Vis | Croatian Island of Adventures

Vis is the most outlying of the Central Dalmatian Islands. Wild and unspoiled, it has a rocky, indented coastline, rugged hills, and fields planted with vineyards and olive groves. The island’s two main settlements are Vis Town on the north coast and Komiža on the western coast.

Vis was first settled by the Ancient Greeks, who were attracted by its safe harbors and fertile interior. Later, in the 20th century, as part of Yugoslavia, the island was a military naval base. Since foreigners could not visit the island, tourism did not develop. Still today, you will find that the island is relatively undeveloped and is visited mainly by yachting crews.

Climate

The island enjoys a Mediterranean climate, similar to most of the islands on the Dalmatian coast. In summer, temperatures often rise above 75 degrees Fahrenheit. During the summer, the Mistral winds cool the air.

Things to See and Do | Activities for the Adventurous

With its untouched landscapes, historic charm, and delectable gastronomy, Vis promises an unforgettable journey for the discerning traveler.

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving enthusiasts will find Vis, Croatia, to be a haven for underwater exploration. The island has a variety of popular dive sites. The crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea around Vis offer diverse marine life, underwater caves, and historic wrecks.

Here are some of the top scuba diving sites to explore in Vis:

Blue Cave

A must-visit underwater wonder, the Blue Cave is famous for its mesmerizing blue light. The cave’s entrance is submerged. Once inside, divers are treated to an otherworldly experience as the sunlight creates an intense blue glow within the cave.

Green Cave

Another captivating cave, the Green Cave is known for its emerald-green waters. Divers can explore the cave’s interior and witness the play of light and shadows on the underwater rock formations.

Stiniva Cove

Stiniva Cove is home to stunning underwater landscapes, including impressive rock formations and a diverse array of marine life. The cove is surrounded by cliffs, creating a unique underwater environment to explore.

Jabuka Pit

For more experienced divers, Jabuka Pit offers a challenging and exciting dive. This underwater sinkhole is known for strong currents and deep depths.

Tito’s Cave

Named after Yugoslavia’s former leader, Tito’s Cave is an intriguing underwater cave with a wide entrance. Divers can explore the cave’s interior and observe the marine life that inhabits the area.

Military Tunnel

Vis Island also has a network of military tunnels dating back to World War II. Divers can explore these tunnels, discovering remnants of the island’s wartime history while navigating through the underwater passages.

Hiking on Vis Island

Vis boasts a network of well-marked trails for hikers of all levels. Here are a few of the most popular trails:

Mount Hum

For those seeking a more challenging hike, Mount Hum stands as the highest peak on Vis. The ascent to the summit rewards hikers with panoramic views of the entire island, neighboring islets, and the Adriatic.

The journey to the top takes you through lush forests, and the summit offers a serene setting for a well-deserved rest.

Komiza to Stiniva Cove

One of the most picturesque hikes on Vis is the trail from Komiza to Stiniva Cove. This coastal walk takes you through charming villages, vineyards, and olive groves before descending to the iconic Stiniva Cove. The cove’s secluded beach and turquoise waters make for a perfect spot to relax before the return journey.

WWII Military Trails

Vis has a rich history, and hiking enthusiasts can explore the island’s WWII military trails. These paths lead to hidden bunkers, tunnels, and vantage points that showcase Vis’s strategic importance during the war.

Gastronomy

Vis has a long history of making fine wines. The island produces the white wine, Vugava, and the red, Plavac. It is also known for rogac (carob), used to make rakija (a potent spirit, drunk as a digestive). You’ll find an excellent selection of restaurants in Vis offering traditional local fare and seafood, Mediterranean, European, and vegetarian dishes.

Try the local specialty, Viška Pogača (a savory pie filled with onion, tomato, and salted anchovies).

Dine on authentic Dalmatian seafood at Villa Kaliopa in Vis Town or Konoba Bako in Komiza.