Klek Travel Guide

Discover the picturesque village of Klek in Croatia with its natural wonders, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and delicious cuisine. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide and itinerary.


Introduction to Klek

Tucked away in the heart of Dubrovnik-Neretva in Dalmatia, Klek is a small village that often gets overlooked by travelers visiting Croatia. However, this hidden gem is a true paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history buffs. With its stunning beaches, scenic hiking trails, and fascinating cultural attractions, Klek is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the crowds and experience the authentic spirit of Croatia.

List of Places to Visit in Klek

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Musuem of Ston
  • Church of St. Blaise
  • Fortifications of Ston
  • Dubrovnik City Walls

Klek and the surrounding area have a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The Museum of Ston is a great place to start exploring the local history, offering a glimpse into the area’s life throughout the centuries. Another cultural attraction you shouldn’t miss is the Church of St. Blaise, which is an impressive Baroque-style church built in the 18th century. And don’t forget to visit the Fortifications of Ston, which are the second largest preserved fortification system in Europe, and the Dubrovnik City Walls, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Natural Attractions of Klek: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bacina Lakes
  • Biokovo Mountain
  • Kravica Waterfalls
  • Mljet National Park

Klek’s natural beauty is simply breathtaking. The village is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, and magnificent waterfalls. Bacina Lakes, located just a short drive from Klek, are a group of seven interconnected lakes surrounded by lush greenery, and offer an ideal spot for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Biokovo Mountain is perfect for hiking enthusiasts, providing a challenging ascent and spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea from the top. For a refreshing dip, a visit to Kravica Waterfalls, located about 60 km away from Klek in the neighboring country of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a must. Finally, don’t miss Mljet National Park, which is a pristine oasis in the heart of the Adriatic, featuring lush forests, shimmering lakes, and unique marine life.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Klek

  • Vidova Gora Trail
  • Biokovo Nature Park Trail
  • Peljesac Peninsula Trail

Klek is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering countless hiking and biking trails that are perfect for exploring the region’s natural beauty. The Vidova Gora Trail is a challenging route that takes you up to the highest peak of the island of Brač, offering stunning panoramic views of the Adriatic and the nearby islands. Biokovo Nature Park Trail is another popular option, with its ascent to the peak of Biokovo providing you with a breathtaking view of the surrounding natural landscape. The Peljesac Peninsula Trail is great for those who love coastal walking, with its route taking you along the beautiful coastline of the peninsula.

Best Things to Do in Klek: Activities and Tours

  • Winery Tour
  • Sea Kayaking Tours
  • Konavle Valley Food Tour
  • Wine and Oyster Tasting in Ston

Klek’s stunning landscape provides numerous opportunities for adventure and exploration. A winery tour is an excellent way to discover the region’s local wine culture, with some of the most famous wines of Croatia produced in the area. Sea kayaking tours in Klek offer a unique perspective of the Adriatic Sea, showcasing the secluded beaches and hidden coves of the coastline. The Konavle Valley Food Tour allows you to savor authentic Croatian cuisine, including smoked ham, local cheese, and traditional sweets, all made using centuries-old methods. And wine and oyster tasting at Ston is a delight for your taste buds, where you can enjoy fresh oysters with a glass of local wine, surrounded by stunning sea views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Klek

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Dubrovnik City Walls and explore the city of Dubrovnik
Day 2 Visit Ston and check out the Fortifications of Ston, and St. Blaise Church
Day 3 Take a day trip to Kravica Waterfalls and Biokovo Nature Park
Day 4 Explore Bacina Lakes and enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding
Day 5 Hiking at Vidova Gora trail or explore Mljet National Park
Day 6 Wine tasting tour in Konavle Valley
Day 7 Sea kayaking tour to the nearby caves and secluded beaches

Food and Drink Scene of Klek

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pasticada
  • Crni Rižot
  • Dalmatian Prosciutto

Croatian cuisine is simple, yet delicious. Pasticada is a traditional meat dish from Dalmatia that is cooked in red wine and served with potato dumplings. Crni rižot is a black risotto made with squid ink that is a specialty of the region. Dalmatian prosciutto is another delicacy that is a must-try, made with salt-cured ham that is aged for several months.

