A Day on Lokrum Island: Nature, Legends & Escape Near Dubrovnik

Just 15 minutes by boat from Dubrovnik’s Old Port, Lokrum Island feels like another world. Covered in dense greenery, shaped by history and surrounded by the clear Adriatic, it’s a peaceful escape that locals and travelers have loved for centuries. The island is a nature reserve, home to peacocks, birds, wild coastal paths and rocky swimming spots that are especially popular in summer.

Its underwater world is just as fascinating, with rocky cliffs that drop steeply into the sea and gentle shallows that stretch outward in other areas. Whether you’re a swimmer, a sun-seeker or a nature lover, the views and waters around Lokrum never disappoint.

Mrtvo More: Lokrum’s Peaceful Dead Sea

One of Lokrum’s most distinctive natural features is Mrtvo More, or the Dead Sea, a small saltwater lake connected to the sea through underground channels. It’s a favorite for families and anyone who wants a relaxing, calm swim.

Botanical Garden and Tropical Escapes

Nearby, you will find the Botanical Garden, first established in the 1960s after Lokrum was declared a protected forest reserve. The garden features tropical and subtropical plants from around the world, thriving in the island’s Mediterranean climate. Even as far back as the 15th century, Lokrum was known for its vineyards and vegetable gardens, something medieval writer Philippus de Diversis praised in his travel writings.

He described Lokrum as a peaceful retreat where people came to rest their bodies and souls, and even today it feels much the same.

Feathered Locals: Peacocks & Birds of Lokrum

One of the island’s most charming surprises is its free-roaming animal residents. Peacocks strut through the gardens and birdsong fills the air. These animals have called Lokrum home for generations, adding to the island’s peaceful, storybook-like atmosphere.

The Curse of the Benedictine Monks

One of the island’s most mysterious stories is the curse of the Benedictine monks. After being expelled by the French in the 18th century, the monks are said to have held a final midnight mass, walked the island in a hooded procession with upside-down candles and cursed anyone who tried to claim the island for themselves.

The noblemen who forced them out supposedly met tragic fates soon after, and the curse later became linked to the deaths of Archduke Maximilian and Crown Prince Rudolf of the Habsburg family.

King Richard the Lionheart’s Vow

Another legend tells of King Richard the Lionheart, who found shelter on Lokrum during a storm in 1192 while returning from the Crusades. Grateful to have survived, he vowed to build a church where he landed. Dubrovnik’s citizens later convinced him to build it inside the city instead, while they honored his promise by building a smaller chapel on Lokrum.

Archduke Maximilian’s Vision for Lokrum

Archduke Maximilian fell in love with Lokrum. He and his wife Charlotte began turning the old Benedictine monastery into a summer residence. The surrounding grounds were landscaped, paths were built around the island and exotic plants were brought in to shape what is now a lush garden park.

Fort Royal: A Panoramic View from Lokrum’s Highest Point

Climb to the top of Lokrum and discover Fort Royal, built by the French in the early 1800s. The views stretch across the Adriatic and Dubrovnik’s Old Town, offering a panoramic perspective above the island.

Game of Thrones and the Iron Throne

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Lacroma Snack Bar and Island Refreshments

Need a break while exploring? Stop by Lacroma Snack Bar, a shaded outdoor café near the dock surrounded by greenery. It’s a pleasant place to enjoy a coffee or cold drink and take in the island’s calm rhythm.

Lacroma Restaurant: Island Dining Surrounded by Nature

Tucked into Lokrum’s greenery, Lacroma Restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes made with local ingredients. Whether you’re looking for octopus salad, seafood risotto or a cold drink under the pines, it is a place to pause after exploring the island.

Visiting Lokrum: When & How to Go

Lokrum is generally open from April to late October, and official ferries depart from Dubrovnik’s Old Port. Schedules and opening dates can change, so confirm current details with the official reserve before your visit. Tickets are sold at the port and include island entry and the return boat trip.

Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or staying all day, Lokrum offers a mix of nature, mystery and quiet beauty that is hard to find anywhere else—a peaceful escape just across the water from the city.