The island of Vis in Winter

RELAX, ENJOY AND FEEL THE NATURE

Winter on Vis is a very peaceful time. The island is like a well-kept secret ready to be discovered. There are a lot of those cozy, intimate feels all around as the island cools down and most tourists leave.

With that in mind, this place is just perfect for anyone who loves long, leisurely walks, quiet beaches, wonderful sunrises and sunsets, local get togethers and with that the chance to connect with all the local community.

We would not say that the temperatures are low as they average around 10-15°C/50-59°F or higher, but you get many sunny days and days are just warm enough for a light jacket. The sea remains a deep blue and warm, although only the bravest may take a dip! Today’s sea temperature (Nov 14th) is 18°C. Even if swimming isn’t on the agenda, the coastal scenery is a year-round marvel and kayaking, boat trips, wind-surfing, scuba-diving are still the things to do in the sea.

Restaurants Open in Winter

While many places close for the season, a handful of local restaurants stay open, focusing on hearty, seasonal, and traditional Croatian dishes:

  • Konoba Vatrica: A warm, rustic spot often open in the colder months, serving homemade stews, grilled fish, and seasonal produce.
  • Pojoda: Famous for traditional Dalmatian recipes, you’ll find dishes like peka (slow-cooked meat or seafood) here, perfect for a chilly evening.
  • Robinzon: Best for just everything in Komiža, they are a place to go. Great family restaurant that you will feel as at home.
  • Roki’s: Known for their peka as well, they might remain open on weekends or by reservation in winter. This could be a good choice if you’re looking for a unique meal shared with locals.

What to Eat Now

Winter is all about hearty dishes, focusing on what the island can provide naturally. Seasonal treats to look for include:

  • Local Fish Stews: With fresh-caught fish or shellfish, spiced just right, these stews warm you up.
  • Peka: A traditional Croatian “under-the-bell” dish, where meat or seafood is slow-cooked over hot coals for hours. Many locals prepare peka with lamb, veal, or octopus.
  • Wild Greens and Olive Oil: Winter is the olive harvest season, so you’ll find delicious new oils available.

Winter Activities

Winter on Vis is all about savoring the natural beauty and a slower pace:

  1. Hiking: Explore trails like those around Stiniva Bay or Mount Hum, with panoramic views and fewer people. Vis island
  2. Historical Sites: The Greek and Roman ruins, Tito’s Cave, and the island’s old forts are open for wandering and feel even more mystical without the summer crowds.
  3. Wine Tasting: Visiting local wineries such as Lipanović or Plancic to sample Vis’ native wines can be a cozy, enjoyable way to learn more about the island’s flavors.
  4. Sea Caves: For the truly adventurous, winter offers an ethereal experience in the Blue Cave. Winter light illuminates the water beautifully, and if the weather allows, it’s a quiet, surreal experience.

The island’s tranquility, culinary depth, and cultural heritage create an atmosphere that many find irresistible in the off-season. Do you think that would be the time to come?

Is it better to take relaxed or adventurous holidays?

Days are starting to get longer, and we are slowly coming to very hot weather. And I know that you will start thinking to the prospect of taking time off. A quick trip to a seaside town or a week of adventure to Croatia is always a good idea.

If you’re yet to book a break this year, have you considered coming to Croatia? The island of Vis?

Anyhow, whatevery you want to do, are you the one wanting to plan every second of your escape or are you keeping it casual?

Some people prefer to have their entire itinerary planned out down to the minute. From the moment the plane lands they’re hitting each item with pinpoint accuracy. Two hours in the art museum – no less, no more! Others prefer to take it easy, just turning up with a vague idea of what to do, going wherever their impulses take them.

The notion of a holiday trip means different things to different people. Is there a definitive best way to do them?

To chill or to fill the days?

According to a study comparing holiday preferences throughout 17 different countries, just under two thirds of people prefer a trip where they can “relax and take it easy”. In contrast, the other third prefer an active holiday where they do lots of things, with the remainder having no preference.

There was no difference in preferences between the genders, but age definitely does play a part. Teenagers are the most likely to want active trips, with a steady trend towards older folk preferring the relaxed style of travel. There’s then a slight reversal with more 60+ respondents liking to get active again.

