Dubrovnik -

Pearl of the Adriactic

article and photos by Barry Harley

Dubrovnik, also known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a beautiful coastal city located in Croatia. With its charming old town, crystal-clear waters, and stunning architecture, Dubrovnik has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. In this article, we’ll take a one-day trip to Dubrovnik and explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Our first stop on this journey is the Lovrijenac Fort, located on a rocky outcrop just outside the city walls. This impressive fortification was built in the 11th century to protect the city from invaders, and it has since played a vital role in Dubrovnik’s history. As we make our way up the steep staircase to the fort, we are greeted with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the city below.

Inside the fort, we explore the labyrinthine passages and rooms, which once served as barracks, storage spaces, and even a theater. The fort is well-preserved, and the views from the top are truly breathtaking. From here, we can see the Old Town of Dubrovnik, the nearby island of Lokrum, and the Adriatic Sea stretching out before us.

After taking in the beauty of Lovrijenac Fort, we make our way to one of Dubrovnik’s most famous beaches, the Plaza Beach. This sandy beach is located just outside the city walls and offers a perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. The water is crystal clear and refreshing, and there are plenty of amenities nearby, including cafes, restaurants, and bars.

We spend a few hours lounging on the beach, swimming in the sea, and enjoying the warm sun. The Plaza Beach is known for its lively atmosphere, and we can hear the sounds of people laughing and chatting as we relax on our towels. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some downtime.

As the day starts to wind down, we make our way back into the city and head to one of the many gelato shops that line the streets. Gelato is a staple of Italian and Croatian cuisine, and Dubrovnik has some of the best gelato in the region. We try a few different flavors, including pistachio, strawberry, and chocolate, and each one is more delicious than the last.

With our bellies full of gelato, we take a leisurely stroll through the winding streets of the Old Town. Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its stunning architecture, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The streets are lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants, and there is always something new to discover around every corner.

As the sun sets over the Adriatic Sea, we make our way back to our hotel, exhausted but content after a day spent exploring Dubrovnik. From the stunning views at Lovrijenac Fort to the relaxing atmosphere of Plaza Beach and the delicious gelato, Dubrovnik has something for everyone. It’s a city that truly lives up to its reputation as the Pearl of the Adriatic and is a must-visit destination