Wine Adventure with Peljesac Winery and Ston Tour

Exploring Croatia’s Hidden Gems: A Review of the Wine Adventure with Peljesac Winery and Ston Tour

If you’re looking to experience a side of Dubrovnik beyond its famed Old Town, this Wine Adventure with Peljesac Winery and Ston offers an authentic slice of Croatian life. We haven’t personally taken the tour, but from what travelers say and the detailed itinerary, it promises a delightful blend of history, scenic beauty, and, of course, fantastic wine. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate local flavors, want a taste of history, and prefer a small-group setting that feels intimate rather than touristy.

Two aspects really stand out. First, the guided wine tasting led by third-generation winemakers, giving insight into Croatia’s wine-making traditions. Second, the opportunity to explore Ston’s ancient salt pans and impressive city walls, which are some of the oldest active saltworks and longest preserved medieval defenses in Europe. The only caveat? The tour involves a fair amount of walking over uneven surfaces, so it’s not ideal if you prefer flat, easy strolls or have mobility concerns.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers eager for a taste of Croatian culture, history, and wine—without spending the whole day outside the city. It balances sightseeing, history, and leisure, making it appealing whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just looking to experience more of the Dalmatian coast beyond Dubrovnik’s walls.

Key Points

• Small group intimacy ensures personalized attention and a relaxed experience.
• Guided tastings at family-run wineries provide authentic insights into Croatian wines.
• Historic sites like Ston’s salt pans and city walls deliver a fascinating look into the region’s past.
• Flexible scheduling with morning or afternoon departures suits different plans.
• Beautiful scenic drive offers stunning views of the Peljesac Peninsula.
• Affordable value, with knowledgeable guides and a comprehensive experience for around $107 per person.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This 4 to 5-hour trip offers a compact yet thorough introduction to some of Croatia’s most remarkable local attractions, all just a short drive from Dubrovnik. The tour is operated by Feel Dubrovnik, a reputable local provider known for engaging small-group experiences. With a maximum of 8 travelers, you can expect a more personalized encounter, where guides have the time to answer questions and share stories behind each site.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Ston

Your first stop is the historic town of Ston, famous for having the longest preserved defensive walls in Europe. The walls stretch over 5 kilometers and once served as vital protection for the salt-producing and trading town. Walking along these ramparts, you’ll get a sense of medieval engineering and see panoramic views over salt pans and the bay. The visit is about 30 minutes, which is enough to admire the scale and take some photos without feeling rushed.

Ston’s salt pans are the oldest active saltworks in the world, still functioning since the Middle Ages. This gives you a glimpse into a crucial industry that shaped the town’s history. The salt production process might not be an active demonstration, but the story behind it is fascinating enough to enhance your appreciation of Ston’s significance.

Reviewer feedback: “We booked our tour with Ordan very last minute. He was very accommodating and professional and got everything organized quickly. He is extremely knowledgeable and the tour was perfect, with a visit to Ston, wine tasting, and lovely lunch.”

What you’ll love: The chance to walk the ancient walls and imagine medieval life, plus the opportunity to see the oldest salt pans still in use today.

Stop 2: Peljesac Wine Tasting at Family Winery

Next, you’ll head to Ponikve — a scenic spot filled with vineyards and olive groves. Here, you’re treated to a tasting of up to four Croatian wines guided by third-generation producers who take pride in their craft. The wine tasting lasts about an hour, and you’ll be introduced to some excellent local varieties, paired with stories about how they’re made.

The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the delicious wines, often described as a highlight of the trip. “The wines were delicious and loved the family business!” one reviewer remarked. The tasting includes a homemade liquor, giving you an authentic taste of local spirits as well.

What makes this special: Visiting a family-run winery means you’re not just sampling mass-produced bottles; you’re experiencing the passion of Croatian winemakers who have inherited their craft. It’s a rare opportunity to learn directly from those who produce the wine—adding depth and authenticity to the tasting.