Hardly a massive surprise; those of working age want to relax during their precious time off from work, and those with more spare time (kids and retired folks) like to liven things up a little.

There’s an interesting split between countries. Spain, France and Italy have a higher proportion of adventure-seeking folk than others, while Japan and South Korea have the higher propensity to chill while away.

You could infer something about the working cultures of each – I’m thinking siestas and lazing in the sunshine contrasted with high-tech economies and workers sleeping under their desks. I’m sure there’s a less stereotypical, more scientifically rigorous way of explaining the differences, though.

Wherever you’re from, it seems there’s no definite answer. But we can be a bit more conscious about how we do things on holiday.

Move around or just sit down?

A study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health investigated whether or not physical activity affected the wellbeing of tourists visiting the Austrian Alps. It found that compared to a sedentary holiday, people’s reported wellbeing was indeed higher after taking part in physical activity outdoors.

It’s hard to fully control the outcomes of experiments like this as ‘wellbeing’ means different things to different people. Also, this particular study didn’t look at the circumstances people were coming from – ie. if they were in a stressful job, or peacefully retired.

The study found that all holidays improved wellbeing, but the ones with physical exercise improved it more. Getting out there into the Alpine countryside should lift anyone’s mood, but getting the blood pumping seems to have a more profound effect.

The power of Active Rest

But when we do find time to rest, are we resting properly?

We talk about returning to work ‘rejuvenated’ and ready to get back into things after a nice holiday, but we don’t often consider what this actually entails.

Dr. Matthew Edlund suggests redefining our understanding of rest. Writing in his book The Power of Rest, he splits it into four core types:

Mental rest means focusing intelligently on your environment in a way that’s rejuvenating. Techniques of mental rest give you the ability to obtain calm and relaxed concentration quickly and effectively and to become relaxed and focused anytime and anywhere. Mental rest allows for greater concentration, awareness, and achievement.

Social rest means using the power of social connectedness to relax and rejuvenate.

Spiritual rest is the practice of connecting with things larger and greater than ourselves, which provides fellowship and meaning in life-factors people hunger for like food.

Physical rest, by focusing your body and its simplest physiological processes, provokes calm, relaxation, mental alertness, and surprisingly better health.

These are the principles of active rest, and are clearly more than just sitting around doing nothing.

If we plan our trips away to cover as much of these as possible, it should improve our chances of coming back in tip-top condition.

Mindset and life circumstances can affect how we travel. If you’re confident you’ll have the means to travel again in future, you might not be so desperate to see the sights all in one go; but if you’ve been saving for a while to afford the trip of a lifetime, you’re going to want to seize every moment of it without stopping to rest.

Taking a family on a holiday brings a whole different set of challenges. With kids in tow, you’re going to have to think tactically about what to do. Can one parent take a day away to chill at the spa? Is it worth paying a bit more for childcare for some of your trip? I’m sure some many parents have come up with creative solutions to ensure everyone has a good time.

Whatever your circumstances, there’s opportunity to both have a good time and come back in peak condition. You could fit in time to laze around on a beach, hike around a forest, have some drinks, dance the night away, and see some sights.

One thing’s for sure – if you have the chance to go on holiday, do it. Just make sure you know what you’re getting yourself in for.

How many reasons do you need to visit Vis island?

IMAGINE YOURSELF ON A HOLIDAY, COCKTAIL IN HAND, WHILE WE THINK OF EVERYTHING FOR YOU?

If you are right now sitting in your office wondering what you should do next summer and why you should visit Croatia and in particular Vis island, let me write you our top three amazing reasons to force you on to book your holidays with us NOW:

1. The whole Island of Vis is thing to see

Yes, that is true and we are so proud of that. The sheer diversity of the Vis offers you so many choices. Apart from the standard visit to the Blue Cave on BiševoIsland, why not do a kayak trip to the Stiniva cove, voted to be the most beautiful beach in Europe in 2016.

But wait, there is no telephone signal there, so nobody is going to be able to call you in for a quick meeting or a make a work related short question.

If none of this is on your bucket list, how about then just having a glass of homemade wine on the Teplus beach on the southern side of the island, where time has stopped.

Or watching the sunset from the highest mountain of Hum and seeing the fishing town of Komiža down below.

Or walking all the way to Stončica light house where it is the End of the World.

Doing maybe the Green cave jump from the rocks.

