Sveta Nedjelja – THE 2026 TRAVEL GUIDE

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Sveta Nedjelja, situated on Hvar Island’s sunniest south side, is one of the island's most picturesque villages. Sitting directly underneath Sveta Nikola, the island’s highest peak (626m), it offers breathtaking views stretching out over the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding landscape, and its position makes it a perfect spot to watch the sunset. The village boasts several beautiful pebble beaches and secluded coves, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling.

Sveta Nedjelja first originated when the inhabitants of the nearby inland village of Svirče arrived to work the steep fields facing the sea. The village's historic core consists of old stone houses, perched above more modern apartments and villas directly behind the sea. Today, it is a permanent settlement with around 130 permanent residents.

As with other villages in this region on the island’s south side, compared to the busier towns on Hvar, Sveta Nedjelja offers a more mellow, family-oriented atmosphere. It is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a relaxing vacation away from the crowds, and also well-positioned for more intrepid folk who take their holidays with a side of adventure and exploration.

The first thing to do upon arriving in Sveta Nedjelja is… nothing at all – “fjaka” as the locals call it, which is something like a siesta, but may also include other forms of pleasurable laziness.

Sveta Nedjelja is right on the beach, and you can explore the coastline in either direction to find your perfect spot. Once you’ve recharged your batteries, the region offers a number of must-see spots, hiking trails, and excursions to keep you busy.

Veli Kamik, translating literally to “big rock”, is a striking must-visit spot in Sveta Nedjelja. Probably the most photogenic tree in Dalmatia, Veli Kamik’s tiny bridge connecting said tree to the island has become a poster child of Hvar’s southern coast.

The pier of Veli Kamik was actually constructed in 1924 to facilitate loading onto larger boats that couldn’t dock in Sveta Nedjelja due to insufficient depth. Originally linked by a wooden bridge, it was reinforced with a concrete bridge in 1938. Today, Veli Kamik attracts visitors not just to witness its quaint beauty, but also those seeking the thrill of adrenaline-filled jumps into the sea from the rocks above.

There is a palpable romance to Veli Kamik, so it’s no surprise that it has emerged as a popular wedding destination, ideal for intimate ceremonies followed by glorious, beachside celebrations.

The area surrounding Sveta Nedjelja is the most famous on the island for high-quality wines. Powerful reds thrive on the steep, sandy limestone hills, which provide perfect drainage, and from the intense sun, which shines almost every day in the summer, and reflects off both the rocks and the sea below for triple insolation. The sharp angle and loose soil of the hills on the island’s south side mean that every grape that comes from this terroir is picked by hand.

The local grape variety, Plavac Mali, is cultivated here, including Zlatan Otok’s Plavac Mali Grand Cru, one of the most highly-prized reds in all Croatia. Read our complete guide to wine on Hvar to learn about the island’s varieties and winemakers.

Bilo Idro is the tasting room of Zlatan Otok, one of Hvar’s oldest and most esteemed wineries, and is one of the most unique tasting spaces in Europe: a pair of picturesque stone wine “silos” directly on the sea built partly underwater, with windows looking directly into the Adriatic.

A via ferrata, literally a 'path of iron', is an exhilarating trail bolted into sheer rock faces. It blends steel ladders, cables and dizzying openwork bridges. On Hvar's rugged cliffs, they offer a thrilling way to scale otherwise impossible heights. Sveta Nedjelja has a pair that dangle you thrillingly over some truly vertigo-inducing voids.

These routes were crafted by seasoned climber Miroslav Stec and his team. They devoted countless hours to creating places for unforgettable yet safe adventures. The two via ferratas sit close together but differ markedly in challenge. They are often confused for a single path. Both can be accessed from the village. The easier one starts a bit higher up the hillside.

The more demanding Via Ferrata Mirko tackles a near-vertical wall. It is officially graded B for technical difficulty. Yet the exposure feels far more intense, almost D-level, thanks to its relentlessly upright ascent. A slip means dangling in mid-air. This one demands solid prior experience in climbing or via ferrata routes. It is not for children, save perhaps assured teenagers who have already mastered indoor walls and big drops. We strongly advise going with a guide rather than solo.

By contrast, Via Ferrata Avalon, which kicks off about 200 metres higher, is a gentler affair. It is rated A/B and perfect for newcomers. It delivers a taste of the via ferrata buzz without the nerve-shredding overhangs of its neighbour.

The paths converge near a swaying steel suspension bridge. They then ease into a straightforward rock scramble laced with fixed cables. Crossing the bridge is optional, whichever route you have chosen. Budget 2-3 hours for the full loop. Factor in pauses for photos and catching your breath. Press on to the summit of Sveti Nikola for an extra hour of rewarding ridge walking.

