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Dubrovnik glistens, the shiny marble floors in the airport glisten, the coastal scenery that stretches from the windows of the airport transfar bus (which is reasonable at only 35kn), The beautifully polished stone streets of The Stradun and the twinkling lights, at sunset, across the harbor. In fact I think it may even make the people there glisten too, well thats waht I like to think anyway!
We arrived in the early evening, and the temperature was still a scorching 35°c, but despite the heat and heavy backpacks we found our hostel relatively quickly. Fresh Sheets is an average hostel, tarted up with a bit of funky decorating, but its location is really cenral and a half descent breakfast is provided so its worth looking into if you're considering a few nights in Dubrovnik.
Buoyed up by our hostel finding success we set out to find some food, we were recommend a seafood restaurant on the harbor, so off we went, and boy what a recommendation it was! Lokanda Peskarija serves big black pot of the freshest seafood, cooked to perfection. we sat and finished off our Ozujsko (croatian beer) as the sun set slowly, revealing a sparkling back drop of harbor lights. It was then I really understood why Dubrovnik was the pearl of the Adriatic. Right; Remains of seafood feast.
Next we went in search of something to drink, we stumbled into SkyBar off The Stradun (main street), tempted by their liter buckets of cocktails. It turns out SkyBar is quite the hot night spot in Dubrovnik and we ended up dancing the night away!
The next day we put on our explorer hats, not literally, and headed off to make the most of our short time in Dubrovnik. First off we took a ride on the rather full and sweaty cable car, but were rewarded not only by stunning views over Dubrovnik, but with a cooling breeze on top of mount. Something very welcome in the July heat. After descending we explored the old town, soaking up the Mediterranean like atmosphere. Then we went in search of some beach, which is pretty none existent in Croatia, but don't let that put you off, the connected rock plateaus are a good substitute and make a great place to try cliff jumping, go as high as you dare! Left; Cliff Jumping at Buza Bar.
We decided to finish off the day by making the most of 'the magic hour' and embark on walking the walls, the one main tourist activity in Dubrovnik. Make no mistake these walls are long! But you do get a unique view of the city and surrounding area. I certainly wouldn't attempt to climb them in the midday sun though.
City Walls
On our last day we decided to explore one of Croatia's many islands, we took the 10 min ferry over to Lokrum, a snip at only 50kn return. Lokrum, is a gem of an island, its so much more peaceful than the mainland. Plus there's something for everyone. From the climb to ancient fort, the dead sea lake, which makes swimming that bit easier, or the numerous beaches that are perfect for catching some rays or sploshing about in the sea. All this is topped off by the abundant peacocks that strut around the island. If that hasn't pursuaded you Lokrum is worth visit there is also a a fabulous little cafe serving a sandwich, cider and ice cream for 70kn. Bargain, especially if you consider the excellent service we had too. Right; One of Lokrum's beaches.
Our short trip to Dubrovnik only left me wanting more, wanting to explore beyond the old town, to see if that glistens too, to jump off more cliffs, to clamber over more rocks to find the best sun bathing spot, to eat more delicious food (Toni's Pasta is possibly the best pasta I've ever eaten). But when I do return I'll be investing in a pair of swim shoes to save bruised and scraped feet!
Key Facts
- Many budget airlines fly there now, we fly from London Stansted with Monarch.
- We stayed at Fresh Sheets Hostel, and paid around £25 per night.
- Best Time to Visit; We found July that bit too hot so maybe try May or September when it's not as hot and less busy.
- Cake Rating; Excellent. Their pastries are divine!
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