Mlini, the oasis of the Dubrovnik Riviera

There are countless reasons why the town of Mlini next to Dubrovnik remains, year after year, a favourite destination for many Croatian and foreign tourists. You will be thrilled at this small fishermen’s town, rich in tradition and historical and cultural heritage dating back to the ancient times, as well as its pebble beaches, plenty of sun and lush vegetation which has been kept and nourished from the earliest times.

Located only 10 kilometers to the Dubrovnik

Mlini belongs to the area known as Župa Dubrovačka (its ancient name was Astarea) and is one of the best-developed tourist towns in the entire Dubrovnik region. Since it is located only 10 kilometers to the south of Dubrovnik, Mlini was more than a well-preserved agricultural and fishermen’s town – it was influenced by the rich ancient culture which developed within the Dubrovnik walls. Mlini has always been closely connected to Dubrovnik and shared its rich culture and tradition. This is the reason why the Illyrians, the Greeks and the Romans built many towns in this area.

Located near the airport and the old centre of Dubrovnik, but far from the city noise, Mlini is a perfect destination for summer holidays.

The History and Legends of Mlini

The town of Mlini was named after the mills (Croatian: mlin) on the Zavrelja river which continues to run through the town and is a rich source of drinking water. Because of the plenitude of available drinking water, this mill town provided the city of Dubrovnik with drinking water during summer droughts in the past. The town is also rich in ancient monuments and numerous legends. The most famous of them is related to St Hilarion who overpowered and burned a dragon on the Mlini beach and thus saved Epidaurum from earthquakes, evil and barbarian invasions and destruction. In his honour, the people of Mlini erected the little church dedicated to St Ilar, as the locals call him, and thus he became the town patron.

The abundance of humidity and the warm climate are the reason why this location is rich in scented parks and gardens full of Mediterranean plants, and why the town became a unique Adriatic ecosystem. The rich culinary offer, a rich selection of cultural and sports activities and crystal-clear sea, Mlini is famous for being the oasis of the Dubrovnik Riviera. The accommodation and activities offer of the Mlini hotels will satisfy even our most demanding customers.

Find out more about Mlini and Dubrovnik!
The Guide to a holiday in Mlini & Dubrovnik