Where?

Korčula, Croatia.

Why now?

Just off Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, Korčula offers Adriatic
charm in the form of quaint villages, endless vineyards and
dazzling ocean vistas. The sixth-largest Croatian island, Korčula
combines modern restaurants, high-end hotels and picture-perfect
beaches with ancient architecture, Byzantine relics and age-old
traditions.

Head to the Old Town for your culture fix. Enter through
crumbling 14th-century fortifications, complete with the ancient
coats of arms of Venetian doges and Korčulan governors, built to
defend the city against attacks from pirates and other aggressors.
Wander through the city streets to find other architectural
delights. The towering gothic-renaissance St Mark’s Cathedral was
constructed in the 15th-century from Korčula limestone, and is
covered by elaborate sculptures and engravings including figures of
Adam and Eve, two-tailed mermaids and an elephant.

Once you’ve satisfied your inner-historian, ditch the city
guides and tourist pamphlets and whip out your beach towel. Korčula
has dozens of hidden coves and sandy beaches on which to laze. Head
north to Vela Luka for clear water and boat trips to the nearby
island of Proizd. Alternatively, opt for Pupnatska Luka on the
south coast for family-friendly beach fun.

Don’t miss…

The Icon Museum in Korčula Town has a wide collection of
Byzantine icons as well as 17th- and 18th-century objects. Stop by
the baroque church next door, a 15th-century building with carved
frescoes and painted features inside.

Who to take with you

A serious oenophile. Korčula’s vast vineyards stretch across the
island, producing delicious wines from the indigenous Pošip and Grk
grapes. Spend your day sampling some of Croatia’s best wine or
drive into the villages of Čara and Smokvica to bar-hop between
traditional Croatian outposts.

When to go

Visit in October
for pleasant temperatures and empty beaches.

Where to stay

If you’re coming to work on your tan and read
a good book, stay at waterside Hotel Liburna. With a private
pebbled beach and outdoor pool overlooking the hills of Pelješac,
this minimalist hotel is one of Korčula’s best. Alternatively,
those looking for a city break vibe should book Lešić Dimitri Palace, a boutique
hotel located in the Old Town with a glorious terraced
restaurant.

Most likely to bump into…

Byzantine-buffs looking to ogle at artefacts and brush up on
their cultural expertise.

Essentials to bring with you

Slip on this colourful Etro printed silk-chiffon
kaftan over your bikini for a look perfect for both ambling
through cobbled streets and sipping wine on the beachfront.

How to get there

Fly to Dubrovnik
airport, where ferries and catamarans frequently make the
two-and-a-half-hour journey to Korčula.