Ston Walls: Discover Croatia’s Great Wall of Europe

Introduction to Ston Walls

Welcome to the Walls of Ston – Croatia’s Medieval Masterpiece

As your local tour guide, let me take you on a journey through one of Croatia’s most underrated yet awe-inspiring landmarks – the Walls of Ston. Stretching over the rolling hills of the Pelješac Peninsula, these ancient fortifications were once the second longest in the world, earning the nickname "The European Great Wall."
 

Located just an hour's drive from Dubrovnik, Ston is a small town with a big historical footprint. Its walls, salt pans, seafood traditions, and quiet charm make it a must-visit for curious travelers seeking a mix of culture, history, and adventure.


🧭 Where Is Ston?

Ston is located at the base of the Pelješac Peninsula in southern Dalmatia, Croatia. It sits near the isthmus connecting the peninsula to the mainland and is just:

60 km from Dubrovnik (1 hour by car)

120 km from Split

Accessible via the Pelješac Bridge, opened in 2022, which has greatly improved travel between Dubrovnik and central Dalmatia.

There are two towns here: Ston and Mali Ston (Little Ston), located about 1 km apart, both connected by the famous walls.


🏛️ A Short History of the Ston Walls

The construction of the Ston Walls began in 1333 after the Republic of Dubrovnik acquired the Pelješac Peninsula. The goal? To protect the lucrative saltworks of Ston and defend the region from potential invaders.

Originally over 7 kilometers long

Included over 40 towers and 5 fortresses

Today, around 5.5 km of the wall remains intact, making it the longest preserved fortification system in Europe

The project took more than 400 years to complete and was considered an engineering marvel of the Middle Ages.


🧗‍♂️ Walking the Walls – What to Expect

Exploring the Ston Walls is an adventure in itself. Be prepared for a bit of a workout, but trust me – the panoramic views and historic atmosphere are worth every step.

Start Points:

Ston Entrance: Next to the town gate, ideal for climbing toward Fort Kaštio and Veliki Kaštio Fortress

Mali Ston Entrance: Best if you want to walk downhill toward Ston

Length:

The full wall hike from Ston to Mali Ston (or vice versa) is about 1.2 kilometers

Time: 30–45 minutes one way depending on pace and stops for photos

What You’ll See:

Spectacular views of salt pans, forested hills, and the Adriatic Sea

Stone guard towers and dramatic hilltop fortresses

The surrounding countryside, vineyards, and oyster farms


🧂 Salt and History – The Ston Salt Pans

One of the key reasons the walls were built was to protect Ston’s saltworks, which have been in continuous operation since Roman times.

Oldest saltworks in Europe

Still in use today using traditional methods

You can tour the salt pans and even buy Ston sea salt, known for its purity and quality

Fun fact: During the time of the Republic of Ragusa (Dubrovnik), salt was one of the main sources of income, making the walls essential for economic protection.


🍽️ Oysters, Wine, and Local Cuisine

Ston is just as famous for its food as for its walls. If you’re a seafood lover, you’re in for a treat.

1. Mali Ston Oysters

Considered the best oysters in the Adriatic

Grown in the clean, mineral-rich waters of Mali Ston Bay

Served fresh with lemon, or grilled with herbs and olive oil

2. Mussels and Clams

Often prepared "na buzaru" (in white wine, garlic, and parsley)

3. Local Wines

Try Plavac Mali, a robust red grown on the nearby Pelješac hills

Pair seafood with Posip or Grk, excellent local white wines


🛶 Oyster Farm Tours and Boat Excursions

Want a deeper dive into local traditions? Hop on an oyster boat tour. These guided experiences take you directly to the oyster beds where you can:

Learn how oysters are cultivated

Taste them freshly harvested from the sea

Sip on a local wine while surrounded by crystal-clear waters

It’s an unforgettable combination of culture, cuisine, and coastal scenery.


🏨 Where to Stay in Ston

Although small, Ston offers a variety of accommodation options:

Boutique guesthouses within medieval stone houses

Seaside villas and holiday rentals in Mali Ston

Budget options including hostels and B&Bs

Rustic farm stays and wine estate accommodations in nearby villages

For a quiet and authentic experience, choose a stay with a local family-run property.


📸 Best Photo Spots Around the Walls

Top of the wall near Veliki Kaštio – panoramic shot of Ston and salt pans

Mali Ston harbor – oyster boats and calm blue waters

Looking down the wall with its zig-zagging stairs – very Game of Thrones-like!

Twilight view over the Pelješac hills


🌞 Best Time to Visit the Walls of Ston

Croatia's Mediterranean climate makes the Ston Walls accessible year-round, but certain months offer optimal conditions:

April to June: Pleasant temperatures, wildflowers, fewer tourists

September to October: Harvest season for wine and oysters, perfect for foodies

July and August: Hot and crowded, but worth it for summer vibes and festivals

Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler climbs and softer light for photography.


🎭 Events and Festivals

Oyster Festival (March) – Celebrate the start of the oyster season with tastings, music, and boat tours

Ston Wall Marathon (September) – Yes, people run along the walls and surrounding roads!

Salt Harvest Festival (Summer) – Demonstrations of traditional salt production


🚗 How to Get to Ston

By Car: The most convenient way – scenic drive along the coast or via the Pelješac Bridge

By Bus: Buses run from Dubrovnik several times daily (approx. 1.5 hours)

By Tour: Many Dubrovnik-based tours offer day trips to Ston, often including wine tastings and oyster farm visits

By Boat: Yacht charters or private boat tours along the Dalmatian coast often include a stop in Mali Ston


🧭 Suggested 1–2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Walk the Walls + Taste the Salt

Morning: Arrive in Ston, walk the full length of the walls

Midday: Visit the salt pans

Afternoon: Lunch in Mali Ston with fresh oysters

Evening: Sunset stroll along the waterfront

Day 2 (Optional): Wine & Villages

Morning: Drive or bike through Pelješac vineyards

Visit local wineries in Dingač or Postup

Afternoon: Explore nearby villages like Trstenik or Janjina

Evening: Return to Dubrovnik or continue deeper into the peninsula


🔍 Fun Facts About the Walls of Ston

They were often mistaken for defensive city walls, but their main role was economic defense of the saltworks.

Nicknamed the “European Great Wall” due to their impressive size.

The walls were restored in the 2000s and are now fully open to visitors.

One of only a few medieval wall systems that connect two towns (Ston and Mali Ston).


🌿 Responsible Travel Tips

Stay on marked paths when walking the walls

Support local oyster farms and saltworks

Avoid littering, especially in protected coastal areas

Use reef-safe sunscreen if swimming or boating nearby


Final Thoughts: Step into History on the Walls of Ston

The Ston Walls may not be as famous as Dubrovnik’s, but they offer an experience that’s just as rich – and far less crowded. With sweeping views, delicious seafood, and a sense of timeless history, Ston is a place where you can connect with Croatia’s medieval past and natural bounty all in one go.

So next time you’re heading down the Dalmatian coast, make sure to stop at Ston. The walls are waiting – and they have stories to tell.