Places on the island

The Stone Beauty of the Adriatic with a Thousand-Year Story

Korčula, a historic fortress-town on the eastern coast of the island of Korčula, is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved medieval towns on the Adriatic. Located on a small peninsula, the town was built at a strategic point where the sea passage between the island and the mainland narrows to just 1,270 meters, making it an ideal place for maritime control and defence. The history of Korčula stretches from ancient times, through Venetian and Croatian rule, up to the present day, when this old stone town with a rich cultural heritage has become one of the most attractive destinations in the Mediterranean.

History and Architecture of the Town of Korčula

The Old Town of Korčula was built according to an ingenious fishbone street plan – the main street runs from east to west, while side streets branch out toward the sea at an angle, allowing for optimal air circulation and protection from strong winds. This layout is not only visually impressive, but also highly practical, ensuring comfortable living throughout the year. The town is surrounded by massive walls, towers, and bastions, which were gradually expanded from the 13th century until the 1870s, when some were torn down as they were deemed unnecessary in modern times.

The Heart of the Island with a Rich Heritage

Located just four kilometres from the town of Korčula, Žrnovo is one of the oldest and most authentic settlements on the island. It has preserved its strong identity through centuries, divided into four hamlets: Brdo, Prvo Selo, Kampuš, and Postrana. Each of them offers a unique atmosphere, rich tradition, and proximity to natural wonders that attract visitors seeking tranquility, history, and local spirit. Nearby, you’ll find newer coastal settlements like Medvinjak, Žrnovska Banja, Vrbovica, and Oskorušica, along with countless coves on the island’s southern side facing Lastovo and Mljet.

Surrounded by greenery, dry-stone walls, and oak groves, Žrnovo lies near the protected landscape of Kočje – a magical forest filled with hidden rock formations and legends. The area is crisscrossed with ancient roads like the Roman and Marmont paths, perfect for hiking and cycling. Cultural explorers will discover old chapels, traditional stone architecture, and vibrant local customs. In Postrana, the ancient sword dance moštra is still performed ceremonially on the feast of St. Roch, August 16. Each hamlet has its patron saint, and the summer and autumn celebrations are an ideal chance to experience community life and tradition.

Žrnovo is the birthplace of renowned Croatian writer Petar Šegedin, whose legacy is celebrated with the biennial “Days of Petar Šegedin” in Korčula and his native Postrana. Gastronomically, the village is famous for its Žrnovski makaruni – hand-rolled pasta made with love and tradition in every home. Every August, the entire village comes together for “Makarunada” – a festive event with workshops, preparation, and tasting of this beloved local dish. With its natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights, Žrnovo offers an unforgettable experience of authentic island life.

A picturesque fishing village

Račišće is a picturesque fishing village located 12 kilometres west of the town of Korčula, along a road that winds through numerous attractive bays such as Žrnovska Banja, Vrbovica, and Kneža. These bays are known for their crystal-clear beaches, peaceful atmosphere, and accommodation options – from comfortable villas to small campsites ideal for families and anyone looking for a relaxing seaside holiday.

The village was founded in the late 17th century, when refugees from the Makarska Riviera and Herzegovina settled here, fleeing Ottoman invasions. Račišće quickly grew into a maritime center – from the late 19th to the mid-20th century, the locals owned the island’s largest fleet of small sailing cargo ships. Even today, many Račišće natives sail the world’s seas as officers and sailors on ships under various flags.

Two churches dominate the village: the older one, dedicated to Our Lady Help of Christians, dates back to the village’s founding, while the parish church of St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors, is more recent. Along the coast, in Račišće and the nearby village of Kneža, charming taverns serve traditional Dalmatian dishes in authentic surroundings. Nature lovers will especially enjoy the nearby coves of Vaja and Samograd, accessible by walking paths, which enchant with their unspoiled beauty and turquoise sea.

A Historic Village on the Island’s Peak

Located at 360 metres above sea level, Pupnat is the highest and one of the oldest settlements on the island of Korčula, only 11 kilometres from the town of Korčula. Surrounded by olive groves, vineyards and dense forests, this peaceful village preserves traces of Illyrian and Roman presence. Its historical charm is still visible today in many traditional stone houses with stone-slab roofs. A particularly notable site is the complex of old stone barns southeast of the village – a rare example of authentic rural architecture.

