Ublina

Ublina is a hill in the municipality of Sućuraj, on the eastern tip of the island of Hvar in Croatia. It rises to roughly 245 metres above sea level and sits a few kilometres west of Sućuraj itself, the smallest town on Hvar and a key ferry port linking the island to the mainland via the Drvenik crossing. For travellers looking beyond the beach, Ublina offers a different side of Hvar — a viewpoint with a layered, dramatic history.

Why is Ublina worth a visit?

The hill stands out for two reasons: its position and its past. The terrain gives Ublina a commanding view deep into the island, stretching towards Bogomolje nearly 10 kilometres away. It was precisely this rugged, hard-to-reach landscape that led German forces to choose the hill as one of their main defensive positions on this part of Hvar during the Second World War. Around a hundred soldiers were stationed there, and bunkers and underground shelters were built at the summit, ringed with barbed wire and mined obstacles. Remnants of these fortifications can still be spotted while walking the hill today — a rare chance to see physical traces of wartime history in a region usually associated with seaside relaxation.

How do you get to Ublina?

The starting point is Sućuraj, most easily reached by ferry from Drvenik on the mainland, a crossing of about an hour. From the town, a road and paths lead west into the island's interior, reaching the area around the hill after a few kilometres. Because the approach is steep and rocky in places, sturdy trekking shoes and enough water are essential, as there are no supply points along the way. Walking or cycling is the better option, since driving into this hilly terrain can be difficult.

What will you see there?

From the summit of Ublina, the view combines the rocky, maquis-covered interior of Hvar with sightlines towards Bogomolje and the surrounding hills. It's a spot for travellers who value quiet and open space over crowded beaches. Beyond the scenery, the remains of old wartime fortifications draw attention too — fragments of bunkers and shelters set into the rocky ground, a reminder of how strategically important the hill once was.

When should you go?

Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are the best times for the hike, when temperatures are milder and the climb across exposed terrain is far more comfortable. In summer, tackling the hill at midday can be tiring, since most of the route offers little to no shade — an early morning or late afternoon start is a better choice.

Frequently asked questions

Are there marked trails on Ublina? The hill lies outside Hvar's main, well-signposted hiking routes, so it's worth bringing a local map or an offline navigation app before setting out.

How long does it take to reach the top from Sućuraj? Depending on the route and your pace, the walk to the hill area typically takes one to two hours one way.

Is it worth combining a visit to Ublina with time in Sućuraj? Yes — Sućuraj is a small, quiet port town where you can eat freshly caught fish and relax by the sea before or after the hike.

Are the bunker remains safe to explore? The fortifications have deteriorated significantly over time, so it's best to view them from the outside only and avoid entering any unstable structures.