Ston and Mali Ston might not be the first places that come to mind when planning a Croatian adventure. These small towns were only on our itinerary because of their location on our bike route to Dubrovnik. But they quickly became one of our favourite stops! A welcome pause before climbing back onto our bikes, and a reminder of how rewarding it can be to explore the quieter corners of a new country.
Ston and Mali Ston, on the Pelješac Peninsula, hold big importance, blending history, tradition, and simple pleasures. Founded in the 14th century by the Republic of Ragusa (Dubrovnik), Ston was built as a strategic stronghold to protect its most valuable resource: salt, once called “white gold.” The Walls of Ston, stretching over 5 kilometres, still stand as one of the longest preserved defensive walls in the world.
Just down the road, Mali Ston developed as the maritime hub, its sheltered bay famed for fishing and oyster farming since Roman times. Today, the two towns are about fresh oysters and mussels straight from the sea, quiet stone streets, and the kind of local restaurants where you linger over a glass of wine as the day cools down.
Accommodation
We stayed two nights in an Airbnb, hosted by a lovely older couple. House Ina is tucked right into the corner of the wall, with a blooming garden. The apartment is completely separate with a kitchen, bathroom and a little patio – though you will see passersby on the wall during the day. It was a great find!
Things to do in Ston:
Walk Europe’s longest fortified wall to Mali Ston
Start at the entrance of the fort, walking up and around. It offers amazing views of the town, bay and surrounding area. The walls are somewhat narrow but well-kept and sturdy with handrails. If you are afraid of heights, don’t look behind you. It is a steady uphill as the wall crosses up and over the little mountain.
Eat Fresh Oysters in Mali Ston –
After climbing the wall over the little mountain, a snack is required. Mali Ston is famous for its oysters and mussels, often considered the best in the Adriatic. Find a restaurant on the water, enjoy the view and the meal.
Visit the Salt Pans
Ston’s saltworks are among the oldest in Europe, still producing sea salt using traditional methods, which is over 700 years old. Seawater is collected in a series of shallow basins, where the sun and wind gradually evaporate the water. Workers then rake up the sparkling salt crystals by hand, just as their ancestors did. The salt is stored in stone warehouses and used both locally and abroad. Visitors can tour the pans, learn about traditional harvesting, and even taste the mineral-rich salt.
Try other local foods –
If you see this odd-looking cake in a window display or listed on the menu, give it a try! Ston cake (Stonska Torta) is made with penne-like tube noodles but with a baklava-type filling – nuts, cinnamon, etc.
Aside from oysters, try the other variety of seafood dishes – like black (squid ink) risotto or mussels in garlic sauce. We had an awesome meal at Natura Ston Restaurant and highly recommend.
Explore Ston Old Town –
Stroll through its quiet stone streets, lined with historic churches and charming squares. With purple and pink blooming vines and bushes everywhere. Visit the Fort and the small museum.
Outside Ston
- Hike or Bike the Surrounding Hills – Trails nearby offer views of the Pelješac Peninsula’s vineyards, olive groves, and coastline.
- Wine Tasting – The Pelješac region is famous for its red wines, particularly Dingač and Plavac Mali, and there are plenty of local wineries nearby.
If you are looking for a quieter stop, maybe a little off the beaten path, consider spending a few days in Ston and Mali Ston.
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