You can hire the necessary kit, helmet, harness and via ferrata lanyard, right in Sveta Nedjelja near the mini-market. It is wise to ring ahead to the organiser, usually Mr Miro himself, to sort out collection details. Pair the gear with sturdy shoes and plenty of water as shade is scarce, and the climbs can leave you parched.

Once you've descended and your legs have stopped wobbling, you can head straight to Cliffbase, the winery run by the same indefatigable Miro. It is quite literally carved into a narrow chasm right beside the sea, a spot that feels more like a secret hideaway than a public venue. The wines are excellent too, crisp and full of character.

Places like this are the real privilege of visiting quieter corners of Hvar. They remain largely off the radar for most tourists.

Above the village of Sveta Nedjelja lies a cave that dates back to the Neolithic era, where an Augustinian monastery and small church was built in the 15th century. The Augustinians left the monastery in 1787, and the church remained in use for a further 35 years until a new one was built, more conveniently, in the village. Today, only the remains of the monastery have survived, whereas the church has been completely preserved. It is simply a must-see spot when visiting Sveta Nedjelja.

The cave is about a 30-45 minute hike from Sveta Nedjelja village along a well-marked and maintained trail, although be prepared for steep inclines and a rapid heart rate. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and wear trekking shoes. This is not the place for sandals or flip flops.

The reward for your exploration is not only at the cave. The hike offers stunning scenery all the way up and, on clear days, views that stretch all the way to Italy. Try to avoid hiking during the peak sun hours. Once at the top, there's plenty of shade to cool off and catch your breath.

Some hikers end up a little off-course and find themselves at Wide Cave, where you won’t find a monastery, but can soak up equally impressive views.

Experienced climbers tend not to want to leave the area surrounding Sveta Nedjelja, which is basically one giant limestone cliff, and never more than a few metres from the beach and a laidback cabana. There are several distinct climbing areas, many of which are quite off the beaten track (some frequented more by snakes than climbers), so it's wise to seek detailed route descriptions from Hvar Climbing before setting off.

The south coast of Hvar also offers some superb deep-water soloing, especially around Sveta Nedjelja and the Cliffbase area. Experienced climbers can enjoy the thrill of ropeless routes directly above the sea, with the reassuring cushion of deep water below should they take a tumble. Those with more desire than experience are strongly advised to join a guided session with professionals for safety.

Only accessible by boat, and just a short ride from the marina in Sveta Nedjelja, Red Rocks deliver one of the most striking natural sights on Hvar. These vivid reddish limestone cliffs plunge straight into the sea, their layers sculpted over millennia by rain and waves into a dramatic, almost sculptural formation that perfectly frames the vivid turquoise water below. It is, without doubt, one of the Adriatic's most photogenic spots.

The sheltered bay makes for excellent swimming and snorkelling, with calm waters even on windier days, and the bolder among you will find tempting spots for cliff-jumping. Or simply drift and take in the view… It is hard to imagine a more impressive backdrop.

Most boat trips departing from Hvar Town include a stop at these one-of-a-kind limestone formations, but if you are based in Sveta Nedjelja it’s a much simpler affair. A water taxi or a private skipper from the marina will have you there in a matter of minutes.

Just a short boat ride off the coast from Sveta Nedjelja lies Šćedro, a small island designated as a nature park. Its two deep, sheltered bays and fertile land have made it a natural haven for sailors over the centuries. Even today, it remains a favoured anchorage for yachts and sailboats seeking calm waters.

Remarkably, this now-tranquil spot once hosted one of the ancient world's dramatic naval clashes. In 47 BC, Julius Caesar's fleet battled Pompey's forces here, securing Caesar control over nearby Vis and ultimately the Adriatic.

For divers, Šćedro holds particular appeal with several fascinating underwater sites. These include a well-preserved 2nd-century BC shipwreck laden with more than 80 intact amphorae, the remains of a Second World War fighter plane, and a submerged Roman villa lying in relatively shallow water. The combination of history and natural beauty makes it a standout destination for anyone exploring this corner of Hvar.

A perfect day on Šćedro usually begins with a short private boat trip, giving you the freedom to seek out the island's more secluded spots. Among the highlights are Tufera Cove on the western side, a rare sandy beach for these parts, and Portoruša Beach along the southern coast, with its smooth fine pebbles and ample shade from the pines that fringe the shoreline. If you prefer to keep things simple, simply moor up in the main bay using the designated buoys. There is more than enough to occupy you right there.

