Visiting Bol
During your trip to Croatia, make sure to explore the island of Brač and one of its most charming towns, Bol. This Dalmatian island is a collection of Croatian treasures, and Bol itself is a signature site on the Adriatic Sea. You only need to see the view of the Zlatni Rat beach, or Golden Horn, and its V-shaped sandbar to understand why.
Coastal living on the Adriatic
Start your visit by walking along the small fishing port, which has managed to hold onto its traditional character. If you enjoy historic architecture, head to the Church of Our Lady of Carmel, then stop by the small Saint Anthony Chapel and the fortified palace that now houses the Branislav Dešković contemporary art gallery. For lunch, you will be just steps away from the town market, which stocks plenty of local products.
The rugged surroundings of Bol are a playground for hikers of all levels. Feel free to wander along the many walking paths. The most popular trail, Zlatnog Rata, takes you past several hidden coves. You can also hike to the summit of Mount Vidova Gora, which towers over the town. Expect spectacular views of the island and the surrounding archipelago.
If you are looking for history and authenticity, head to the Blaca Hermitage, founded in the 16th century. For an entry fee of about 5.50 EUR (approximately $6), you can take a guided tour of the hermitage and see its original facilities, including the church, library, school, armory, and astronomical observatory. The site also features a museum with a collection of Venetian furniture and paintings.
Classic Balkan experiences
If you are looking for nightlife, you will find it here. Just a short distance from Zlatni Rat beach is the epicenter of partying on Brač. A cluster of hotels, bars, and clubs will keep you dancing until dawn. Bol also offers a variety of water sports, with windsurfing and kitesurfing being particularly popular due to the consistent coastal winds.
For more adventure, you can book excursions through local tour agencies. A trip to the Dragon's Cave will bring you to a stunning carved grotto once occupied by Glagolitic priests in the 15th century. Alternatively, take a boat trip to see the famous Blue Cave, known for its intense blue light, on the neighboring island of Bisevo.
When to go
Bol enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine from March through November. Just be aware that July can bring intense heat waves.
How to get there
During the high season, the island is easily accessible by air via Croatia Airlines, which operates flights to its small airport from Zagreb in about 50 minutes.
The best way to reach Bol is by ferry. You can either take a ferry from Split to Supetar, the largest town on the island, and then take a bus or rent a car, or take a direct ferry from Split to Bol.
Bol is a pleasant island with plenty of things to discover. It is impossible to miss its beach, which is one of the most famous in the country. You have to admit it is dreamy with its white sand and turquoise waters. The village is pretty nice too. There are little shops and some good restaurants. Perfect for spending the day.