grilled or as brodet, among other preparations. Pasta and fish dishes thus represent different aspects of the local culinary heritage, although not every restaurant offers the same selection.

“Toast from the Host,” an enogastronomic event featuring regional specialities and wine tasting, takes place in Pomena every year at the end of August. Check the date and programme for the relevant year. Together with the procession marking the feast day of St. Roch on 16 August, the event shows how food culture and recurring dates can fit into your travel plans: both have a fixed seasonal connection, while details of the current programme should be confirmed locally.

Discover more destinations: Polace, Mljet, Saplunara, Maranovići, Korita, Ropa, Okuklje, Blato, Prožura, Kozarica, Sobra, Babino Polje, Govedjari.

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