The bay hosts several solid restaurants worth seeking out. Restaurant Jakas earns consistent praise for its lobster dishes and attentive service. Amfora Food & Wine is a dependable choice for expertly prepared sea bass, while on the western side of the bay you will find Rato’s GrillHere the owner, Roberto, serves straightforward grilled catch straight off the fire.

Just around the corner and easily reached by boat or a short coastal path, Restaurant Moster occupies a quieter bay and offers a proper slow food experience. Book a table and it is yours for the evening. The set menu keeps things straightforward as a family-run restaurant helmed by local fishermen. Choose from the catch of the day, fresh fish or ribeye steak, two side dishes and their daily homemade bread, baked just like grandma used to do.

While you are in Moster Bay, take a gentle walk uphill to the ruins of the Church of St. Mary of Mercy, an ancient stone chapel that carries a quietly mystical air amid the surrounding pines and olive groves.

Despite its air of seclusion and historical intrigue, Šćedro is remarkably straightforward to reach from Sveta Nedjelja. If you do not have your own boat, drive just 15 minutes east along the coastal road to Zavala. From there, daily water taxis depart at 10:00 and 11:00, delivering you to the island without any fuss, and returning in the later afternoon.

All of the beaches surrounding Sveta Nedjelja are renowned for their pristinely clean, clear waters, perfect for snorkelling and diving.

The main central beach in Sveta Nedjelja is Skala Beach. A large boulder takes up a considerable amount of space, meaning that in July and August, and especially at high tide, it can get a little crowded. Note that you won’t find any shady spots here until quite late in the afternoon.

A little further exploration can offer some major rewards. On the south side of Hvar, you are spoilt for choice with a series of unforgettably beautiful beaches, curtained by vertiginously steep vineyards and limestone cliffs, dotted along the coast. Drive east for 5 minutes to the neighbouring village of Jagodna, where you will find one of the island’s most gorgeous coves.

Jagodna is something of a rarity on Hvar: a proper sandy stretch, or at least as close as this pebble-dominated island usually gets. After days of gingerly navigating scorching stones or relying on beach shoes, the sensation of sinking your toes into its sand-like gravel may feel downright luxurious.

The surroundings are equally impressive. A series of small, intimate bays nestle beneath warm orange cliffs and dense pine forest, all framed by water of such intense blue it borders on unreal. There are no facilities nearby, so come prepared with everything you need: plenty of water, snacks, and something for shade.

Beaches west of Sveta Nedjelja can also be reached by car, but the road west quickly turns to gravel, so make sure you have a suitable car. Steep paths down to the coves also mean it’s much easier and often heaps more fun to get there by boat. Here are two not to miss:

Lučiśća is the stuff of beachy dreams. You will find this slice-of-heaven cove hidden beneath 500m-high cliffs on the island’s southern ridge. While the steep descent trail may be a bit, it's definitely worth the effort. Of course, if you're arriving by sailboat, you'll avoid this problem altogether. Lučišća has the most crystal clear waters against a backdrop of thick pine forest and a nearby beach bar, but as with most bays on the south side, remember to bring your umbrella and plan to arrive before the peak heat of the day.

Continue driving west from Sveta Nedjelja, and the gravel coastal road will join the island’s main road, on the side of which you’ll find the parking spots for Dubovica. The famous beach curves in a graceful arc of smooth white pebbles, with an elegant 18th-century stone villa perched proudly at its centre and sheer limestone cliffs rising dramatically behind. It has long been a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

You will need to follow the zig-zagging trail down to the beach, and it’s best to avoid flip-flops or sandals for this steep walk down, which takes approximately 10 minutes. Dubovica has very little shade and no umbrellas or chairs to rent, so make sure to bring your own. You will find a small local restaurant Konoba Dubovica on one side of the beach and Duba Beach Bar for fresh juices and cocktails on the other. It’s never truly “crowded” here, but by the rather lofty standards of Hvar Island, this beach can feel a bit busy in the high season.

While Sveta Nedjelja does not have any hotels or large resorts, this is very much part of its appeal. Accommodation here is made up almost entirely of private houses, apartments, and villas, giving the village a calm, residential feel rather than a touristed one.

You will find everything from modest, no-frills apartments ideal for hikers and climbers who spend their days outdoors, to larger holiday homes and high-end villas designed for longer, more comfortable stays. Many properties enjoy elevated positions on the hillside, with terraces overlooking the sea and easy access to nearby beaches, vineyards, and hiking trails.

Villa M feels less like a holiday home and more like the sophisticated retreat of a discerning Bond villain who has triumphed and now prefers quiet dominance over mainstream Monaco glamour. Set high above the Adriatic, the villa commands the landscape with five bedrooms sleeping up to ten guests. At its heart is a striking infinity pool that appears to merge with the horizon, complemented by expansive terraces seemingly suspended over the water. The design prioritises those unobstructed vistas, delivering absolute privacy, boundless open skies and a profound sense of detachment from the world far below.

