How the Croatian island you can walk in just 600 steps got its name
- by croatiaweek
- in Travel
Pokonji Dol is a picturesque small little island located about 500 metres south of the island Hvar on the Dalmatian coast.
As one of the islands in the Paklinski Archipelago, Pokonji Dol stands out with its distinctive lighthouse, built in 1872 at the heart of the island.
Because it lies at the eastern edge of the Paklinski islands, Pokonji Dol’s lighthouse was originally designed as a harbour light, visible only a few nautical miles offshore.
With the advent of modern navigation systems, the light has since been automated, eliminating the need for lighthouse keepers. Today, it shines on as a part of Croatia’s rich maritime heritage, lighting up the way for passing sailors.
Pokonji Dol belongs to a charming cluster of islands known locally as the Pakleni or Paklinski Islands. Often affectionately referred to as “Škoji” by locals, these islands emerge like hidden gems, each one offering its own allure. As the easternmost point of this island group, Pokonji Dol has a unique connection to the region’s maritime past, even in its name.
The name “Pokonji Dol” is derived from the word “paklina,” which means pine resin.
Pokonji Dol (Photo: Donar Reiskoffer/CC BY 3.0)
Traditionally, pine resin was used to coat and protect wooden boats and ships, an essential practice for local seafarers. This connection to the region’s boating culture gives the island a unique place in Croatian folklore and maritime tradition, Večernji list writes.
Pokonji Dol is a delightful sight from the town of Hvar. If you take a seat on a bench along the path to Pokonji Dol beach, you’ll feel as if you could almost reach out and touch the islet—it feels that close. In fact, the beach, also named Pokonji Dol, is Hvar’s most popular beach and sits only 1.5 km from the town centre.
Many boats enjoy anchoring in its scenic cove, taking in the views of the island and the iconic lighthouse that watches over the Adriatic.
Today, Pokonji Dol is not just a beacon for navigation but a cherished part of Hvar’s beauty and culture.