At the heart of Pupnat’s spiritual and cultural life is the parish church of Our Lady of the Snows, first mentioned in 1393. The church took on its current form between 1600 and 1620, while the parish was officially founded in 1625. Inside the church is the sarcophagus of Father Marko Tvrdeić, who died in Rimini in 1785 and whose remains were transferred to Pupnat in 1877. Next to the church stands the Brotherhood House, housing exhibits of the Brotherhood of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Chivalric Association Kumpanjija Pupnat – one of the oldest on the island. The kumpanjija, a traditional sword dance, is performed every year on August 5th, the feast of Our Lady of the Snows, the village’s patron saint.

Despite its small size, Pupnat is rich in customs, faith, and community spirit. The villagers proudly uphold traditional dances like the “bal”, as well as numerous religious customs. One of the most cherished moments of the year is the festive church decorating during the Christmas season, which gathers the whole community. Notably, Don Pavao Poša (1900–1980), a distinguished priest from Pupnat, held various high-ranking roles in the Diocese of Dubrovnik.

Pupnat is also a great starting point for nature lovers and those seeking an active holiday – hiking trails lead through untouched landscapes to scenic coves such as Pupnatska Luka, Bačva, Smokova, and Ripna. In the past, local women would carry firewood to Korčula on the backs of mules, and residents produced lime, charcoal, and collected resin – traditions that speak to the resourcefulness and hardworking nature of the community. Today, Pupnat offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle, and the authentic spirit of old Dalmatia.

A Peaceful Bay Near the Town of Korčula

Just 3 kilometres from the center of Korčula town, Žrnovska Banja is a charming coastal village nestled in a quiet bay, perfect for a relaxing getaway close to all amenities. Part of the municipality of Žrnovo, it offers stunning views of the Pelješac Channel and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for families and couples alike. The village offers apartments and holiday homes located right by the sea, allowing guests quick access to beaches and promenades.

Žrnovska Banja is also known for its family-run taverns and restaurants that serve traditional Dalmatian cuisine – fresh seafood, local olive oil, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables. The bay’s calm waters are perfect for kayaking, swimming, and diving, while the scenic surroundings invite cycling and walking. With its blend of nature and leisure, the area is also favoured by sailors looking for a quiet anchorage.

A short drive from Žrnovska Banja takes you to Kočje, a protected natural area known for its striking dolomite rock formations and lush vegetation. The trail begins in the nearby hamlet of Brdo, just above Žrnovo. Ideal for nature lovers and hikers, Kočje offers a refreshing contrast to the coast, inviting visitors to discover the green, peaceful interior of the island.

A Peaceful Bay with the Soul of the Island

Just a few kilometres west of the town of Korčula lies the small settlement of Kneže, offering an authentic experience of island peace and beauty. This picturesque place is nestled along a pebble bay surrounded by olive trees and pine forests, with crystal-clear sea and a stunning view of the Pelješac Peninsula. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation away from the crowds, yet still close to all the amenities of town.

Kneže has only a few holiday homes and family-run accommodations, making it perfect for a private escape, swimming, and enjoying nature. The small beach, quiet surroundings, and authentic atmosphere give this place a special charm. For those who love active holidays, scenic walking and cycling routes are easily accessible.

Nearby, you’ll find local taverns serving traditional food and wine, while the historic town of Korčula is just a ten-minute drive away. Kneže is both a peaceful retreat and a great base for exploring the island – a hidden gem where time slows down, just the way it should on the Adriatic.

The Wine Soul of Korčula Island

Perched above a fertile valley in the heart of the island, Čara is one of Korčula’s most renowned wine-producing villages, located about 25 km from the town of Korčula. Rich in culture and history, this charming village captivates visitors with its natural beauty and authentic Dalmatian spirit. The parish church of St. Peter dominates the center, next to which grows a centuries-old cypress tree protected by law. Across from the church stands a monument to the legendary Crnomir brothers, who resisted a Venetian duke’s tax in the 11th century—a story still remembered and retold by locals today.

Čara is most famous for cultivating Pošip, a native white grape variety that was first discovered here and is one of Croatia’s first legally protected wines. Its golden-yellow color and full, balanced flavour make it a standout among Dalmatian wines. The local cooperative wine cellar and olive press sit on the edge of the field, while several family-run wineries offer tastings in traditional stone settings, often accompanied by homemade olive oil and local specialties.

