Activities
Podgora sits in a rare position on the Makarska Riviera, pressed between the crystal-clear Adriatic and the dramatic limestone cliffs of Biokovo, with the town itself climbing steeply from the seafront promenade to the old stone hamlets above. This geography makes it one of the most rewarding bases for hiking on the entire coast.
Whether you are staying in Podgora or arriving for the day from neighbouring Makarska, Tučepi, Igrane, or Živogošće, these five trails offer something for every level, from easy family loops to demanding mountain traverses. Download the trail map from the Podgora tourist office before setting out.
1. Under the Wings — family loop
Distance: 5.6 km
Total ascent: 198 m
Duration: ~1h 45min
Difficulty: Easy
If you want a rewarding outdoor experience without a gruelling physical toll, the Under the Wings trail is the perfect starting point. The loop begins on the Podgora waterfront, one of the liveliest promenades on the Riviera, and climbs an initial asphalt stretch to the iconic Seagull‘s Wings Monument, an abstract sculpture dedicated to the partisan navy with sweeping views across to the islands of Brač and Hvar.
From the monument, the path transitions to smooth gravel roads winding through Mediterranean flora toward the highest point of the loop near the Three Tumuli rock formation, prehistoric burial mounds that have overlooked this stretch of the Adriatic for more than two thousand years. A gentle descent then returns you to the waterfront along the same coastal path.
Insider tip: The Three Tumuli are the best photography spot on this loop. Time your hike for late afternoon to catch the golden hour reflecting off the sea.
Best combined with: A swim at one of the small bays below the monument, or an evening drive to Tučepi, just minutes north, for dinner with a view.
2. Cultural Thrill — history and moderate adventure
Distance: 9.6 km
Total ascent: 316 m
Duration: ~3 h
Difficulty: Moderate
The Cultural Thrill route is a moderately challenging path combining asphalt, gravel, and mountain trail, and probably the best single introduction to Podgora‘s layered heritage.
Starting from the waterfront, the trail climbs to the Seagull‘s Wings Monument, steepens toward the archaeological site of Troje Gomile, ancient burial mounds offering sweeping coastal views, then leads through the shaded Borići woods toward historic Podgora village. A final descent on gravel returns you to the seafront promenade.
Key sites along the way: Troje Gomile (Bronze Age burial mounds), the churches of St. Rocco, St. Liborius, and St. George, the Monument to the First Naval Detachment, and the historic Coastal Tower Kaštil.
Also worth knowing: For more archaeological context, the prehistoric sites above Tučepi and the museum collection in Baška Voda complement this trail beautifully.
3. Under the Hill — demanding and immersive
Distance: 15.5 km
Total ascent: 444 m
Duration: ~4 h
Difficulty: Hard / Experienced hikers
The Under the Hill route is a demanding journey for seasoned hikers, tracking the rugged base of Biokovo across the neighbouring village of Drašnice, a small, quiet settlement between Podgora and Igrane. The trail starts with an uphill climb from Drašnice toward the Church of St. George, then ascends through old stone hamlets into historic Podgora village, continues via the Three Tumuli area, and descends back to the Seagull’s Wings Monument before looping along the coastal promenade back to the start.
Must-see highlights: The Acinger olive oil mill and tasting room, one of the finest spots to understand authentic Dalmatian olive oil production; the Monument to the Biokovo Woman, a tribute to the historical resilience of local women; and the Church of the Immaculate Conception, tucked quietly in the hills.
Note: The trail crosses the D8 coastal road between Drašnice and Podgora, take care at this junction, particularly in summer.
Best combined with: A longer trip along the Riviera: Drašnice is also a short drive from Igrane and Živogošće, where the Franciscan monastery is worth a separate visit.
4. Mlinice hike by the mill — scenic and relaxing
Distance: 4.6 km
Total ascent: 189 m
Duration: ~2 h
Difficulty: Easy
The Mlinice hike is a short, scenic trail perfect for beginners or for days when you want the mountain without the mountain’s full demands. Starting from the Podgora waterfront, the route follows a path carved by seasonal water flows descending from Biokovo, leading past historic stone mills and small mountain streams.
The trail joins a wide gravel path with views over Old Village Podgora before a gentle descent returns you to the coast for a final walk along the fragrant seafront. It’s one of those routes that earns its beauty quietly, nothing dramatic, but nothing forgettable either.
Best combined with: A coffee in Old Village Podgora before the descent, or a short drive to Makarska for the afternoon.
5. Podgora Trail Run — athletic and dynamic
Distance: 13.7 km
Total ascent: 465 m
Duration: ~1h 45 min
Difficulty: Challenging, best for runners
For those who prefer the mountain at pace, the Podgora Trail Run is the Riviera’s most dynamic circuit. Starting with an asphalt warm-up to the Seagull’s Wings Monument, the course transitions to rugged singletracks and undulating gravel toward Troje Gomile, then drops back to the coast. The second half runs along the shoreline before a steep, mixed-surface climb reaches Old Village Podgora at the highest point, followed by an exhilarating descent back to the start.
Along the way, the course passes lavender fields, the Acinger olive oil estate, and old stone hamlets that feel a world away from the beach below. Makarska and Tučepi are both within a few minutes’ drive should you need supplies or want to extend the day.
Trail running tip: The karst surface is technical and sharp; trail shoes with good grip are essential. Start early to avoid both the heat and the summer coastal traffic.
Tips for a safe journey beneath the peaks
Footwear is everything: Leave smooth-soled city shoes behind. The Biokovo karst is sharp and unforgiving; proper hiking boots or trail shoes are a must.
Hydration is key: Even in spring and autumn, the sun reflecting off white limestone drains energy quickly. Carry at least 2 litres per person.
Start early: The best light for photography and the most comfortable temperatures are in the early morning hours.
Check locally: The Podgora tourist office maintains updated trail condition reports throughout the season. Offices in Makarska, Tučepi, and Igrane can also help with local trail information.
