Glavica

Glavica is a small hill rising just above Stari Grad on the Croatian island of Hvar, best known as the town's finest viewpoint. At barely 35 metres above sea level it isn't tall, but its position directly over the old town gives it a panorama that no other spot in Stari Grad can match.

How do you get to Glavica?

The climb starts right in the centre of Stari Grad. Follow the paved lanes toward the road leading to Rudina, then branch off onto a rocky path that winds uphill through a small grove of Mediterranean pines. The whole walk takes about 20 minutes and is well marked, so there's little chance of losing the way. Most of the ascent is gentle, with the final stretch just below the cross narrowing and getting a bit steeper. Bring water if you're going in summer — the pines offer some shade, but the stony trail still gets hot under the midday sun.

What will you see at the top?

The summit delivers a full 360-degree view. Below spreads the old town of Stari Grad with its tight lanes and red rooftops, while to one side stretches the Stari Grad Plain — a UNESCO World Heritage site. This remarkable agricultural landscape has kept its ancient grid of stone-walled fields, known as the chora, almost intact since Greek settlers from Paros colonised the area in the 4th century BC, making it one of the few ancient land-division systems still recognisable after 24 centuries. On a clear day you can also make out the outline of the neighbouring island of Brač from up here.

At the top stands a white cross, the visual landmark of the hill and a point of reference visible from much of the town below. The original cross was destroyed during World War II; the one standing today was rebuilt in 1990 using surviving pieces of the old altar. Beside it sits a small Catholic chapel where locals still leave offerings and come to pray.

When is the best time to visit?

Glavica is at its best at sunset, when the sky over the Adriatic shifts through gold, pink and deep purple and the view over the town and the plain becomes even more striking. It's a favourite spot for both locals and visitors looking for a memorable end to the day, so it pays to head up a little early to claim a good spot. During the morning and early afternoon the hill is usually much quieter, which suits anyone after a calm walk away from the crowds.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the walk to Glavica take? Roughly 20 minutes from the centre of Stari Grad to the top, at a moderate pace.

Is the trail difficult? No — most of the path is an easy, gradual climb suitable for different fitness levels, with only the last section near the cross becoming narrower and steeper.

Why is there a cross at the top? The cross is Glavica's landmark, visible from large parts of town. The original was destroyed in World War II, and the current one was rebuilt in 1990 from remnants of the old altar.

What can you see from the viewpoint? A full panorama of Stari Grad, the UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain, and, in clear conditions, the outline of the island of Brač.