Okuklje

Okuklje, a coastal town in the northern region of the Mljet Island, sits in a picturesque bay and was founded in the second half of the 15th century - as a result of the residents moving from the inland town of Vrhmljece to the coast. The residents are olive and wine growers, fishermen and sailors and thought themselves safe from the often angry pirates because of their new sheltered location in the bay. This is why they did not build fortifications around the town when they constructed the Church of St. Nicholas and the monastery. As a consequence, the pirates did raid the village in the 17th century, devastating and burning it to the ground after they had looted all the valuables. The residents of Okuklje fled to the surrounding villages. 

Today, there are only a few locals living in the village. Due to the quiet, sheltered bay here, there are still many sailors who are attracted to  Okuklje and enjoy the docks and restaurants in the harbor. Behind the modern apartment houses, there are towering, densely vegetated hills that are ideal for long walks. From these heights you can enjoy wonderful views of the Peljesac Peninsula. Since the coast of Okuklje is quite rocky, you will find quite some challenging routes here. Alternatively, you can explore the coast by boat, snorkeling or diving.