Maslinica is a small, charming village on Šolta Island’s west side. It’s the only town on the west side of Šolta and the main spot for boats. This lovely place has pretty bays and nice pebble beaches by the sea.
Maslinica is famous for its breathtaking sunset and an archipelago of seven small islands right in front of it (Polebrnjak, Saskinja, Stipanska, Kamik, Balkun, Rudula, and Grmej).
THE STORY OF MASLINICA
Maslinica’s history began in the early 18th century when it grew around a castle built by the Marchi family. They wanted to protect themselves and the village from pirates, so they got permission to create a settlement and fortify it with towers.
The Marchi family also built the Church of St. Nicholas, which sits on the highest hill by the bay. Workers from Dalmatian Zagora and Herzegovina came to work on the family’s estate, focusing on fishing and sailing.
From a small fishing village with an old castle, Maslinica has grown into an important tourist spot and a central place for boating on Šolta Island. The old castle is now a heritage hotel with luxurious rooms and a great restaurant.
Besides the castle restaurant, you’ll find several other eateries, most of them right by the water, offering local dishes and modern cuisine.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
There’s plenty to do in Maslinica:
- Relax on pebble or sandy beaches. There’s a lovely sandy beach in Šipkova Bay nearby.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try a jet-ski ride.
- Kayaking is great here, especially to the nearby islets, for those who like adventure.
- On land, you can go biking or hiking from Maslinica to Donje Selo and Srednje Selo.
- Don’t forget to visit St. Nicholas church for some breathtaking views.
- Taste delicious olive oil and take guided tours around Šolta Island.
WHY VISIT MASLINICA?
In a nutshell, Maslinica is a wonderful spot in the Adriatic. It’s surrounded by Mediterranean plants like olive and pine trees, preserving traditional island crafts like olive growing. It’s a perfect destination for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and active adventurers.
On your visit, explore the natural beauty, immerse yourself in local culture and traditions, and take in the historical and architectural wonders, like the old castle and charming stone houses. Maslinica promises an unforgettable experience on your Croatian sailing holiday.
