Mljet Island

The southernmost of Croatia’s principal islands, Mljet is best known for its eponymous National Park, which occupies its western cape, and is connected by ferry to mainland Dubrovnik and the nearby Peljesac Peninsula. Dominated by the saltwater lakes of Veliko and Malo Jezero, Mljet National Park offers a scenic backdrop of pine forests and glittering waters, with miles of shaded hiking and cycling trails encircling the lakes. Marooned on an islet on Veliko Jezero is the 12th-century former Benedictine monastery, now transformed into a restaurant, and the lakes are dotted with swimming, kayaking and fishing spots.

The National Park might be Mljet’s main draw, but it’s not the island’s only attraction - the eastern tip of Saplunara is also widely renowned for its sandy beaches, hidden lagoons and natural caves. Most famous is the striking Odysseus's cave on the south coast, reached by a 30-meter tunnel from the shore and named after the legendary Greek king who was allegedly shipwrecked here and lived on the island for 7 years. Along with its abundant swimming and snorkeling areas, Mljet Island is also a hotspot for scuba divers, with a number of wreck dives and the chance to spot rare Mediterranean monk seals.