The Konavle Silkworm
The local women of the Konavle Valley historically bred silkworms to produce fine silk thread as far back as the 15th Century, which they used to decorate the national costumes. A small number of families still continue this tradition and during the month of May workshops on producing silk are held throughout Konavle. A visit to Čilipi village is recommended to see the local costumes, embroidered with green, red and yellow silks, still being worn in the traditional folk dancing that takes place in the square every Sunday morning.
Exploring
Horse treks, walking trails, bike routes and quad safaris are just a few of the options available to you to explore the beauty of the Konavle Valley. In fact there are some stunning hidden beaches that can only be accessed on foot - the Pasjaća beach near Popovići is one not to miss.
On the water
You are never very far away from the sea and a host of water based options allow a unique viewpoint of the coastline from the intoxicating blue of the Adriatic sea. Many boat trips are offered from the promenade in Cavtat allowing a spectacular first view of Dubrovnik Old Town and its city walls. Kayaking trips leave from the small port of Pile and will reward you with magnificent sunsets over the Elafiti Islands on your return. Alternatively, engage in conversation with the local fishermen in Molunat and they may offer for to take you on their next fishing trip.
Further Afield
Day trips to Bosnia Herzegovina (to the east) and Montenegro (to the south) are possible. Cross the mountains behind Dubrovnik to visit Mostar’s Stari Most, the Ottoman style bridge now a UNESCO site. Cross the Croatian border into Montenegro and drive around the bay of Kotor to the town of Kotor itself, another UNESCO heritage site with a well-preserved old town and city walls.