Or discovering the military tunnels underground?

If you would prefer something a bit more gentle, why don’t you visit one of our many wine cellars where locals will give you lots of wine to taste and eat the best »Under the bell« »PEKA« dish.

You will be soaking up all the spectacular things that this island has to offer.

2. Finish 2020 and Start 2021 on a high note (after all those things with the virus happening to us….)

Booking a summer trip of 2021 will bring you something to hope for and you will be the one going to have the best summer holidays ever with no exception. I promise! We have all the ingredients for a perfect holiday – great nature, responsible culture, stunning scenery, special food places, great wine and so many things to do.

3. Culinary delights

Vis island is noted for its food. Under the Bell dish has been recognised by the numerous travellers awarding it somehow a special status. And with such a strong reputation you will be tasting is for sure. And with such a strong reputation for our wines, you won’t be surprised that you will be trying them all. With miles and miles of beautiful coastline we’re also famous for our fresh fish and seafood.

Come and taste it all. Call me on +385919058410 or WhatsApp me or send me and email on reservation@viscovery.hr and I will help you find the best holidays idea for you, your friends and your family.

Why should everyone take a summer vacation?

Thinking of you summer vacation? If yes, all good, if no, well, start thinking!

I know, I get it. You are busy. You work a lot. You spend time with your family. And this times right now doesn’t always leave time for travel.

But, believe me, there is always time to travel if you commit to making it priority. Also, when is a better time to travel than in Summer?

Summer is reminiscent of fun in the sun; kids are out of school and it’s this halfway through the year that you really are in need of a few days off.

Think about:

  • Relieving stress:

Look all of us need a short break from our responsibilities at work or school. Summer is the perfect time of the year to take a relaxing vacation and reset your batteries. Whether you’re eyeing a beach getaway or your favorite national park, a summer vacation is a great reason to read a good book, relax your mind and take a well-deserved break.

  • Boost creativity:

New settings and new experiences often lead to new perspectives. So, it’s no surprise that we often come up with our best ideas away from the office. Summer vacations are the perfect way to inject some creative thinking in your life at a time when you may be feeling stretched thin.

  • Be more productive:

After resetting during your summer vacation, you are more likely to feel ready to tackle your work day. Short vacations often lead to increased productivity when you get back to school or your workplace because of lower stress levels, increased creativity, new perspectives, etc.

  • Spend time with family:

Students are out of school, parents are ready for a break, the weather is begging you to spend time together outdoors – summer vacations are the perfect time for family bonding. Spending time with your friends and family is a huge reason why you should be taking a summer vacation.

  • Get outdoors:

Summer time is a time for fun in the sun. Whether you prefer relaxing on a beach, hiking in the wilderness or any other outdoor activity, summer vacations are the perfect time of the year to enjoy everything the outdoors has to offer.

So take time out of your busy schedule and go on that summer vacation. You most certainly deserve it! But before you do on that summer adventure, browse our selection today for your very own travel notebook!

Why Activity during the Holidays matters and how you can be happy doing it?

We all need more time spent together and more activity in our lifestyles in general. 60 minutes routine daily will bring you to a lifetime of good health. It not only means time well spent but it is also time away from work, daily tasks and away from the television and all the things that consume your free time. Of course, it is hard to resist the glow of the TV screens, but time for the physical activity really matters.

You know that having active lifestyle will help you on a long-term basis and the physical and mental health will improve with just a small daily active task, but many of us are not physically active at all. Routines just swallow us down during the normal working days. So taking the time to do some activity at least during the holidays will help you with so many things when going back to work and going back to the normal daily life.

Here are twelve practical answers of why it would be best to spend at least a week yearly having active holidays.

1.       You will see places from a new perspective – just imagine looking at the Green cave on RavnikIsland next ToRukavac not from the boat but with your own mask, snorkel and fins. Or climbing up the Hum Mountain and having breath-taking views for the sunset.

2.       Your will reinvigorate and remember, you do not need to be an experienced mountain biker to enjoy the world and experience its health benefits at the same time.

3.       You will not be panicking of what you will dress for dinner, as your meals will be usually with a relaxed atmosphere.

4.       You will plan your active holiday in advance and nothing will surprise you. You will have enough time for not having the reason to skip the activity.

