Nestled on the southern coast of Brač Island, Bol is Croatia’s most awarded and popular holiday destination. This charming town, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Bol is famous for Zlatni Rat Beach, often rated as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches by travelers and top magazines. With a tourism tradition dating back to 1923, Bol promises a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
What to see and do in Bol
Bol offers a wide array of activities and attractions that cater to all interests. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or someone looking to unwind, Bol has something for everyone.
Zlatni rat beach Zlatni Rat, or the Golden Horn, is a stunning pebble beach that stretches over 500 meters into the sea. Its unique shape changes with the tides, currents, and winds, making it a dynamic and captivating sight. The beach is surrounded by turquoise waters and shaded by ancient pine trees, providing a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and windsurfing.
Historic sites and culture Bol is steeped in history, with several notable landmarks:
- Dominican monastery: This 600-year-old monastery houses a rich collection of art and artifacts.
- Old town: Wander through the narrow streets lined with charming stone houses and historic architecture.
- Churches and chapels: Discover the town’s spiritual heritage with visits to various old churches and chapels scattered throughout Bol.
Outdoor activities For those seeking adventure, Bol offers a variety of outdoor activities:
- Windsurfing and kitesurfing: Bol is one of the windiest spots in the Adriatic, perfect for wind and kite surfing enthusiasts.
- Scuba diving: Explore the underwater world of the Adriatic with guided scuba diving tours.
- Biking and hiking: Enjoy scenic bike rides and hikes through Bol’s beautiful landscapes.
- Water sports: Try your hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, parasailing, and more.
Excursions and day trips Bol is an excellent base for exploring Brač Island and beyond. Popular excursions include:
- Boat trips: Discover nearby islands and hidden beaches on a boat excursion.
- Vidova gora: Hike or drive to the highest peak of the Adriatic islands for breathtaking views.
- Wine tasting: Visit local wineries and sample the island’s renowned wines, including the famous Stina Pošip and Stina Plavac.
Culinary delights A visit to Bol wouldn’t be complete without indulging in its culinary offerings. The town boasts a variety of restaurants and bars where you can savor traditional Dalmatian cuisine. Popular dishes include:
- Lamb on a spit: A local favorite, often enjoyed during festive occasions.
- Octopus under peka: A slow-cooked dish prepared under a bell-like lid, preserving the rich flavors.
- Vitalac: An authentic Brač specialty made from lamb offal, a must-try for adventurous eaters.
- Fresh seafood: Enjoy an array of dishes made from fresh fish, shellfish, and other seafood.
By Air Brač has its own airport, just 15 km from Bol, with connections to numerous European cities. Alternatively, Split’s international airport, well-connected to major European hubs, is another convenient option. From Split, you can reach Bol by ferry or catamaran.
By Sea Regular ferry and catamaran services connect Brač with the mainland and neighboring islands. From Split, ferries to Supetar are frequent and take just over an hour. Catamaran services offer a direct route to Bol. Another option is the ferry from Makarska to Sumartin, which is a short drive from Bol.
By Land Travelers by car, bus, or train can reach Split or Makarska in central Dalmatia, where they can then take a ferry or catamaran to Brač. The journey from Zagreb to Split is approximately 380 km, while from Rijeka to Split it’s a scenic drive along the coast.
Explore our photo gallery to see the beauty of Bol and Brač Island. From the stunning Zlatni Rat Beach to the charming streets of Bol, our gallery captures the essence of this our destination.
