Visoka glavica

Visoka glavica (also known locally as Veliki Grad or Velji grad) is the highest peak on the island of Mljet, rising 514 metres above sea level right behind Babino Polje — the island's largest and one of its oldest villages. For hikers exploring Mljet, it's the obvious high point of a visit: a short but steep climb rewarded with sweeping views over the southern Dalmatian archipelago.

How do you get to the top?

The hike up Visoka glavica starts right in Babino Polje, following a marked footpath that forms part of a longer mountain trail crossing the island. The route itself covers roughly 1.6 kilometres, but packs in about 350 metres of elevation gain, so despite the short distance it takes real time and a reasonable level of fitness to complete.

The trail begins along an old shepherd's path, climbing gently between dry-stone walls and scrub up to a saddle just below the summit. The final stretch is noticeably tougher: the ground turns rocky and the path pushes through dense, low Mediterranean maquis. Sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, and avoiding the hottest hours of the day are all worth planning for, since most of the route offers little to no shade.

Babino Polje is easiest to reach by local bus or car, either from Sobra — where ferries from the mainland dock — or from Polače, the main gateway to Mljet National Park.

What will you see at the summit?

The top of Visoka glavica is a small, partly rocky plateau. A transmission mast and a small hut used by radio amateurs stand here, while the actual high point is marked by a geodetic pillar. From this spot you get the best panorama on the whole island: the forested interior of Mljet, its coastline, and the neighbouring Pelješac peninsula all spread out below. On a clear day, the islands of Korčula and Lastovo are visible to the east and southeast.

The climb appeals mainly to hikers, landscape photographers, and travellers looking for something beyond the beaches and salt lakes that Mljet National Park is best known for.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are the best times to hike up, when temperatures are milder and the vegetation is still green. In summer, heat and the lack of shade along most of the trail can make the climb considerably harder, so an early morning start is recommended. The path is open year-round, but the rocky section near the top can get slippery after rain, which slows down the ascent.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to hike Visoka glavica? The trail itself is about 1.6 km long, but because of the steep climb and roughly 350 metres of elevation gain, the round trip usually takes two to three hours depending on fitness and pace.

Is the trail difficult? The lower section, following an old shepherd's path, is moderately easy, while the summit stretch crosses rocky, scrub-covered ground and calls for more careful footing and proper hiking shoes.

Is there anything to see at the top besides the view? The summit holds a transmission mast, a small radio amateur hut, and a geodetic pillar marking the highest point on the island — but the panorama, not the structures, is the real reason to climb.

Where's the best place to start the hike? Start in the village of Babino Polje, reachable by the road connecting the ferry port at Sobra with Mljet National Park at Polače.