It is dramatic without being showy, indulgent without being busy, and ideal for families or groups who want their stay to feel cinematic rather than merely comfortable.

And should you harbour any secret-agent fantasies, station a couple of discreet guards at the driveway – the property's single access point – and your lair is complete. Though do keep an eye on the cliffs below, just in case a mission-ready successor to Bond decides to scale them for an unexpected poolside visit.

For a small seaside village, Sveta Nedjelja punches above its weight when it comes to dining options. You will find three solid restaurants here, each with its own distinct appeal and all making the most of the stunning coastal setting.

If you have Sveta Nedjelja marked on your travel plans, you are in for a treat. First things first: reach the island of Hvar itself. A common mix-up among visitors is to assume Hvar Town and the island are one and the same. In reality, Hvar Town is the lively southwestern hub known for its sophisticated nightlife and occasional celebrity appearances. Hvar Island, however, is far larger: a slice of land in Croatia's southern archipelago, roughly three times the size of Manhattan.

Sveta Nedjelja sits quietly on the southern coast, a relaxed, family-friendly village tucked beneath steep cliffs. It forms part of a trio of small seaside settlements, alongside Ivan Dolacand, just to the east, Zavala.

The most straightforward major gateway to Hvar Island is Split, the vibrant coastal city on the mainland that deserves a visit in its own right. Split has an international airport, train and bus stations, and a bustling ferry port, all handily located close to the atmospheric old town.

From Split Ferry Port, you can board a car ferry (if you are bringing your own vehicle) or a faster passenger catamaran to Hvar Island. Services connect to the island’s major hubs: Hvar Town, Stari Grad, and once daily to Jelsa.

For a full understanding of your options, have a look at our comprehensive guide to getting to Hvar.

Once you arrive at any of the island’s main towns, finding a taxi is usually straightforward. Fares to Sveta Nedjelja vary depending on your starting point, with Jelsa being the most affordable option thanks to its proximity at around 15km. From Hvar Town, the journey is longer at roughly 42km and typically takes about an hour.

If you are travelling from the Croatian mainland onto Hvar Island with your own car or a rental, note that there are only two car ferry ports: Sućuraj and Stari Grad. The island has other ports (Hvar Town and Jelsa) but they only serve catamarans, which are boats that carry only pedestrians. The only company that runs car ferries is Jadrolinija.

Arriving in Sućuraj only really makes sense if you are driving from Dubrovnik or other locations on the mainland south of Split. You will have an adventurous 1.5 hour drive featuring a stretch of narrow, winding road with steep, unguarded drops, but can save considerable time compared to driving up to Split, waiting for the ferry, and then taking the two-hour boat to Stari Grad.

If you take the more conventional Split to Stari Grad route, the drive to Sveta Nedjelja is shorter (about 35 minutes) and also beautiful, albeit less white-knuckle.

Both directions will lead you through the picturesque village of Pitve and the Old Tunnel of Hvar. Carved out mostly by local men in the 1960s, the 1.4km tunnel is single-lane and unlit. This being Dalmatia, there is a wine cellar inside, just to the left of the entrance from the Pitve side, not that we would encourage you to pause and inspect.

Once you emerge from the tunnel, you will be greeted by a glorious view of the sea shimmering below. But don’t get too carried away, and be sure that your brakes are in good order. A series of steep switchbacks await you as you navigate down to the shore.

If you're touring Hvar by powerboat, yacht, or sailboat, Sveta Nedjelja is a fantastic spot to stop for lunch or a swim. For those wishing to stay overnight, Bilo Idro has a small marina offering water, electricity, showers, and toilets. The inner breakwater is 18 metres long and 4 metres deep, while the outer breakwater is 40 metres long and 7 metres deep.

Like other anchorages on Hvar's southern coast, this marina is susceptible to winds from the south, particularly the infamous “jugo”. If you plan to tie up here, be sure to call ahead to check for availability and suitable weather conditions.

If you are basing yourself in Sveta Nedjelja for your stay on Hvar and travelling without a car, one of the simplest and most enjoyable routes is to take the catamaran from Split directly to Hvar Town. From there, hire a private boat to whizz you along the southern coast straight to the village marina. It turns what might otherwise be a lengthy land transfer into an enjoyable boat ride, helping your holiday start on a relaxed note right from the outset.

If you are staying at one of our Hvar Away villas, your dedicated concierge will happily handle all the transfer details for you. Options include a private speedboat straight from Split Airport to the marina in Sveta Nedjelja, or the quicker hop across from Hvar Town.