Located southeast of Korčula, Mljet Island is often referred to as Croatia’s greenest island due to its lush vegetation. The western portion of the island is designated as Mljet National Park, offering a plethora of roads and trails for visitors to explore and immerse themselves in nature. One of the highlights of the park is the islet of St. Maria located within Mljet’s largest lake, where a 12th-century Benedictine monastery stands majestically. Despite its small size, the islet is incredibly beautiful and can be easily traversed in about 10 minutes.

Legend has it that Mljet is the place where Calypso held Ulysses captive in Greek mythology. Although the veracity of this claim is debatable, many names on the island have Greek origins, adding to its mystique. Visitors can even explore Ulysses Cave to delve further into the island’s mythical connections.

In addition to hiking, cycling is a popular activity on the island, allowing travelers to explore the lakes, coast, and verdant pine forests. The lakes of Mljet also offer a unique swimming experience, as they are consistently a few degrees warmer than the nearby Adriatic Sea.

For more adventurous excursions in and around Korčula, consider exploring the various options available.