Bourdain called himself an idiot for now not traveling Croatia faster, and also you’ll experience like one too if you overlook the nearby charming island of Šolta. Roughly 10 miles from Split, it’s a speck of a place teeming with terrific meals and natural beauty. You’ll discover sleepy fishing villages, lazy beaches, and outdoor activities, now not to say global-elegance Mediterranean seafood.
“All year round is an awesome time to head,” says Julie Banning, a luxury journey consultant with Ovation Vacations in New York, who frequently plans day journeys to Šolta. It’s much like Patmos in Greece, with a small population (about 2,000), spiritual beyond, and robust foodie way of life. And it’s not anything like Hvar, Šolta’s extra famous sibling, in which events rage all night lengthy.
The vibe in Šolta is blissfully sleepy, and it’s all approximately soaking up nature. You’ll learn why the locals take pleasure in their honey and the secret to creating top-notch olive oil. You’ll take in superb perspectives on the eating places and go on the dive of a lifetime. If you don’t come again to Dubrovnik feeling relaxed and recharged, you’re likely doing it incorrectly. Here are 10 laugh activities to devise for an afternoon journey to this magical island gem.
Make Your Own Honey
Anyone with sweet teeth needs to see a beehive up close, says Gwen Kozlowski, the overall manager of Exeter International in Tampa, Florida. Tvrdić Bee Farm, or “The Island of Honey,” because the third era of farmers the Tvrdićs name it, gives excursions for just that, and you may get your fingers sticky even as you’re at it. For 20 additional Euros, cease your buzzy adventure with a three-direction Mediterranean meal.
Go Birdwatching
Croatia is an oasis for birdwatching, and sunny Šolta is no specific, says Kozlowski. (The tiny Čuvita owl is its national image.) Watch for the scarlet-billed Andouin’s gull, regal brief-toed eagle, and more and more rare bird harrier, which makes a magnificent show as it soars and dives down. For a greater konoba (traditional tavern), enjoy a dinner party on peka, a savory mixture of veggies and meat, at Iko’s ostrich farm close to Gornje Selo.
Take an Olive-Making Tour
Bone up for your information of Croatia’s famed export with the Taste Like a Pro excursion at Olynthia Natura, wherein you’ll learn the way olives are made into oil, says Kozlowski. It’s now not how you suspect: a stainless-steel mill gets the job completed in forty-five mins. Run via the Kastelanac family for four generations, their embrace of the laptop era will make you reconsider your next tin of olive oil.
Find a Pebbly Beach
Pebbly Nečujam to the north is considered one of Šolta’s maximum famous seashores, says Kozlowski. Bring the youngsters, jet skis, an excellent book, and some trade to hit up the kiosks and bakeries. (Also: a parasol, due to the fact color from the palm trees is scarce.) When the oontz-oontz track receives going around eight, make a beeline for calamari at Pasarela.
Go Sea Kayaking
Nečujam isn’t simply amazing for human beings-looking; you could also lease kayaks from Barić Nautika right at the beach, says Banning. “Explore the inlets around the bay, watch the water change from blue to turquoise, and take within the serene scene,” she advises. Maslinca at the west is any other choice for exploring the islets.
Try Dobričić Wine
“The darkest wine in Dalmatia” isn’t to be missed, says Banning. Once planted throughout Šolta earlier than World War II, the red varietal’s manufacturing declined through the 1990s and now handiest a handful of vineyards stay. Fortunately, you can flavor the sour cherry tang for your self at Agroturizam Kaštelanac in Gorne Selo and the Purtić family house in Srednje Selo.
Go Biking
Seasoned bikers will love exploring Šolta, says Banning, who recommends reserving a guided or self-guided excursion thru Discover Croatia. Self-guided excursions include maps, mountain motorcycles, and transport to and from the ferry, while others can discover the historic villages dotting the island from Gornje Selo to Maslinca.
Go Scuba Diving
Whether you’re a rookie or pro, Leomar Diving School, within the antique port of Stomorska, is an extraordinary option, says Banning. Explore a mysterious shipwreck, or scale vertical walls and shadowy caves. You’ve assured a super glimpse of the sea lifestyles — consisting of corals, Gorgonians, and fish — and the crystal-clear waters of Šolta.
Take a Hike
Head for Šolta’s maximum factor, Vela Straža in Gornje Selo, says Banning, in which you’ll get a dramatic fowl’s eye view of the island. Nečujam and Peskeria are both on display, as are the plush olive groves. The brief, easy trail is three miles, and the height is marked by using a cross.
Go on a Culinary Tour
Kobo Mareta in Nečujam serves traditional Croatian seafood that is going best with perspectives of the sunset. To the south, Lonely Paradise is simply what it feels like: “a real hidden paradise immersed in the shadow of palm timber,” says Banning. Sampler, only a five-minute walk from the center of Maslinca, sits on a hill in which you’ll find stellar perspectives of the Adriatic (and even higher fish soup).
