There are several ways to reach the fascinating Blaca Monastery: hiking, by car, by boat, or by bicycle. However, a portion of the journey will always require walking along an old gravel path, so appropriate footwear and preparation are necessary.
No matter which option you choose, be sure to come prepared. Wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and carry snacks to keep your energy levels high. Capture the moments along the way, as the journey itself is as remarkable as the destination.
Below, we will list all the options and provide detailed explanations of the best and easiest ways to reach Blaca.
1. Getting to Blaca by car (the easiest way)
Start your journey on the main road connecting Supetar and Bol. This well-travelled road serves as the gateway to your adventure.
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About halfway along the route, keep an eye out for an intersection (location on Google Maps) to Vidova Gora, the highest peak of the island.
As you follow the well-maintained asphalt road that winds its way to the top of Vidova Gora, after approximately 1000 meters, you'll reach another intersection (Google Maps). This time, you'll spot a helpful brown sign guiding you to turn right towards Blaca. However, be aware that Google Maps may be useful up until this point.
The road has recently undergone renovation and improvements. So, from here on, trust your sense of adventure and road signs rather than relying too heavily on technology.
Continue your journey along the pleasant drive for another 5 kilometres. This part of the route unveils the island's raw beauty, as you meander through picturesque landscapes. Stay alert for a small sign indicating a right turn towards Blaca.
This is your cue to transition onto a gravel road that leads to the old and abandoned village of Dragovode and your designated parking area.
The parking area is marked on Google Maps, but do not rely on Google for direct instructions on how to get there as you may get lost on the narrow gravel roads of the island.
Once you have parked your car, continue on foot along the old path to Blaca, which appears to be a relatively steep downhill slope for a distance of 1.5 kilometres.
2. On Foot, by Bicycle or ATV (quad bike) from Bol
If you're in Bol and up for a challenge, lace up your sturdy footwear and set off on the Via Brattia trail.
This captivating circular route will lead you through the charming village of Murvica, to Vela Farska Bay and finally Blaca Bay.
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From there, you continue with a moderately demanding ascent that takes about 45 minutes to Blaca Monastery.
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It's a rewarding adventure for those seeking a true outdoor experience.
3. Hiking from Nerežišća or Vidova Gora
Blaca Hermitage can also be reached from the quaint town of Nerežišća or the majestic Vidova Gora, the highest peak of the island.
These routes offer unique perspectives and delightful surprises along the way. Choose your starting point, follow the signs, and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the island.
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It's a journey that will leave you breathless in more ways than one.
4. By Boat
Anchoring in the tranquil waters of Blaca Bay sets the stage for an enchanting experience. From there, simply follow the old gravel path on foot.
The path itself is not demanding, but it's essential to wear appropriate footwear and carry provisions like food and water.
The leisurely walk will take approximately 45 minutes, allowing you to soak up the peaceful ambience and prepare for the wonders that await you at Blaca.
Blaca dos and don’ts
- do wear appropriate hiking footwear and clothing
- don’t wear sandals or flip-flops
- do bring enough water with you, there are no food or beverages available to purchase there
- do prepare for an outdoor adventure, as Blaca is a secluded destination that has not been developed into a conventional tourist attraction. However, it is precisely in this unspoiled state that its charm lies.
- don’t forget to check the working hours and prices for the museum
- do take cash to buy museum tickets, the view from the outside is beautiful but the guided inside tour is fascinating
- do respect the history and heritage and the efforts of the people who work hard on the restoration of Blaca
- don’t go there just to post a photo on Instagram or any other social media try to experience the true Blaca
Is Blaca Monastery worth visiting?
Blaca Hermitage is a remote and hard-reaching site but it has a great and unique cultural and natural value. It is an absolute gem that deserves a spot on your bucket list.
The history of Blaca starts in the 16th century in a cave where monks, refugees from the Turkish conquests, found a shelter that was given to them by the Brač Duke.
In just a few hundred years, the priests turned the stone desert into one of the strongest economies in the Mediterranean producing wine, olive oil and honey. In 1781, they bought the largest merchant ship in the Mediterranean.
Blaca Monastery is not just a testament to the past; it also offers a glimpse into the lives of the monks who once inhabited this sanctuary. They built a monastery, a school, a library, and even a printing press and an observatory with the second-largest telescope in Europe.
