Blato Travel Guide
The interior town of Blato, lying in the west of the Korcula island, is majestically set amidst seven hills largely covered with vineyards. The magnificent central alley of lime trees and the surrounding park promise every visitor of this peaceful part of Croatia a restful Blato travel. The town is easily reached by bus from Korcula (40 km away), while the nearest big port is Vela Luka (7 km away).
The area around Blato was inhabited prior to the Illyrian, Greek and Roman colonization. The strongest economic growth was registered in the 19th century when the local wine production industry flourished and the town's population numbered 12 thousand residents. The 1930s brought the ravaging grape disease, which resulted in mass people departure, and it took years to breathe new life into the vineyards.
Tourist attractions. The prominent sacral buildings to visit during your Blato travel are the 14th century church of St Jerome and the 12th century chapel of St Cosmas and Demian. But the best starting point for one's sightseeing holidays in Blato is the main square with its parish church of All Saints built in 1350 housing precious silver items, the neighbouring open Loggia and the Baroque Arneri palace used as a museum.
Festivals and cultural events. A Blato travel will produce an indelible impression if you visit various entertaining events, such as colourful theatrical performances, concerts of folk vocal groups and pop singers that can enliven the summer evenings. The sword battle of two armies called "Kumpanija" is a most picturesque traditional dance performed on the main square of Blato on St Vicenca's day on 28 April.
Restaurants The superb gastronomic offer of home-made food and top quality wine served in a few local restaurants and pizzerias like Restaurant Zlinje, Pizzeria Tinel make Blato holidays desirable by gourmets.
Beaches. Blato is not a seaside resort, so if you wish to go swimming and sunbathing you have to go 3 km north to the bay of Prigradica or 7 km south to the coves of Grscica and Prizba where you can find some sunny rocky and pebble beaches.
Active vacations. The water sports facilities that are so well developed in Croatia can be found in abundance along the coast of Prizba. Blato itself has a very good football field in the centre, and if you are inclined to feel the spirit of the Mediterranean it is best to supplement your holidays in Blato with a hiking or biking tour.