For those looking to do a bit of sightseeing on Brac, there are a number of interesting sights on the island. Read on below for things to check out in the island’s pretty towns.
Sightseeing on Brac – Bol
We, of course, have to first mention the most famous sight in Bol! Zlatni Rat/Golden Horn Beach is one of Croatia’s most famous sights. Images of Zlatni Rat Beach are frequently used in advertising material for the country all around the world! The shingle beach stretches out over 500m from the coastline. Uniquely, its shape changes over the months and seasons depending on the winds and the water current. The beach is very popular during the summer months; be prepared for it to be busy if you visit then.
Situated on Brac’s harbourfront, Branislav Deskovic Fine Art Gallery is housed in a 17th century Renaissance building. It features works from some famous Croatian artists, including sculptors Ivan Mestrovic and Ivan Rendic and abstract expressionist painter Edo Murtic. (Branislav Deskovic is also a famous Croatian sculptor, best known for his animal sculptures.)
The 15th-century Dominican Monastery in the eastern part of Bol is located on a site where the palace of the Bishops of Brac and Hvar once stood. The Monastery’s Museum houses a number of ancient coins, including Greek coins from the islands of Hvar and Vis, and Cretan coins. Tintoretto’s Madonna with Child is also housed here.
Brac’s highest peak (at 778 metres high) is Vidova Gora; it is in fact the highest peak of any of the Croatian islands. It is close to Bol, from where you can hike or cycle up to the peak (if you’re athletic!). For the rest of us, organised excursions are available.
6km west of Bol, just outside the village of Murvica, lies the Dragon’s Cave. It is so called because reliefs of dragons can be found inside that are said to be the work of a monk in the 15th century. Tours of the cave must be organised, so ask locally to pay a visit.
Sightseeing on Brac – Supetar
One of Croatia’s most famous sculptors, Ivan Rendic (1849-1932), lived in Supetar for the latter part of his life. Some of his works are found here – particularly in the town cemetery – as well as in the gallery in the library in the centre of town, dedicated to him.
Sightseeing on Brac – Milna
Milna – not to be confused with the town on Hvar with the same name – has a wonderfully picturesque little harbour. Its calm waters (the village is situated in a bay) mean it’s a popular port of call for sailing boats.
Sightseeing on Brac – Skrip
Considered to be the oldest settlement on Brac, the village of Skrip lies southeast of Supetar. It is home to the Museum of Brac, which displays assorted items from the island.
Another place of interest here is the Olive Oil Museum, which was established in 1864; as well as learning more about oil production, you can enjoy tastings.
Pustinja Blaca / Blaca Hermitage
This historic monastery is located closest to the inland settlement of Nerezisca in the southwest of the island, roughly halfway between Bol and Milna. The monastery, or hermitage (a building housing a group of religious people, living in seclusion), was founded in the 16th century by two Glagolithic monks fleeing from the Republic of Poljica (on the mainland around Omis), under attack from Ottoman forces.
First housed in a stone cave, the hermitage that was subsequently built included a church and a monastery, plus residential and farm buildings. Vineyards and olive groves – both highly successful – were also established. The hermitage was passed down through generations of monks until 1963 when Father Niko Milicevic, the last of the monks, died.
Now open as a museum housing many artefacts and books, the hermitage can be reached by car from Nerezisca and then a 30-minute walk on foot.