Like many other towns on the Makarska Riviera, Podgora has crystal clean beaches with azure blue water and gorgeous surroundings. The Mount Biokovo near the sea has excellent hiking trails. The highest peak is the 1762 metres high Sveti Jure, or St. George’s Peak. What to do in Podgora? Make the most of your vacation and choose from the following activities!
This article gives you an overview of the following topics:
- Things to do in Podgora: Crystal clear beaches and water sports
- What to do in Podgora? Enjoy the beauties of nature!
- Discover the highlights of the town!
- Traditions and events in Podgora
- Gastronomy of Podgora
Things to do in Podgora: Crystal clear beaches and water sports
The town has many beaches to choose from, so everyone can find the one that suits them best. In addition, Podgora’s beaches are safe for children because the water is shallow along the coast. If you are visiting, you can go diving, wind surfing and water skiing.
You can find one of the most beautiful beaches in Podgora in Plešivac Marina. It is a wide, pebbly bay. It has a remarkable size, being more than 1 kilometre long. The pine trees further enhance the beauty of the beach and provide pleasant shade on warm summer days.
The pebbly Sutikla beach is at the end of Podgora, in the village of Čaklje. It is 1 kilometre long and is very popular in the high season. The crystal clear water, the pine trees and the white cliffs of Mount Biokovo offer stunning views in the background. If you like water sports, you can rent a jet ski, you can try the banana boat, the water tube, or you can go paragliding. On the promenade, there are many cafés offering refreshing drinks and ice creams.
What to do in Podgora? Enjoy the beauties of nature!
Biokovo Nature Park
The Biokovo mountain range is located between the Cetina and Neretva rivers, reaching for the skies behind the Makarska Riviera. In 1981 a 200 square kilometres large area was put under protection under the name Biokovo Nature Park. The entrance is only a few kilometres away from Makarska.
Today, the park is characterised by extremely rich flora and fauna. In addition to the golden eagle, the white-headed vulture there are wolves, wild boars, chamois and mouflons. The highest point is the 1762-metres high Sveti Jure, the St. George’s Peak. The place offers breathtaking views over the Makarska Riviera, the Central Dalmatian islands, and in clear weather, you can even see the Italian shores. Sports lovers can go mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding or paragliding.
Kotišina Botanical Garden
The Kotišina Botanical Garden is part of the beautiful Biokovo Nature Park, which is 350-500 metres above sea level. The park was founded by Dr. fra Jure Radić, a priest and a scientist. In addition to scientific research, one of the main goals was to observe, protect, preserve and promote the flora and fauna of Biokovo. On the 16.5 hectares, you will find hundreds of plant species.
Discover the highlights of the town!
There are many interesting, remarkable buildings and monuments that bear witness to the rich history of the area. Interestingly, the Yugoslav Navy, the naval branch of the Yugoslav People’s Army was founded in the local port in 1942 during World War II. The memory of this event is commemorated by the Galebova Krila, or the Seagull’s Wing Monument, where they host festivities every September.
You can explore many churches and chapels in the town. The most remarkable is the Church of All Saints built-in 1764. It is located in the Old Town, and it is a protected historic building. You can also find here the relics of St. Vincent, the patron saint of the town. The 17th and 18th-century watchtowers are also among the most important attractions.
Traditions and events in Podgora
Like many other Dalmatian towns, Podgora hosts several events during summer. During the Podgora Summer Festival, you can see theatre plays, concerts, exhibitions and folklore shows. If you are looking for a party, there are many clubs and other cosy venues.
Gastronomy of Podgora
There are many excellent restaurants in Podgora and the area where you can try the best Mediterranean dishes. The 2 Monkeys has a pleasant atmosphere, attentive waiters and the terrace offers wonderful views over the sea. We recommend trying the fresh seafood dishes, tasty hamburgers and pizzas. If you are visiting, the Vruja restaurant is also a great choice, with friendly staff and reasonably priced, delicious dishes.
In this article, we have shown you the best holiday activities. If you visit this Dalmatian port city, you will find excellent hiking trails, and you can try exciting water sports. The tourist attractions and the local, high-quality dishes will make your stay memorable. Read more if you plan Podgora sailing or rent a boat in Podgora.