Blaca Hermitage on the island of Brač is one of the most unusual places in Dalmatia — but visiting it requires some planning.
Below you’ll first find practical information (how to reach it, hiking difficulty, and transport from Hvar or Split), followed by the story and history of the monastery itself.
Visiting Blaca Hermitage – Quick Guide
Location: Island of Brač, inland from Blaca Bay
Access: no road — hiking required
Accessible only by foot or on horseback.
From Hvar: catamaran to Bol from Jelsa
From Bol: 1–2h cycling (or drive partway) + 30–60 min hike
Trail difficulty: moderate, rocky, exposed to the sun
Entrance ticket: paid at the site
Bring: water, sun protection, good shoes
Best visiting time: morning or late afternoon
How to Reach the Blaca Hermitage from Hvar
Visitors staying on Hvar usually travel by catamaran to Bol from Jelsa, or by ferry to Supetar from Split. Then continue by car or taxi to the beginning of the hiking trail. The monastery cannot be reached by road — the walk is part of the experience.
How to Reach Pustinja Blaca (The Hermitage Blaca)
Located approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles) from Bol, a small coastal town on the southern side of Brač, Hermitage Blaca is well worth the journey. Although it’s a bit off the beaten path, it can be easily reached by ferry or catamaran from Split or the island of Hvar, specifically from the village of Jelsa. You can find Jadrolinija’s ferry schedules online for more details.
From Jelsa, you can catch a catamaran to Split in the early morning and return later in the day. For just around €7, the trip is affordable and convenient, offering you stunning views along the way. However, getting to Hermitage Blaca from Bol requires a bit more effort.
Hiking to Blaca Hermitage: What to Expect
Hermitage Blaca’s remote location means you must either hike or ride on horseback to reach it. And the perfect solution was Vlado, from the travel agency Active Bol. A local enthusiast and an agency owner, a true expert in all things outdoor—windsurfing, biking, hiking, and more. Vlado suggested we use e-bikes. It turned out to be the ideal way to navigate the rugged paths leading to the hermitage.
Riding through the southern shore of Brač, we encountered steep hills, off-road trails, and remnants of abandoned monasteries. An endless amount of stunning landscapes featuring vineyards, olive groves, and rocky terrain. A true testament to Brač’s natural beauty.
Exploring the Canyon and Historical Significance of the Hermitage Blaca
Arriving at the Blaca Hermitage left me in awe. This historical site is a museum of Dalmatian heritage, with a rich and preserved history. The canyon surrounding the hermitage is a dramatic natural feature. Ancient caves and terraces were once used to grow grapes, herbs, and olives. These were the lifeblood of the community that thrived here centuries ago.
At its peak, the Hermitage Blaca produced over 3000kg (6613 lb) of honey annually! It cultivated vast vineyards and raised thousands of sheep. This thriving community even operated three sailing boats to transport goods to Venice.
History of the Hermitage Blaca: From Refuge to Prosperity
The origins of the Hermitage Blaca date back to the 16th century. A group of Poljički Glagoljaši monks sought refuge from the Ottoman Empire in caves high on the cliffs of Brač Island. Over the centuries, the hermitage grew. They built stone houses and chapels. Even astronomical equipment from the 19th and 20th centuries eventually became a part of this sacred site.
Made from the same white stone as the cliffs it rests upon, the hermitage blends seamlessly with its surroundings, making it nearly invisible from a distance. The site is a true chameleon of history, with contributions from astronomers, musicians, beekeepers, cattle breeders, and other skilled artisans.
Today, the Hermitage Blaca remains a maze of corridors, rooms, and chambers filled with artifacts, artwork, and tools from centuries past. Even now, the caretakers use horses to access the site, as there’s no other way to reach it.
Hiking Trails to the Hermitage Blaca
The Hermitage Blaca is not just a historic site—it’s surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that make it a perfect destination for hiking and exploring. After visiting the hermitage, you can take various hiking routes, including one that leads toVidova Gora, the highest peak of Brač and the tallest point in the Adriatic.
And after some cycling, we took a walk along the sea, through a pine tree forest that offers just the right amount of shade, even during the warmest summer days. But while hiking in Dalmatia, always carry enough water (meaning: 3L should cover it).
Along the way, you’ll encounter over 200 beehives, abandoned villages, and cisterns for rainwater. Depending on the season, you may even find snow covering the ground in winter. The trails also offer panoramic views of Dalmatian black pine forests, and in the distance, you can spot the island of Hvar and the expanse of the Adriatic Sea stretching to Italy.
Additional Activities
If you’re looking to relax after your hike, there are plenty of hidden bays below Pustinja Blaca where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. The peaceful, secluded beaches provide a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the beauty of Brač Island.
If you’re planning several places to visit during your stay, the Hvar island guide helps put this trip into context.
Itinerary Suggestions for Visiting The Hermitage Blaca
- Contact us, and we’ll make a tailored tour just for you to discover Brač and all of its hidden gems.
Or if you prefer doing it on your own:
- From Split: If you’re based in Split, take a catamaran to Brač, and follow the directions mentioned in this post to reach Pustinja Blaca. This will allow you to explore the island’s natural beauty and experience its historic heritage.
- From the Island of Hvar: Alternatively, you can stay in the historic village of Jelsa on Hvar and explore the ancient sites there, some of which date back as far as 4000 BC. Take a day trip to Brač Island to visit Pustinja Blaca, and you’ll get the chance to discover yet another layer of Dalmatian heritage
Why Visit the Hermitage Blaca?
Whether you’re a history buff, an adventurer, or simply someone looking for a unique experience, Blaca offers an extraordinary journey through time and nature. From its hidden location in a canyon to the historic structures and artifacts preserved within, this Dalmatian gem is a must-see for anyone visiting Brač Island.
The Hermitage Blaca is not just a historical site; it’s a living testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the people who once called it home. Don’t miss out on this hidden treasure of Dalmatia during your visit to Croatia.