On the way to the sea, through the scenic Čara Field, lies the Church of Our Lady of Čara Field, dating back to the 14th century. With its ornate baroque altar and rare alabaster reliefs of English origin, the church is one of the island’s most beloved pilgrimage sites. Faithful from across the island gather here on two feast days: July 25th (St. James) and September 8th (Nativity of the Virgin Mary), commemorating a Marian apparition reported in 1686 in the nearby bay of Čavića Luka.

Traditional customs are alive and well in Čara, with cultural heritage on full display during the Kumpanjija sword dance, performed annually on St. James’s Day. This unique performance features ceremonial costumes, music, and folk dancing, accompanied by the sounds of traditional Dalmatian songs and klapa singing.

From the village, a road leads to the pebbled beach of Žitna Bay and further to Zavalatica, a peaceful coastal area where visitors can stay in seaside vacation homes, apartments, or guest rooms. Čara and its surroundings offer an ideal blend of nature, tradition, wine, and crystal-clear Adriatic waters—an unforgettable Korčula experience.

A Quiet Cove of Wine and Sea

Located on the southern coast of Korčula Island, near the village of Čara, Zavalatica is a peaceful seaside retreat that once served as an important wine export port. Today, this charming village is a haven for family holidays and slow travel, offering a variety of private accommodations nestled along the rocky coast and pebble beaches. Zavalatica’s history is deeply tied to the cultivation of Pošip, the famous native white wine of the island.

Nearby bays such as Žitna and Čavića Luka offer crystal-clear water, natural shade, and small pebble beaches—perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing with family. These quiet inlets are ideal for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy authentic Mediterranean landscapes.

On the road from Čara to Zavalatica lies the fertile Čara Field, rich with vineyards and olive groves. At its center stands the Church of Our Lady of Čara Field, originally built in 1329. This sanctuary is one of the island’s most important pilgrimage sites, visited on July 25th and September 8th. According to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared to a shepherd girl in the nearby bay of Čavića Luka in 1686.

Zavalatica offers a unique blend of spiritual heritage, local wine tradition, and peaceful coastal beauty—perfect for travellers in search of authentic, tranquil experiences on Korčula.

Island of Stone and Stillness

Vrnik is a small islet just off the eastern coast of Korčula, rising only 50 meters above sea level. It is home to the island’s oldest and most famous stone quarry, and its namesake village, where just a few families live today. During summer, they offer accommodation to visitors seeking peace, authenticity, and a touch of history. With 29 visible quarries, Vrnik is a living monument to the island’s stonemasonry tradition.

From antiquity until the mid-20th century, Vrnik supplied high-quality limestone across the Adriatic and beyond. Its stone found its way into iconic structures such as the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, the Austrian Parliament in Vienna, and the City Hall in Stockholm. Dalmatian cities like Dubrovnik and Hvar owe much of their architectural elegance to stone from Vrnik. The island also inspired generations of sculptors, including the renowned Frano Kršinić, one of Croatia’s greatest artists.

Two churches grace the island: the new Church of Our Lady of the Visitation, built in 1856 near the shoreline, and the older church of the same name from 1674, nestled near the quarries. The old school building is used as a seasonal art gallery showcasing modern Croatian artists. In the summer months, Vrnik is easily accessible by boat taxi from Korčula town, making it a perfect destination for a quiet, culturally rich island escape.

Island of Tranquillity and Spiritual Heritage

Badija is a small forested island located in the eastern part of the Pelješac Channel, separated from Korčula by the narrow Ježevica strait. Covering about 1 km², the island is easily accessible by taxi boats that run regularly from the town of Korčula during the summer season. A scenic gravel path circles the entire island, perfect for walking while enjoying the dense pine forest and Mediterranean vegetation.

The highlight of Badija is its Franciscan monastery and church, built in the late Gothic style after 1420. The monastery was extended in 1909 and repurposed as a summer retreat in the 1950s. Since 2003, it has been returned to the ownership of the Franciscan order. While it is not open for daily visits, tours can be arranged by appointment via www.badija.hr. On a hill above the monastery stands the small Church of St. Catherine, dating back to the 15th–16th century.

The island’s southern shore offers a safe anchorage for medium-sized vessels, while smaller boats can moor west of the monastery. Badija is a unique blend of spiritual legacy and natural beauty – from the serenity of its monastic complex to the aromatic pines, gentle sea breeze, and secluded pebble coves. It is the perfect spot for walkers, nature lovers, and those seeking peace with panoramic views of the Pelješac coast.