Stiniva Cove

Stiniva Cove is one of the most photographed beaches in Croatia, on the southern coast of the island of Vis, and it is famous for its dramatic shape. The cove lies at the foot of two huge limestone cliffs that rise to about two hundred metres and almost meet at the top, leaving a narrow gap, only a few metres wide, through which the sea enters. Inside this gap is a small pebble beach, a natural amphitheatre of white rock and turquoise water, closed off from the open sea and sheltered from the wind. The effect is startling when seen from a boat, as the cove seems to appear from nowhere, and it has been voted among the most beautiful beaches in Europe, including a first place in an international vote in 2016.

Getting to Stiniva is part of the experience. Most visitors arrive by boat, either on a small tour, in a hired boat or by water taxi, and the approach through the cliffs and into the gap is unforgettable. A narrow, steep and rocky path also leads down from the village of Dračevo Polje in the island's interior, a walk of about twenty to thirty minutes that rewards hikers with a view of the cove from above before the final descent. The path is rough and can be slippery, so wear sturdy shoes, take water and avoid walking in the midday heat. Water shoes are recommended once you reach the beach, since the shore is pebbly and the entrance to the water is rocky.

At the cove, the activities are simple: swimming, snorkelling and lying on the pebbles. The water is clear and cool, and the cliffs provide shade for part of the day, so it is pleasant even in hot weather, though there is no shade in the middle of the day on the open pebbles. The cove is small, and because it is so popular, it can be crowded in July and August, when boats gather outside the entrance. To enjoy a quieter visit, go early in the morning or in the late afternoon, or visit outside the peak season. There are no large facilities, so bring water, food, sun protection and a bag for your rubbish.

The cove is part of a wider area of interest on Vis. Island tours often combine it with the Blue Cave on Biševo, Srebrna Bay, Stončica Bay and the Military Tunnel known as Tito's Cave, and the Roman baths and Fort George on the main island add history to the day. Vis was closed to foreigners for decades because of its military use, which helped to keep its coast unspoiled, and its quiet pace is part of its charm.

Stiniva suits swimmers, photographers, hikers and travellers who enjoy dramatic scenery. Check the weather and the sea conditions before setting out, since the entrance can be dangerous in strong wind or swell.