Can Brac Be Explored by Car? A Road Trip to Brac and Zlatni Rat, Croatia

Words from the author: "Hello, my name is Yordan Balabanov, an avid traveler in pursuit of sunny days and boundless beaches. I thrive on cruise getaways, relish tequila cocktails, and embrace nothing but good vibes!"...

Imagine crystalline waters, charming Mediterranean towns, and sun-soaked beaches that look like they were plucked from a postcard. This is Brac, Croatia, an island paradise that promises a quintessential Adriatic escape. One of its crown jewels is Zlatni Rat, a stunning beach known for its unique shape and pristine beauty. If you're planning a trip to Croatia, here’s how you can make the most of your journey from Brac to the famed Zlatni Rat by car.

Driving to Brac

The adventure begins with a scenic road trip through Croatia's picturesque landscapes. Although Brac is an island, the journey by car is straightforward and involves a ferry ride, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

1. From Split: Start your trip by driving to Split, Croatia's second-largest city and a major transportation hub. Secure parking is available near the ferry port, where you can board a car ferry to Brac. Jadrolinija and Krilo offer regular services to Supetar, the island’s main port, and the ferry ride takes about 50 minutes.

A word of advice: Search the sailing schedule and buy a ticket online before you go, as tickets can sell out on your planned day! You can purchase electronic tickets on the website www.jadrolinija.hr. Sailing schedule 2024: here.

Prices for the 2024 season found. Always double-check current prices as they may vary!

2. From Makarska: Alternatively, drive to the coastal town of Makarska and take a car ferry to Sumartin on the eastern side of Brac. This route offers a more relaxed and scenic ferry journey, which takes about an hour.

Exploring Brac by Car

Having your car on Brac provides the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Here are some highlights to consider before heading to Zlatni Rat:

Supetar: Upon arriving in Supetar, take some time to explore this charming port town. Visit the Church of Annunciation and the Supetar Cemetery with its intricate mausoleum. Enjoy local cuisine in seaside restaurants and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.

Skrip: Drive to Skrip, the oldest settlement on the island, where you can visit the Brac Island Museum and the Olive Oil Museum to delve into the island's rich history and culture.

Vidova Gora: For breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea, drive up to Vidova Gora, the highest peak in the Adriatic islands. The journey offers scenic vistas and the opportunity for a short hike to the summit.

Road Trip to Zlatni Rat

Zlatni Rat, also known as the Golden Horn, is situated near the town of Bol on the southern coast of Brac. This iconic beach is famous for its distinctive triangular shape that changes with the tides, currents, and wind.

Getting There: From Supetar, drive approximately 40 kilometers to Bol, a picturesque town that serves as the gateway to Zlatni Rat. The well-maintained road offers scenic views of the island’s interior, dotted with olive groves and vineyards.

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Parking: Once in Bol, follow the signs to Zlatni Rat where you’ll find ample parking facilities near the beach. A short walk or shuttle ride will take you directly to the beach.

Beach Activities: Zlatni Rat is a haven for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The clear, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Windsurfing and kiteboarding are popular here, thanks to favorable wind conditions.

Relaxation: For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, the beach offers plenty of shaded spots under the pine trees. Beach bars and cafes provide refreshments and snacks, ensuring you can spend the whole day unwinding by the sea.

Practical Tips

When to Visit: The best time to visit Brac and Zlatni Rat is during the late spring and early autumn months (May to June and September to October). The weather is warm, and the crowds are thinner compared to the peak summer season.

Accommodation: Bol offers a range of accommodation options from luxury hotels to charming guesthouses and apartments. Book well in advance, especially during the summer months, to secure your preferred lodging.

Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to savor local dishes such as “Vitalac” (lamb offal), fresh seafood, and the island’s renowned olive oil. Pair your meals with a glass of Plavac Mali, a robust red wine produced on Brac.

Conclusion

Traveling to Brac and experiencing Zlatni Rat is a journey into the heart of the Adriatic's natural beauty and cultural richness. With the convenience of a car, you can explore the island’s hidden gems and enjoy the freedom to create your own adventure. So pack your bags, set off on a road trip to Brac, and let the golden shores of Zlatni Rat enchant you.

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