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Should you choose the Elaphite Islands or Lokrum for an unforgettable vacation?

When it comes to choosing a vacation destination, it’s essential to find the perfect place to create unforgettable memories. Croatia’s Elaphite Islands and Lokrum Island offer unique experiences that captivate travelers in search of adventure, natural beauty and cultural discovery. In this article, we’ll explore these two magnificent island destinations in detail, helping you make an informed decision for your next getaway.

Overview of the Elaphite Islands and the island of Lokrum

A. The Elaphite Islands

Located just a stone’s throw from Dubrovnik, the Elaphite Islands are a true Adriatic treasure. This archipelago comprises three main islands: Koločep, Lopud and Šipan. Each of these islands has its own distinct character and charm.

Koločep: The natural jewel

The island of Koločep is renowned for its unspoilt natural beauty. Its picturesque landscapes, secluded bays and sandy beaches make it a dream destination for nature lovers. Explore the hiking trails along the coast and discover breathtaking panoramic views. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea and discover a colorful underwater world during a snorkeling session.

Lopud: The island of enchanting beaches

The island of Lopud is renowned for its idyllic beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Stroll along the seafront and enjoy the gentle sunshine on Šunj beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the Adriatic. Explore the charming lanes of the village of Lopud and visit the impressive medieval fortress. Don’t forget to sample the local culinary delights in one of the picturesque restaurants.

Šipan: Island authenticity

Šipan is the largest island in the archipelago and offers an authentic experience of Croatian island life. Stroll through the traditional villages of Suđurađ and Šipanska Luka, where you’ll discover stone houses, ancient churches and a peaceful atmosphere. Explore vineyards and olive groves and taste local wines and olive oils, testimony to local know-how.

The island of Lokrum

B. The island of Lokrum: an island of mystery and unspoilt nature

Located near Dubrovnik, the island of Lokrum is a paradise for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Its unspoilt landscape, botanical gardens and rich cultural heritage make it a fascinating destination.

Botanical gardens and biodiversity

The island of Lokrum is renowned for its magnificent botanical gardens, home to a wide variety of exotic and Mediterranean plants. Stroll through the shady alleys and discover century-old trees, colorful flowers and aromatic plants. Admire the peacocks that roam freely around the island, adding a touch of magic to your experience.

History and legends

The island of Lokrum is steeped in intriguing stories and legends. Explore the remains of the former Benedictine abbey and discover the secrets of the past. Legend has it that the island has been cursed ever since Richard the Lionheart failed to return from his crusade. Discover the fascinating story of this curse and the mysteries surrounding the island.

Beaches and relaxation

The island of Lokrum is also home to some magnificent beaches, offering an idyllic setting in which to relax and soak up the sun. Find your corner of paradise on a secluded beach and let yourself be lulled by the gentle sound of the waves. Dive into the clear waters for a refreshing dip and discover the underwater riches on a snorkeling trip.

The salt lake on the island of Lokrum

Comparison of the Elaphite Islands and the island of Lokrum

A. Accessibility and transport

Transport options to the Elaphite Islands and Lokrum Island

To visit the Elaphite Islands from Dubrovnik, there are several regular daily boat services. Boats depart from the port of Gruž at 09:00, 11:45, 18:45, 19:30 and 21:00.
Tickets can be purchased online at jadrolinija.hr or on the spot.
Prices start from 4.91 EUR and depend on the island you wish to visit. Although the three islands are very close to each other, it’s not easy to visit them on your own. So if you decide to visit the Elaphite Islands on your own, choose one and spend the day there.
If you want to visit all three islands, we suggest you take a three-island cruise.

Les îles Élaphites : Un trésor caché de la mer Adriatique
Lopud Island

The island of Lokrum is much easier to visit, as there are boats leaving every 30 minutes from the old port. The transfer to the islands takes a maximum of 15 minutes, so even if you miss the boat, the next one will leave soon.
The biggest difference is, of course, the price: a ticket to Lokrum costs 27 EUR per person.
Tickets can be purchased at the reception inside the Luza building. This is located on the main square, next to the entrance to the local cinema.

