Introduction & The Islands
The Elaphite Islands are Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan. This chain of islands are situated between the Peljasac peninsula and Lapad and are close to Dubrovnik. They are called the Elaphite islands because of the Greek word elafos, meaning deer - in ancient times the islands were apparently home to a large deer population. There are actually six islands in the group, and they were particularly famous as the most skilful mariners came from there.

The islands came under the control of the Republic of Dubrovnik from 1272, and were governed by a Rector whose base was split between Lopud and Sipan. In 1571, the islands were attacked by the Turks, after which all defences on the islands were strengthened.

The islands are very beautiful and are perfect for a relaxing holiday, especially so as they are complete car-free and, on the whole, the natural environment is completely untouched.

The main resorts are Donje Celo on Kolocep, Lopud, and Sudjuradj and Sipanska Luka on Sipan.

Getting There
The islands can easily be reached from Dubrovnik. Jadrolinija have a daily ferry service that goes to Kolocep (15 minutes), Lopud (40 minutes), and Sudjuradj (55 minutes) and Sipanska Luka (1 hour 40 minutes) on Sipan.

Accommodation
There are a few hotels in this island group. Kolocep has the Hotel Villas Kolocep in Donje Celo; Lopud has the Hotel Lafodia and Sipan has the Hotel Sipan.

More information
Accommodation on Sipan
Read about Graham Amiss's trip to Dubrovnik at New Year's, which included a visit to the island of Sipan.