5.       You will never work out on an empty stomach or starved, as on the holidays they will mostly cook for you. Remember, your body “craves” sugar mostly when it is hungry.

6.        You will be able to decide what activity suites you best and start doing it with a smile on your face.

7.       Most of the activities are done earlier in the day, so they will have the effect through the rest of the day. Your metabolism will thank you for the workout (even if just a walk around the village watching the sunset). (Let’s not forget, going for a sunrise yoga on the rocks looking over the open sea on the Vis Island will increase your metabolism for the rest of the day.)

8.       Doing some activities during the day will mean burning the calories also at rest, let say while reading the book under the pine trees and enjoying the glass of well-deserved wine in the afternoon.

9.       You will experience something new and the choice of activities is only limited to your imagination – new excitement and mystery will be on its way. Incredible experiences will motivate you to go and to something more. You will be amazed of how wonderful you will feel inspiring those of you around you. Recalling how you walked to your best sunset place and had an amazing massage afterwards.

10.   The Victorious VIScovery team will bring some excitement to your usual travel experience – what is more, you can always decide any length and level of adventure – it is totally up to you.

11.   You will challenge yourself – you can step out of your comfort zone and decide how far you can really go. Nothing compares to seeing the dolphins just next to your kayak in the bay of Budihovac on Vis Island.

12.   You will make memories. And those will be long lasting memories filled with pride and happiness and a little bit of feeling of achievement.

Why not make the reservation now and let us help you have the best relaxingly active holidays. Send me an email on reservation@viscovery.hr or call me on +385919058410.

Top ten things that will sparkle your joy when you are on the island of Vis in Croatia

The island of Vis is a bit over a two-hour ferry ride from the mainland. Please, do not come over here just to see the Blue Cave on the island of Biševo next to Komiža town. I would like to tell you that there is so much more to discover and so many things to be done and so many foods to taste. If you decide to come here by yourself and don’t need my help, here are my top ten ideas of what to see and do over here. If you need more information or want me as your personal guide, send me and email on  reservation@viscovery.hr

Top 10 things

1. Visit Vis town

To fully experience Vis, do the walk from Prirovo peninsula and then all the way to the beach of Grandovac next to Češka Vila.

Vis is the oldest inhabited town in Croatia. It was in the 4th century BC that Greeks founded the colony with the name Issa. Most of it was built where is today the peninsula of Prirovo with some of the remains from that era. Continuing to the main town there are many recognizable architectural monuments from different parts of the history. The walk is going to take you about two hours and will bring you all the way to Kut part of the Vis town, where you are going to find some of the best restaurants. Take a swim on the beach of Grandovac and watch the sunset with a glass of local Vugava wine.

2. Visit St George Fortress

It was in 1866 that smaller Austrian fleet under the Admiral Tegetthoff attacked the larger Italian fleet and Austrians won the famous so called Battle of Issa. When the long Austrian Empire rule started (all the way until 1914) and British built what is today called the Fort George Fortress. After the second war it was soon to be forgotten if it was not for the international company that has restored and did some conservation work and transformed the fort into and event space with music, art and cuisine. Many weddings happen there every summer and some of the best sunsets are in fact up here.

3. Hike up (or drive up) the mountain Hum

The road will take you almost to the top and Hum is the highest elevation point in Vis island with 587 metres (1,926 ft). You will not be able to get to the top as there is a military radar station there and the civilians are not allowed, but a short walk to the hill to the right, St Andria with the small church still practicing religious ceremonies and amazing views all over the Adriatic Sea and the town of Komiža. Best to view at the sunsets and bring a scarf as it might get chilly up there.

4. Do the Military tunnels tours

There are many kilometers of tunnels built underground after the second WW after the island was closed for tourism and transformed into the military island of Yugoslav army. You will have to take a Military tour as most of the military sites are well hidden. To mention just some of the places to visit: submarine tunnel or the anti-atomic bunker or the tunnel of with the electrical generator are just a few. It is going to take you half of the day to visit some but the tour is so well worth doing. And of course I can take you all around them. Remember, call me on +385919058410 or send me an email on  reservation@viscovery.hr for more information.

