The Great Wall of Europe

In the south of Croatia there is a narrow peninsula called Pelješac, that was once the centre of wealth for the Republic of Ragusa in Dubrovnik. It was so economically important that monumental defensive walls were built to protect this small piece of land. The source of its prized wealth? Salt.

The salt pans here are the oldest in Europe, dating all the way back to 877. Indeed, they are still in operation today and are the oldest active salt pans in the world. The defensive stone walls that protected this area in the past are today one of the longest preserved fortification systems in the world. Salt used to be very important indeed!

So we set out to conquer the Walls of Ston, along the crews from s/v Gambler and m/v Gratitude. Between the strategically built towns of Ston and Mali Ston (at the peninsula’s narrowest point), the 11km round trip was steep and hot. But the walls are in excellent condition and the views from the top are breathtaking. In between we were able to cool our feet in the pretty little harbour of Mali Ston, and replenish on ice cold Radlers. Complimentary bags of the local salt were pressed into our palms as we left.

Upon return to Ston the kids tucked into some well-deserved ice creams and payed a visit to the local playground before the long dinghy ride back home. Such a great day!