Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park

Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park protects a group of remote islands in the southern Adriatic, in Croatia, west of Korčula and far from the main tourist routes. It was established in 2006, as the eleventh nature park in the country, and it covers close to two hundred square kilometres, most of it sea, with dozens of islands, islets and reefs. The largest are Lastovo itself and Sušac, and the park is one of the least spoiled stretches of coast in Europe and among the Mediterranean’s quietest corners.

The islands’ isolation is the key to their character. Lastovo lies in the outer ring of the Dalmatian islands, with the open sea between it and Italy, and for most of the second half of the twentieth century it was a closed military zone, which kept it off the tourist map and prevented development. As a result, the villages and landscapes have changed little, and the waters around the archipelago are among the clearest in the Adriatic. Dense forests of pine and holm oak cover much of Lastovo, the coast is cut into cliffs and coves, and the interior holds small fields, vineyards and olive groves.

The natural diversity is considerable. The sea around the islands has meadows of seagrass, rocky reefs, caves and drop-offs, and it is rich in fish, sponges, corals and other marine life, which makes it excellent for snorkelling and diving. On land, the park shelters rare plants and animals, including seabirds that nest on the cliffs and reptiles on the small islets, and because there is little artificial light, the night sky is among the darkest on the Adriatic, which gives wonderful stargazing on clear nights. Walking, cycling, sea kayaking and sailing are the main activities, and the tranquillity of the place is as much of an attraction as any specific sight.

The villages carry a strong sense of heritage. Lastovo Village, built on a hillside facing away from the sea to hide it from pirates, is known for its tall, decorated chimneys and stone houses, and the island has its own carnival tradition, with roots that go back centuries. Ubli is the main ferry port, Skrivena Luka, which means the hidden harbour, is a sheltered inlet that was used by sailors for refuge, and the Struga Lighthouse guards the approaches. These sights give a feel for the maritime past of the islands.

Getting there takes some planning, since ferries from Split and Ploče run on limited timetables, and services on the island are modest, so book accommodation ahead and bring cash. Respect the park’s rules about anchoring, fishing and waste, which are designed to protect the environment. Whether you sail or take the ferry, spring and early autumn are especially pleasant, with mild weather and few visitors, while July and August are the busiest months. The park suits sailors, divers, walkers and anyone who wants to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet corner of Croatia’s coast.