Tip: If you’re a wine enthusiast, this is where you’ll appreciate the nuanced flavors and stories behind each glass.

Stop 3: Mali Ston and Lunch

Your final stop is Mali Ston, a charming coastal village famous for its oyster farms and seafood restaurants. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours here, giving you time to stroll around, soak in the seaside atmosphere, and potentially enjoy a meal at one of the local eateries. The tour provider can even reserve a table for you if you decide to indulge in fresh oysters or grilled fish—an exquisite way to end your day.

Reviewer comments: “We loved the family business and the wines,” says one traveler. Many appreciated the relaxed pace, allowing time to explore and enjoy a leisurely lunch.

Why it’s worthwhile: Mali Ston’s reputation for oysters is well-earned, and combining a scenic walk with a seafood feast makes for a memorable experience.

The Scenic Drive and Practicalities

The drive from Dubrovnik to Peljesac offers stunning views of the coast and vineyards, perfect for photo opportunities or just soaking in the Dalmatian landscape. The 2-hour return journey is an ideal time to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of around $107.40 per person covers all wine tastings, the guided visit, and the transportation. It does not include lunch, giving you the flexibility to choose where and what to eat—though the tour can reserve a table for you if you prefer a hassle-free experience. Pickup is offered, making it easy to start your trip without worrying about arranging transport.

Considerations

Most travelers will find this tour accessible, but keep in mind the uneven surfaces when exploring Ston’s walls and salt pans. The tour is suitable for those over 18, and the group size is kept small to foster a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Authenticity and Value

What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic Croatian experiences—from family-run wineries to medieval saltworks. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey both educational and enjoyable. For $107.40, you’re getting a well-rounded taste of history, culture, and wine, with the added bonus of scenic coastal drives.

While it’s a relatively short tour, it packs in a lot—history, local industry, and private wine tastings—making it a good value for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable day trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value small-group intimacy, authentic local stories, and high-quality wine tastings. It’s ideal if you want to see historical sites without spending all day on the road, and if you’re comfortable with a bit of walking on uneven terrain. It’s great for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a personalized introduction to the Peljesac Peninsula.

The Sum Up

This Wine Adventure with Peljesac Winery and Ston offers a neatly packaged slice of Croatian life—blending history, scenic beauty, and wine in a small-group setting. The guided tastings showcase local craftsmanship, while the visits to Ston’s ancient salt pans and city walls add a historical depth that enriches the experience.

You’ll love the knowledgeable guides, the authentic wine, and the relaxed pace that allows for genuine discovery. The tour’s value lies in its combination of cultural insight, scenic drives, and intimate tastings—all in under five hours. It’s perfect for travelers craving authentic experiences without the fuss of large tours or long journeys.

While not suitable for those with limited mobility or seeking a very flat walk, it’s a wonderful choice for those who enjoy a blend of history, scenery, and good wine. Expect to leave with a new appreciation for Croatian traditions and a few memorable stories to tell back home.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces, such as the salt pans and Ston’s walls, so it may not be ideal for travelers with limited mobility.

What is included in the price?
The price covers guided tastings of up to four wines and a liquor, transportation, and admission to the salt pans and other sites. Lunch is not included but can be reserved separately.

Can I choose a morning or afternoon departure?
Yes, the tour offers flexible departure times in the morning or the afternoon to fit your schedule.

How many people will be on the tour?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered, and the scenic drive from Dubrovnik to Peljesac is part of the experience.

How long is the wine tasting?
The guided wine tasting lasts about an hour, during which you’ll sample four different Croatian wines and a homemade liquor.

Can I have lunch during the tour?
Lunch is not included in the tour fee, but the itinerary allows ample time to enjoy a meal in Mali Ston, and the tour can reserve a table for you.

This tour strikes a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local flavor—ideal for travelers who want a meaningful taste of Croatia’s traditions without overextending their time. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply curious about Croatian culture, it’s a memorable way to spend part of your Dubrovnik adventure.