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Velika and Mala Petka Forest Park: Dubrovnik's Green Escape

Escape to Dubrovnik's Velika and Mala Petka Forest Park for hiking, stunning views, and a peaceful natural retreat.

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Escape the Dubrovnik crowds in Velika and Mala Petka Forest Park, a 43-hectare haven on the Lapad peninsula. Hike through Aleppo pines, enjoy stunning Adriatic views, and discover peaceful trails away from the city bustle.

A brief summary to Velika and Mala Petka Forest Park

  • Šetalište Nika i Meda Pucića 17, Dubrovnik, 20000, HR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on the park's trails.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially for longer hikes.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photos.
  • Explore the various paths branching off the main road to discover different viewpoints and destinations.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Dubrovnik's Old Town, exit through Pile Gate and turn left onto Šetalište Nika i Meda Pucića. Continue along the promenade for about 20 minutes, passing Banje Beach. Follow the promenade to Šetalište Nika i Meda Pucića 17, the main entrance to Velika and Mala Petka Forest Park.

  • Public Transport

    From Pile Gate in Dubrovnik, take bus number 4 towards Hotel Palace. Get off at the bus stop at the top of Ispod Petke Street. Cross the street and take Ivanska Street towards Villa Rašica to reach the park entrance. A single bus ticket costs €1.73 if purchased at a newsstand or €1.99 if purchased on the bus. A 24-hour bus pass is available for €5.31.

Unlock the Best of Velika and Mala Petka Forest Park

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Discover more about Velika and Mala Petka Forest Park

Velika and Mala Petka Forest Park, named for its two hills (Velika meaning 'big' and Mala meaning 'small'), offers a serene retreat from Dubrovnik's bustling city center. This 43-hectare park on the Lapad peninsula is a protected natural space, characterized by dense Aleppo pines, evergreen oaks, wild olive trees, and Mediterranean shrubs. The park features well-maintained trails for hiking and jogging, with varying levels of difficulty, catering to both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes. As you explore the winding paths, you'll discover breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik's Old Town, and nearby islands. The cliff top path to Mala Petka offers particularly stunning vistas. Velika Petka's summit rewards hikers with panoramic views, while Mala Petka offers quieter, charming wooded areas. The park is also a habitat for diverse bird species, making it a draw for birdwatchers. The park provides a peaceful atmosphere with benches for resting and enjoying the scenery. Historically, the hills were called Mons Acutus (Ostre Góry) and may have housed a temple to Venus in the 13th century. A church dedicated to Saint Petka (Praskiewy) was later built on the ruins, though no traces remain today.

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