Our review offers an in-depth look into the Ston with Wine Tastings at Peljesac Peninsula tour—a day designed for those eager to experience Croatia’s renowned wines, historic sites, and delicious seafood. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed itinerary, genuine traveler feedback, and local highlights paint a compelling picture of what you can expect.
What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its perfect blend of cultural exploration and culinary indulgence—visiting ancient salt ponds, wandering along impressive city walls, and sampling some of Croatia’s finest wines. The tour’s focus on authentic, local experiences makes it especially appealing for curious travelers who want more than just a typical sightseeing day.
One potential consideration is that the wine tastings are not included in the price, which means additional costs. However, given the quality and variety of wineries visited, many would agree that this is a worthwhile investment for true wine lovers.
This experience suits travelers who value cultural history, wine tasting, and fresh seafood, and it’s ideal for those who prefer a private, personalized tour rather than a crowded bus. If you’re seeking a day of authentic Croatian flavors and sights, this tour might just be the highlight of your trip.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Visit three different wineries, each with unique production styles.
- Historical Highlights: Explore well-preserved salt ponds, city walls, and local architecture in Ston.
- Gourmet Sampling: Enjoy tastings of some of Croatia’s best wines, including unique sea-bottle wines.
- Seafood & Oysters: Cap off the day with a recommended seafood lunch and optional oyster tasting.
- Private & Flexible: A private tour for up to 8 people, with flexible timing and personalized attention.
- Value for Money: While wine tastings are extra, the overall experience offers a well-rounded cultural and culinary day.
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary
If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Dubrovnik
Starting Point: Dubrovnik’s Convenient Meeting Spot
The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am at Ul. Frana Supila 3 in Dubrovnik. The host offers private air-conditioned transport, which makes the long drive comfortable and efficient. For travelers concerned about timing, the pickup service alleviates the hassle of organizing transport to the Peljesac Peninsula.
First Stop: Ston’s Historic Salt Ponds and City Walls
The first visit is to Ston, a town famous for its ancient salt ponds dating back to the 13th century. Standing amidst these salt pools, you get a tangible sense of Croatia’s historical salt industry, which played a vital role in regional trade. The opportunity to walk along the second-largest defensive wall in the world offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape—think rugged hills, salt flats, and distant sea.
You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, which balances enough time to soak in the history without feeling rushed. Admission to the salt ponds and city walls is free, but you might choose to pay for a guided walk or visit the Rector’s Palace for deeper insights.
Visit to Milos Winery: Croatian Family Tradition
Next, we arrive at Milos Winery in Ponikve, a family-run vineyard with roots stretching back generations. The emphasis here is on local grape varieties and traditional production methods. The tasting includes some of the finest wines produced on Peljesac—an area renowned for its Dingač and Postup wines, both celebrated for their depth and character.
While the tasting itself isn’t included in the tour price, this is a chance to savor authentic Croatian wines in a warm, familial atmosphere. The winery tour offers insight into regional winemaking practices, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a lesson in local tradition.
Grgic Vina: A Winery with a Global Legacy
The next stop is Grgic Vina, established in 1996 by Miljenko “Mike” Grgich, a legendary winemaker from Napa Valley whose Croatian roots are proud. Located in Trstenik, this winery has a reputation for producing high-quality wines with international acclaim.
Here, you’ll get a chance to taste wines crafted under the guidance of a winemaking pioneer—an experience enriched by the story of a Croatian-born master who made it big abroad. The tasting session, like others, is not included but promises a selection of exceptional Croatian wines.
While in Dubrovnik, here are other experiences we've covered
- Dubrovnik: Full-Day Blue Cave & Elaphiti Islands Boat Tour
- Dubrovnik- Full day sailing around Elafity islands&Blue cave
- Dubrovnik: Full-Day Total Game of Thrones Experience
- Dubrovnik – Full day group yacht tour to Elaphiti&Blue cave
- From Dubrovnik: Full-Day Private Boat Tour of Elafiti Island
- Dubrovnik: Elafiti Islands Private Full Day Boat Tour Escape
Sea-Treasure: Edivo Wine Bar and Submarine Bottling
What truly sets this tour apart is the sea-based wine tasting experience at Edivo Wine Bar. This innovative concept involves bottling wines underwater, where bottles are submerged in the sea to age and develop unique characteristics.
Imagine tasting wines that have been sitting at the bottom of the Adriatic—an unusual and memorable experience that combines Croatia’s maritime heritage with its wine culture. Many reviews highlight this as a “something special,” and it’s a rare opportunity to taste wines with a story that’s as much about innovation as tradition.
