Bilo Idro Restaurant in Sveta Nedjelja – Fresh Fish, Zlatan Otok Wines, and a Unique Underwater Wine Cellar

Bilo Idro is one of the most distinctive places for lunch, dinner, and wine tasting on the southern coast of Hvar. It is situated right by the sea, in the small marina of Sveta Nedjelja, and is recognisable by its two round stone structures that rise above the water. Here, Dalmatian cuisine and wines from the renowned Zlatan Otok winery combine with an unusual attraction – a wine cellar located below sea level, where the seabed can be viewed through glass windows.

The restaurant is located at the very dock, featuring an open terrace alongside the boat moorings and a view of the steep vineyard slopes above Sveta Nedjelja. It is particularly pleasant in the evening, as the sun sets to the west, casting warmer hues over the sea and stone structures. Bilo Idro is not just a dining venue but also an interesting destination for wine enthusiasts, sailors, and visitors keen to explore the gastronomic traditions of the island's southern side.

Fresh Fish, Lobsters, and Traditional Dalmatian Cuisine

The main focus of Bilo Idro is on fresh fish and seafood specialities. The fish served at the restaurant is supplied by local fishermen, and the menu is based on the daily catch and traditional Dalmatian preparations.

A unique feature of the restaurant is its seawater tank, which holds live lobsters, crabs, and fish. Guests can choose their seafood catch, which is particularly appealing to those wanting to sample fresh marine delicacies.

The menu includes fish dishes, seafood specialities, and various meat options, alongside salads and desserts. Notable dishes associated with the restaurant include grilled fish, seafood platters, and lobsters. The emphasis is on ingredients and flavours that pair well with wines from the southern slopes of Hvar.

For larger fish and lobsters, it is advisable to check the weight and price before ordering, especially if the dish is intended for multiple people. During the peak season, it is recommended to reserve a table, particularly for dinner.

Zlatan Otok – Renowned Hvar Wines by the Sea

Bilo Idro is part of the gastronomic and wine offerings of the Zlatan Otok winery, one of the more prominent wine producers on the southern side of Hvar.

A special place is held by plavac mali, a grape variety that thrives on the steep, sun-drenched vineyards above Sveta Nedjelja. Here, robust red wines with rich colour and pronounced character are produced, which pair excellently with local cuisine.

Guests can taste wines from the Zlatan Otok winery with their lunch or dinner, and the restaurant also organises guided tastings. Wines can be purchased on-site, providing a good opportunity to take a bottle of Hvar wine home.

For wine lovers, it is particularly interesting to combine a tasting with a visit to the underwater wine archive. Group tastings and organised lunches can be arranged in advance.

Underwater Wine Cellar – A Rare Sight

The most unusual part of Bilo Idro is located below sea level. Within the stone structures lies a wine archive with a tasting area, whose windows look directly into the sea.

Through the glass, one can observe the underwater world, the seabed, and fish swimming alongside the structure. This space is particularly intriguing as the wine archive is situated right next to a marine environment that can typically only be experienced through diving.

The stone walls, arched ceilings, and views through the underwater windows create a completely different atmosphere from traditional wine cellars. This combination of architecture, wine, and sea is one of the main attractions of Bilo Idro.

It is best to arrange a visit to the wine archive and a guided tasting in advance.

Seaside Terrace and Bilo Idro Marina

The restaurant is located on the stone quay of the small marina, with outdoor tables right by the sea. The terrace offers views of boats, the open sea, and the steep slopes of Sveta Nedjelja, known for its plavac mali vineyards.

The marina is part of the same complex and allows access by private vessel. Moorings, water and electricity connections, and sanitary facilities for sailors are provided.

According to marina data, vessels up to 18 metres in length and a draft of up to 4 metres can be accommodated at the inner breakwater, while the outer breakwater can accept vessels up to 40 metres, with a draft of up to 7 metres. It is advisable to check conditions in advance for larger vessels and availability of moorings.

Bilo Idro is therefore an appealing destination for sailors exploring the southern coast of Hvar, as they can dock in Sveta Nedjelja, dine by the sea, and sample local wines without needing to travel to larger island ports.

How to Reach Bilo Idro and Where to Park?

Bilo Idro is located in the lower, coastal part of Sveta Nedjelja, right next to the marina. It is easily accessible on foot from the central and coastal areas of the settlement, while those coming from the higher parts of the village should expect to descend towards the sea and ascend on the return.

By car, the most common route is via Ivan Dolac. From the direction of Jelsa, the road passes through Pitve and the Pitve – Zavala tunnel, then leads over Zavala and Ivan Dolac to Sveta Nedjelja.

The marina area can be accessed by car, with parking spaces available near the access point to the port. During the summer season, this area may be occupied by vehicles belonging to restaurant guests, sailors, and local residents, so it is advisable to arrive a bit earlier for dinner.

A unique aspect of the restaurant's location is that it is almost in the sea, allowing access by boat. Guests arriving by their own vessel should arrange a mooring in advance.

What to See Near the Restaurant?

Immediately west of the marina is Veli kamik, a large rock with a solitary pine tree on top, connected to the shore by a bridge. This is one of the most recognisable landmarks of Sveta Nedjelja and a lovely spot for a short walk and photography.

East of the restaurant lies Zogon beach, a small natural cove with a large rock that provides shade for part of the day. To the west of the settlement is Lučišća beach, known for its high cliffs, pebbly shore, and more challenging access.

Above the village rise the vineyards and cliffs of Hvar's southern coast, and Sveta Nedjelja is also known as one of the most interesting areas for sport climbing on the island.

Bilo Idro is a good choice for ending a day spent on the beaches of Sveta Nedjelja, especially for guests wishing to sample local wines and dine right by the sea.

Useful Information

  • Location: Marina Bilo Idro, Sveta Nedjelja, southern coast of Hvar.
  • Type of establishment: Restaurant serving traditional Dalmatian cuisine, wine tasting room, and marina.
  • Special feature: Underwater wine archive with windows for observing marine life.
  • Gastronomic offer: Fresh fish, seafood specialities, lobsters, crabs, meat dishes, salads, and desserts.
  • Wines: Wines from the Zlatan Otok winery, particularly plavac mali from the southern slopes of Hvar.
  • Tastings: Guided wine tastings and the possibility of organised group visits by prior arrangement.
  • Terrace: Outdoor dining area right by the sea and boat moorings.
  • Parking: Parking spaces near the marina area, with limited capacity during the peak season.
  • Access by car: Via Ivan Dolac to the coastal part of Sveta Nedjelja.
  • Access by boat: Arrival by private vessel possible with prior arrangement for mooring.
  • Marina capacity: Inner breakwater for vessels up to 18 m, outer up to 40 m, subject to marina conditions.
  • Sailor facilities: Water and electricity connections, showers, and toilets.
  • Recommendation: Reserve a table during the peak season, and arrange a time for tastings and visits to the underwater wine archive in advance.