Mljet National Park: Discover Croatia’s Green Island Paradise

As your local tour guide, allow me to take you to Mljet National Park, one of Croatia’s most enchanting natural wonders. Located on the western third of Mljet Island, this park is a haven of unspoiled nature, lush forests, and turquoise saltwater lakes. For those seeking serenity, hiking, kayaking, or mythic tales of Odysseus and nymphs, Mljet is pure magic.
 

📍 Where is Mljet National Park?

📌 Location: Western part of Mljet Island, southern Dalmatian coast

🌍 Coordinates: 42.7667° N, 17.3833° E

⛴️ Closest mainland port: Dubrovnik (~2 hours by ferry)

🏞️ Why Visit Mljet National Park?

Mljet is often described as Croatia’s greenest island, and for good reason. The national park protects:

Two interconnected saltwater lakes: Veliko and Malo Jezero

A 12th-century Benedictine monastery on St. Mary’s islet

Dense pine forests, hiking paths, and stunning coastal views

Unique flora and fauna in a tranquil Mediterranean ecosystem

Unlike the busier destinations along the Dalmatian coast, Mljet offers peace, space, and silence—ideal for nature lovers, couples, and adventurers.

🗺️ History and Legends of Mljet

Mljet's history dates back to ancient Illyrians and Greeks, with later influence from the Romans, Byzantines, Benedictines, and the Republic of Ragusa (Dubrovnik).

But the island is best known for its mythical legend:
According to Homer’s Odyssey, Odysseus was shipwrecked on Mljet, where the nymph Calypso held him captive for seven years. Some say this lush island is the original Ogygia.

The Benedictines arrived in the 12th century and built a monastery on the island in Veliko Jezero, now one of the park’s most iconic landmarks.

🌲 What to See and Do in Mljet National Park

Let’s dive into the best things to explore while you're here:

1. Veliko Jezero (Big Lake)

The park’s largest lake, surrounded by walking and cycling trails

Home to St. Mary’s Island and the Monastery

Clear blue-green waters ideal for kayaking and swimming

Peaceful and protected, with minimal boat traffic

2. Malo Jezero (Small Lake)

A smaller, warmer lake connected to Veliko Jezero via a narrow channel

Popular for swimming, paddleboarding, and picnics

More secluded and great for photography

3. St. Mary’s Island and the Benedictine Monastery

Accessed by small park-operated boats or kayak

Visit the 12th-century monastery and its romantic church

Enjoy a quiet meal or coffee at the nearby café

One of the most photographed spots in the park

4. Odysseus Cave (Odisejeva špilja)

A sea cave on the southern coast of Mljet Island

Reachable via hiking trails or kayak from Babino Polje

Associated with the legend of Odysseus and Calypso

You can swim into the cave or watch waves crash dramatically

5. Hiking and Biking Trails

Trails range from easy lake loops to moderate forest paths

Rent a bike in Pomena or Polače

Best hikes:

Veliko Jezero Loop (~2 hours walking)

Montokuc Viewpoint (360° panoramic view of lakes and coast)

6. Snorkeling and Kayaking

Kayak rentals are available by both lakes

Calm waters are perfect for beginners and families

Spot fish, underwater flora, and even turtles

Great for sunset kayaking sessions

🧭 Suggested One-Day Itinerary

If you only have one day, here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of it:

Arrive in Polače by ferry or catamaran

Walk or bike to Veliko Jezero

Kayak to St. Mary’s Island and visit the monastery

Swim in Malo Jezero and have lunch lakeside

Hike to Montokuc viewpoint for golden hour

Return to Pomena or Polače for dinner by the sea

🚤 How to Get to Mljet National Park

Mljet is only accessible by boat or ferry, which adds to its allure.

🚢 From Dubrovnik:

Passenger catamarans (1.5–2 hrs) to Polače or Sobra

Run by Krilo, TP Line, or Jadrolinija (seasonal)

🚗 From Split:

Car ferries via Prapratno (on Pelješac Peninsula) to Sobra

🚤 Private Tours:

Many offer day trips from Dubrovnik, Korčula, or Hvar

💵 Park Entry Fees (2025 Guide)

Includes boat ride to St. Mary’s Island

🏡 Where to Stay on Mljet Island

There are no hotels inside the national park, but you’ll find great accommodation in nearby villages:

🏨 Pomena

Closest to park entrance

Offers guesthouses and boutique stays

Walkable to Veliko Jezero

🏡 Polače

Popular ferry arrival point

Scenic bay and family-run lodgings

Several seaside restaurants

🛏️ Recommended Stays:

Hotel Odisej – Mljet’s only hotel, located in Pomena

Apartments More – Modern and close to Polače harbor

Villa Radulj – Rustic charm with sea views

🍽️ Where to Eat Near the Park

Most dining options are in Pomena and Polače. Expect Dalmatian seafood, fresh vegetables, olive oil, and house wine.

Best Restaurants:

Konoba Herc – Traditional dishes and warm hospitality

Restaurant Dalmatino – Grilled fish and local wine by the bay

Stermasi Tavern – Homemade pasta and organic produce

🐾 Wildlife and Nature in Mljet

Aleppo pine and Holm oak forests dominate the landscape

Spot mouflon sheep, mongoose, butterflies, and rare birds

The lakes are home to eel, sea bass, and marine organisms

Mljet is a protected ecosystem—please leave no trace!

📸 Photography Tips

Shoot aerial views from Montokuc for breathtaking lake symmetry

Best light for the monastery: early morning or golden hour

Use polarizing filters for water clarity in lake shots

Capture sunset reflections from the Riva in Polače

🧘 Tips for a Peaceful Visit

Arrive early or late in the day to avoid peak crowds

Respect wildlife and stick to designated paths

Bring snacks and water, especially if hiking

Consider staying overnight to fully enjoy the calm

♻️ Sustainability in Mljet National Park

Mljet is committed to eco-friendly tourism. Here’s how you can help:

Use reusable water bottles and bags

Avoid feeding wildlife

Take all litter with you

Support local guides, artisans, and family-run guesthouses

🏁 Final Thoughts: Why Visit Mljet National Park?

If you’re looking for tranquility, natural beauty, and a touch of mythology, Mljet National Park offers one of Croatia’s most soul-soothing experiences.

Away from crowds and tourist traps, this island invites you to slow down, breathe in the pine-scented air, and reconnect with untouched nature.

Whether you’re kayaking through emerald lakes, hiking to scenic viewpoints, or simply watching the sunset over the Adriatic, Mljet is more than a destination—it’s a state of mind.