Description
Lokrum Island, located just a short 15-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, is a lush, car-free nature reserve that offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Known for its dense Mediterranean vegetation, botanical gardens, and peacocks roaming freely, the island provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Visitors can explore walking trails, relax by rocky beaches, or visit the island’s saltwater lake, known as the Dead Sea, which is popular for swimming.
The island is home to several historic sites, including the ruins of a 12th-century Benedictine monastery and a small fortress built by the Austrians in the 19th century. Lokrum also has a botanical garden with a wide variety of exotic plants, making it a favourite spot for nature lovers. Wildlife enthusiasts enjoy spotting rabbits, peacocks, and other birds, while history buffs can appreciate the island’s rich cultural heritage linked to Dubrovnik’s past.
Lokrum Island is open to visitors daily, with boat services running regularly from Dubrovnik’s Old Town harbour between spring and autumn. Admission to the island requires a small fee, which helps maintain the park and its facilities. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring water, especially during the warmer months. As the island is a protected nature reserve, visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by staying on marked paths and avoiding littering.