Orlić

Orlić is a modest 258-metre hill in southern Dalmatia, rising above the village of Blace right at the southern edge of the Neretva river delta. It sits next to the small hamlets of Dračeva Luka and Duba, roughly 15 km south of the port town of Ploče.

Where is Orlić and how do you get there?

The hill lies in Dubrovnik-Neretva County, within the Slivno municipality, which also administers Blace. The area sits on the route linking the Neretva delta with the foot of the Pelješac Bridge, only 5 km north of Blace — making Orlić and its neighbouring hamlets a convenient base whether you're coming from the delta side or from the Pelješac peninsula. The easiest starting point for exploring the area is Blace itself, from where local roads lead toward Dračeva Luka and Duba, the two hamlets flanking the hill.

What can you see around here?

Orlić itself is a low, unassuming hill, but its position above Ploče Bay and the Neretva delta opens up a wide view over the river mouth, the delta's farmland, and the coastline toward Pelješac. The real draw of the area, though, is the village at the foot of the hill.

Blace — the village below the hill

Blace is a small settlement of 273 residents according to the 2021 census, located in Ploče Bay at the southern edge of the Neretva delta. It stands out on a coastline that is mostly rocky or pebbly: Blace has an almost kilometre-long stretch of fine sandy beach, an unusual sight on this part of the Adriatic. The shallow, sandy bay warms up quickly in summer, with water temperatures reaching 25–27°C — typically a degree warmer than the open sea nearby.

The combination of extensive shallows, a steady thermal maestral wind, and a sheltered bay has turned Blace into one of Europe's recognised kitesurfing and windsurfing destinations. The calm, shallow water can hold dozens of kites at once without the danger of rough waves, drawing water-sports enthusiasts from across the continent during the season. At the same time, the area has kept the feel of a small fishing village next to the delta, where visitors can still encounter local farmers and fishermen or head out on a photo safari across the Neretva wetlands.

When should you visit?

Summer is the best time to come: the thermal maestral wind blows most consistently in this period, and the water temperature in the shallow bay is ideal for swimming and water sports. It's also when the beach at Blace and the surrounding waters are busiest, filled with kitesurfers and windsurfers from all over Europe.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Orlić located? It's a 258-metre hill in Dubrovnik-Neretva County, within the Slivno municipality, next to the hamlets of Dračeva Luka and Duba and overlooking the village of Blace.

What is neighbouring Blace known for? Mainly its almost kilometre-long sandy beach — a rarity on Croatia's largely rocky coastline — and its reputation as one of Europe's leading kitesurfing and windsurfing spots.

How far is it to the Pelješac Bridge? The foot of the bridge is about 5 km north of Blace, while Ploče lies roughly 15 km to the south of the Orlić area.

Who is this area suited for? Visitors looking to combine the quiet, rural atmosphere of the Neretva delta with active time on the water — kitesurfing, windsurfing, and views from the surrounding hills.