Municipality of Smokvica: Pošip, Trails and Coast

Pošip and Wine Country

Pošip originated in the hills of Smokvica. More than 150 years ago, the grape variety was discovered in the fields below the settlement on Pinćaluš Hill. It is Croatia’s first legally protected white wine. Smokvica and neighbouring Čara form the most important Pošip wine-growing area; most vineyard work there is traditionally done by hand. This connection between origin and cultivation makes the wine a special way to discover local history.

Numerous local wineries offer wine tastings. If you are planning a tasting, check the latest dates in advance. Brna’s history is also connected to wine: in the 19th century, the settlement developed into a port through which wine from Smokvica was transported to other destinations along the coast.

Trails Between Vineyards and the Bay

There are numerous walking trails in the Smokvica and Brna area, winding through olive groves and vineyards. The Smokvica panoramic trail starts in front of the main church of Gospa od Kandelora and climbs towards St. Rok. Along the way, panoramic views open up over vineyards and the sea. A short climb from Smokvica also leads to the church of Sveti Mihovil, which offers views over vineyards, olive groves and the sea.

In Brna, the Lungo Mare trail is five kilometres long and leads to the Veliki Zaglav viewpoint. From there, panoramic views stretch across Brna Bay and the nearby islets. Another trail runs from Smokvica to Brna and then on to Istruga Bay. There you’ll find a sandy beach surrounded by reeds; the bay is fringed by Aleppo pine and holm oak forest.

There are also cycling routes of varying lengths: the Trail of Pošip is 12.2 kilometres long and takes 1.5 hours. The Roman Era cycling route starts in Smokvica and is 61 kilometres long. Comparing the two can help with planning your day if you prefer a shorter ride or a considerably longer route.

Churches, History and Kumpanija

Several churches offer a glimpse into the area’s long history. Sveti Mihovil was built in 1372 on a hill above Smokvica. The church of Sveti Ivan Krstitelj was built in 1391 above the Siknica (Sitnica) field, near the Studenac pond. Sveti Vid was built in 1420 on the summit of Marca Vrh Hill near Siknica. The church of Sveti Ciprijan, in the village cemetery, dates from the 5th or 6th century.

Next to the parish church of Smokvica stands a 17th-century Venetian loggia. The settlement also contains the remains of the walls of the Illyrian fortress of Gradina; remains of ancient Greek wine presses can also be found in the Smokvica area. Major battles against Turkish conquerors took place at the site known as “Krvava ropa” in Smokvica. Kumpanija, an old knightly sword dance from Smokvica, recalls battles against attackers in its tradition.

Choosing the Right Location

Smokvica lies 130 metres above sea level and offers views of the surrounding hills, vineyards and sea. If you want to focus on trails, winemaking and historic sites, you might consider staying in Smokvica. Brna offers a different focus: the Lungo Mare trail, views of the bay and the route to Istruga Bay take centre stage. When choosing your holiday apartment, it’s worth first considering which of these landscapes and experiences you want to shape your holiday.

Discover more destinations: Municipality of Lastovo, Municipality of Dubrovnik, Municipality of Ploče, Municipality of Pojezerje, Municipality of Konavle, Municipality of Metković, Municipality of Opuzen.

Go to the main travel overview: Dubrovnik-Neretva County.