Discover Pomena: Trails and Nature on Mljet

Pomena lies on a sheltered bay near Veliko jezero and Malo jezero and is one of the nautical gateways to Mljet National Park. If you are looking for a hotel in Pomena, the routes you plan to take and the time of year you travel can be important criteria when choosing. The hiking and cycling routes vary in length, elevation profile and difficulty.

Choose hiking routes by distance and profile

The Recreational Trail A in Pomena is a marked 8.7-kilometre hiking route of moderate difficulty, with no major climbs. It follows the shores of Veliko jezero and Malo jezero and crosses the Great Bridge. The trail also offers the option of visiting the Island of St. Mary; boat services there may vary seasonally.

The also-marked Trail C connects Pomena and Polače over five kilometres and likewise has no major climbs. The routes therefore differ not only in length: Trail A follows the lakes and crosses a bridge, while Trail C connects two named places. Trail conditions and markings may change. Check the current park brochure before setting out.

The marked Hiking Trail E is 13.5 kilometres long, rated as moderately challenging, and includes climbs. Its route features include the ascent to the Montokuc viewpoint and visits to Soline and Goveđari. Compared with Trail A and Trail C, E is longer and is explicitly described as having climbs.

Cycling with a different level of challenge

The Cycling Trail F in Pomena is a marked 17.7-kilometre mountain bike route. It is rated very challenging and includes major climbs. This makes it clearly different from the hiking routes described above. The brochure also notes damaged sections and partly unpaved surfaces. Check current conditions before riding.

Bay, lakes and nature on Mljet

The islets near Pomena are associated with ancient archaeological sites, amphora finds and anchors. On a wider scale, Veliko jezero and Malo jezero are two deep bays on Mljet, called lakes, that are connected to the open sea by the Solinski Channel. Mljet National Park includes Aleppo pine and holm oak forests, as well as the 15-hectare Velika dolina forest reserve. Check current park information for details on protected-area boundaries and management.

Štit Reef lies in the southwest of Mljet Island and is a dive site with abundant marine life. It can be reached by boat from Pomena. Operator availability and sea conditions may vary.

Culture, food and events

The Island of St. Mary, in the southern part of the Great Lake, is home to a Benedictine monastery and the Church of St. Mary. The monastery was built between 1177 and 1198; the central part of the church has been preserved in Romanesque style. Opening hours and boat services may vary seasonally.

Mljet’s culinary traditions include fish, shellfish and other seafood, as well as eel dishes such as brodet. Mljetski makaruli is a traditional pasta dish with homemade goat’s cheese, garlic and olive oil. The dishes available depend on the season and the restaurant.

The annual eno-gastronomic event “Toast from the Host” takes place in Pomena in late August. The programme features local specialities and wine tastings. Dates and programme may change; if you want to plan your trip around the event, check the latest information.

Plan your journey

The Dubrovnik–Pomena–Korčula route also includes the return journey. As passenger services and operating dates may change, check the current timetable before travelling.

For the broader travel overview: Dubrovnik-Neretva County.