Mali Ston Oysters

The oyster grown in Malostonski Zaljev is Ostrea edulis, the European flat oyster - not the Pacific oyster farmed in most of the world - and it is grown here because the bay is unusual: fresh water seeps in through the karst and mixes with sea water at a salinity and temperature that suits the species, which has collapsed almost everywhere else in Europe under disease. Farming is documented back to Roman times and the Republic of Ragusa regulated it. The traditional peak is around 19 March, St Joseph's day, when the oysters are considered at their best and the villages hold a festival. They are eaten raw with lemon, at the water.

What you actually see

• European flat oysters - not the Pacific species grown elsewhere.
• A bay fed by karst springs - the conditions the species needs.
• Farmed since Roman times - and regulated under Ragusa.
• A peak around 19 March - St Joseph's day and its festival.

When to go

March to May for the traditional season; served most of the year. A meal.

Honest expectations

Prices are high compared with farmed Pacific oysters elsewhere. Production is limited by the bay's capacity, so availability varies. Restaurants in Mali Ston book out in season. Raw shellfish carries the usual risks.

Nearby

Ston's walls and saltpans are next door; Peljesac runs north-west.