Road Trip Along the Heavenly South of Croatia

Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history and delectable cuisine. A great way to immerse yourself in a country is a road trip during your holiday in Dubrovnik. Now, thanks to the (relatively) new Pelješac bridge, a road trip along the south of Croatia has become an enticing adventure, especially for seafood and wine enthusiasts alike. Fasten your seatbelts and let’s go!

The Pelješac Bridge

Pelješac bridge 

Interested in exploring the south of Croatia by car while on your holiday in Dubrovnik? It is a wonderful region to soak up during a road trip! First off, choose May, June, September or October – you will still get great sunny weather, but will avoid the crowds on the roads during July and August. If your final goal is Dubrovnik, you are sure to cross the relatively new Pelješac bridge.

This engineering marvel, opened in July 2022, serves as a pivotal point connecting the northern and southern parts of the country, making the journey between Split and Dubrovnik more accessible and efficient than ever before. Before, one had to cross the border of Bosnia and Herzegovina and then cross the border to Croatia back. Now the trip over the bridge takes you to the magical the Pelješac Peninsula while on the road to Dubrovnik.

Family enjoying the south of Croatia

For travellers seeking a memorable escapade, this road trip offers an array of experiences, from indulging in fresh seafood to exploring picturesque wineries dotted along the Pelješac Peninsula.

Explore Pelješac and its wonders 

Pelješac vineyards

When you cross the bridge, the first thing to notice are – vineyards, and then some more vineyards. Beautiful, green scenery of vineyards and olive groves will plummet you into a Mediterranean dream. Furthermore, a short drive up the Pelješac Peninsula unveils a treasure trove of wineries nestled amidst rolling vineyards. You can sample exquisite red wines crafted from the indigenous Plavac Mali grapes, renowned for their robust flavours and distinctive character. Immerse yourself in the winemaking process as passionate wine makers share their expertise and passion for their craft, offering a glimpse into the centuries-old winemaking heritage of Croatia.

An almost mandatory stop along this enchanting route is the historic town of Ston, famed for its ancient stone walls and centuries-old salt pans. Take a stroll along the 5.5 km long Ston city walls, the second-longest preserved fortification wall in the world (only the Great Wall of China is longer)! Also, there’s a chance to visit the oldest saltern in Europe and soak in the beauty of the sea and the flavour of the salt.

Fortifications in Ston

However, it’s the succulent oysters harvested from the pristine waters of the Bay of Mali Ston that steal the spotlight here. Savouring freshly shucked oysters paired with local wine and homemade grappa, you’ll gain insight into the time-honored tradition of oyster farming that has thrived in this region since Roman times. Do check out some private Pelješac tours so you can soak up as much as possible. Discover the best of Pelješac!

For those with an adventurous spirit, the road trip which includes the Pelješac peninsula presents endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. From Orebić, embark on a ferry excursion to the enchanting island of Korčula, renowned for its medieval architecture and pristine beaches. On the other hand, you can go to the ferry port of Prapratno and visit the Island of Mljet, known for its lush greenery, pristine beaches, and serene atmosphere, a haven for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

The Road to Dubrovnik 

After leaving Pelješac and continuing to your holiday in Dubrovnik, embark on a leisurely drive along the scenic route that meanders along the breathtaking Adriatic coastline. As you traverse this coastal highway, the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea shimmering on one side and rugged cliffs rising on the other will captivate your senses.

Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel – Momenti Restaurant

When having reached Dubrovnik, a new adventure with an array of activities, day trips and Mediterranean wonders starts. However, you can go the other way, too – first reach Dubrovnik and stay there and go back north to explore the Pelješac Peninsula.

When looking into accommodation in Dubrovnik, check out Valamar hotels. Dubrovnik President Hotel, Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel or Argosy Hotel all guarantee premium, elegant and fancy holidays in the beautiful town of Dubrovnik. If looking for a stay with your family, there are also options of Tirena Hotel or Club Dubrovnik Sunny Hotel.

Valamar Tirena Hotel Outdoor Pool and Terrace

In conclusion, a road trip along the heavenly south of Croatia promises a tapestry of unforgettable experiences, from savouring the bounty of the sea to relishing the richness of the vineyards. With the Pelješac bridge as your gateway to adventure, immerse yourself in the timeless allure of this captivating region, where every twist of the road unveils a new revelation, and every moment is infused with the magic of the Dalmatian coast.