Gornje Čelo

Have you ever heard of a place named after its proximity to a larger city? Gornje Čelo is a small village on the island of Koločep in Croatia. Gornje Čelo got its name because of its closer location to the city of Dubrovnik. The village is nestled in a sheltered bay on the eastern side of the island. The economy in Gornje Čelo is undeveloped. The residents are mainly engaged in tourism and fishing. Gornje Čelo is known for its beautiful park-forest. This natural wonder features a forest of Aleppo pine and maquis shrubland. The maquis is home to various plant species characteristic of the Mediterranean climate. You can encounter holm oak, terebinth, mastic tree, phillyrea, myrtle, strawberry tree, and carob trees there. These trees are often intertwined with rough bindweed. The landscape along the coastline is particularly stunning. The steep cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop for the characteristic plants of this region. This protected area, covering approximately 12 hectares, was designated in 1961 by the Institute for Nature Protection. Despite its small size, Gornje Čelo has a rich history and natural beauty. The village offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city of Dubrovnik. It’s a great place to experience the tranquility of island life.