Orebić – 120 years of tourism and counting

Orebić (Photo credit: TZ općine Orebić)

Year after year, more visitors flock to the town on Croatia’s Pelješac peninsula rich in captaincy traditions. Last year’s results positioned Orebić as the second most visited destination in the Dubrovnik-Neretva County, right after Dubrovnik.

This year marks a significant milestone for Orebić as it celebrates 120 years of tourism, today, alongside viticulture, its most important economic sector. 

Although the arrival of the first guests to this Pelješac town, rich in maritime tradition and magical natural beauty, was recorded long before 1904, this year is considered the beginning of tourism development.

(Photo credit: TZ općine Orebić)

In that year, on January 12, the “Society for the Beautification and Improvement of Orebić” was founded. It gathered the most respected and prominent residents, with Captain Lovro Kosović serving as its first president. Its purpose was to control the influx of foreigners and to improve agriculture to meet the increasing demands of tourism.

(Photo credit: TZ općine Orebić)

Postup and Dingač, Mount Sveti Ilija, paradises for surfers

“They were true visionaries because the guidelines set by the Society over 120 years ago are still very relevant today,” says Mladen Đeldum, director of the Tourist Board of the Municipality of Orebić, which plans a rich program throughout the year to mark such an important anniversary.

Podobuče (Photo credit: TZ općine Orebić)

In addition to the tourist centre of Orebić, the picturesque areas of Trstenik, Borje, Podobuče, and Prapratna, as well as the well-known spots for surfers Viganj and Kućište, the favourite Lovište for sailors, and the ambient places Oskorušno and Kuna in the interior, contribute to the charm. 

(Photo credit: TZ općine Orebić)

(Photo credit: TZ općine Orebić)

With two renowned vineyards, Dingač and Postup, the highest peak of Pelješac, Mount Sveti Ilija, rich maritime heritage, and beautiful beaches, Orebić is one of the most attractive Dalmatian destinations.

(Photo credit: Ive Trojanović/TZ općine Orebić)

Year after year, it attracts more visitors, confirmed by impressive tourism figures. In 2023, with over 130 thousand arrivals and almost a million overnight stays, Orebić took a high second place in the Dubrovnik-Neretva County, right after Dubrovnik.

(Photo credit: TZ općine Orebić)

A perfect opportunity to travel south

“The natural beauty, historical heritage, numerous high-category hospitality facilities, almost 12 thousand commercial beds, as well as years of dedicated work to improve the overall offer, have resulted in this success, credited to all stakeholders in tourism. With numerous activities we are preparing for this year, we will strive to justify the trust of our regular guests and meet the expectations of new ones,” emphasised Mladen Đeldum.

(Photo credit: TZ općine Orebić)

Isn’t this round anniversary a good reason to choose Orebić for your vacation this year? You don’t have to wait for summer. With almost 2,600 hours of sunshine, it’s a great choice any time of the year.