Local Beverages

  • Dingac wine
  • Plavac Mali wine
  • Maraska cherry brandy

Croatia is famous for its wine production, and the region surrounding Klek is home to some of the country’s most renowned wineries. The most famous wines to try in Klek are Dingac and Plavac Mali. For an after-dinner drink, Maraska cherry brandy is a popular choice.

Where to Stay in Klek: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Villa Anka
  • Hotel Indijan
  • Apartments Runac

Klek offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses, catering to all kinds of budgets and preferences. Villa Anka is a charming bed and breakfast offering stunning sea views and comfortable rooms. Hotel Indijan is a modern property located on Klek’s beachfront, perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious experience. Apartments Runac provides a homely atmosphere with its fully equipped apartments that offer great value for money.

What to Buy in Klek: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Olive oil
  • Dried figs
  • Pottery

Klek is the perfect place to pick up authentic Croatian souvenirs and local products. Olive oil is one of Croatia’s most prized possessions, and the region surrounding Klek produces some of the country’s best. Dried figs are also a tasty souvenir that you can bring back home, and pottery is a charming item that captures the true essence of the area’s culture and heritage.

Local Culture and Customs of Klek

Klek is a traditional Croatian village, and the locals take great pride in their heritage and way of life. Visitors are expected to respect local customs and beliefs, such as not wearing revealing clothing or bathing suits in public areas. A simple “good day” or “dobro jutro” can go a long way in building rapport with the locals, who are known for their warmth and friendliness.

Best Time to Visit Klek

The best time to visit Klek is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowded beaches and higher prices. Early fall, from September to November, is another ideal time to visit as you can enjoy more pleasant weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Klek

Do:

  • Respect local customs and beliefs
  • Try the traditional Croatian food and wine
  • Take time to explore Klek’s natural wonders and landscapes
  • Engage with the locals and learn about their culture and way of life

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public areas
  • Litter or damage the natural environment
  • Ignore local laws and regulations
  • Be disrespectful towards the locals

Safety and Health

Safety in Klek

Klek is a relatively safe place, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. It’s always a good idea to carry a copy of your passport and keep your valuables in a safe place.

Health in Klek

Croatia has a well-developed healthcare system, with hospitals and clinics located throughout the country. Klek has a local medical center that provides basic medical care, and there are several pharmacies in the village. However, it’s recommended that travelers purchase travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Getting to Klek: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Klek

The nearest international airport to Klek is Dubrovnik Airport, which is about 100 km away. Most major airlines offer direct flights to Dubrovnik from major cities in Europe. Alternatively, Split Airport is also an option, which is about 180 km away from Klek.

Bus Stations Near Klek

Klek has a small bus station that is served by several local and regional bus companies. Buses run regularly from Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb on a daily basis.

Other Options

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Croatia, offering visitors the freedom to explore the country at their own pace. Taxis are also available in Klek, but they can be more expensive than public transportation.

How to Get Around in Klek

Klek is a small village, and walking is the easiest and most convenient way to explore the area. Bicycles are also available for rent, which is a great way to explore the surrounding countryside. Public transportation is also available, with regular buses running to the nearby towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from Klek: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Klek is a great starting point for exploring Dubrovnik-Neretva and the wider region. Some nearby destinations you could consider visiting include:

  • Dubrovnik
  • Split
  • Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
  • Korcula

Conclusion

Klek is a charming and tranquil village that offers visitors a unique insight into Croatia’s rich cultural and natural heritage. With its stunning beaches, scenic hiking trails, and delicious cuisine, Klek is truly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat, Klek is the perfect destination to escape the crowds and experience the authentic spirit of Croatia.

View to the sea View to the sea