Brela from a different perspective: 3 trails for active relaxation (accessible to everyone)

Most of us imagine a summer holiday as a cycle of sipping coffee by the sea and reading a book under a pine tree. In Brela, that is perfection itself. But did you know that just a few hundred meters above the main road lies a world of fragrant medicinal herbs and views that will make you forget all your stress?
The best part? You don’t need to be in Olympic shape. Here is our selection of trails for recreational hikers who want a little more than just sunbathing.
📍 How to get started?
The starting point for all three trails is the same: Gornji Kričak (near the Brela Fire Station - DVD Brela). You can safely park your car there, double-check your laces, and begin your adventure.
Note: All hiking times are measured from this point and refer to the total duration of the trip (round trip back to your car).

1. Educational trail "Paths of Ancient Berulia"
QUICK INFO:
⏱️ Hiking time: approx. 1.5 h – 2 h (total)
👣 Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
📍 Starting point: Fire Station (parking available)
🏛️ Highlights: History, ancient hamlets, and St. Nicholas Church
🎒 Must-have: Comfortable shoes and a camera
This trail is like an open-air museum, perfect for a gentle morning stretch accompanied by the scent of sage and heather.
Why you’ll love it: The path is gentle and wide, leading you through old stone hamlets. Along the way, you will find 9 educational boards telling stories of how people used to live here.
The highlight: St. Nicholas Church at 572 meters above sea level – the perfect spot for a water break with a panoramic view you’ll never forget.

2. The French Road – An architectural marvel below Biokovo
QUICK INFO:
⏱️ Hiking time: approx. 1.5 h (total to the viewpoint and back)
👣 Difficulty: Easy (constant but gentle incline)
📍 Starting point: Fire Station (parking nearby)
📐 Highlights: Dry-stone architecture and panoramic vistas
🎒 Must-have: Water and sun protection (the trail is exposed)
Imagine a road built over 200 years ago, so cleverly designed that you barely feel the incline. This is the Napoleon Road.
Why you’ll love it: It was engineered so that the slope never exceeds 6%, meaning you gain significant height without breaking too much of a sweat. The view of Brela and the islands from here is a "perfect ten."
Fun fact: The road was never finished, so you can see exactly how old master builders stacked stone upon stone "dry" (without any mortar or cement).

3. Šuplja Stina and Pakline – The road to the "Eye of Biokovo"
QUICK INFO:
⏱️ Hiking time: approx. 3 h – 3.5 h (total)
👣 Difficulty: Moderate (rugged terrain, karst, and steeper climb)
📍 Starting point: Fire Station (parking available)
🌲 Highlights: The "Eye" natural phenomenon and stunning views
🎒 Must-have: Sturdy footwear, min. 1.5 l of water, and a charged phone
This route is for those who want the full Biokovo experience. The goal isn't just a photo through the natural phenomenon of Šuplja Stina (The Hollow Rock), but reaching Pakline, home to a charming mountain hut.
Why you’ll love it: You will experience an incredible contrast – from the rugged karst ascent with views over the Makarska Riviera to the peaceful, shaded oasis of Pakline, smelling of pine resin and fresh air.
The highlight: After taking the mandatory photo through the mountain "window," continue to the mountain hut at Pakline. It’s the ideal place to rest on a wooden bench, enjoy a snack, and soak up the authentic mountain atmosphere.
Note for hikers: This trail is more demanding. The climb is steeper and leads over rocky terrain, requiring a bit more fitness and caution.

💡 Five golden rules for hikers:

1. Water is more important than your phone: There are no water sources on Biokovo trails. Carry at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water per person. Dehydration on hot stone happens faster than you think.
2. Never hike alone: The mountain is more beautiful in company, and much safer. Always hike with at least one other person and let someone back in town know your planned route and expected return time.
3. Timing is everything: In summer, start your hike no later than 7:00 AM. The sun is not your friend if you get caught on open rock at noon. Ideally, aim to be back by 10:00 AM.
4. Leave the flip-flops at the beach: Even on the easiest trails, loose stones (scree) can be slippery. Your footwear must have a firm, grippy sole.
5. Charge your phone: Not just for navigation and photos, but for safety. In case of emergency, a charged phone is your lifeline (keep the emergency number 112 in mind).