Educational Trail: The French Road

A masterpiece of road construction beneath the peaks of Biokovo

The French Road on Biokovo represents an exceptional architectural contribution to early 19th-century road construction (built between 1810 and 1811). Designed by the architect Frane Zavoreo, the road is laid along the slopes of Biokovo between 357 and 444 meters above sea level. With an incline that never exceeds 6%, it was intended to be very comfortable for horse-drawn carriages, riding, and walking.

As the road was never completed, it is possible to reconstruct all stages of its construction, making it a unique "open-air museum." Interpretation boards are placed along the trail to explain the methods and purpose of this truly valuable road. In addition to its historical significance, the entire route serves as a magnificent viewpoint overlooking Brela, the Makarska Riviera, and the islands.

⚠️ WARNING: This is an easy but mountain trail! Please wear appropriate footwear and carry enough water.

For those who want to know more
During their rule in Dalmatia (1808–1813), the French built a road stretching the entire length of the province – from Obrovac to the Bay of Kotor – in a very short period. It is known as "Napoleon's Road" or the "French Road," and its construction was spearheaded by Napoleon's general and Duke of Dubrovnik, Auguste Marmont. Croatian history remembers him for many progressive measures he undertook as the military commander of Dalmatia and Governor of the Illyrian Provinces.

This specific section was intended to connect the Makarska littoral with the French road in the Dalmatian Hinterland (Zabiokovlje) via the Nevista and Poletnica passes (Brela Gornja). Local people were forced to participate in the construction and were paid in food. Unfortunately, with the withdrawal of the French army, this part of the road remained unfinished, but the remarkable remains of its dry-stone walls can still be seen below Nevista and Poletnica.

Why is this road unique?
A triumph of technology: Among all preserved examples of French roads in Dalmatia, nowhere else can the construction technology, tracing methods, and building phases be understood as clearly as here.
Respect for nature: The design shows a deep understanding of the terrain’s contours. The architect, a man of great knowledge and experience, masterfully laid the route according to the highest standards of modern road construction of that time.
Cultural heritage: The road was officially included in the Register of Cultural Goods of the Republic of Croatia on September 25, 2017.