Zaton lies within easy reach of three distinct areas of incredible natural beauty. On the mainland, the Neretva Delta comprises 12,000 hectares of flood plain. Natural and managed pools of water run along its surface separating a mismatched patchwork of agricultural endeavours, a stark contrast to the uniform rows of olive trees and grapevines seen everywhere else along the coast. Over 10% of it is strictly protected because of the rare birds and fish which live there. It is also the source of Croatia’s famous Neretva mandarins, which are protected at an EU level. The western third of Mljet island is a National Park with two saltwater lakes, Veliko and Malo Jezero, and the Church of St Mary and a 12th-century monastery picturesquely located on an islet in the middle. Arrive by boat in the morning, spend the day cycling and swimming, and head back for dinner on the mainland. Located further out to sea, the peaceful Lastovo island has a nature park, hidden coves, isolated beaches, beautiful bays and the oldest lighthouse in the country. There is also a huge area of wildlife-filled forest which is sometimes used for youth-focused and eco-friendly music and art festivals.