City of Vela Luka
Vela Luka is a small town and municipality in the Dubrovnik-Neretva County located in southern Dalmatia. The town is located on the western side of the island of Korčula at the foot of a wide bay with many indented bays. Vela Luka developed at the beginning of the 19th century in a deep protected bay. The name Vela Luka means “big port” in the Croatian “čakavski” dialect.
Historical landmarks
The picturesque port and the old town form the tourist center of Vela Luka. There are numerous restaurants and cafes along the harbor and on the waterfront. One of the attractions of Vela Luka is the church of St. Joseph in the center of town, which was built in 1848. It is possible to view the church from the inside, and it is also worth climbing the church tower. The nearby Art & Culture Center is also a must see atraction, it is located in a restored Baroque building where important archaeological sites from the island of Korčula are exhibited.
Island Proizd
The absolute highlight of Vela Luka is the picturesque island of Proizd. The island’s beaches have been declared the most beautiful in Croatia by magazines several times. Proizd is uninhabited, so you can enjoy beautiful nature and seclusion while walking around the island and beaches. These islets can be reached from Vela Luka by taxi boat several times a day, and with a little luck you can even see dolphins on the way.
Vela cave
An impressive attraction of Vela Luka is Vela Špilja. It is located above the town on the Pinski rat hill and is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island of Korčula. The oldest finds come from the younger Stone Age, around 3,200 years BC. and today you can find them in the cultural center of Vela Luka. On the way to Vela Špilja, you will enjoy a fantastic view of the old city center and down the Korčula bay.
Mountain Hum
Another attraction of Vela Luka is the viewpoint on Mount Hum. It can be reached partly by car, but also by bicycle or on foot along the hiking trails. When you climb to the top of Hum, you will reach the small fort Hum from the 19th century, which offers a wonderful view of Vela Luka and the eastern part of Korčula.
Island Ošjak
The small island of Ošjak is located directly in the Vela Luka bay and can be reached by taxi boat from Vela Luka. There are a number of small hiking trails on the island that lead through the pine forest from one end to the other. On the way there are beautiful coves that amaze with their beauty.
