Solta is a small island in the Adriatic Sea, part of the Central Dalmatian archipelago in Croatia. It has an area of only 58 square kilometres and a population of about 1,500. Despite its size, Solta is a popular tourist destination known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and unspoilt natural beauty.
Šolta is located in the Adriatic Sea, about 14 kilometres west of Croatia’s second largest city, Split. It is one of the Central Dalmatian islands and is surrounded by other islands such as Brac, Hvar and Vis. The island is only 30 kilometres long and 6 kilometres wide and has a total area of about 58 square kilometres. Its highest point is the mountain Vela Straza, which rises 230 metres above sea level.
Solta’s coastline is about 97 kilometres long and offers rocky cliffs, hidden coves and beautiful pebble beaches. The most popular beaches on the island are Maslinika, Nekjam and Rogak.
History Overview: Solta has a rich history when it was known as “Orinza” during the Roman Empire. As an important centre of olive oil production, many olive groves on the island date from this period. Later, in the Middle Ages, Šolta became part of the Kingdom of Croatia and was ruled by various nobles. In the 19th century, the island became a centre for shipbuilding and fishing, as many inhabitants lived off the sea. During the Second World War, Solta was occupied by Italian and German troops and many of the inhabitants had to flee or were taken prisoner. These days, Solta has become a popular tourist destination, attracting tourists from all over the world with its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and unspoilt natural beauty.
Climate: Solta has a typical Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. July and August are the hottest months, average temperatures around 27°C (81°F). Sea temperatures at this time of year are also very pleasant, averaging around 24°C (75°F). Winter, from December to February, can be cold and rainy with temperatures around 9°C (48°F). The best time to visit Solta is during the summer months from May to September. The weather is warm and sunny and the sea is great for swimming.
Tourism on Solta: Despite its small size, Solta is a popular tourist destination, attracting tourists from all over the world with its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and unspoilt natural beauty. The island is especially popular with those looking for a quiet and relaxing holiday away from the crowds.
Swimming, sunbathing and snorkelling are among the most popular activities on the island. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling, with many panoramic trails leading through the island’s forests and hills.
One of the most popular attractions on the island is the village of Maslinika on the west coast of the island. Maslinika is a charming fishing village with a beautiful natural harbour surrounded by pine and olive trees. Visitors can explore the village’s historic 17th century castle or relax on the village’s beautiful beaches.
Another popular destination on the island is Nekjam, a picturesque village on the east coast of the island. Nekkjam is famous for its crystals.
Important places on Solta
Despite its small size, there are about 10 villages on Solta Island, each with its own character and charm.
One of the most popular villages on the island is Maslinica on the west coast of Solta. Maslinica is a picturesque fishing village with a beautiful natural harbour surrounded by pine and olive trees. The village is particularly famous for its historic 17th century castle. The castle was built by the noble Malki family from the nearby town of Trogir on the mainland. Today, the castle has been converted into a luxury hotel and houses a marina and a restaurant serving traditional Dalmatian cuisine. Visitors can also explore the castle’s beautiful gardens and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding islands. Besides the castle, Maslinica is also known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters and excellent diving opportunities. There are several dive centres in the village offering courses and guided dives for all levels of experience.
Another popular village on the island is Nekjam on the east coast of Solta. Nekjam is a picturesque village with long sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, a popular place for swimming and sunbathing. The village also has a rich history with several ancient and archaeological sites dating back to Roman times. One of the most famous attractions is Villa Rustica, a Roman villa discovered in the 19th century. The villa has well-preserved mosaics and frescoes and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the region. Besides its historical sights, Necujam is also known for its lively nightlife, with several bars and clubs open late into the night.
Stomorska is a small fishing village on the north-eastern coast of Šolta. The village is known for its picturesque harbour lined with traditional fishing boats and surrounded by charming stone houses and cafés. Stomorska also has excellent fish restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood from local fishermen. Visitors can enjoy traditional Dalmatian cuisine while watching the sunset over the harbour. In addition to restaurants, Stomorska is also a popular destination for sailors and water sports enthusiasts. The village has a marina with over 50 berths and is a popular starting point for sailing tours around the Adriatic.
Grohote is the largest village on the island and is located in the hinterland of Solta. The village is known for its historical architecture with several well-preserved examples of traditional Dalmatian stone houses and churches. Grohote also has several craft workshops where you can watch local craftsmen making traditional handicrafts such as pottery, weaving and embroidery. The village is particularly famous for its olive oil production. Visitors can visit the local olive groves and taste the island’s delicious olive oil.
Rogac is the island’s main port and is located on the north coast of Solta. The port is well connected to the mainland, with regular ferry services from Split, Croatia’s second largest city. Rogac harbour is a popular destination for visitors to the island, with several restaurants, cafés and souvenir shops nearby. The harbour area also has a beautiful promenade with stunning views of the sea and surrounding islands. In addition to tourist facilities, the port of Rogac is also an important hub for local transport, with buses and taxis available for trips to other villages and sights on the island.
Island of Solta: Beautiful Places, Sights and Activities
Maslinika village – Maslinika is a picturesque fishing village on the west coast of Šolta. It is surrounded by beautiful pine and olive forests and has a charming harbour with yachts and fishing boats. The village is known for its traditional stone houses, narrow streets and beautiful beaches. Visitors can also explore the nearby 18th century Martinis Marchi Castle. This castle has been converted into a luxury hotel.
Stomorska village – Stomorska is another charming fishing village on the east coast of Šolta. It has a beautiful natural harbour lined with fishing boats and waterfront cafes. The village also has sandy beaches, traditional stone houses and narrow streets that invite you to take a stroll.
