Biokovo Mountains

Address: Biokovo Nature Park, Makarska Riviera, Dalmatia, Croatia

Website: https://www.parkovihrvatske.hr/en/biokovo/

Admission: Park entry usually free; some access roads may have tolls or parking fees in summer (varies by municipality)

Biokovo is a karst mountain range along the Dalmatian coast of Croatia that forms a steep backdrop to the Makarska Riviera. Much of the massif is designated as a protected area and is known for dramatic cliffs, endemic flora and panoramic coastal views.

Visitors come for high-altitude viewpoints, hiking and mountain drives that rise from near sea level to alpine terrain; the highest point, Sveti Jure, reaches about 1,762 metres and is a prime viewpoint. The park contains a network of trails and mountain roads that access ridgelines and summits.

The massif has long been used for pastoralism and seasonal grazing, and more recently for outdoor recreation and nature conservation under the park authority. Management focuses on protecting karst ecosystems and providing controlled access for visitors.

Biokovo runs parallel to the Adriatic coast in central Dalmatia, Croatia, rising directly above coastal towns such as Makarska and visible from many points along the Makarska Riviera.

• Summit elevation: Sveti Jure, the highest peak, reaches approximately 1,762 metres and provides clear views to the Adriatic coast on good-weather days.

What to See#

• Sveti Jure (summit): The highest point of the Biokovo massif, offering panoramic views over the Dalmatian coast and islands and serving as the main summit objective for hikers and climbers.
• Biokovo Nature Park: The protected area covering much of the massif that manages trails, viewpoints and conservation of local karst habitats and endemic plant species.

Biokovo Nature Park is accessed from the Makarska Riviera. From Makarska follow the D8 coast road and turn inland toward the Biokovo Scenic Road (county road). The main access towns include Makarska and Tučepi; car is the easiest option. Nearest major airport: Split (about 60-90 minutes by car).

• Drive the Biokovo Road (Drčevica-Sv. Jure) early in the morning to avoid buses and enjoy clearer views from the massif.
• Bring warm layers even in summer - at the summit (1,762 m) a wind can cut temperature drastically compared with the coast.
• On clear days, take the short trail to Sv. Jure for the dramatic overlook where the Dinaric karst drops to the Adriatic - the view can include islands of Hvar and Brač.