5. Take the Blue cave excursion

Blue cave or ModraŠpilja in the local language is stunning natural beauty on the island of Biševo half an hour ride from the town of Komiža. There is a blue light that fills up the cave at some parts of the day when the sun comes in through the underwater entrances. You will not be allowed to swim and you might wait a while to enter with the official boats that will get you in through the artificial hole done in 1884, but it is worth all of the possible trouble. Try to come as early as possibly in the morning. Again, I have the boat and we do those excursions, so let me know if you want to know more about this trip on  reservation@viscovery.hr

6. Walk down or take the boat tour to Stiniva beach

It was voted to be the best beach in Europe in 2016 and as being the inlet it is again, an amazing natural formation formed long time ago having the volcanic origins. This arm of the Sea can only be reached by either hiking down a very steep and narrow path or coming by boat and then swimming in. It is a beach framed by towering cliffs and if coming early in the morning you might have it just to yourself. And there is not mobile signal there, so yes, you will be all alone with your own thoughts (khm… well, before 9:00 am or after 5:00 pm, in between there are quite a number of tourists coming from all over Croatia for a day trip to see this natural beauty.)

7. Kayak to the Green cave

There are two big entrances into the cave that has a smaller hole in the ceiling that when from about midday the sun enters the cave and in the sea forms the fantastic green color. You are allowed to go in swimming. If you care for some cliff jumping, this is the perfect spot to do so. And we have kayaks, we have the personal instructors that can go with you and we will show you some more hidden bays on the way if you decide to come with us. Send me a note on  reservation@viscovery.hr or call me on +385919058410.

8. Visit Srebrna beach

The “Silver beach” is only reachable walking down a path and it is on the southern side of the island of Vis. It has gotten its name from the silver crystal color that is formed from the waves that hit the bigger white pebbles. Those not wanting to enter the sea via pebbles there are flat rocks on part of the beach where people enjoy spending the long wished summer holidays or do the yoga exercises earlier in the morning. It was voted to be the nicest secluded beach in Croatia. Our houses where you could be staying if coming for longer to the island of Vis are the closest possible to this beach.

9. Enjoy Komiža town

It has been proven that the locals from the island of Vis live the longest in Europe. It is not only because of their climate but also because of simplicity of food. The most famous is the “Food under the Bell” or “Ispodpeke” where the local will cook you lamb or veal or fish or octopus or just vegetables for over two hours and with some of the local wine this is going to be your best thing ever. Trying the salty sardines or the pie made with some of the recipes you will want more. You can decide to come and spend Actively-relaxed holiday week with us and we will cook for you all those delicacies and more.

10. Food and drinks and local cuisine in general

With the Church of Our Lady of Pirates overlooking the town, Komiža is one of the nicest fishing villages in the World. In fact, some of the best inventions for fishing come from the people of Komiža, who were one of the best fishermen of the Adriatic region from the long times. Built in the deep bay with many beaches right in town, it is a popular tourist destination.

7 things not to be missed in Komiža town

The town of Komiža is located on the far west side of the island of Vis, at the end of the World. And if searching for the best fishermen in the World, well, come over here and you will find them. People living over here have their own language, a strong dialect that I do not understand a word, but my husband, who is from the Northern Italy does. How come? Well, this goes all the way back to the history where all the trade was mostly done with Venetians and everybody around spoke some sort of their language. The town of Komiža was then self-sufficient and so the language stayed until today.  Luckily, trade also brought other languages around, so no worries, you will be understood.

Coming from the town of Vis (which I should not mention over here as there is a big rivalry going on forever between the towns of Vis and Komiža), you should stop at the viewing point next to the main road and look down. You will see the long pier in between the village and the big church on one side and small houses on the other. The town of about 300 inhabitants during the winter is pretty empty, but they do have all the infrastructure as the real town: the doctors, the kindergarten, the stores, lots of bars where the locals hang out, the municipality, the cinema, the theatre and more.

You could easily spend a day or two just wondering around and doing like the locals do: sit and enjoy the spirit of Komiža. And no no no, locals not only sit, they work hard and apart from tourism fishing is still the number one income maker in this town.

What to go and see in Komiža while you are here?

1. St. Nicholas Church

The St. Nicholas church is on the high hill above Komiža town and is built around the 13th This is today the biggest landmark of the town. St. Nicolas is the patron saint of the city of Komiža and its children and the church has a special name: Muster, which in a local dialect language means monastery. As this was one of the main churches in the town, it was then re-built many times in between 13th and 18th C. when the tower was added. The church was not only the church but also served as a fortress as can still be seen today.