Necujam village – Necujam is the largest village on Solta and is located on the north coast of the island. It is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The village also has some interesting historical sites, including a Roman fish pond and a 16th century castle. Solta Olive Oil Tour – Solta is known for its high quality olive oil, which is extracted from the island’s many olive groves. Visitors can visit a local olive oil factory and learn about the traditional production methods that have been used for centuries.You can sample the delicious olive oil and buy a bottle to take home with you.You can also take it to
Tito’s Cave – Tito’s Cave is a natural cave on the south coast of Solta. During World War II, it served as a retreat for Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito. Visitors can explore the caves and learn more about the history of the region during the war.
Solta Wine Tour – Solta is also known for its high quality wines produced in many vineyards on the island. Visitors can visit the local wineries and learn about the traditional production methods that have been used for centuries. You can also sample delicious wines and buy a bottle to take home.
Beaches – Solta has many beautiful beaches that are ideal for swimming, sunbathing and snorkelling. Some of the most popular beaches are Stomorska beach, Necujam beach and Rogac beach.
Fishing – Fishing is a popular activity in Solta and visitors can go on fishing trips with local fishermen. Learn about the traditional fishing methods of the region and catch fresh fish for dinner.
Hiking – Solta is also an ideal place for hiking, with many trails offering spectacular views of the island and the Adriatic Sea. Some of the most popular trails include the Maslinica Bay Trail and the Vela Straja Trail.
Solta Island Beaches
Solta is famous for its beautiful beaches. With 70 kilometres of coastline, Solta is a beach lover’s paradise. Here are some of the most famous and best beaches to visit on Solta Island:
Stomorska beach – Stomorska beach is a small pebble beach in the picturesque fishing village of Stomorska on the east coast of Šolta. Visitors can rent umbrellas and relax on the rocks.
Necujam beach – Necujam beach is a long sandy beach in the village of Necujam on the north coast of Solta. The beach is surrounded by trees. The shallow water is ideal for swimming and visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboards.
Rogac beach – Rogac beach is a small pebble beach in the village of Rogac on the south coast of Solta. The beach is surrounded by pine trees and offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. Visitors can hire sun loungers and parasols.
Tatynya Bay – Tatynya Bay is a secluded bay on the west coast of Solta, near the village of Maslinica. The bay is accessible only by boat or by a steep road. Visitors can have a picnic or enjoy a drink at the beach bar.
Kasjun Bay – Kasjun Bay is a beautiful bay on the east coast of Šolta, near the village of Stomorska. The bay can only be reached by boat or by a steep road. Visitors can have a picnic or enjoy a drink at the beach bar.
Rivka Bay – Rivka Bay is a secluded bay on the southern coast of Šolta, near the village of Grokhote. The bay can only be reached by boat or via a steep road. The beach is a mixture of pebbles and rocks. Visitors can have a picnic or enjoy a drink at the beach bar.
Senjska Bay – Senjska Bay is a beautiful bay on the west coast of Solta, near the village of Maslinica. The bay can only be reached by boat or by a steep path. The beach is a mixture of pebbles and rocks and the clear water is perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Visitors can have a picnic or enjoy a drink at the beach bar.
Banje beach – Banje beach is a small pebble beach in the village of Stomorska on the east coast of Solta. The beach is surrounded by pine trees. Visitors can rent deck chairs and umbrellas and relax on the rocks.
Stracinska Bay – Stracinska Bay is a secluded bay on the south coast of Solta, near the village of Grohote. The bay can only be reached by boat or via a steep road. The beach is a mixture of pebbles and rocks.
Solta: ferries and transport on the island
Solta is a small island in the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Croatia. It is easy to reach by ferry. Regular ferry services connect the island with the mainland and neighbouring islands. Here is everything you need to know about ferries to Solta.
Ferry routes – Solta has several ferry routes. The most popular route is to Split, with several flights a day during the summer. Other routes include connections to neighbouring islands such as Brac and Hvar, and to the city of Dubrovnik in the south. Ferry companies – Several ferry companies offer connections to Solta, such as Jadrolinija and Kapetan Luka. Jadrolinija is the largest ferry company in Croatia and offers regular ferry services from Split to Solta. Kapetan Luka is a private ferry company offering fast and convenient connections from Split and other destinations to Solta.
Ferry Timetables Solta – Ferry timetables vary depending on the time of year, with more frequent services offered during the summer months. It is recommended to check ferry schedules in advance and book tickets online or at the ferry terminal to avoid long waits and sell-outs. Ferry fares – Ferry fares vary depending on the route and operator. Prices are generally higher in summer and lower in low season. A one-way trip from Split to Solta costs around 30 to 50 kuna (4 to 7 USD).
Duration ferries Solta – The time to reach Solta depends on the route and the operator. The ferry from Split to Solta takes about an hour, but changing from other destinations can take longer. Travel time is important and should be considered when planning your trip to Solta.
Alternative means of transport to Solta – In addition to ferries, Solta is also accessible by private boats, water taxis and helicopters. Private boats can be hired in Split and other nearby towns. Water taxis offer a more flexible and personal service. Helicopter transfers from Split and other locations are also available.
Getting around Solta – Once you arrive in Solta, there are various means of transport available to explore the island. These include rental cars, scooters, bicycles and local buses. Some of the best beaches and attractions are located outside the larger towns, so it is advisable to hire a car or use the taxi services to get around the island.
Overall, getting to Solta is easy and convenient, with several ferry options available. By planning ahead and choosing the mode of transport that best suits your needs, you can enjoy a worry-free trip to this beautiful Croatian island.