Situated among the olive groves, orange orchards and ancient churches of the Elaphati island of Šipan, Croatia, Villa Reverie is a majestic structure perched above a small 16th-century fishing village. This picturesque town on the island’s eastern coast is a short ferry ride (75 minutes) from Dubrovnik, making the nearby port city an easy option for a day trip or romantic getaway.
But this village is more than just a departure point. It boasts pretty cobblestoned streets, shops, bars, seaside restaurants and even a small swimming beach.
The island of Šipan, known as “the little island of gold”, is famous for its wines and olive oils. There are several wineries within walking distance of Villa Reverie, including Goravica winery and Family Danicic. Make sure to try Palvac Mali, a local varietal, and don’t miss out on local products produced from the native carob tree, whose seeds are mildly sweet and used in powdered, chip or syrup form in cakes and cookies.
The island itself is small enough not to need a car, making it fantastic to explore on a bicycle (hireable in town) or hiking as all trails are relatively easy and moderate to follow, not to mention well marked so that you don’t lose your way as you meander among quiet beaches, ancient churches, roman ruins, vineyards, olive groves, and orange orchards.
The way up to the island’s highest hill, Velji Vrh (243m), is well signalled along the pathways and provides breathtaking views over the entire Elaphati archipelago and down to Mljet island and the Peljasac peninsula.