Vela Luka, Korcula Island

Vela Luka may not have the magic of Korcula Town, on the other side of Korcula Island, but it's not without its appeal. At the end of a large bay facing west (imagine the sunsets!), Vela Luka is a major entry point to Korcula Island with a regular schedule of car ferries to Split. When the ferry chugs out though, Vela Luka returns to its main businesses which include fishing and marketing Korcula's famous olive oil . In addition to the health and rehabilitation centre, Kalos, there are a few modest hotels, some local cafes and restaurants and a couple of things to see and do.

Vela Luka's most interesting sight is Vela Spilja or Great Cave. This vast rocky hideout was clearly inhabited in the Neolithic Period. Despite its antiquity, Vela Luka remained lightly inhabited until the 18th century when its position as a gateway port to Korcula Island brought some prosperity. In the 1960s, the Kalos health centre opened on the Kale cove which had long been known for its medicinal mud deposits and a spring of radon mineral water, supposed to bring health benefits. The fact that Vela Luka is one of Croatia's sunniest spots (2671 sunshine hours per year) has also attracted health-seeking visitors.

Now, Vela Luka makes a quieter and less expensive alternative to staying in Korcula Town. Excursion boats can take you from the harbourside promenade to Osjak and Prozid, the two offshore islets.

Accommodation in Vela Luka

There are only four hotels in Vela Luka: the three-star hotel Adria, the two star hotels Dalmacija and Poseidon and the one-star Hotel Jadran,. All are controlled by Hum Hotels. As the hotels are not outstanding on any level, you will probably do better renting a room or apartment. See more information and book hotels, rooms and apartments in Vela Luka or find out where to stay on Korcula Island.

Getting to Vela Luka

There are regular daily car ferries and passenger ferries run by Jadrolinija throughout the year to Split. Many go on to Lastovo Island. There are regular buses between Vela Luka; and Korcula Town; most are timed to meet the ferries. See more on getting to Korcula Island.

Tourist Information for Vela Luka

The Vela Luka Tourist Office (tel 020-813 619) is at the town entrance.

Related Pages

Korcula Island Travel Guide

Korcula Island Accommodation

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