Just an hour from Dubrovnik, Ston Saltworks transforms the ancient tradition of salt production into an authentic experience for corporate and incentive groups, combining active participation, teamwork, gastronomy and a story that participants can literally take home with them.
A 4,000-Year-Old Tradition That Lives on Today
Salt production in the Ston area has a tradition stretching back more than 4,000 years, and throughout history salt was one of the region's most important economic and strategic resources. It played a particularly significant role during the time of the Dubrovnik Republic, when it was a valuable commodity and an important source of revenue.
It is precisely this continuity of traditional production that makes Ston Saltworks particularly interesting for business event organisers. Salt is still produced today using the sea, sun and wind, following traditional methods that have been passed down through generations.
For MICE groups, this offers something far more valuable than a conventional sightseeing tour, the opportunity to become part of the local story.
When Team Building Begins in the Salt Pans
One of the programme's most distinctive features is the opportunity to actively participate in the traditional salt harvest. After learning about the history of the Saltworks and the process of producing sea salt, participants can, under the guidance of staff, enter the salt pans and try their hand at traditional salt harvesting.
The activity can also be designed as a team-building programme. Working together, using traditional tools and discovering a process that has been practised in Ston for generations creates a natural environment for cooperation and interaction.
Depending on the size of the group, the time of year and the organiser's requirements, the programme can be expanded to include a tour of the Saltworks' pools, an introduction to the crystallisation process and different types of salt, an opportunity to discover fleur de sel, and specially packaged Ston salt as an authentic gift for participants.
Another particular strength is the visual aspect of the experience. Traditional salt pans, gleaming salt, historic tools and outdoor work provide an attractive backdrop for photography and video content, while active participation offers something event organisers increasingly seek – an experience that participants genuinely remember.
Salt harvesting is possible during the summer season, when weather conditions allow the traditional harvest to take place. During other parts of the year, customised visits and programmes introducing groups to the Saltworks and the salt-production process can be organised.
Flavours of Mali Ston Bay
The Ston experience can naturally continue with a gastronomic programme. Following activities at the Saltworks, groups can discover the flavours of Mali Ston Bay, renowned for its oysters, shellfish, fresh fish and other local specialities, accompanied by wines from the Pelješac peninsula.
In this way, a single incentive programme can combine history, tradition, active participation, team building, local gastronomy and wine, elements that together create a complete destination experience.
Thanks to its proximity to Dubrovnik, Ston is a practical choice for a half-day incentive excursion, a pre- or post-conference programme, a team-building activity or an additional experience for conference and corporate groups.
Most importantly, this type of programme offers participants something tangible: the chance to touch and experience a local tradition, and, in the form of Ston salt, take a little piece of it home with them.
