Đurovica Cave

If you’re just arriving by plane you won’t have to travel far to visit this one: it’s right underneath the runway you’re about to land on! Yes indeed, a deep cavern complete with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Even more weird and wonderful, due to the cave’s constant temperature, a wine cellar and museum have been set up in its depths, showcasing the wines of the Konavle region near Dubrovnik. So once you’ve enjoyed your tour of the underworld, you can tantalise your taste buds with a wine-tasting session – tours take about 25 minutes.

Where: Dubrovnik Airport, e-mail: skycellar@dubrovnikpr.com, phone +385 (0)20 448 180 or +385 (0)20 773 331. The cave is open daily from 10am to 6pm, or by appointment. Tickets: adults 50kn (approx £6), children 35kn (approx £4.20) and groups of more than 12

The Walls of Ston

Many call this Europe’s ‘Great Wall of China’ as it is the second-longest fortification in the world. These are not your typical walls, dear readers; the Walls of Ston were built in the 14th century as a monumental defence system to protect the Republic of Dubrovnik, and are now a hit destination among tourists. Embark on a tour of the 5.5km-long Ston town walls that are filled with historical monuments including 20 towers and five fortresses that have stood the test of time. See the Gothic Republic Chancery or the Bishop’s Palace with elements of late Renaissance. And to finish off your day, seafood lovers simply cannot leave without trying the world-renowned oysters and mussels that are farmed right here in the bay.
Where: Ston is situated 59km northwest of Dubrovnik. For more information call the Ston Tourist Board on +385 (0) 20 754 452
Website: www.ston.hr

Best sport/activity:

Horseback riding

The region of Konavle is where the country meets the sea, and what better way to experience the best of both worlds then via horseback? A visit to the Kojan Koral family ranch offers a fantastic escape for those seeking the wilderness. Instructors give you a tour of the stables and guide you through equipment and safety. An introductory ride outlays basic techniques and rules of conduct, and then the adventure begins. Journey across the picturesque 11km trail, passing by olive groves and pine forests as it leads you through to the rocky Konavle sea shore and the Veljo Brdo hill. Once here, you’ll be offered snacks and refreshments while you scramble for your camera in order to capture forever the view of the Konavle coast. Then the descent begins as the group returns to the stables. A great way to spend a day.
Where: The Kojan Koral Family Ranch is located in the village of Popovići, 30km south of Dubrovnik. Tel (mobile): +385 (0) 98 606 929

Website: www.kojankoral.hr

The cable car

Take the cable car to the top of Mount Srd and you’ll be rewarded by the sight of Dubrovnik laid out like Lego at your feet and the islands basking in the calm waters of the Adriatic. The cable car re-opened in 2010 after full restoration: it was damaged in the war in the early 1990s. From this spot Dubrovnik’s defenders fought desperately to protect the city. At the top you’ll find a museum documenting the war, and a bar and restaurant, Panorama, with wraparound views. For the full experience, buy a single ticket and walk back down – you’ll be rewarded by fabulous views and the scent of Mediterranean vegetation.

Where: Uphill from the Old Town, follow the stairs from Pizzeria Tabasco that lead to the cable car building

Website: http://http://www.dubrovnikcablecar.com/

Best underwater view:

Dubrovnik Aquarium

Who says you have to get wet and wild to discover the mysterious and yet hard-to-find sea creatures that lurk at the bottom of the Adriatic Sea? The city’s aquarium is your guide to this fascinating underworld, with 31 aquarium tanks exposing everything from amberjacks, eels, lobsters, crabs, snakelike morays and the huge array of fish in these shores, to colourful corals, sea anemones, sponges, urchins and more. So if snorkelling or scuba diving are not an option, submerge yourself into this aquarium which offers a great insight into the diverse and abundant local sea life.  
Where: Kneza Damjana Jude 12, Dubrovnik, tel: +385 (0) 20 323 978. (The sea aquarium is situated within the walls of the medieval fortress St. Ivan (St. John’s). It is open from 10am–1pm every day except Monday. Entry: 15-40 kuna