Bourdain has known himself as a fool, for now, not journeying to Croatia faster, and you’ll feel like one too if you overlook the nearby captivating island of Šolta. Roughly 10 miles from Split, it’s a speck of an area teeming with high-quality food and herbal splendor. You’ll discover sleepy fishing villages, lazy beaches, and outdoor activities, not to mention world-magnific Mediterranean seafood.
“All 12 months spherical is a notable time to go,” says Julie Banning, a luxury tour advisor with Ovation Vacations in New York, who regularly plans day journeys to Šolta. It’s much like Patmos in Greece, with a small population (about 2,000), spiritual beyond, and a sturdy foodie lifestyle. And it’s nothing like Hvar, Šolta’s more famous sibling, in which events rage all night.
The vibe in Šolta is blissfully sleepy, and it’s all about absorbing nature. You’ll study why the locals delight in their honey and the secret to creating notable olive oil. You’ll soak up remarkable views at the eating places and go at the dive of a lifetime. If you don’t return to Dubrovnik feeling at ease and recharged, you’re likely doing it wrong. Here are ten laugh activities to plan for an afternoon trip to this magical island gem.
Make Your Honey
Anyone with a candy tooth has to see a beehive up close, says Gwen Kozlowski, the general supervisor of Exeter International in Tampa, Florida. Tvrdić Bee Farm, or “The Island of Honey,” because the 1/3 generation of farmers the Tvrdićs call it, offers excursions for simply that, and you could get your palms sticky at the same time as you’re at it. For 20 additional Euros, stop your buzzy journey with a 3-direction Mediterranean meal.
Go Birdwatching
Kozlowski says that Croatia is an oasis for birdwatching, and sunny Šolta is no distinct. (The tiny Čuvita owl is its countrywide symbol.) Watch for the scarlet-billed Andouin’s gull, regal quick-toed eagle, and more and more uncommon hen harrier, which makes a remarkable show as it soars and dives down. For an extra konoba (conventional tavern) experience, a dinner party on a peak, and a savory combo of vegetables and meat, go to Iko’s ostrich farm close to Gornje Selo.
Take an Olive-Making Tour
Bone up for your know-how of Croatia’s famed export with the Taste Like a Pro tour at Olynthia Natura, where you’ll learn how olives are made into oil, says Kozlowski. It’s no longer how you suspect: a stainless steel mill gets the job performed in 45 minutes. Run by using the Kastelanac circle of relatives for four generations, their embrace of laptop generation will make you reconsider your subsequent tin of olive oil.
Find a Pebbly Beach
Kozlowski says Pebbly Nečujam to the north is certainly one of Šolta’s most popular seashores. Bring the kids jet skis, a great e-book, and some change to hit up the kiosks and bakeries. (Also, it is a parasol because that coloration from the palm trees is scarce.) When the oontz-oontz tune gets going around eight, make a beeline for calamari at Pasarela.
Go Sea Kayaking
Banning says that Nečujam isn’t simply awesome for human beings; you may also hire kayaks from Barić Nautika right at the seashore. “Explore the inlets around the bay, watch the water alternately from blue to turquoise, and take in the serene scene,” she advises. Maclin ca on the west is any other alternative for exploring the islets.
Try Dobričić Wine
“The darkest wine in Dalmatia” isn’t always to be ignored, says Banning. Once planted across Šolta before World War II, the red varietal’s manufacturing declined through the Nineteen Nineties, and now most effective a handful of vineyards continue to be. Fortunately, you could flavor the bitter cherry tang at Agroturizam Kaštelanac in Gorne Selo and the Purtić family residence in Srednje Selo.
Go Biking
Seasoned bikers will love exploring Šolta, says Banning, who recommends booking a guided or self-guided excursion through Discover Croatia. Self-guided excursions consist of maps, mountain motorcycles, and transport to and from the ferry, while others can discover the historic villages dotting the island from Gornje Selo to Maslinca.
Go Scuba Diving
Whether you’re a rookie or seasoned, Leomar Diving School, in the antique port of Stomorska, is an exquisite option, says Banning. Explore a mysterious shipwreck or scale vertical walls and shadowy caves. You’ve been assured a high-quality glimpse of the ocean lifestyles — including corals, Gorgonians, and fish — and the crystal-clear waters of Šolta.
Take a Hike
Head for Šolta’s highest factor, Vela Straža in Gornje Selo, says Banning, wherein you’ll get a dramatic chook’s eye view of the island. Nečujam and Peskeria are on display, as are the lush olive groves. The quick, smooth path is three miles, and the peak is marked using a pass.