A Seafood Lunch and Oyster Sampling in Mali Ston
After multiple wine tastings, the tour recommends a lunch in Mali Ston, a village famous for oysters and shellfish. You might opt for a leisurely meal in one of the local restaurants, which serve fresh seafood and often feature oysters harvested right from the nearby farms.
The optional demonstration on how to select, clean, and eat oysters adds a fun, interactive element to the day. This part is designed to be as much about experience as sustenance, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at local seafood traditions.
Practical Details and Tips
The cost of wine tastings (roughly $10-15 per wine) is not included, but considering the quality and variety of wines, it’s a reasonable expense for true enthusiasts. You’ll have time at each winery to taste several wines, and your driver or guide can assist with ordering or recommendations.
The tour lasts about 9 hours in total—ample time for sightseeing, sampling, and relaxing. The private nature makes it adaptable; you can ask questions, take your time, and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.
The cost of $620.55 for up to 8 people offers good value when you consider the private transport, multiple stops, and personalized attention. Plus, the tour operates with free cancellation up to 24 hours—a relief if weather or plans change unexpectedly.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is ideal for wine lovers eager to explore Croatian varieties and learn about local wine-making traditions. It’s also perfect for history buffs interested in Ston’s salt industry and walls, as well as seafood enthusiasts who want to taste fresh oysters and local specialties.
Travelers who prefer private tours with flexible schedules will find this especially appealing. It suits those who enjoy a relaxed pace, genuine local experiences, and a bit of adventure—like underwater wine aging.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?
If you’re looking to combine wine tasting, cultural exploration, and fresh seafood, this tour offers a compelling, well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Peljesac. The visit to Ston offers a tangible connection to Croatia’s history, while the wineries showcase the region’s vinicultural excellence. The sea-bottled wines and oyster tasting add a dash of novelty that makes the day memorable.
While the additional wine tasting costs can add up, many find the quality and diversity of the wines worth it. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want an authentic, personalized Croatian day—away from the crowds and geared toward genuine local flavors.
In short, it’s a day that combines scenery, history, and gastronomy into a manageable, enjoyable package—perfect for curious travelers who want to taste Croatia’s best.
FAQ
Are transportation and pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation with pickup from a central Dubrovnik location, making logistics simple and stress-free.
How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, giving enough time at each stop without feeling overly rushed.
Are wine tastings included in the price?
No, the tastings cost roughly $10-15 per wine, and are payable locally. This allows flexibility to sample as much or as little as you’d like.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience for your group only, providing personalized attention and flexibility.
What is the best time to take this tour?
While the tour operates most days, good weather is preferred, especially for outdoor visits like Ston walls and oyster sampling.
Do I need to be a wine expert?
Not at all; this tour is suitable for all levels of wine knowledge, and your guide can help you understand the wines you taste.
Are there options for seafood or oyster demonstrations?
Yes, the lunch in Mali Ston can include oyster tasting and a demonstration of traditional oyster harvesting and preparation.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, but wine tastings are not recommended for children. The focus on history, scenery, and seafood makes it family-friendly overall.
This detailed, balanced review aims to help you decide if the Ston with Wine Tastings at Peljesac Peninsula tour aligns with your Croatian travel plans. It combines history, flavor, and scenery into one memorable day—sure to be a favorite for those who love authentic experiences.
More Wine Tours in Dubrovnik
More Tours in Dubrovnik
- Dubrovnik: The Ultimate Game of Thrones City Walking Tour
- Boat Tour to Mljet National Park & 3 Islands
- Private Full-Day Tour in Kravice and Mostar
- Ston bay boat ride & oystery & wine tour from Dubrovnik
- Dubrovnik from the Sea Sunset Tour Experience
- Full Day Tour Mostar and Kravica waterfalls From Dubrovnik
More Tour Reviews in Dubrovnik
More Dubrovnik experiences we've covered
- Dubrovnik: Jet Ski Rental
- Dubrovnik: The Ultimate Game of Thrones City Walking Tour
- Total Game of Thrones Experience
- You’ll Love These 12 Transfers In Dubrovnik
- Dubrovnik’s 12 Best Game of Thrones Tours: Which To Choose?
- 12 Must-Try Lunch Experiences In Dubrovnik
- 12 Fantastic Jet-Ski Experiences In Dubrovnik
- The 12 Top Food Tours In Dubrovnik: Which Is Best?
- Dubrovnik’s 5 Best Dinner Tours (With Prices & Reviews)
- Our Picks For The 6 Best Dining Experiences In Dubrovnik
- Dubrovnik’s 12 Best Workshops & Classes: Which To Choose?
- Which Dubrovnik Wine Tours To Choose? We Rank The 12 Best