Zle Stijene

Zle Stijene is a modest hill rising to 243 metres above sea level in the northern part of the island of Mljet, a few kilometres from the village of Polače, in Dubrovnik-Neretva County, Croatia. The hill sits within the boundaries of Mljet National Park and forms part of the marked network of hiking and cycling trails that lead visitors through the oldest and most protected section of the island.

How do you get to Zle Stijene?

The starting point is Polače, the largest and best-sheltered harbour on Mljet, served by ferries and catamarans from Dubrovnik and neighbouring islands. From Polače, the base of the hill is roughly 2.5 km away, a walk that typically takes 40–60 minutes depending on pace and season. The route runs along the officially marked trail network of Mljet National Park, shown on the park's tourist and cycling maps, so navigation is straightforward — just follow the trail markers heading inland from the harbour.

Cycling is a popular alternative to walking. Mljet is a well-known cycling destination, and the trails around Polače and Zle Stijene are part of the park's recreational route network. Visitors can bring their own bike on the ferry or rent one locally in Polače.

What's worth knowing about the area?

Zle Stijene lies close to the oldest and most ecologically valuable part of Mljet, protected as a national park since 1960. On the opposite side of the island from Polače are the famous saltwater lakes — Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero — home to a Benedictine monastery on the small island of Sveta Marija. The land around the hill is covered in Mediterranean forest of Aleppo pine and holm oak, typical of this stretch of the Adriatic coast.

The hill itself is not a headline attraction on Mljet — it functions more as a waypoint for visitors exploring the island actively on foot or by bike, rather than limiting their visit to the lakes and monastery. For hikers and cyclists, it makes a natural stop along a longer route through the park.

When should you visit?

The best time for a hike around Zle Stijene is spring (April–June) or early autumn (September–October), when temperatures are milder than midsummer and the trails are quieter. In July and August, the unshaded sections of the trail can get uncomfortably hot, so it's worth setting out early in the morning and carrying plenty of water. Since the hill lies within Mljet National Park, it's a good idea to check current opening hours and entry rules before planning a visit, as access is seasonal.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Zle Stijene? Zle Stijene rises to 243 metres above sea level, making it one of the higher points in the northern part of Mljet.

How far is Zle Stijene from Polače? The distance is around 2.5 km, which usually takes 40–60 minutes on foot.

Is there a marked trail leading to Zle Stijene? Yes, the hill lies along the marked hiking and cycling trail network of Mljet National Park.

Can a visit to Zle Stijene be combined with the Mljet lakes? Yes, the hill is not far from Veliko and Malo Jezero and the monastery island, so both can be combined into one longer walking or cycling trip through this part of the park.