Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Podgora is a former fishing village that is a popular tourism destination on Croatia’s Makarska Riviera. It’s famously the birthplace of Mihovil Pavlinović, who led the Croatian National Revival and was the first person to speak Croatian in the assembly of the Kingdom of Dalmatia.
Things to do in Podgora
Podgora is home to several beaches where you can relax on summer days, including pebbly Plišivac. Swim in the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea or grab a bite to eat at the beachfront bistro. Further north is the cliff-framed cove of Garma and sandy Dračevac Beach, which is backed by a pine forest.
For a day away from the coast, head inland to explore Biokovo Nature Park, which encompasses a 1,500-metre-high mountain range, craggy limestone cliffs and sinkholes. It’s one of the most popular hiking destinations in Croatia, with endless trails winding through its pine forests, vineyards and olive groves. Biokovo Nature Park is home to several endemic plant species, several of which are preserved within Kotisina Botanical Garden.
A short drive south of Podgora is the town of Igrane, which is home to a 17th-century stone-built tower that played an important role during the Ottoman-Venetian wars. Topped by a hipped roof, it features arched windows on each of its four stories. Zale’s Tower rises alongside the Parish Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, which houses a marble altar and a statue of St. Ante.
Getting around Podgora
Podgora is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Split and Split Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Buses travel through Podgora and the town is compact enough to explore on foot. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the Makarska Riviera.