A calm Adriatic island with stunning beaches and rich history. Visit ancient Roman ruins, explore Klis fortress, and enjoy local wine bars. Regular ferries from Split.
Brač, Croatia's third-largest island, sits in the Adriatic Sea just off the coast of Split. You can sunbathe on the distinctive horn-shaped Zlatni Rat beach, explore stone villages like Pucisca, or hike the rugged interior to reach Vidova Gora mountain. Visit secluded monasteries such as Blaca, swim in quiet coves, taste wines at local wineries, and relax on numerous pebble beaches across the island.
Exploring Brač's Beaches
Zlatni Rat, also called the Golden Horn, is Brač's most visited beach. This unique pebble spit near the town of Bol changes shape with the currents and winds. The beach extends about 500 meters into the sea, with clear blue waters on both sides. For a calmer beach experience, go to Lovrecina Bay on the north coast. This sandy beach is uncommon on the predominantly rocky Croatian coast and has shallow waters suitable for families.
Towns and Villages
Bol, on the south coast, is Brač's main tourist center. Its old town has narrow stone streets and a harbor with cafes and restaurants. Supetar, the island's largest town and main ferry port, has a laid-back atmosphere with its seafront promenade and historic center. Pucisca is home to white limestone buildings and a stonemason school, making it visually striking.
Hiking Vidova Gora
At 778 meters, Vidova Gora is the highest peak on any Adriatic island. The hike to the top takes about two hours from Bol, providing views over Zlatni Rat and neighboring islands. On clear days, you can see as far as Italy. The trail is well-marked but steep in places, so wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
Brač's Cultural Sites
The Blaca Monastery, built into a cliff face in the 16th century, is an important historical site. Glagolitic monks founded it while fleeing the Ottoman invasion, and it grew into a self-sufficient community with its own observatory. You can explore the monastery's living quarters, kitchen, and library. Near the village of Murvica, you'll find the Dragon's Cave, which contains unusual carvings believed to date from the 15th century.
Local Products
Brač produces olive oil, wine, and sheep's cheese. Many small producers offer tastings and tours. The island's Plavac Mali wines have a strong, full-bodied flavor. In Skrip, the oldest settlement on the island, you can visit the Museum of Olive Oil to learn about traditional production methods.
Getting to and Around Brač
Ferries run frequently from Split to Supetar, taking about 50 minutes. In summer, there are also catamarans to Bol. Brač has its own small airport with connections to Zagreb and some European cities. Once on the island, buses connect the main towns, but renting a car or scooter gives you more flexibility to explore.
Where to Stay
Brač has accommodation options for all budgets. In Bol, Hotel Bol is a modern option close to the center. For a quiet retreat, consider Villa Giardino in Bol, set in a heritage building with a garden. In Supetar, Hotel Villa Adriatica offers rooms with sea views.
