Kupari

Kupari sits empty now, a relic of the country’s 20th century. These places are fragile, so tread lightly.

History and background

A beach resort built from the 1960s for Yugoslav military officers and their families, with five hotels lining a sheltered bay near Dubrovnik. Shelled and burned during the 1991 siege of Dubrovnik, the hotels have stood roofless ever since, slowly being reclaimed by the sea and pine trees.

Worth knowing

Kupari stands in Dalmatia, one of the six regions that make up the Croatia most visitors fall for. From the Adriatic shore to the karst mountains and the quiet inland valleys, this part of the country gives you something worth the detour.

Ruins are unstable. Do not climb on structures, watch for loose masonry and never go in alone. Many of these places are sites of difficult history, so move quietly and take nothing.

Practical info

• Entry: check the official source before you travel. Prices and opening hours change, and some spots close entirely out of season.
• How to get there: Tap the map above for exact directions. In Croatian towns parking is usually signposted and paid, look for the blue P zones. If you are island hopping, leave buffer time for the ferries.

Timing your trip

Croatia is at its best from May to October. June and September are the sweet spot, warm water, long days, and thinner crowds than high July and August. Winter shows a quieter, cheaper and surprisingly handsome country, especially inland and in the cities.

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