Real Estate Vis Island, Dalmatia

Its highest point is the 687-meter-tall Hum Mountain. Since Vis was designated as a military restricted area until 1989 and was therefore off-limits to tourists, it remains one of the few Croatian islands that are not overcrowded with visitors, even in the peak summer months. Before World War II, over 10,000 people lived on Vis, but a decline in the fishing industry triggered a wave of emigration, particularly to California, which reduced the population to 3,500. Today, the island’s former military airfield is home to some of the best vineyards, making it an ideal location for those seeking a vacation home away from the tourist crowds.

A convenient ferry connection from Split to Vis ensures that the two-hour journey is already a relaxing experience. The climate remains mild even in winter, influenced by the Maestral and the warm Jugo winds, with temperatures often rising to 15 to 18 degrees Celsius. Vis offers breathtaking landscapes with enchanting secluded bays and picturesque towns such as Vis and Komiža. In the fourth century BC, the Greeks settled on the island, establishing a trading post between the eastern and western shores of the Adriatic, founding the town of Issa where modern-day Vis now stands. Later, it became a retreat for the nobility of the island of Hvar, which was the largest port in the central Adriatic. After the fall of Venice in 1797, Vis was taken by the British, who fortified the harbor and repelled Napoleon's fleet in 1811. The island was taken by the Austrians in 1854. Throughout the centuries, Vis has been highly coveted by English, Austrian-Hungarian, and later Yugoslavian troops, and served as a center for Tito's partisans during World War II. Until 1989, the island was used for military purposes. Today, the Archaeological Museum in the town showcases Greek and Roman artifacts, water jugs, bronze busts, wine presses, and furniture from Vis’s rich historical past. The picturesque town of Vis, nestled in a bay, along with the small suburb of Kut with its narrow 16th-century alleys and well-preserved grand villas with balconies and imposing staircases built for the nobility of Hvar, give the area an aristocratic flair. Small cafés and traditional restaurants invite you to linger and enjoy. Culinary highlights include the "Pogača od Sardele," a sardine paste, and "Komiška Pogača Iski Hib," made with figs and island herbs. The region also offers some of the freshest fish in Croatia, thanks to the rich fishing grounds of the Adriatic. Meals are complemented by local wines such as Yugava, a delightful white, or Viski Plavac, a full-bodied red.

In the summer months, traditional Klapa choirs perform in the courtyards of the Batarija Fortress. The island is a place that offers peace and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of Croatia's major tourist centers. Guided hikes allow visitors to explore the beautiful landscape, its flora and fauna, and the ruins of the ancient city walls. In Tito’s Cave, visitors can walk through the cool tunnels that once served as a hideout for Tito's partisans from the German occupiers. Organized sailing trips provide opportunities to discover the numerous islands around Vis. A special experience is a boat trip to the famous Blue Cave. Numerous beautiful pebble beaches and small secluded bays invite you to swim and sunbathe. The sandy beach of Stanica, with its shade-giving palm trees, is also well-suited for families with children. Equipment and courses for surfing, stand-up paddling, kite surfing, and diving are also available.

With all its diversity, the island of Vis could be the perfect place for your dream home.

Real estate on the island of Vis is quite rare—let yourself be inspired by the available offers. We look forward to your inquiry and are happy to assist with any further questions.