2. Komune of Komiža

Komune of Komiža (Komiška komuna, Kaštel Grimaldi) is just another fortress built during the Venetian republic in between 15th and 18th against the devil Turks and the pirates at that times. In some smaller communities on the Croatian islands the cost of the fortresses was divided among Venice and the local residents but the projects were mostly sent from Venice, which was also the case in Komiža. Komuna was built in the years between 1585 until 1592. The funny part was that at the time of the construction there was a house of the judge on the same spot and he was promised an apartment in the new fortress when it was built. The water well was built inside in the 17th C. and then later in the 19th C. the tower was added and Komuna was served as the public building. In the old times Komuna used to be right at the water lever and it was to the walls that the boats were tight (there are still holes for the ropes to tie the boats).

3. Sea-side promenade

Promenade – If you have not walked at least three times up and down the promenade you have not been to Komiža. You will meet everyone here as it is a gathering place – a living room of the town. The ladies who own the apartments on the first and second floor overlooking the Promenade are the best alarm systems in the World and if you are going to be hanging around for longer, you will start to act just as everyone else. Walk up and down, sit a bit, chat about the daily happenings and then walk up and down a bit more until you meet everyone. You can also sit down for a coffee at some of the popular hangout places, some more for locals and some more for tourists.

4. Walk among the houses to the hotel

The promenade street in between the port and the hotel is another one of those must things to do in Komiža. Stop in some of the local stores and men, you need to go and have an appointment at our famous barber Zoky. A photo with him is a MUST as he just made his child’s wish come true: he always wanted to be a hairdresser for men. You will be sited on the same chair as the famous John Malkovich or Abromovič or Ecclestone. Unfortunately, no place for women there. Phone: +385 98 784 615 for reserving your spot.

5. Beach at Lady the Pirate Church

The beach next to the church of Lady the Pirate is all the way at the end of the Komiža and there is no way out but to turn and go back the way you came. But you can jump into the sea and enjoy the crystal clear waters and a good bar at the old hotel. This is how you can enjoy just another day in the town of Komiža.

6. Kamenice beach

The water well in the beach of Kamenice is all the way under the St. Nicolas church and behind the old Factory. You will find the fresh water coming out of the volcanic rocks and a very nice bar opened during the summer months.

7. Sweets-shop Cukar

A taste of home-made delicious is in the centre of Komiža, just next to “everything”, is the Slasticarnica Cukar. This is a fantastic peace to sweet up your life while on the island of Vis and to taste all those domestic sweets with a personal note. Rosemary chocolate mousse cake or something even more local, like “cviti”, trying this is going to make your day.

Well, come my friends! Let us make memories! Rukavac is waiting for you. Let me tell you more about this beautiful place on the other side of the World. Call me on +385919058410 or send me and email on  reservation@viscovery.hr

7 things to do when staying in Rukavac village on the southern side of the island of Vis

The island of Vis is not one of the biggest island in the Adriatic Sea, but you are going to find so many small places that deserve your visit.

Rukavac village is one of them and we are on the southern side of the island. Rukavac is just 11 km away from Vis town and 17 km from Komiža town.

The village of Rukavac has numerous beaches all around it so, it is a popular place to stay for longer time. Come and stay with us at Victorious Viscovery and we will make sure that we will talk about those place and more. Here is a hint: if you mention a code RUKAVACisTHEbest1 I will be happy to give you 10% discount on anything that you reserve with us up until 31.07.2021. Deal?

Here is the list of activities we are going to do toghether when you come over here:

1. Do morning yoga and meditation on the rocks of Bili Bok

Those flat rocks on the most southern east side of the island of Vis form the spectacular scenery sites “at the end of the World” and offer you some of the best morning views over the Adriatic sea. With the sun rising up from your left you are greeted by the waves hitting the flat rocks of Bili Bok and when you find some shadow behind the cliffs you can immerse yourself into the stretching positions or meditation poses. You will feel the wind blowing and by the time two hours pass you will know what you want to do in the next ten years of your lifetime. Sometimes you will see the dolphins play around the sea right in front of you and you will hear their happiness. If you need any help with yoga lessons, let us know,our yoga instructors Maja, Sara, or Marina can help you with some best yoga private lessons.

