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Saint Ilija is the highest peak of Pelješac and the most famous hiking destination on the peninsula. Many hikers consider it to be the most beautiful viewpoint in the Croatian mountains. The top itself is a relatively spacious stone plateau marked with a wooden cross, from which the view spreads over the nearby Dalmatian islets and islands: the Korčula archipelago and the city of Korčula, Mljet, Lastovo, Vis, Hvar... and over the continental peaks of Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro. Those who like panoramic photos will enjoy it at the top.

The ascent to the top is possible from the three most common starting points: Orebić, Bilopolje and Gornja Nakovana. Each of the ascents takes two to three hours of walking. The low-lying parts of the hill are overgrown with oak, while above 750 m there are pine forests and rocks. Hiking is possible throughout the year, although experienced hikers recommend spring and autumn as the time when the ascent is most pleasant due to lower temperatures. In summer, temperatures are high and it is mandatory to take a sufficient amount of water with you on the climb. It is also mandatory to wear hiking shoes, high shoes that protect the feet. When climbing in any season, it is recommended to wear long pants. The hiking trails are marked, and for the ascent to the top you can use the hiking maps of Pelješac published by the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service or the company SMAND. It is also possible to download digital tracks for a particular route on hiking websites.

On the way to the top, there are two buildings, a wooden house at 560 meters and a brick house at 800 meters above sea level, which was completely renovated in 2008 on the hundredth anniversary of its construction. The brick house was originally built for the needs of hunting for medium-sized wild dogs.

In Orebić itself, a place under the mountain, there is also the Mountaineering Society "St. Ilija", whose information you can find on Facebook and on the website of the Croatian Mountaineering Association, which will surely give you useful advice if you decide to climb to the top.

The very peak Saint Ilija is named after Saint Ilija, who is still known as Thunderer. A church was also built on the top, which was destroyed by many lightning strikes in the 19th century, so in bad or stormy weather, do not go to the top and do not play with lightning.

Fun fact: Saint Ilija is the name of the peak on the hill, which is also called Zmijino brdo (meaning “Snake’s Hill), and that name did not belong to it because of the view of the islands, but because of the viper that lives on the hill. The viper is a poisonous snake. Therefore, be smart and wear hiking shoes!