Lokrum Island

Lokrum is a 700-metre ferry ride from Dubrovnik's old port, a densely wooded island of cypress, rosemary, and subtropical gardens just offshore. The 15-minute ferry runs regularly in summer and the island is a popular escape from the crowds inside the walls — no cars, no permanent residents (except the monks' feral peacocks), and several good swimming spots off the rocky eastern coast.

The monastery ruins and botanical gardens in the interior are pleasant to wander through. The saltwater lake (Mrtvo More, or Dead Sea) in the centre of the island is excellent for swimming without the waves. The fort on the highest point gives panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the coast. There are a couple of simple restaurants and a kiosk on the island; bring water and sun protection.

things to do sight
A story
Lokrum carries a curse. The Benedictine monks who had lived on the island were expelled by Napoleon in 1798 and, on leaving, walked three times around the monastery carrying black candles, chanting anathemas on anyone who would try to claim Lokrum for private use. Since then, every owner of the island has suffered: Maximilian I of Mexico, who made it his summer residence in 1859, was executed in 1867. The island was transferred to the Croatian state after independence — possibly the safest arrangement.

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