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In my previous post, I explained that the Krka National Park was the highlight of my Croatia trip but the small village Maslinica, situated on Solta island definitely comes in second! From the moment I arrived, I instantly felt the relaxed and laid-back atmosphere of the island. I visited the village as part of a boat trip but found myself wishing I would spend much longer there! It’s a far cry from the hustle and bustle of nearby Split or Havar and just a dreamy place to visit!
Where is Maslinica And How To Get There
Maslinica is on the western tip of Šolta Island in Croatia. It can be reached by road if already on Solta or there are various options to visit by boat. Getting to Maslinica is a breeze from Split as ferries and catamarans depart regularly from Split to Rogač, Šolta’s main port. From there, it’s a short drive or bus ride across the island to reach Maslinica. You could even charter a boat and sail directly into the picturesque harbor if you’re feeling lavish! There were some stunning super yachts docked there when I was there. I travelled to Maslinica by boat as part of a trip I booked which visited the Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck Bay, and finally Maslinica. It was an excellent trip and I thoroughly enjoyed it, but like I said, I could have spent plenty more time in this charming fishing village.
What Does Maslinica Have To Offer?
A Glimpse into Maslinica’s Past
Maslinica’s history dates back to the 18th century when the noble Marchi family constructed a baroque castle to protect the island from pirate attacks. Today, that same castle has been carefully converted into the luxurious five-star Martinis Marchi Heritage Hotel, which stands at the heart of the village. It’s very much on the pricey side, but it looks like a stunning place to stay!
The Archipelago of Maslinica
Just off its coast lies a stunning archipelago of seven islets—Polebrnjak, Saskinja, Stipanska, Kamik, Balkun, Šarac, and Grmej. These islets are completely uninhabited and are perfect for boating, and kayaking. Unfortunately, I only got a chance to take in the scenery of the islets from the shore but had I had longer I would certainly have kayaked out there! They create a dramatic landscape of rocky outcrops and turquoise bays which are also perfect for snorkeling as they are packed with marine life.
Idyllic Beaches and Secret Coves
One of my favorite things about the village was its beautiful beaches, some of which are just a few feet long! The most famous beach, Sipova Bay, is just a short walk from the village and is a peaceful stretch of pebbles framed by olive groves and pine trees. The bay’s shallow, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming although it’s best to wear sea shoes as I did spot some urchins on the sea bed! Luckily the clear water makes them easy to spot and avoid. There are also plenty of secluded coves nearby where you can find your own private spot to relax although nowhere in the village is too crowded.
Local Cuisine
No trip to Maslinica is complete without indulging in the local food. The island’s connection to the sea is evident in its seafood-heavy dishes, with freshly caught fish, octopus, and shellfish on most menus. Local taverns, known as konobas, also serve traditional Dalmatian dishes such as peka (a slow-cooked dish of meat or seafood) and gregada (a hearty fish stew). And let’s not forget the gelato!
A Haven for Active Travellers
While Maslinica offers plenty of opportunities to relax, it’s also great for those who are more active. Kayaking around the islets, hiking through olive groves, or renting a boat to explore hidden coves are just a few of the activities you can do there. If you’re into cycling, Šolta has several scenic routes that wind through vineyards, fields of lavender, and rustic villages. There are also plenty of opportunities for diving or snorkeling as the waters around Šolta are renowned for their clarity, making it one of the best places for diving on the Dalmatian coast.
For me, the highlight of Maslinica was enjoying the relaxing and slow-paced atmosphere and taking in the stunning surroundings. It’s a beautiful place to unwind and I would definitely recommend including it on your Croatia itinerary!
