Hiking Sveti Ilija, Croatia from Nakovana

If you look up things to do in Korčula or on the Pelješac Peninsula, you are bound to read about hiking Sveti Ilija, Croatia. This is a challenging hike no matter how you do it, but we’ll explore the easiest of the routes, which has the fewest people on it, and which leads hikers through the ancient town of Gornja Nakovana. Join me as I share my experience of this unique trail to the top of Pelješac Peninsula.

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Read our blog post here for ideas on planning your week in Dubrovnik and Korčula.

Hiking Sveti Ilija, Croatia from Nakovana Details

• Distance: 8.7 miles (14 km) round trip 
• Elevation gain: 2,270 ft (700 m)
• Average hiking time: just under 5 hours
• Difficulty level: Hard
• Parking: at the turnoff to Gornja Nakovana

Before starting your hike we recommend downloading the trail map on Alltrails, so that you have access when out of cell range: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/croatia/dubrovnik-neretva/nakovanj-sveti-ilija

You’ll find a copy of this local map of Orebić trails at the tourist office in Orebić, but please don’t rely on this for your hike. It is not detailed enough, though it provides a nice souvenir. 

The Start – Nakovana, a Portal to the Past

We were staying in Korčula, so started our day by taking our rental car on the car ferry to Orebić. From here, we drove the 15 minutes to Gornja Nakovana.

We took some time to explore Gornja Nakovana, one of the two hamlets that constitute the village of Nakovana. This place felt like a living museum, its abandoned stone houses untouched by the rush of modern life. Walking through Gornja Nakovana was like stepping back in time. The stone ruins spoke of a once-thriving community, with remnants of traditional Dalmatian architecture evident in every nook and cranny.

We also visited the recently restored Illyrian necropolis, an archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the ancient past of the region.

The Ancient Trail

As we left Nakovana, the trail took us through olive groves and vineyards, a testament to the area’s rich agricultural heritage. The path was wide and reasonably well marked as we hiked towards Sveti Ilija. You’ll reach an open area where the main path to Orebić intersects. From here, the trail got narrower and steeper until we reached the hunting lodge in the pine forest. This is a good picnic spot, with shady tables available.

We continued on through the pine forests, which had sections of switchbacks, until we reached the mountain lodge. This is the best lunch spot and we joined a handful of people already enjoying their lunches with a view over the peninsula and Korčula. As we began hiking again, the trail continued through a pine forest before transitioning to a rocky and more technical climb. There were some sections that required careful navigation. We saw the remains of the chapel of Sveti Ilija (St. Elijah) from the 17th century near the top.

Standing atop Sveti Ilija, at 961 meters, the panoramic view encompassing the entire peninsula and the Dalmatian archipelago was awe-inspiring.

Hiking Sveti Ilija: the Descent

We started back down through the forest after a nice break. You’ll see one turn off to Orebić near the hunting lodge and a second one when you reach the open space after emerging from the forest. We chose to descend back towards Nakovana since our car was parked there. If you prefer, you can walk back to Orebić on either path, even leaving time for a visit to the Monastery and church of Our Lady of the Angels on the way into town.

Hiking from Nakovana to Sveti Ilija, Croatia is a journey for those seeking to explore beyond the conventional. It offers not just a physical challenge, but an intimate encounter with the history and natural beauty of the Pelješac Peninsula. This trail is a hidden gem, perfect for those looking to experience a different side of Croatia.

If you prefer to have a guide for this hike, we’d recommend you check this private tour: Sunrise at the Top of Pelješac Private Tour.

Travel and Hiking Tips

Getting to Nakovana

If you are staying in Korčula, the easiest way to get to Orebić is by ferry.

Gornja Nakovana is 15 minutes from Orebić, and is best accessed by car. if you don’t have a car, you can have a taxi to drop you off at Gornja Nakovana. Instead of walking back to Gornja Nakovana from the summit, follow one of the paths back to Orebić.

Essential Hiking Tips

• Mountain weather: Always check the forecast before heading out and watch for rapid weather changes. When you see bad weather coming, get below timberline.
• Hydration and Fuel: Bring more water for your day hikes than you think you’ll need. Electrolytes can help you stay hydrated (e.g., Nuun and LiquidIV). Don’t drink water from streams and ponds, unless you are using a LifeStraw or similar. Pack energy-boosting snacks like nuts, fruits, and energy bars.
• Leave no Trace: Preserve the natural beauty by following the Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Wildlife Awareness: Be aware of the wildlife in the area. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals and know what to do in an encounter with local animals.
• Navigation: If you are using a map on your phone, make sure that it is downloaded. Cell service can be unreliable in the wilderness areas. Inform someone of your hiking plan and expected return time.
• First Aid: Carry a basic first aid kit for minor injuries. This should include, at minimum, Band-Aids, antiseptic, aspirin, mirror, matches, and a jack-knife, a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool.
• Check our post on Day Hike Essentials for a more comprehensive list of items to bring on your day hike.