Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

National Park Guide delivers travel features and guided trip insights for exploring America's national parks, from epic hikes to unforgettable tours.

← Back to Journal
Highlights of Mljet National Park: Private E-Tuk & St. Mary Island Tour

Highlights of Mljet National Park: Private E-Tuk & St. Mary Island Tour

A compact, private 90-minute loop through Mljet National Park that combines an eco-vehicle ride, Roman ruins at Polače, and a short boat hop to St. Mary Island. Expect guided history, short walks, and up-close views of the park’s iconic salt lakes.

Pomena, Dubrovnik-Neretva County
1–1.5 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Bring a refillable water bottle

There are limited services inside the park—carry at least 1 liter per person for a 90-minute outing.

Sturdy shoes over sandals

Paths on St. Mary Island and around Polače are uneven and rocky; low-profile hiking shoes provide traction.

Check the boat schedule

The tour includes short boat transfers—arrive at the meeting point on time and confirm pickup locations with the guide.

Sun protection for exposed stretches

Sections between stops have little shade—use sunscreen and a hat even in mild weather.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Govedari viewpoint overlooking the coastal inlets, best for quiet photography
  • Small Roman ruins and mosaics at Polače—less visited than the main monastery

Wildlife

  • grey heron
  • Mediterranean cormorant

Conservation Note

Mljet National Park protects lake and coastal habitats—follow park rules, stick to marked paths, and minimize single-use plastics to reduce impact.

Polače contains remnants of a 5th-century Roman palace and later Benedictine monastic developments on St. Mary Island.

What to Bring

Low-profile hiking shoesEssential

Provide grip on rocky paths and comfort for short walks at ruins and the island.

Refillable water bottleEssential

Keeps you hydrated during the route where services are limited.

Light wind/rain jacket

Protects against coastal breezes and quick showers, especially in shoulder seasons.

Sunscreen and hatEssential

Essential for sun protection during exposed stretches between stops.

Common Questions

Where does the tour start and end?

The meeting point is in Pomena, typically in front of the Odysseus Hotel; the route returns to the same area after the loop.

Is the National Park entrance fee included?

Policies vary by operator—confirm at booking; many private tours require park entrance fees to be paid separately at the gate.

How much free time is on St. Mary Island?

The itinerary provides roughly 15–20 minutes of free time to walk around the monastery and lakeside paths before returning by boat.

Is this suitable for children and older travelers?

Yes—classified as easy and suitable for all fitness levels, but visitors should be able to board a small boat and walk short uneven sections.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

1–1.5 hours

Location

Pomena, Dubrovnik-Neretva County

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short walks on uneven terrain and stepping on/off a small boat.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Pomena?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

Check Availability & Book Now
Highlights of Mljet National Park: Private E-Tuk & St. Mary Island Tour - Pomena - Adventure Collective Travel