B. Accommodation and amenities

Types of accommodation available on the Elaphite Islands and Lokrum Island

  1. Hotels: The Elaphite Islands have a few hotels that offer comfortable accommodation with extra services such as restaurants, swimming pools and spa facilities. Most hotels in the Elaphite Islands are adults-only. These include the Lafodia Hotel https://www.lafodiahotel.com/suron the island of Lopud and the Tui Blue Kalamota https://www.tui.co.uk/destinations/europe/croatia/croatia-dubrovnik-and-islands/kolocep/hotels/tui-blue-kalamota-island.html. 
    https://www.firstchoice.co.uk/holiday/location/overview/Croatia-HRV
    Hotel Bozica on the island of Šipan is reserved for families.https://hotel-bozica.hr/
  2. Inns and guest houses: You’ll also find hostels and guesthouses on the Elaphite Islands. These establishments generally offer private or shared rooms at more affordable rates than hotels.
  3. Vacation rentals: Another popular option on the Elaphite Islands is to rent vacation homes or villas. This can be ideal for families or groups who prefer to have their own space and kitchen amenities.

The island of Lokrum is a nature reserve and is not inhabited. The island is closed to the public overnight, so it is not possible to stay there after the last boat has left.

C. Activities and attractions

The Elaphite Islands and the island of Lokrum offer many outdoor activities as well as interesting cultural and historical attractions. Here are just some of the things to see and do on these islands:

Elaphite Islands :

  1. Boat excursions: Explore the Elaphite Islands by boat and discover their magnificent coastal scenery, secluded beaches and coves.
  2. Hiking: Take advantage of the hiking trails that cross the Elaphite Islands. The trails offer panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding islands.
  3. Diving and snorkeling: The crystal-clear waters surrounding the Elaphite Islands are ideal for diving and snorkeling. Explore coral reefs, underwater caves and colorful marine life.
  4. Sea kayaking: Rent a kayak and paddle along the coast of the Elaphite Islands to discover secluded beaches and secret coves.
  5. Village tours: Visit the picturesque villages of the Elaphite Islands, such as Šipanska Luka on the island of Šipan, and discover traditional architecture and the island way of life.
  6. The only sandy beaches in the region are on the island of Lopud. The most popular is the beach at Šunj
Faut-il choisir les îles Elaphites ou Lokrum pour des vacances inoubliables ?

Lokrum Island:

  1. Fort Royal fortress: Explore the medieval fortress of Fort Royal, which offers panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea.
  2. Botanical gardens: Stroll through the magnificent botanical gardens on the island of Lokrum, where you can admire a wide variety of exotic plants.
  3. Salt lake: Relax by the island’s salt lake, a peaceful spot surrounded by lush vegetation.
  4. Benedictine monastery: Visit the 12th-century Benedictine monastery, which today houses a museum presenting the island’s history.
  5. Beaches and swimming: Take advantage of the beaches on the island of Lokrum to relax in the sun and swim in the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.

V. Factors to consider when choosing between the Elaphite Islands and Lokrum Island

When choosing between the Elaphite Islands and Lokrum Island, there are several factors to consider. Here are a few important ones:

  1. Accessibility: The Elaphite Islands, located off the coast of Dubrovnik in Croatia, can be reached by boat from Dubrovnik. The island of Lokrum, on the other hand, is much closer and can be reached in just a few minutes by ferry from the port of Dubrovnik. If you’re looking for a quicker, more convenient option, Lokrum might be a better choice.
  2. Size and population: The Elaphite Islands are an island group comprising several smaller islands, of which only three are inhabited (Koločep, Lopud and Šipan). Lokrum, on the other hand, is a single, relatively small island. If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer tourists, Lokrum might be more suitable.
  3. Activities and attractions: The Elaphite Islands offer a variety of activities, including beautiful beaches, hiking trails, kayaking opportunities and picturesque villages to explore. Šipan is known for its vineyards and olive groves, while Lopud is renowned for its beautiful sandy beach. Lokrum, meanwhile, is home to the Lokrum Nature Park, featuring botanical gardens, historic ruins and a magnificent Benedictine monastery. Lokrum is also famous for its free-roaming peacocks.
  4. Tourist numbers: Being closer to Dubrovnik, Lokrum is generally busier with tourists, especially during the high season. The Elaphite Islands, on the other hand, are generally less crowded, offering a more peaceful atmosphere and a more authentic island experience.
  5. Length of stay: If you don’t have much time to devote to the islands, Lokrum might be a better option, as it’s easily accessible from Dubrovnik. The Elaphite Islands require more time to explore, especially if you want to visit several islands in the group.

Ultimately, the choice between the Elaphite Islands and Lokrum Island will depend on your personal preferences. If you’re looking for a smaller, easily accessible island with a tranquil ambience, Lokrum could be your ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more varied experience with the possibility of visiting several islands and enjoying magnificent beaches, the Elaphite Islands might be more to your liking.