Treskavac

Treskavac is a 731-metre hill rising above the village of Trnovica, in the Dubrovačko primorje municipality, Dubrovnik-Neretva County, Croatia. The peak forms part of the ridge separating the Adriatic coast from the hinterland of the Ston Bay, with its slopes dropping toward two small settlements — Trnovica and Dobri Do.

How do you get to Treskavac?

The starting point is Trnovica, a village sitting at roughly 300 metres above sea level, in the northernmost stretch of Dubrovačko primorje. Historically, it was the most north-westerly settlement of the old Republic of Dubrovnik, a border position that explains why the area still holds a mix of defensive and religious structures from different periods. Local footpaths and farm tracks lead from the village toward the summit, but this isn't a waymarked tourist trail in the usual sense — it's worth checking a topographic map or asking locals about the current route before setting out. Cars can reach the village itself; the rest of the way is on foot.

What will you see up there?

The summit itself opens onto a wide view across the hills of Dubrovačko primorje and, on a clear day, toward the coastline near Slano and the Pelješac peninsula. The hill's height above the surrounding valley is enough to make it a recognisable landmark from the villages below.

What makes the visit worthwhile, though, is less the summit and more what lies at its foot. Around Trnovica, remains of medieval stećci survive — the carved stone tombstones typical of this part of the Balkans, recognised by UNESCO as a shared cultural phenomenon of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro and Serbia. Close to the village stands a stone tower known as the Andrijašević tower, once a fortified family residence, alongside the Church of St Nicholas, dating from the 17th century — evidence of continuous settlement here across several centuries.

When should you go?

Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September–October) are the best times to head up Treskavac, when temperatures in the dry, rocky terrain of Dubrovačko primorje are manageable and the low scrub vegetation — mostly maquis — doesn't yet make the walk exhausting under full sun. In summer the terrain offers almost no shade, and with no marked trail or water sources along the way, the hike becomes demanding. Winter brings unpredictable weather, including the strong winds typical of the coastal hills of Dalmatia.

Who is this route for?

Treskavac suits travellers looking for a quieter corner of the Croatian coast, willing to pair a short climb with a visit to the historic remains at the foot of the hill. There's no tourist infrastructure here — no signage, no cafés, no dedicated parking — which some will see as an advantage (authenticity, quiet) and others as a logistical hurdle worth planning around.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Treskavac? The summit reaches 731 metres above sea level.

Where exactly is Treskavac located? Above the village of Trnovica, in the Dubrovačko primorje municipality, Dubrovnik-Neretva County, in the northern part of the Dubrovnik coastal area.

Are there any historic sites nearby? Yes — around Trnovica you'll find medieval stećci tombstones, the Andrijašević defensive tower, and the 17th-century Church of St Nicholas.

Is the route to the summit marked? No, it isn't an official waymarked trail — the way up follows local footpaths, so it's best to check a topographic map beforehand.