2. Snorkel around the cliffs to the left of the Srebrna beach

Just jump into the water and go and swim to the left and you will find lots of fish and octopuses and crabs in those small holes all the way around. Try to touch the sea urchins and find the difference among the ladies and the gentlemen among all those black snowballs around the rocks. Make sure not to step on them. Snorkelling is great also all the way around the peninsula between the Srebrna and the Tepluš beach and to the left of the pier. Snorkelling is just so much fun.

3. Take a kayak and paddle all the way to the Green cave and island of Ravnik

One of the most beautiful sights on the island of Vis and the easiest to reach from the village of Rukavac is the island of Ravnik (=Flat island) where the capers are picked beginning of June every year. Those are the unopened flower buds of a spiny perennial shrub (Capparis spinose) and make a true gastronomic delicacy. They are mostly kept preserved with vinegar and will please just about everyone. On the southern side of the island of Ravnik is a very famous Green cave with two big entrances. Once inside the cave, you look up and from the hole above shines the sun, which forms an amazing green colour down in the sea. The swimming in the cave is precious.

4. Swimming on the beach of Srebrna

Srebrna beach has a wonderful translation in English language, Silver beach. There are two reasons to name this beach as a Silver one. First, it comes from the old times when the sea around the island of Vis was full of sardines and they were catching them with nets and pulling them out on the beaches and flat rocks of the Silver beach. When they were cleaning Sardines all the beaches were full of fish scales which shined silverishy and that is how they started calling this place Silver beach. The second reason is more romantic. There are always some waves in the Silver beach and when they hit the marvellous white stones on the beach, they form this amazing silverishy colour. You can decide which reason for the name is more suitable, but come and jump in the water and feel it yourself. Pine trees on the beach form a natural shade, you don’t even need a sunscreen lotion, and you can be on the beach for the whole day.

5. Wait with all the locals for the morning bread delivery

Luckily, Rukavac has no stores. But we have daily bread delivery which is in fact a local friend who brings bread, doughnuts, apple strudels, corn bread, full grain bread, croissants (and you can even decide whether you like chocolate or marmalade ones better) and more. While waiting for him to come (yes, he stops many times on the way to your position), you can take your time and talk to the locals and tourists and find out what is happening on their side of the village. You will find out who came home at what time, what is the best lunch dish that your neighbour had prepared in her lifetime, how many fish and what kind of fish this fishermen from down below got this morning and who’s wine is the best. You will find out also of how my children are well behaved and how I did not say hi to them the last time they have seen me. Moreover, you will find out that the water pressure is low nowadays and that it was not like that 50 years ago when we didn’t have the water at all. Believe me, it feels like 50 years ago waiting for that bread men to come.

6. Jump behind the Fabrika and swim to the other side of the bay

This is the place where the locals swim. Or in Partajun on the other side. A year ago the shortcut to Partajun was closed, and now behind the Fabrika is a popular place to come. Just jump in the water and then try to swim to the other side of the bay. When we were kids that seemed longer distance than it is today, of course, but believe me, the morning swims still feels the same. Laying down on the flat rocks right next to the pier is another amazing experience. Sea gulls might come and say hi and just once again you might hear two local women talking to each other about the third women that couldn’t make it that morning… You will understand that the time stops just when you want it to stop.

7. Come and swim the day away on the Tepluš beach

Flat rocks on one side and two pine trees on the other and white stones in between will make a perfect spot for you to come and relax in the afternoon. After the big fire in 1991 most of the pine trees were burnt down but two of them that stayed and they help us get some well needed shade on the hot summer days. You might need water shoes to enter the water. As kids we never needed water shoes at all, why is now getting harder and harder to enter the water? Well, the crystal clear water will wash all that worry away. When I was little we had Teplušbeach all for ourselves, but those were the times when this island was under the military regime and foreign people were not allowed to visit at all. Remember… once upon a time there was a tavern, where we used to raise a glass or two…remember how we laughed away the hours, think of all the great things we would do… Those were the days my friends…

Well, come my friends! Let us make memories! Rukavac is waiting for you. Let me tell you more about this beautiful place on the other side of the World. Call me on +385919058410 or send me and email on reservation@viscovery.hr