Zaglav Cove on Šolta – Two Hidden Beaches on the Southern Coast of the Island

Zaglav Cove is located on the southern coast of Šolta, west of Tatinja Cove and south of Grohote. It is hidden beneath the uninhabited interior of the island and is recognized by its clear turquoise sea, rocky slopes, and several old houses along the shore. It is one of those Šolta coves that is not visited for tourist amenities, but for swimming, tranquility, and natural scenery.

Zaglav actually consists of two smaller branches – Vela Luka and Grkovo beach. At their ends, there are small natural beaches covered with pebbles, stones, and rocks. The space for towels is limited, and part of the shore is occupied by rocks, small piers, and access points in front of the houses.

The water is exceptionally clear, with the color changing from light turquoise near the beaches to dark blue towards the middle of the cove. The bottom is a combination of pebbles, stones, and underwater rocks, making Zaglav very suitable for snorkeling. Water shoes are useful due to larger pebbles, slippery rocky areas, and potential sea urchins.

The easiest entry into the water is at the pebbly sections. The shallows are not particularly long, and the depth gradually increases, making the cove more suitable for swimmers and families with older children than for parents with babies and small children.

Natural shade can be found under the pines and along the vegetation at the edges of the beaches, but it is not sufficient for all visitors. The central parts of the beach are exposed to the sun for most of the day, so it is advisable to bring head protection and enough water.

There are no public showers, toilets, changing cabins, sun loungers, or lifeguard services at the beaches. There are no shops, kiosks, or traditional beach bars in the cove, so it is necessary to bring food, drinks, and everything needed for your stay. All waste must be taken away with you.

How to Reach Zaglav Cove?

Zaglav can be accessed by land from the direction of Grohote, via rural and walking paths leading to the southern coast. The route passes through rocky terrain, maquis, and island fields, and the final descent to the sea is not arranged like access to a city beach.

Good walking shoes, enough water, and sun protection are necessary for hiking. The path is almost completely exposed to heat in the summer, and the return inland involves an ascent, so it is best to start early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Do not expect a designated public parking area near the sea. A vehicle can approach part of the rural road, depending on the condition of the terrain, but the last section usually needs to be continued on foot. A low vehicle is not a good choice for a poor, rocky, and sometimes narrow road.

Vehicles may only be parked in sufficiently wide and permitted areas, without blocking access to houses, fields, and paths leading to the cove. Zaglav is not a beach that can be reached by car just a few meters from the sea.

Arrival by Boat and Mooring

The simplest and most pleasant way to reach Zaglav is by boat. The cove is deep enough for anchoring, and sailors usually stop at depths of approximately between 10 and 20 meters, depending on the size of the vessel and the chosen area.

Before dropping anchor, check the type of bottom, depth, and distance from other vessels. Local boats, moorings, and ropes may be located near the houses, so it is not advisable to anchor without carefully inspecting the area.

The cove is open to the southern sea. During calm summer weather, it provides a pleasant stay, but it is not a good choice for safe overnight stays during strong winds and waves from the open sea. Before a longer stay, it is necessary to check the weather forecast and adjust the anchoring location according to the expected wind direction.

Smaller boats and speedboats should reduce speed before entering, as swimmers often swim between the two branches and away from the beaches.

Who is Suitable for Zaglav Cove?

Zaglav will appeal most to sailors, couples, good swimmers, and visitors who enjoy natural, hard-to-reach beaches. It is an excellent choice for peaceful swimming, snorkeling, and spending a few hours away from populated areas of Šolta.

It is less suitable for persons with reduced mobility, families with very small children, and guests who expect easy access by car, ample parking, catering facilities, and a fully equipped beach.

The most pleasant time to arrive is in the morning when the sea is calmer and there is more free space. Although Zaglav appears secluded, during July and August, several boats may dock in the cove during the day. Nevertheless, its two small beaches and several stone houses still retain the authentic appearance of the secluded southern coast of Šolta.