Variation of a holiday by the sea
Above the Croatian town of Drvenik is a lookout point with the remains of a historic fortress. The fortress can be reached either by a longer but easier way along the road, or by a not very well marked shorter and more demanding path. We chose a shorter path along the trail. The distance is about 4 km, however, in the local heat the road is quite busy.
We're climbing
After some time we waded through the tall grass and thorny thickets, we came to a small chapel with a nice view.
Nature
The local nature is diverse. The path is lined not only with pines and olive trees, but also oaks, lots of thorny shrubs and large junipers.
St. Jure
We connected to the road right next to the church with the cemetery.
Refreshment?
Above the church we discovered a place where it was possible to get drinking water (so-called drinking water). Unfortunately, it probably ran out, because we only got a few drops from the tap.
Prospects
Fortunately, we had plenty of water and could enjoy beautiful views of the sea and the island of Hvar.
Target in sight
To the great „enthusiasm“ we see that another ascent awaits us at the destination.
History of the fortress
The first mention of the Gradina fortress dates back to 1000 BC. However, the fortress is known mainly from 1687. In that year, the local Drvenice women defended the fortress against the Turks, because their men were also at war with the Turks. Gradina Fortress resisted for a long time and the Turks already wanted to retreat. As soon as they found out that there were only women in the fort, they gathered their strength, recharged the fort, and took all 80 women into slavery.
View of Drvenik
From this place we have the town of Drvenik in the palm of your hand. We can also see the island of Hvar and even the ferry that runs there from Drvenik.
Prospects
On the other side you can see the town of Gornja Vala. And all this at the foot of the beautiful Biokovo mountains.