Jabukovac

Jabukovac is a mountain peak rising above the village of Kotlenice, in the central part of the Mosor massif in Split-Dalmatia County, Croatia. The summit reaches 1,246 metres above sea level and stands apart from the main Mosor ridge, appearing almost like an island rising out of a sea of rugged limestone. Its remoteness from the well-trodden trails means Jabukovac mainly attracts experienced hikers looking for solitude and untouched wilderness.

How do you get to Jabukovac from Kotlenice?

The starting point is the village of Kotlenice, sitting at roughly 490 metres on the northern slopes of Mosor — the highest settlement in the entire Dugopolje municipality. A marked trail leads from Kotlenice toward the Vranjača cave, then continues up to the Jabukovac summit itself. The round trip covers around 11–12 kilometres with nearly 900 metres of elevation gain, which places it firmly in the "hard" category — expect the full hike to take about 5.5 to 6 hours. Sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, and a good map are essential, since the ground is rocky and stretches of the path are only lightly marked.

What will you see along the trail and at the summit?

The area around Jabukovac is one of the wildest corners of Mosor — a classic karst landscape riddled with crevices, ravines, sinkholes, pits, and caves. Bare limestone rock forms a jagged, almost lunar terrain, with sparse vegetation only emphasizing how untamed the surroundings feel. Along the way, it's worth stopping at Vranjača cave, considered one of the most beautiful caves in Croatia and a natural resting point before the final climb. From the top of Jabukovac, hikers are rewarded with views over Mosor's serrated ridgeline and, on clear days, glimpses of the Split area and the Adriatic coastline in the distance.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons for this hike, offering mild temperatures without the punishing heat that can make the exposed, rocky ascent exhausting in summer. If you do go in summer, start early in the morning, since much of the trail offers no shade. In winter, snow or ice can make the path genuinely hazardous, so it should only be attempted by hikers with mountain experience and proper gear.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Jabukovac peak? Jabukovac stands at 1,246 metres above sea level, located in the central part of the Mosor mountain range, north of its main ridge.

How long does the hike from Kotlenice take? The full round trip via Vranjača cave typically takes about 5.5 to 6 hours and covers close to 12 kilometres.

Is this hike suitable for beginners? No — it's classed as a demanding trail due to the significant elevation gain, rocky karst terrain, and lack of shade. Prior hiking experience is recommended.

What else is worth seeing besides the summit? Near Kotlenice lies Vranjača cave, one of Croatia's most beautiful caves, well worth a visit either before or after the climb to Jabukovac.