Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Hiking the Marjan Peninsula
Thishuge,hilly,andrelativelyundevelopedspitofparkland—improbablylocatedrightnext
to Split's Old Town—feels like a chunk of Dalmatian island wilderness, a stone's throw
fromthebigcity.Without-of-the-waybeachesandmilesofhikingtrails,theMarjan(MAR-
yahn) Peninsula is where residents go to relax; most people here seem to have their favorite
hidden paths and beach coves, so ask around for tips.
From the Šperun neighborhood at the west end of the Old Town, you can hike to various
lookout points. The best views are from the lowest point. If you're in shape, figure about an
hour to hike to the top viewpoint, then another 45 minutes back down.
Start by climbing the stairs past the recommended Šperun Restaurant, and continue
straight up Senjska ulica. Follow the stairs all the way up for 10-15 steep minutes to reach a
spectacular view terrace (with sweeping vistas over Split's Old Town), next to a little café.
Ifyoulike,youcankeepascendingformoregoodviews(thoughyoucan'treallyseethe
OldTownbeyondhere).Tocontinue on,curlaroundpasttherestaurant (following signsfor
Crkva sv. Nikole
and
Sedlo
) and follow the steep pathway up, passing the fenced-in park on
your right. Soon you'll reach the small chapel of St. Nicholas. Just behind it, find the steps
up and to the right (look for
Marjanske Skale
signs). At the top of these stairs is Split's very
humble zoo. From here, a broad path cuts through the woods, with smaller paths branching
off downhill. For the highest viewpoint, follow signs for
Sedlo
and hike up the steps to the
terrace. This top-of-the-world perch offers a 360-degree panorama of Split's urban sprawl,
receding layers of jagged and majestic mountains, offshore islands, and the bay behind the
Marjan peninsula (but little in the way of Old Town views).
