Well-situated across the bay from the picturesque town of Vela Luka on the island of Korčula (also known as the Emerald Isle), Villa Buria and its guests benefit from the comparative lack of tourists compared to equivalent places like Hvar. This gives the island its laid-back attitude but doesn’t mean there isn’t a bevvy of things to see, do, eat, and drink.
Vela Luka is where the ferry from Split arrives and has a wealth of natural and cultural attractions. Indeed, the Vela Luka Cultural Centre boasts two Henry Moore sculptures. And make sure to check out Vela Spila, a stunning cave hidden among olive groves with a gaping limestone cavity and two large holes in its ceiling that produce vivid plays of light.
Korčula Old Town (a 44-minute drive) is certainly worth a day trip. Sometimes called “Little Dubrovnik”, thanks to the likeness of its medieval city walls, picturesque Venetian-style buildings with red rooftops, and the fact that the town is built on a small peninsula jutting out into the Peljesac channel. This historic town even provides a rival claim to Venice as the birthplace of Marco Polo (in a house on Ulica Depolo Street).
Be sure to check out St. Mark’s Cathedral, a stunning Gothic church built on the highest point in town. Finish the day at Mariola Wine Bar, a laid-back joint right on the sea where you can watch the world float by over a refreshing glass of local wine and tasty bruschetta. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, treat yourself to a cocktail at Massimo, a bar on top of a 15th-century tower perched precipitously on the sea’s edge. You’ll have to climb a ladder onto a roof, and your drinks will arrive via a pulley system, but it’s pretty fun.
Foodies should also pay the nearby town of Zrnovo a visit. This town originated Makaruni, a traditional homemade pasta from the island. Often served with beef, it can also be found with prawns or simple tomato sauce. Of course, Makaruni can be found at restaurants all over the island, so keep your eyes peeled.
The Region
Korčula (pronounced kor-chu-la) is a beautiful island nestled in the tranquil blue waters of the Adriatic Sea, known for its pristine beaches, rich history, and impressive architecture. Located in the southern region of Croatia, just off the Dalmatian Coast, this enchanting island offers a blend of culture, nature, and a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle that has continued to entice travellers from
around the world for centuries.
The main town on the island, Korčula Town, is a well-preserved medieval marvel, complete with cobblestone streets laid out in a unique fishbone structure that has to be seen. Just like a mini Dubrovnik, the narrow streets dotted with terracotta-tiled houses are perfect to explore on foot. The town is home to beautiful churches and palaces, including the St. Mark's Cathedral. A stunning example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, the cathedral's façade is adorned with intricate sculptures and a magnificent rose window, showcasing the island's historical and artistic significance.
Korčula has a well-earned reputation for being the wine island, and while there’s local wines to be found across Croatia, Korčula has some outstanding varieties that are hard to find anywhere else. A wine tour is a fantastic way to visit the vineyards, and if you’re feeling particularly active then we recommend trying it on two wheels! A cycling wine tour which is a wonderful way to see the island’s landscape.
If you’re an adventure seeker, Korčula offers numerous outdoor activities. As mentioned, the island's diverse landscape is perfect for cycling, along with well-marked trails that take you through lush forests, rolling hills, and charming villages, which are great for a hike. Water sports enthusiasts can try their hand at kayaking the numerous sheltered bays, a spot of sailing in the crystal-clear
waters of the Adriatic. Additionally, the island's underwater world is a paradise for divers and snorkelers, with vibrant marine life and shipwrecks waiting to be explored.
For some traditional entertainment, Korčula is the best place in Croatia to catch a performance of the Moreška sword dance. A captivating display of choreographed battle scenes, this dance has been a part of the island's cultural heritage for centuries and continues to be performed during the summer months, providing an authentic experience for tourists. A seat in the front row is not for the faint-hearted!
Korčula's strategic position in the Adriatic makes it an ideal starting point for exploring other Croatian islands. A short ferry ride can take you to neighbouring islands such as Hvar, Brac, and Mljet, each with a unique charm. An island-hopping adventure allows you to witness the diversity of the Dalmatian archipelago.
Korčula is easily accessible by ferry from the Croatian mainland, and with its small size and well maintained infrastructure, getting around the island is a breeze.
Korčula is a mesmerising destination that captures the essence of the Mediterranean. Whether you're drawn to the historical, cultural, or natural aspects of the island, a trip to Korčula is sure to leave a lasting impression and unforgettable memories.
