La Villa

Activities

• Following a signed footpath, walk 20 minutes across the island, passing through dense, herb-scented vegetation, to arrive at Sunj beach (pronounced Shunj), a 500m stretch of fine sand in a sheltered horseshoe bay with warm shallow water, sun beds and umbrellas for hire, and a ‘clothing optional’ approach
  
  
• Explore the ruins of medieval churches and the 15th century Franciscan monastery with its cloister and defensive walls
  
  
• Try snorkelling in some of the island’s secluded rocky coves to discover the Adriatic’s fascinating underwater life; or Mischel can arrange guided diving excursions with a centre in Dubrovnik (as a trained instructor, he knows his stuff)
  
  
• Pop across to neighbouring Sipan, rent a bike and cycle the length of the island (5km) from Sipanska Luka to Sudjuradj, passing through Sipansko Polje, a fertile interior valley planted with olive trees and grape vines
  
  
• Go sea kayaking, taking part on an organised tour around the Elafiti islands
  
  
• Play tennis on nearby courts, floodlit at night
  
  
• Book the villa's 6.4-metre speedboat and whizz round to Sunj beach, across to Sipan island, or down to Dubrovnik or Ston; it seats 6, so perfect if you come as a family or can find another couple to share the cost with
  
  
• Or rent a sailing boat and explore the surrounding islands; Kolocep and Sipan are just a couple of miles away, easily manageable in a day-trip
  
  
• Don't miss the island of Mljet, about 5 nautical miles further west: its western third is a national park with dense pine forests and two interconnecting lakes, one with an island
  
  
• Allow at least one day to explore the beautiful medieval walled city of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO world heritage site and undoubtedly Croatia’s most fashionable destination: walk a circuit of the city walls, check out the City Museum inside the 15th-century Bishop’s Palace and see the latest photography exhibition at War Photo Ltd gallery
  
  
• Visit the 16th-century Renaissance gardens of Trsteno Arboretum, 24 km northwest of Dubrovnik