Mljet National Park Hiking Tour

Our review of the Mljet National Park Hiking Tour offers a detailed look at an experience that promises a blend of spectacular scenery, cultural heritage, and outdoor activity. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trek, the detailed descriptions and traveler feedback paint a compelling picture for those seeking an authentic taste of Croatia’s “green island.”

What we love most about this tour are two key elements: first, the stunning vistas from Montokuc Hill, which truly give you a sweeping perspective of the entire park and beyond; second, the chance to explore the historic St. Mary’s Islet, with its 12th-century Benedictine monastery, adding a layer of cultural richness to the outdoor adventure.

A potential consideration? The tour’s physical demands and length (4 hours) mean it’s best suited for those in good shape and comfortable with a fair bit of walking and some uphill hiking. This isn’t a relaxed stroll but a reasonably energetic outing.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a combination of nature, history, and active exploration—ideal for those who enjoy seeing a place on foot and love discovering stories behind historic sites. If you’re looking for a way to connect with Croatia’s lush landscapes and heritage, this tour offers a meaningful, well-rounded experience.

Key Points

• Panoramic views from Montokuc Hill provide a stunning perspective of the entire park and surrounding islands.
• Cultural highlights include the 12th-century Benedictine Monastery on St. Mary’s Islet.
• Varied experiences include hiking, boat rides, and swimming in vibrant lakes.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local knowledge and history.
• Excellent value for the price of $106, considering transportation, guided insights, and multiple highlights.
• Ideal for active travelers in good physical condition who enjoy outdoor adventures and cultural sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Mljet National Park Hiking Tour

Starting Point: Pomena and Meeting Your Guide

Your journey begins in Pomena, a charming seaside village on Mljet’s western coast. Meeting your licensed local guide in front of the Hotel Odisej, you’ll get a quick briefing and a chance to ask questions about what’s ahead. The small group setting, especially with a private group option, means you’ll receive personalized attention and the chance to tailor your experience a bit.

The Hike to Veliki Gradac Hill

From the outset, the hike takes you through dense holm oak and Aleppo pine forests—the defining vegetation that earned Mljet its nickname as the “green island.” The trail is well-marked and meanders gently through shaded areas, providing relief from sun and heat, making it accessible even for those with moderate fitness levels. As you ascend towards Veliki Gradac Hill, the views gradually open up, giving glimpses of the lakes and coastline below.

The highlight here is the view of the lakes, which appear so close you might think you could reach out and touch them. Several travelers have commented on the “stunning” vistas from this point, describing it as a moment where the natural beauty feels almost surreal.

Reaching Montokuc Hill for a Panoramic Outlook

The climb culminates at Montokuc Hill (253 meters), where you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view. From this vantage point, you’ll see the entire Mljet National Park, the Peljeac Peninsula, and distant islands like Korula and Lastovo. This is the perfect spot for photos—trust us, your camera or smartphone will be working overtime here.

Guides often point out the various landmarks visible from this height and share stories about the island’s formation and ecological significance. This perspective helps you appreciate just how green and lush Mljet truly is, with its dense forests and shimmering lakes.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Lakes on a Boat

Descending from Montokuc, you’ll reach the shoreline of the Great Lake—a freshwater body that feels more like an inland sea. Here, your guide will take you on a short boat ride across the lake, an experience that feels like sailing through a forest of green, with towering trees lining the shores.

Traveler reviews frequently mention how peaceful and beautiful this boat journey is, offering a close-up view of the lake’s crystal-clear waters. It’s also a good opportunity to relax after the hike and soak in the scenery from another perspective.

St. Mary’s Islet and the Benedictine Monastery

Next, you’ll hop onto a small boat to visit St. Mary’s Islet, home to a 12th-century Benedictine Monastery. The monastery’s history is fascinating—enlarged during the Dubrovnik Republic era, later converted into a hotel during Yugoslav times, and now standing as a monument to medieval architecture amidst lush greenery.

This site offers a blend of religious history and picturesque setting. Many visitors highlight the tranquil atmosphere and the chance to stand where monks once prayed. It’s a gentle yet profound reminder of the island’s long-standing cultural significance.

Swimming and Relaxation

After exploring the monastery, the tour includes time for a swim in the lakes’ emerald waters—a favorite among travelers for its refreshing and vividly colored waters. The lakes’ calm, turquoise waters are perfect for a quick dip, and many find the experience both invigorating and relaxing.

Wrapping Up

The tour concludes with a return boat ride to Pomena, where you’ll have time to reflect on the day’s highlights and perhaps plan your next Croatian adventure. The entire experience, from hiking to sightseeing and swimming, offers a well-balanced mix of outdoor activity, scenic beauty, and cultural discovery.

What Travelers Can Expect

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, who do an excellent job of narrating the history, geology, and ecology of Mljet. One traveler even mentioned, “Our guide was so knowledgeable; I learned more about the island’s formation and history than I ever expected.” The guides’ insights make the experience more meaningful, giving context to the stunning visuals.

The views from Montokuc are frequently described as breathtaking—“it felt like standing on top of the world,” one traveler remarked. The lakes themselves are a major draw, with their vivid blue-green waters and tranquil atmosphere. The boat ride and visit to the monastery add a layer of cultural depth, making this more than just a hike.

Practical Considerations and Price Value

At $106 per person, the value is notable when you consider the guided experience, boat rides, and access to unique sites. The tour lasts about four hours, making it suitable for a morning or afternoon outing. It does require good physical condition—the terrain is uneven and involves some uphill walking—so it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children.

The tour includes a licensed guide and some logistical elements, but you’ll need to bring your own food, snacks, water, and sun protection. Entrance fees to the park are not included, which is typical, but worth factoring into your budget.

The Sum Up

This Mljet National Park Hiking Tour offers an excellent blend of nature, history, and physical activity. It’s especially appealing to travelers who want to see the best of Mljet’s lakes and panoramic vistas without spending an entire day on the island. The combination of hiking, boating, and cultural sites makes it a well-rounded experience that delivers on both scenic beauty and storytelling.

If you enjoy active outdoor adventures with a cultural twist, this tour will suit you. The knowledgeable guides and stunning viewpoints ensure you leave with lasting impressions—and plenty of photos to prove it.

However, it’s best for those in good physical condition and who appreciate moderate hiking in scenic environments. It might be less suitable if you prefer a very relaxed, leisurely afternoon or have mobility restrictions.

The tour provides solid value, immersive experiences, and a real chance to connect with Mljet’s unique landscape and heritage. It’s a great choice for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone eager for an authentic Croatian adventure.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity suitable for most travelers.

What is the starting point?
You meet your guide in front of the main entrance of Hotel Odisej in Pomena, on the western tip of Mljet Island.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not really—it’s recommended for those over 14 years old in good physical condition due to the hiking involved.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), food and snacks, water, comfortable clothes, hiking shoes, and a daypack. A charged smartphone is also useful.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Guides speak both English and French, offering flexibility for international travelers.

Are the boat rides included?
Yes, the boat rides across the lakes and to the monastery are part of the tour.

Is parking available?
The tour starts in Pomena, near the hotel, so you’ll want to check local parking options, but the meeting point is easily accessible.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your planning.

In essence, whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a history buff, or simply craving some of Croatia’s most striking scenery, this Mljet National Park hiking tour offers a memorable taste of the island’s natural and cultural treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: