The tiny paradise of Lastovo Island is nearly bereft of tourists most of the year and attracts only a light sprinkling in the summer. Why? Fortunately for the traditional way of life that still reigns in Lastovo, there are no sandy beaches, only one hotel and a minimum of three hours by ferry from Split or Dubrovnik. It's Croatia's most remote inhabited island with a population of less than a thousand. Only those devoted to peace, quiet and nature need apply. The best time to visit is between June and September when outdoor activities are most comfortable. Winters are rugged on this desolate island and storms are possible in spring and fall.

Lastovo

But if you do brave it, you'll be rewarded with thick forests, a dramatically craggy coast and the chance to take long, solitary walks accompanied only by birds and the sound of the splashing sea. The pristine natural beauty of Lastovo Island sparked the government to name it a protected "Nature Park". The only activity on the island is agriculture, specifically viniculture. The Lastovo Maraština is a full-flavoured dry, white wine that is famous throughout Croatia.

Things to Do on Lastovo Island

Swim
The sea is as clean, clear and sparkling as you can ever find. There are 16 or so places along the rocky, indented coast where you can access the sea. There are a few pebble beaches suitable for children; try Mali Zal, Jurjeva luka, Skrivena luka or Pionir. While the rocky beaches may lack comfort, they also lack other visitors and remain in their natural state. Make sure to take water shoes for comfortable sea access.

Take long walks
There are 200km of well-marked trails that weave through the forests and small villages on the island.

Snorkel or scuba dive
The remoteness of Lastovo island has left the waters teeming with fish. Diving trips are handled by Ancora in Zaklopatica.

Explore the villages
Ubli is Lastovo's port but Lastovo village is the main town. Here, sleeping cats stretch out on the ancient stone stairs that wind up the hilly streets. The ancient stone houses are appealingly dilapidated and there's a lovely little Renaissance church. Take the stairs in front of the church and climb up the hill to the meteorological station where you can enjoy unforgettable views over the islets scattered in the nearby sea.

Lastovo Island is also famous for its Carnival. Villagers don traditional costumes, and do the traditional dances to the traditional music. Called Poklad, the festival is based upon a local legend involving pirates and it lasts for three days in February. Everyone participates.

Accommodation on Lastovo Island

There is one hotel on Lastovo Island in the village of Pasadur, near Ubli. Hotel Solitudo is a new hotel with all comforts and it's right on the beach. For private accommodation try Apartments Bruna.

You can also stay in a lighthouse! On the southern side of the island is the Struga Lighthouse which contains four apartments suitable for two to five people. The Kvinta family have been lighthouse keepers for three generations and will take care of your transfer,prepare meals and even take you fishing if you like. More.

Getting to Lastovo

There is a regular Jadrolinija car ferry that runs from Split to Ubli on Lastovo, stopping at Vela Luka on Korcula (see the schedule).

There's also a fast passenger ferry that makes the trip in around three hours. See the schedule.

It's now possible for foot passengers to get to Lastovo from Dubrovnik all year (although not every day) on the Nona Ana ferry.

Another great way to visit Lastovo is as part of a Croatia yacht charter itinerary from Trogir that includes stops at Hvar, Vis, Solta and Korcula as well. Click here for more info.