When people think of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, images of sun-kissed beaches, turquoise coves, and lively seaside towns like Makarska immediately come to mind. But just beyond the tourist buzz, nestled in a quiet pine-forested valley at the foot of the Biokovo mountain, lies a place of profound peace and reflection — the Vepric Shrine, officially known as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.
Whether you’re a pilgrim, a spiritual seeker, or simply a traveler looking for a deeper experience, Vepric offers a uniquely serene escape, surrounded by nature and history.
✨ A Sanctuary Modeled After Lourdes
Founded in 1908 by Bishop Juraj Carić, the Vepric Shrine was created to mirror the famous Marian shrine of Lourdes in France. Bishop Carić was struck by the striking similarity between this Croatian landscape — with its natural cave formations, rocky cliffs, and flowing spring — and the sacred site in the Pyrenees.
He envisioned a peaceful refuge for prayer, contemplation, and pilgrimage. Today, the site still holds that same quiet spirit, visited by thousands of faithful every year — and countless others who come simply to reconnect with themselves and the natural world.
The shrine complex includes:
- A grotto carved into the hillside with a statue of the Virgin Mary
- A beautifully maintained outdoor altar for open-air Masses
- A small chapel for private prayer
- Confessionals, processional paths, and stations of the cross
- Quiet walking trails winding through pine forests and Mediterranean vegetation
🌲 What Makes Vepric Special?
What sets Vepric apart is not only its spiritual legacy, but the atmosphere it offers. Unlike many religious sites that bustle with crowds, Vepric remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Even in summer, you’ll find long moments of silence — broken only by birdsong, rustling leaves, and the occasional church bell.
It’s a place where you can slow down. Where you don’t feel the pressure to rush, pose, or check off sights. Here, reflection happens naturally.
Whether you light a candle, walk the meditative trails, or simply sit in the shade of pine trees breathing in the scent of wild herbs, Vepric offers a different kind of memory — one that stays with you long after the trip ends.
📸 Best Photo Spots
If you’re into photography or documenting your travels, Vepric offers several picturesque locations:
- The Grotto & Altar – Framed by trees and stone, the open-air altar is stunning at sunrise or sunset.
- Pine Forest Paths – Soft light filters through the tall trees, casting tranquil shadows.
- The Hilltop Cross – For those willing to take a short walk uphill, a large cross offers panoramic views over the Makarska Riviera.
- Detail Shots – Statues, lanterns, stone steps, and floral offerings all offer intimate, reflective photo moments.
🖼️ You can preview some images here for inspiration: TripAdvisor Photo Gallery, or search “Vepric Makarska” on Instagram for traveler perspectives.
🧭 Travel Tips for Visiting Vepric Shrine
📍 Location:
Vepric is located just west of Makarska, along the main road (D8) that connects the town with Split. The entrance is clearly marked, and there is free parking near the site.
🚶 Getting There:
- By Foot: From central Makarska, it’s a pleasant 30-minute walk through quiet neighborhoods.
- By Car: Just a 5-minute drive from town, easily accessible via coastal road.
- By Bike: A great option for active travelers; the route is relatively flat.
🎟️ Entrance:
The shrine is open year-round, and admission is free.
⛪ When to Visit:
- Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for peaceful atmosphere and softer light.
- Special occasions: Major Marian feast days, especially August 15th (Feast of the Assumption), draw larger gatherings and processions.
🧺 What to Bring:
- Water and a hat (if visiting in summer)
- A light scarf or shawl if you wish to enter the chapel respectfully
- A small candle if you’d like to make an offering (you can also purchase them at the site)
- Journal or book if you’re planning to linger
🍽️ Nearby Options:
While there are no cafés directly at the shrine, Makarska’s town center is close, offering many restaurants, bakeries, and seaside terraces. Pack a light snack if you plan to spend more time in the area.
🌊 Combining Vepric with a Day of Exploration
Visiting Vepric pairs well with a relaxing day in the Makarska Riviera. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
- Morning: Walk or drive to Vepric and enjoy the shrine in quiet.
- Late Morning: Grab a coffee and pastry in Makarska Old Town.
- Afternoon: Swim at one of the nearby beaches like Nugal or Punta Rata.
- Evening: Dine on fresh seafood with sunset views of Brač island.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also hike into Biokovo Nature Park or drive the stunning Skywalk Biokovo — both are nearby and offer breathtaking views over the Adriatic.
💬 Final Reflections
In a region known for its dramatic coastlines and lively tourist energy, Vepric Shrine stands as a reminder of Croatia’s quieter, contemplative soul. It’s a place where spirituality and nature meet — not in a grand, overwhelming way, but in subtle moments of stillness.
Even if you’re not religious, Vepric is worth visiting for the peace it offers. It’s not about seeing more, but feeling more. Sometimes the most beautiful part of travel isn’t found in the guidebooks — it’s in the quiet corners, where your heart finds space to breathe.
