Sunrise & Sunset Hike with Picnic Mala Petka, Dubrovnik

Imagine stepping away from the bustling streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town for a peaceful, scenic hike that offers both spectacular views and a chance to breathe. That’s exactly what this Sunrise & Sunset Hike with Picnic to Mala Petka promises. Designed for those seeking a quiet moment amid nature, this experience combines gentle walking, breathtaking vistas, and a delicious vegan picnic — perfect for a slow morning or a relaxed evening.

The tour’s appeal lies in its simplicity and authenticity. We love how it provides a personal, small-group setting that feels more like a shared adventure than a tourist trap. Plus, the view of the Adriatic Sea, Elaphiti Islands, and Mount Sr from atop Mala Petka is truly striking. One small consideration: transportation to the starting point isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan your arrival. This experience best suits travelers who enjoy a laid-back pace, nature, and a good view without strenuous hiking or complex logistics.

This experience made our article of 7 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours In Dubrovnik (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Accessible for all fitness levels: The trail is easy and suitable for most.
• Spectacular panoramic views: From the Adriatic Sea to Mount Sr, including the Elaphiti Islands.
• Ideal timing: Choose between a peaceful sunrise or a glowing sunset.
• Personalized experience: Small groups foster a more intimate connection with nature.
• Delicious vegan picnic: A thoughtful way to enjoy your view and refuel.
• No transportation included: Plan your own way to the starting point.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Escape Near Dubrovnik

This hike to Mala Petka offers a refreshing break from the often crowded streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Just a few minutes away, this forested hill provides a quiet sanctuary—where locals go to breathe and reconnect with nature. For travelers craving an authentic taste of Dalmatian landscape, Mala Petka is an ideal spot.

The tour is offered by Urban Wheels, a company known for small-group tours and flexible booking, including the “Reserve & Pay Later” option. At $53 per person, the cost includes not only the hike but also the stunning vistas and a thoughtfully curated vegan picnic. We find this to be excellent value for a chance to see Dubrovnik from above and enjoy a peaceful moment with tasty food.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point and General Setup

The tour begins at a designated meeting spot (though the exact location isn’t specified, it’s implied to be near Dubrovnik). You’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers, then set off on an easy, accessible trail through Petka Forest Park. The path is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it a perfect choice for families, couples, or solo travelers.

The Hike to Mala Petka

The route is gentle, with well-maintained trails that wind through a forested hill. As you ascend, the landscape opens up, revealing sweeping panoramic views that make the effort more than worthwhile. We loved the way the golden light of sunrise or sunset transforms the scenery, enhancing the beauty of the coast and islands beyond.

The Top and The Viewpoint

Reaching the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Dalmatian coastline, including the Elaphiti Islands, Lapad Bay, and the distant silhouette of Mount Sr. This spot is a favorite among locals for reflection and breathing space, and you’ll quickly see why. The photo opportunities here are plentiful—so don’t forget your camera.

The Picnic Experience

Post-hike, your guide will serve a vegan picnic packed with fresh, wholesome foods. You’ll enjoy your meal overlooking the stunning landscape, making this a memorable way to relax and soak in the scenery. You’ll also have water or soft juices included—perfect for rehydration after your walk.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out

• The timing of the hike is flexible—choose sunrise for a calm, peaceful start to your day or sunset for a reflective end. The different light conditions give each experience a unique feel.
• The small group size means more personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere, rather than feeling like just another face on a large tour.
• The scenic views are truly panoramic, giving you a sense of Dubrovnik’s natural beauty beyond the city walls.
• The vegan picnic is thoughtfully included, emphasizing local, wholesome ingredients that complement the outdoor experience.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While the trail is easy and accessible, transportation to the start point isn’t included, so plan your own route or consider arriving by taxi or local bus. Pack comfortable shoes—sneakers or hiking shoes are ideal—and bring your camera and water to stay refreshed. Sandals, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes aren’t allowed, and the tour is not suitable for children under 5 or those with certain health issues like epilepsy.

The tour runs in both English and Croatian, making it accessible for many travelers. Booking is flexible, with cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Reviews and Feedback

One reviewer from Urban Wheels gave this experience a full 5-star rating, praising the stunning views and the excellent vegan picnic. They appreciated how the hike offered a peaceful escape and highlighted the calm, reflective atmosphere at the summit.

Another review noted the easy trail and the small group size as major advantages, emphasizing how the experience felt personal and relaxing. The reviewer also mentioned that the view of the Elaphiti Islands from Mala Petka is worth the trip alone.

How This Tour Fits Into Your Dubrovnik Adventure

This hike is especially suited for travelers who want more than just city sights. It appeals to those who enjoy simple outdoor activities, panoramic views, and authentic local spots. It’s a peaceful complement to busy sightseeing days, perfect for early mornings or evenings when you want to escape the crowds.

Since the experience offers a view of Mount Sr and Lapad Bay, it provides a broader perspective of Dubrovnik’s surroundings that many visitors miss from within the Old Town walls. The inclusion of a vegan picnic also makes it appealing for health-conscious or eco-minded travelers.

If you’re after a more intimate connection with nature without strenuous trekking or complex arrangements, this hike is a great choice. It’s also ideal for those traveling with family or friends who prefer a relaxed, scenic outing.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Experience?

This Mala Petka hike is a delightful find for those craving a peaceful, scenic break from Dubrovnik’s busy streets. It offers a wonderful combination of easy walking, breathtaking views, and delicious local food in a small-group setting. The flexible timing makes it suitable for early risers eager to catch sunrise or those who prefer a gentle evening stroll at sunset.

The tour’s value lies not only in the stunning scenery but also in the authentic, personal experience it fosters. It’s especially well-suited for nature lovers, camera enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a quiet moment of reflection away from the crowds. With a focus on local beauty and genuine hospitality, this hike is a memorable way to reconnect with the natural side of Dubrovnik.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the start point included?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to make your own way to the meeting location, which is close to Dubrovnik.

What should I bring on the hike?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and water. Remember, sandals, flip-flops, baby strollers, or open-toed shoes are not permitted.

Is the trail suitable for children?
While the trail is easy and accessible, it’s not recommended for children under 5 years old.

Can I choose between sunrise and sunset?
Yes, you can select your preferred time, and the guide will accommodate accordingly.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes the guided hike, panoramic views, a vegan picnic with drinks, and a small group experience.

Is it possible to cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your planning.

This hike to Mala Petka offers a tranquil and visually stunning escape just outside Dubrovnik. If you’re eager to see a different side of Croatia—one marked by peaceful woods, panoramic coastlines, and delicious food—this experience is worth considering. It’s perfect for those who want to savor nature’s quiet beauty without the hassle of strenuous trekking or long arrangements.

You can check availability for your dates here: