Orebić

With around 4,100 inhabitants, Orebic is the largest town on the Peljesac Peninsula and extends from the southern Dalmatian mainland near Dubrovnik to the island of Korcula. Orebic is situated on the southern coast of the peninsula facing the island of Korcula and thus has a particularly well protected position in the Adriatic Sea.
 

Orebic and its great seafaring tradition

In the 16th century, the Orebic family, a wealthy sea-captain family, built a castle, which not only gave the town its name, but also provided protection. This made Orebic a popular spot for sailors, captains and traders who traveled the seas through the good shipping connections and sold goods. Quickly Orebic became an important center for navigation and captains and crew moved to the coast of this town.

In the 19th century, Orebic had one of the largest shipping companies in the Mediterranean, which, during peak times, sent a total of 33 tall ships to the seas. That the town and the people are still connected with shipping is of no surprise and visitors can marvel at the town's history at the impressive Maritime Museum on Trg Mimbelli Square. The town's tradition can also be seen in the various attractions and events that take place, such as the South Dalmatia Regatta or at the Mimbelli Captain's House which has been converted into a hotel. The building's architecture and interior design, dating back to the 19th century, is a testament of the former owner's wealth. The traditional customs worn by the captains' wives are significant for this town in revealing the status of a seafaring family and can be marveled at in the Maritime Museum. In addition to the former captain's house there are many other villas which were built by wealthy sailors.

The marine surroundings of Orebic today are characterized by the marina, which has more than 200 berths and is the starting point for the ferry operating to the neighboring island of Korcula.
 

Leisure activities and attractions in and around Orebic

The panorama of the town is dominated by Sveti Ilija, the 961 meter high mountain on the Peljesac Peninsula. There are interesting climbing and hiking routes in the rugged rock massif, which are best visited with a local guide. Useful information can be obtained at the tourist office.

In the rolling foothills of Sveti Ilija you will find the Gothic Franciscan Monastery from 1470. The monastery complex is affiliated with the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady and a cemetery where wealthy captains were buried. Upon the hill, you will find, in addition to a beautiful view, a small museum too. At the same time, you can smell the wonderful aroma of the cypress trees that stand in the nearby reserve of "Pod Gospu". A tour guide is needed for the numerous alleys in the center- getting lost is all part of the conscious decision to discover the charm of the town. A journey through Orebic leads you through narrow streets with old stone stairs, cast-iron gates with wild gardens, courtyards and magnificent villas as well as by the covered bridges that connect the houses.

Orebic is a place that has been quintessentially shaped by the sea. Besides the possibility to rent boats, tourists can also partake in diving, snorkeling, fishing, windsurfing and kite surfing – as long as the beaches have been extensively explored. The coast does not quickly lose its appeal and the Tristenika Beach alone is 1.5 km long. Friends of tennis, football and volleyball can also let out some energy here. For evening entertainment, visit the bars, restaurants and the disco at the Hotel Bellevue.