A Week in Southern Dalmatia: The Konavle Valley

Arrive at Dubrovnik Airport, the main entry point for the region. A short overland drive heads south into the Konavle Valley, a quiet agricultural region between the mountains and the sea. The base for the week is a rural farm property in the village of Lovorno. Settle in before a first home-cooked dinner.

Today follows the quiet roads of the Konavle wine route. The day is spent visiting small family-run vineyards to learn about the production of local wines, including prosecco, and the region's distinctive olive oil. The tour includes time at several different wineries for tastings, usually paired with simple local snacks like cheese and cured meats, before returning to the villa for the evening.

The morning is unstructured, leaving time to explore the area around the farm on foot, find a local swimming spot, or simply relax by the pool. In the afternoon, the focus shifts to a hands-on cooking class led by the hosts. Using fresh ingredients from the farm and neighbouring properties, the class covers traditional Croatian dishes. The day ends with a communal dinner featuring the food prepared during the lesson.

A full-day trip heads to the Adriatic coast, starting in a small fishing village near Prevlaka. From the port, board a traditional wooden boat for a sail around a nearby island and beneath the coastal cliffs. The captain points out his preferred fishing and diving spots along the way. There is time for swimming in the clear water, and if the weather allows, a visit to a blue cave and a hidden beach. Lunch is prepared by the fisherman’s family back at the port, with the rest of the afternoon free to spend on a local beach before returning to the valley.

The day is spent in Dubrovnik. An initial orientation walk through the Pile Gate helps with getting bearings inside the walled Old Town—locating the main Stradun, side alleys, and essential services. The rest of the day is free to explore the city's limestone streets, walk the ramparts, or find a quiet cafe. The day also includes a visit to the DEŠA women's centre, a non-profit that works to preserve local handicrafts and support women in the community. The return to the Konavle Valley is in the evening.

A half-day cycling trip explores the Konavle Valley's backroads, winding past small houses and vineyards. The route includes stops at a 15th-century monastery, traditional water mills once used for producing flour, and a local artist's studio. The ride begins with an incline but is mostly downhill toward the end. Lunch is a picnic at the host family's private vineyard. The final afternoon is unstructured, free for a last walk or relaxing back at the villa before the final group dinner.

The week in the Konavle Valley concludes after breakfast. There are no planned activities, leaving the morning free for packing. A pre-arranged transfer is available to Dubrovnik Airport for onward flights, timed to your departure.