Seven Islets near Maslinica

The western tip of Šolta Island, the island close to Split, ends in a scatter of small islands that break up the sea off the village of Maslinica. They are often counted as seven, the Seven Islets near Maslinica, and the names usually given are Stipanska, Saskinja, Balkun, Rudula, Kamik, Grmej and Polebrnjak. Most are uninhabited and used only by sailors, kayakers and swimmers, and the channels between them are some of the most attractive cruising waters of the Adriatic in central Dalmatia.

Maslinica itself is a small, sheltered harbour village, a place of stone houses, a quay lined with tables and a view of the islets lying just offshore. The name means olive grove, and olive oil has been one of Šolta's main products for centuries. In the 18th century a fortified house was built at the water's edge by a noble family, and it is known as the Marchi castle. The building was meant to defend against pirates and later became a luxury hotel. The castle and the islets together make a picturesque scene from the sea, especially in the evening light.

The islets are low, rocky and covered in scrub, pines and aromatic herbs. Some have small coves with pebbles, and the water between them is clear, with rocks and seagrass beds that attract fish, which makes them good for swimming and snorkelling. There are no facilities on the islands, no shops and no shade except for trees, so visitors need to bring water, food and sun protection and take their rubbish with them. The easiest way to explore is to rent a kayak or a small boat in Maslinica or to join a local boat tour, and the shelter of the channels makes the water calmer than in the open sea. Wind and waves can change quickly, so it is sensible to check the forecast and keep an eye on the sky.

Maslinica has a modern marina, Maslinica Marina, which makes it a popular stop for sailors, and the village has restaurants serving fresh fish and local olive oil. Elsewhere on the island, places such as Stomorska Port, the Beach Gornja Krušica, Gornje Selo Chapel and Srednje Selo Church offer more to see, and the Grohote Graveyard holds the grave of the poet Vesna Parun. Catamarans and ferries link Šolta with Split in under an hour.

The archipelago suits sailors, kayakers, snorkellers and anyone who enjoys quiet, island scenery. Late spring and early autumn are the most comfortable seasons.