Drvenik

Overview

Drvenik is one of the gems of the Makarska Riviera and also the perfect destination to spend a relaxing holiday with your loved ones. If the idea is to run away from the hustle-bustle and madness of routine life, choose Drvenik as the preferred holiday destination.

From diving to hiking on rough terrains – there are a plethora of activities for adventure enthusiasts. The friendly locals will be elated to introduce you to a number of recreational activities during your stay.

Relax under the pine trees and exchange sweet nothings with your beloved. Prance around the pebbled beaches and get some respite from the scorching sun on summer days. This beautiful village has a lot to offer to keen travelers.

Navigation

When you approach the village from W, be careful of O. Malta which is lying in the channel between O. Drvenik Mali and O. Drvenik Veli. Besides this, there are no hurdles while you approach the harbour. You can identify the harbour from NW by the church beltry and the houses situated right above the village. You will also spot a church on top of a hill to the West of the village.

Where to anchor

Drvenik Harbour is sheltered from all directions, so the daily practice is to anchor near the village. The bottom is all sand, and one can take lines ashore. However, the depths alongside are quite shallow to allow typing up stern-to/bow. Moorings are there to the W of the mole for visitors at the nearby restaurant.

General Information

Drvenik is a small village in Croatia which is situated 24 kilometers SE of Makarska. Located between the coast and Mountain Rilic, the coastal settlement lies between two bays (Donja vala and Gornja Vala). If travelers want to get the best of both worlds – mountain and sea, they can soak in the atmosphere of Drvenik.

The inhabitants of Drvenik occupy themselves with olive and wine-growing, fishery, and tourism. While there are peaceful spots in the village, young and spirited travelers can indulge in rock-climbing, cycling, hiking, and diving.

Beaches

Duba Bay

Take a car or a boat to reach Duba Bay. While relaxing on the beach, you will be able to hear the sound of crickets. If you are coming by car, you would need to walk an additional 50 meters to reach this heavenly beach.

Vira Bay

Vira Bay is a secluded beach where you and your partner can go for a stroll and swim in the crystal clear water. There is a dense forest and the beach is supremely clean.

Soak up the sun, walk on the beach, or go for a swim – this is the best place to relax and be with your thoughts.

Gornja Vala Beach

Gornja Vala Beach is the longest and has plenty of shade of pine trees. It is one of the most happening beaches, so you can gain access to the famous restaurants and cafes. Fun summer activities are accessible for both adults and children. Moreover, there is a ramp for those who are disabled which makes it convenient for all.

Donja Vala Beach

Donja Vala Beach is an ideal beach for swimmers or those who are looking for some fun activities. Enjoy local beer, dive into the water, eat fresh seafood from the nearby restaurants, and soak in the beauty of the Donja Vala Beach.

The beach gets crowded with sunbathers and swimming enthusiasts, so make sure you go early and find a spot to lay your beach towel or umbrella. If you are interested in eating some delicious pizzas, this beach has many restaurants that offer different types of cuisines.

Places of Interest

Gradina Fortification Complex

Gradina hill is 297 meters above sea level. On this beautiful hill, you will find ruins of a fortress. It was occupied before but the Ottoman forces burnt it down. The complex has a defensive wall and a multi-storey tower with embrasures.

St. George Church

The Church of St. George is one of the most loved tourist places in Drvenik. It is located in Staro Selo right above Donja Vala. In 1772, the church was upgraded and the gothic vault in the nave is preserved carefully till date. The front part of the church boasts a rose window and eight petals. It is also embellished with a three-part bell gable along with two bells. At the main altar, you will find St. George’s statue.

The Church of St. Rocco

Built in 1965, the Church of St. Rocco is situated on Hill Plišivac. Sunday mass  is held throughout the year so travelers can attend it and meet the locals too. Till 1998, the church was known as, ‘the church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.’ This is also a historically relevant place that you must visit during your stay

Places to Eat

Restaurant Bukara

The Konoba Bukara is a famous restaurant in Drvenik. The locals prepare Dalmation cuisine and have preserved the traditional way of cooking it. All the seafood and fish ingredients used by the kitchen are freshly caught from the Adriatic Sea. Pair them with delicious European wine and enjoy the old-school decor of the restaurant.

Fast Food Fish & Chips

Since the village has easy access to the Adriatic Sea, they catch fresh fish and add a punch of flavor to it. Located in Donja Vala, the restaurant serves Mediterranean, Mexican, European, and American cuisine. You can also find some good vegetarian options. Hamburgers, fish and chips, and fried chicken tastes great with beer. So, do not forget to try these finger foods with free-flowing beer.