Sveti Ilija (1642 m) is one of the most striking peaks of the Biokovo massif, and although it stands slightly lower than Sveti Jure, it rivals - and many say surpasses - it in scenic beauty. This is where Biokovo narrows to its thinnest point, giving hikers the rare experience of seeing both the coast and the inland plains from a single vantage spot.

The ridge and summit rise above the hamlet of Rastovac in the municipality of Zagvozd, offering sweeping views across the entire central Biokovo massif, from Sveti Jure in the east, past Veliki Šibenik, to Šćirovac and Bukovac in the west. The terrain is classic Biokovo: rugged limestone, wide scree slopes, and little shade, making it a demanding but rewarding climb, especially under the summer sun. At the very top stands a small chapel dedicated to Sveti Ilija Gromovnik, rebuilt in 2000 by locals from the Zagvozd parish - one of the most beautiful and authentic sacred sites on the entire mountain.

How to reach the summit

• Bast via Bunar Mijaći — approx. 4 h, demanding
• Bast via Osičine — approx. 4.5 h, demanding
• Lokva via Motika — approx. 4 h, demanding
• Dedići via Dobri dol (most popular northern route) — approx. 4 h, demanding
• Šute via Vrataca — approx. 4.5 h, very demanding, experienced hikers only
• Brzice via Drljenovac and Mišljen — approx. 6.5 h, very long and demanding

Practical information

• The summit (trig point KT18) chapel has a summit register stamp built into its right wall
• An annual mass is held here on 20 July, or the first Saturday after if that date isn't a Saturday - known locally as 'the most inaccessible mass in Croatia'
• All approach routes cross extensive scree fields and are fully exposed to the sun with no shade

Every year, pilgrims and hikers alike make the tough climb to attend mass held right at the summit - a truly unique blend of mountain adventure and spiritual tradition found nowhere else in Croatia.