Sveta Nedjelja: Coast, Wine and Sv. Nikola

Sveta Nedjelja lies on the cliffs along the southern coast of the island of Hvar, below Sv. Nikola. At 626 metres, this peak is the island’s highest. Pebble beaches, vineyards on the steep southern slopes and trails leading up into the hills give the village several distinct facets. If you’re looking for a hotel on Hvar, you can weigh up whether the coast, wine or hiking is the main factor in choosing your destination. Sveta Nedjelja also offers restaurants and guesthouses.

Coast and Beach

Sveta Nedjelja is a seaside settlement with pebble beaches. Zogon is a small sandy beach where the water gradually gets deeper. This gives you a specific point of comparison when deciding where to go if the type of beach matters to you.

Wine and Local Character

Plavac mali is the best-known grape variety grown in Sveta Nedjelja. Zlatan Otok is a winery in the village, surrounded by unique vineyards on Hvar’s steep southern slopes. At Zlatan Otok, wine is stored beneath the sea; another portion matures in a unique cellar 70 metres underground. A unique underwater wine cellar with a viewing window and submarine views preserves archive wines. These local features connect a specific grape variety with the landscape and different storage locations. Wine tastings can be arranged at Zlatan Otok; check the current arrangements before you arrive.

Cave and History

Špilja Svete Nedjelje served as a refuge and a place for rituals in prehistoric times. In the 16th century, a small hermitage was built inside it, traces of which are still clearly visible. Špilja Sv. Nedilja preserves a small church dedicated to Gospe od snjiga, a monastery, a cemetery and a well with drinking water. Those interested in caves and local history will find a different focus here than on the coast or at the winery.

Walking and Getting There

From Sveta Nedjelja, a walk through the vineyards to Špilja Sv. Nedilja takes about 30 minutes. Trail conditions can vary; check locally. A marked hiking trail leads to the summit of Sv. Nikola from several directions; here too, check current trail conditions locally. The walk to the cave provides an approximate guide to the time required, while the summit trail is described by its markings and the different directions from which it can be reached. A small chapel was built on the summit in the 15th century.

Sveta Nedjelja is easiest to reach by car. The road leads from Jelsa via Pitve through a tunnel to Hvar’s southern coast. Check current road conditions before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Brusje, Velo Grablje, Zaraće, Hvar, Milna

Go to the main travel overview: Općina Hvar.