email. croatia@rediscover.co.ukIslands of the Adriatic - Korcula

Hotels, apartments, villas & fly-drive tailor-made holidays

There is a legend that Korčula (pron. Korchula) was founded by the Trojans in the 12th Century BC but it is more likley that the Greeks colonized the island, calling it Korkyra Melaina (Black 'Corfu') because of its dark forests. After the Greeks and Romans, the Croats settled from the north in the 7th century. The beginnings of the walled stone city date from the early 13th century and are described in the Statute of the town and island of Korčula dating from 1214 - this is one of the oldest European town statutes. More recently, there is a strong claim that Marco Polo was born and grew up on the island.

There are so many rocky inlets in and aroun Korčula that are ideal for sunbathing and swimming, usually in solitude if that is what you are after. There is a tradition of wine making on the island and we recommend you try some GRK whilst on Korčula; it is one of Croatia's best. The inhabitants of Korčula are great enjoyers of local drinks and good food. The old city has such a special atmosphere that it is no wonder that this verse was written in the 17th century, "You are the adornment of the world, enchanting Korčula .... " 

The main town on the island is a tight cluster of narrow streets, designed in an ingenious herring-bone pattern to ease the cooling sea breezes through the town. There is much to see in the wonderful little place that would keep even the most hardened sun worshippers interested for a couple of days - cathedral, museum, town walls, Marco Polo's birthplace.

There are many special events during the season including the famous knightly pageants, Dalmatian harmony singing, a reconstruction of the historic battle involving Marco Polo in front of the walls of Korčula and some beautiful religious processions. The men and women of Korčula are justly proud of their ancient sword dance, the Moreška, performed previously all over the Mediterranean but for more than 400 years has taken place only in Korčula. Not surprisingly this is a great tourist attraction each year and is performed at least once each week during the high season.

Our choice of hotels
Hotel Marko Polo (4*)		Hotel Korsal (3*)
The Marco Polo is situated on an elevated area near the sea and its position so near to the old town gives it a marvellous clear view of this unique mediaeval stone city.		A newly opened 4* family hotel situated in a pedestrianised area near a small beach providing a perfect setting for an excellent stay in the old city of Korcula. The comfortable rooms are fully furnished with natural materials and overlook the sea.

Korcula is reached by a pleasant two hour drive from the airport via Dubrovnik and along the Peljesic peninsula to the ferry terminal at Orebic. We can arrange shared transfers, car hire or private transfers depending on your budget and preferences. Outside of Korcula Town the whole island is pretty much unspoiled and a wonderful place to explore; the countryside is verdant and there are many villages and beautiful little beaches to enjoy.

Activities & Events on Korcula:

SURFING - surfing school near the hotel as well as famous windy channel Orebić-Korcula for experienced surfers

DIVING - centre, a possibility of diving school for beginners and numerous attractive sites and wrecks for advanced divers

ONE DAY TRIPS - and tours of Dubrovnik, island of Mljet, one of the most beautiful national parks, island of Hvar and other

DONKEY RIDING - through attractive sites on the island organised lunch included

WALKING - running or cycling on designated attractive tracks

TOURS - of the Korcula archipelago with many small islands by taxi-boat or rent -a-boat

Moreska - an exciting sword dance which takes place several times a week during the season on different locations within the city

Fishermen’s night - organised every Friday in Place Lumbarda

Half Year Celebration - unique costumed celebration 30/06 at "half" of the year.

Marko Polo Fest - songs and wine festival taking place 22/07-26/07

Religious Celebrations - and processions for St.Todor on 29/7 and Assumption of the Virgin Mary on 15/08

Historical Reconstruction - of the naval battle between Venice and Genoa in which Marko Polo was captured, September

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