Mljet that is also called the Island of Odysseus is an oasis of peace and wildlife. Its many caves and bays treasure the legends of Odysseus and Calypso, and of St. Paul as well as numerous stories about the island’s brave fishermen. Legend has it that the winds sent Odysseus to Mljet, where nymph Calypso detained him in a cave and where he almost forgot his hometown Ithaca in her presence. The Odysseus Cave can be entered from the sea or on foot from the village of Babino Polje by a narrow path through vineyards and olive groves. The local population especially worships St. Paul, believing that he experienced a shipwreck right here near Mljet. One part of this island of pristine natural beauty has been declared the Mljet National Park that is adorned by two beautiful lakes and a 12th-century Benedictine monastery. The tourist resorts Pomena and Polača are located on the very edge of the National Park.
When exploring the interior of the island, you will discover many villages and hamlets that have preserved their authenticity. At the foot of the hamlets are hidden coves and pebble beaches. One special bay is bay Ropa on the island’s west side, because it is the natural habitat of the Mediterranean seal (Monachus Monachus), one of the few remaining in the entire Mediterranean. Mljet’s eastern tip is adorned by the most beautiful sandy beach on the island, Saplunara. Visit this mystical island, enjoy the pristine nature and discover more secrets or legends about Mljet…
