Odysseus Cave
A collapsed sea cave on Mljet where local tradition wrecked Odysseus, reached down a rough path and a ladder.
Updated 30 August 2026
The cave lies on the southern coast of Mljet below Babino Polje: a sea cave whose roof has partly collapsed, so light comes down into the water from above and the interior glows blue when the sun is high. Mljet is one of several Mediterranean islands claimed as Ogygia, the island of Calypso where Odysseus was held for seven years, and the local tradition puts his shipwreck at this cave - which is a claim of the same kind as the several others made around the Mediterranean, and is not evidence. The path down from the village is rough, ending in a ladder and a swim or scramble into the cave.
Highlights
- A partly collapsed sea cave - light falling in from above.
- Blue water when the sun is high - the reason for the timing.
- A local Ogygia claim - one of several around the Mediterranean.
- A rough path and a ladder - the way down to the water.
When to go
June to September, around the middle of the day for the light. Three hours.
What to expect
The path is rocky and steep and the final descent is a ladder onto rocks - entry to the cave means swimming. The sea has to be calm; in any swell it is dangerous. Nothing on the route offers shade or shelter, and there are no facilities at either end.
Nearby
Mljet national park is at the western end of the island; Babino Polje is above.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q13567040, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Odysseus Cave
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Reef-safe sunscreen - High SPF that will not bleach the coral you are swimming over. Find on Amazon
- Head torch + spare batteries - Hands-free light is essential; caves are truly dark. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
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