Day Tour to Dalmatian Hinterland - Makarska Hinterland

A day tour to the Makarska hinterland is a perfect way to spend a day or two on holiday on the Makarska Riviera.

After you've explored the Sibenik countryside and Split Hinterland, the region of Makarska will continue to surprise you. 

Makarska on the slopes of Biokovo mountain, source: Pixabay

Just across Biokovo mountain, you will find beautiful Terra Incognita that will stimulate your every sense. To reach this region, you can take the scenic road and make your way up the serpentines. You will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Makarska Riviera and the Adriatic Sea. 

The St. Elijah tunnel is a simpler route to conquer Biokovo, the natural barrier that divides the hinterland from the sea. The region's greater urban centers are Imotski and Vrgorac.

Imotski

Some 40-minute drive from Makarska, the picturesque town of Imotski is nicely nestled next to the world-famous Blue Lake. In the last couple of years, the region around Imotski has started turning into a much-sought tourist destination, especially among guests looking to spend their vacation away from crowded beaches and tourist centers. You should visit this place if you're looking to experience authentic local food and excellent wine and be surrounded by almost untouched nature. 

Church of St. Francis, Imotski, author: Stjepko Krehula, source: Wikimedia Commons

Imotski was first mentioned as a municipal center in 950 A.D. by the Byzantine emperor Constantine VII Profirogenet. Later, Imotski plays a significant role in Croatian medieval history as a border town to the ever-growing Ottoman threat.

The best time to visit Imotski is in spring and autumn when the temperature is still not too hot to enjoy a full day of exploring the town and its surroundings.

Blue and Red Lake are the most recognizable landmarks of Imotski and the surrounding region. These karst lakes were most likely formed after the underground caves collapsed.

Blue Lake

Blue Lake is situated right next to the town of Imotski. A path leads down to the bottom. The water level at its peak can reach up to 90 meters thanks to snow melting on the surrounding mountains.

Blue Lake, author: Dreizung, source: Wikimedia Commons

Usually, by the end of summer, the lake bottom is dry due to a shortage of water coming from surrounding mountains and underground rivers and streams. At the time of dry lake bed two teams, Elves and Werewolves, organize a traditional football match. Fabulous photographs can be taken from Fortress Topana overlooking the lake. 

Path to the Blue Lake, author: Modzzak, source: Wikimedia Commons

A manmade path leads to the bottom of the lake so you can swim in warmer months. 

Red Lake

Red Lake is about 1,5 kilometers from Blue Lake. It's named after the steep reddish cliffs that tower over 240 meters from the water level. The explored depth of the lake is 530 meters. 

Red Lake, author: Yacht Rent, source: Wikimedia Commons 

In contrast to the Blue Lake, Red Lake waters are only accessible to skilled mountaineers and speleologists with the right equipment. But that does not mean that you cannot stop by for a visit and admire its hypnotizing waters from afar. 

Red Lake, author: Peter1936F, source: Wikimedia Commons

There is also a local legend associated with the origin of the Red Lake. 

An arrogant and rich man named Gavan and his family had a beautiful house on the exact spot where the lake is now. Legend says a beggar came to his door one night asking for shelter and food. Gavan and his family in their arrogance turned him down and sent him away. At that moment the ground shook violently and a hole opened underneath the house and engulfed them all. The rocks of the lake are red due to the blood of dead Gavan and his family.  

Topana Fortress

High above the modern town of Imotski, Topana Fortress offers an unparalleled view of the surrounding area. 

Topana Fortress, author: Saxum , source: Wikimedia Commons

The fortress was built probably in the early 10th century. It played a significant role during the region's rich history. Nowadays it is a prominent landmark of the Imotski region and a place where you can take great photos of Imotski and the whole region.

Vrljika River

Vrljika River flows through beautiful, almost untouched nature ideal for hiking or cycling. 

Vrljika River, author: Modro jezero , source: Wikimedia Commons

In Vrljika you can find an endangered Softmouth Trout also known as the Adriatic trout. While enjoying the serene scenery visit the Green Cathedral where locals celebrate the traditional Feast of Assumption.

Activities in Imotski

The best way to explore Imotski and its surroundings is by bicycle. There are several bicycle routes you can take. On each, you will witness this region's beauty.

Cycling, source: Pixabay

We suggest the Imota Bike & Wine bicycle tour held annually in June. On this tour, you will get to know this region at several sightseeing stops, and the oenological offer of Imotski vineyards and winemakers. There is an entry fee so you will need to register in order to participate.

Food in Imotski

The culinary trademark of Imotski does not differ from other places in the Dalmatian hinterland. 

Prosciutto, cheese, and meat dishes are as common here as anywhere in the region. But if you visit Imotski stop by village Zmijavci and check out their annual Frog Nights. You will have the opportunity to taste locally prepared frog dishes. Eels and river crabs are also on the menu. 

So bon appétit!

Vrgorac

View on Vrgorac from Gradina Fortress, author: Dreizung , source: Wikimedia Commons

Vrgorac is a picturesque small town known mainly for excellent prosciutto and strawberries. It's only about a 45-minute drive from Makarska and an ideal place for a day trip.

Vrgorac Town Park

Town Park from the late 19th century is unique in the Dalmatian Hinterland. It's enriched with traditional Mediterranean trees and plants, paths, and stairs. It all creates a magical world that leaves no one indifferent. 

The best time to visit the Town Park is during the summer. Numerous cultural events, concerts, and plays take place in the park.

Vrgorac Fortresses

Tin Ujevic Tower, author: Mario Žamić , source: Wikimedia Commons

Vrgorac's defensive fortresses best depict the town's rich history. Most of them serve a more peaceful purpose today. The most prominent one is the fortress from the 15th century which proudly rises above the city. From it, you get an unparalleled view over the town and the surroundings, perfect for taking fabulous photos.

Activities in Vrgorac

Vrgorac region is ideal for those seeking a more active vacation. Bicycling, hiking, and local farms and wineries are among the most popular.  

Hiking, source: Pixabay

A network of hiking trails and bicycle routes stretches through the exceptional landscape diversity of the Vrgorac region.

Food in Vrgorac

Famous for its strawberries, Vrgorac also offers a multitude of other delicacy. 

Strawberries, source: Pixabay

Among the rich gastronomy offerings, set a side of goat cheese, snails with shallots, dry meat wrapped in lamb entrails, and game delicacies.  

Accommodation in Makarska

The ideal starting point for a day tour to Makarska Hinterland is one of the most luxurious villas on Makarska Riviera.

Villa Azul Grande with Heated Pool

Villa Azul Grande with Heated Pool

Ideal for bigger groups or families traveling together Villa Azul Grande with Heated Pool features 9 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and can comfortably accommodate up to 18 guests. 

Villa Azul Grande with Heated Pool

From the pool deck, you can enjoy a spectacular sea view and listen to the crickets in the pines. 

We hope that our blogs will entice you to plan your next vacation in Dalmatia and that you will take a day trip and discover the Makarska Riviera inland.