Mljet Island, Croatia
The most beautiful and greenest of the Croatian islands is undoubtedly the island of Mljet, located 30 km from Dubrovnik. This 37-kilometer limestone strip with a gorge is adorned with a beautiful landscape of sharp peaks with dense and green vegetation. The western part of the island of Mljet has given up 30 sq.km. from its green areas on two saltwater lakes and idyllic mountain terrain, which together form a nature reserve. A beautiful Benedictine monastery from the 12th century is charmingly perched on an island in the middle of this reserve.
Speaking of this monastery, let us travel back in time. It is recorded in the annals that in the 12th century the Benedictines bought the island of Mljet and built their own monastery there. However, despite the fact that around the 15th century the island of Mljet came under the rule of Dubrovnik, the monastery did not lose its spiritual and material significance and lasted until the 18th century, during the time of Napoleon.
In general, the island of Mljet is not a commercial tourist destination. People come here because of the incredible natural beauty and impressive cultural heritage. The island of Mljet is a paradise for lovers of ecotourism. From cycling to unrestricted climbing in the mountain reserve, from swimming in the lakes to kayaking - the island of Mljet is ready to provide entertainment for everyone. This island has managed to preserve its atmosphere as it has been in recent centuries. People are dressed in traditional country costumes, songs are still sung and dances are played, and nothing is in a state of disruption to the idyllic setting of the island of Mljet.
Of course, the island of Mljet offers many picturesque villages to visit, many medieval churches and historical ruins to explore, beautiful beaches for relaxation - such as the sandy beaches of Saplunara on the east coast, delicious wine and goat cheese for tasting. Among the sights on the island of Mljet are the cave of Odysseus, where he fell in love with the nymph Calypso and spent 7 years, and the Roman palace Polace from the V century.