Walking in the Biokovo Mountain Nature Park, near Makarska
The Biokovo Mountains Nature Park rise steeply above the Makarska Riviera and is popular with hikers and walkers. The lower slopes provide many paths and trails through olive groves, vineyards and pine forests, before extending high into the limestone mountain. Declared a Nature Park in 1981, it extends for around 195 square kilometres, and the tops provide fantastic views over the sea and the outlying islands. As well as a great walking area Biokovo Mountain Nature Park has over 1,500 plant and animal species.
The peak of Vošac which is 1,421m high is a popular peak to walk up. Vošac is only 2.5m from Makarska where there is a good path. Alternatively it is possible to drive almost to the top of Vošac to the parking area next to the disused mountain hut. From here it is a short 20-minute walk to the top of Vošac.
The highest peak in the Biokovo Mountain Nature Park is called Sveti Jure (Saint George) that is 1,762m high. A popular starting point to walk up Sveti Jure is from the village of Veliko Brda that provides a spectacular walking route. An alternative route is to walk to the top of Vošac, and then follow the path onto the peak of Sveti Jure. The top of Sveti Jure is very distinctive with a TV tower and a telecommunications tower, along with the chapel of Sveti Jure (Saint George). Surprisingly it is also possible to drive to the top of Sveti Jure and from Makarska - a distance of only 31km.
Map of the Biokovo Mountain Nature Park, near Makarska
There are many other peaks in the Biokovo Mountain Nature Park, some of which are remote and attract few other walkers. However walking in these mountains is strenuous and steep requiring a good level of fitness, experience and a good map.
The Biokovo Nature Park Map shows lots of walking paths and trails including those to the top of Vošac and Sveti Jure peaks. The scale of this map is 1:25,000 and is available to buy from our shop.
The Walks and Treks in Croatia guidebook covers 27 varied walks across Croatia including Biokovo, and is available to buy from our shop.
The chapel of Sveti Jure (Saint George)