Church of the Nativity Gornja Lastva
Hike to an abandoned church for breathtaking panoramic views of the Tivat bay and surrounding mountains. A rewarding adventure for the active traveler...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views, cooler temps
Church of the Nativity Gornja Lastva
Best Time
Best views, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to an abandoned church for breathtaking panoramic views of the Tivat bay and surrounding mountains. A rewarding adventure for the active traveler.
"The hike is steep and rocky, but the views of the bay are amazing!"
Wear Long Pants! 👖
Protect yourself from thorny bushes and brambles on the overgrown trail.
Sturdy Footwear is Key 👟
The path is steep, rocky, and has loose gravel. Avoid ankle twists!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Bay Views
Along the hiking trail
Breathtaking vistas of the Tivat bay and surrounding mountains unfold as you ascend.
Abandoned Church Architecture
Summit of the hill
Explore the atmospheric ruins of this historic, abandoned church, a unique sight.
The Challenging Ascent
Hiking trail from Tivat
A rewarding, albeit steep and rocky, hike through nature to reach the destination.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & What to Wear
Best Time for Views & Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Long Pants! 👖
Protect yourself from thorny bushes and brambles on the overgrown trail.
Sturdy Footwear is Key 👟
The path is steep, rocky, and has loose gravel. Avoid ankle twists!
Bug Spray Recommended 🦟
Mosquitoes and spiders can be present, especially in warmer months.
Follow the Markers ➡️
Painted rock markers guide the way, making the path easy to follow.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Long Pants! 👖
Protect yourself from thorny bushes and brambles on the overgrown trail.
Sturdy Footwear is Key 👟
The path is steep, rocky, and has loose gravel. Avoid ankle twists!
Bug Spray Recommended 🦟
Mosquitoes and spiders can be present, especially in warmer months.
Follow the Markers ➡️
Painted rock markers guide the way, making the path easy to follow.
Hydrate Well 💧
The hike is steep and can be strenuous, especially in the heat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the stunning panoramic views of the Tivat bay and the unique experience of hiking to an abandoned church. The challenging yet marked trail is a highlight for many, offering a rewarding adventure. However, the overgrown path, presence of insects, and loose gravel on descent are noted drawbacks.
"Starting from the Regent hotel, it was just over 1.5 miles to reach the church. The path is steep, rocky and very overgrown in parts; I was wearing shorts and got cuts from the brambles. There are markers painted onto rocks which guide the way. When I hiked up in June there were a lot of spiders that had spun webs right across the path, and mosquitoes were present as well.
There are some nice views on a clear day. I found coming down harder, as the loose gravel was giving way under my feet, and I nearly twisted an ankle a few times."
Phil
"As advertised, it is a church that is abandoned on the hill above Tivat. The path is easy to follow, though as others mention it is somewhat overgrown so you have to watch for thorns. Overall, it’s a nice hike uphill through the woods with some beautiful views."
Jack Ballard
"Disappointing hike from start to finish. Not only had I eaten far too much just before setting out, but it was so overgrown near the church that you could not see the view of the bay. They should bring this church back into use then quickly abandon it all over again"
Matt Taylor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to hike from Tivat. The trail is about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) and starts from near the Regent hotel. It's a steep, rocky, and sometimes overgrown path marked with painted rocks.
While there isn't direct parking at the church itself, you can likely find parking in Tivat before starting the hike.
The hike typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour each way, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop for photos.
The path is primarily a hiking trail and not suitable for vehicles. It's best accessed on foot.
The hike generally begins from the vicinity of the Regent hotel in Tivat, with marked trails leading upwards.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required as it is an abandoned church. Entry is free, though there have been reports of unofficial 'doormen' asking for payment.
As an abandoned site, there are no official opening hours. You can visit anytime, but daylight hours are recommended for the hike and views.
There is no official entrance fee. However, one reviewer mentioned being asked to pay 6 Euros by an unofficial person.
The church is abandoned, so while you can see it from the outside and potentially peek inside, it's in a state of disrepair.
While the exterior is accessible, the interior is abandoned and may be unsafe. Exercise caution and respect the ruins.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail and the church itself offer beautiful panoramic views of the Tivat bay, the surrounding mountains, and the coastline.
The hike is considered moderately difficult due to its steepness and rocky terrain. It's manageable for most with decent fitness.
You'll find the ruins of an old, abandoned church. The main draw, besides the church itself, is the stunning scenery surrounding it.
No, as it's an abandoned site, there are no facilities like restrooms or water fountains. Be prepared.
Hikers have reported seeing spiders and mosquitoes, especially during warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the panoramic views of the bay, the atmospheric ruins of the church, and the scenic hiking trail itself. Golden hour light can be particularly beautiful.
Yes, the elevated position offers excellent vantage points for sunset photos over the bay, provided the weather is clear.
Mornings offer clear light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour lighting for dramatic shots.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. The natural beauty and unique subject matter make for great photos.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be respectful of the historical site and any other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Adventurous Hikers
Pack plenty of water and consider insect repellent for a more pleasant journey. The rewarding panoramic views from the top are the ultimate prize for your efforts. It's a great option for a morning or late afternoon adventure when the weather is cooler.
Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens to capture details of the church or distant islands. The trail itself offers interesting photographic opportunities with its textures and natural elements. Be prepared for a hike to reach the best vantage points.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike: A Traveler's Perspective
Despite the challenges, the trail is generally well-marked with painted rock signs, ensuring you won't get lost. The hike offers a chance to connect with nature, passing through wooded areas before reaching the summit. The effort is widely considered worthwhile for the stunning panoramic vistas that open up, showcasing the beauty of the Adriatic coast. It’s a classic example of a rewarding hike where the journey significantly enhances the overall experience.
Exploring the Abandoned Church
It's important to note that the church is not a functioning tourist attraction with amenities. There are no official opening hours or guided tours. However, its very abandonment contributes to its mystique. One traveler recounted being asked for a fee to enter, which they declined, highlighting the unofficial nature of access. The primary allure remains the combination of the historical ruins and the spectacular natural setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit