Bol, surrounded by oil trees and vineyards, is the largest establishment on the southern coast of Brač Island. It is most importantly famous for its beach Zlatni Rat, but it also has important monuments and a buzzing nightlife. What to do in Bol? We are going to show you the great opportunities if you visit here.
This article gives you an overview of the following topics:
- Things to do in Bol: Beaches and watersports
- What to do in Bol: Programmes in nature
- Things to do in Bol: Explore the sights in town!
- Traditions and events in Bol
- Gastronomy of Bol
Things to do in Bol: Beaches and watersports
The famous Zlatni Rat can be found on the Middle Dalmatian Brač Island, in the western part of Bol. It is located at the foot of Vidova Gora, the mountain with the highest summit on the islands of the Adriatic. The 500-metre-long, the small pebbly beach has a beautiful natural environment: it is surrounded by pines, oak trees, and other plants. Since its shape and situation are constantly changing due to the wind direction, it is one of the most unique natural sights. Zlatni Rat has an international Blue Flag certificate, so the water is extremely clear here. It is ideal not only for surfing but scuba-diving, kayaking, waterboarding, water-skiing, and jet-skiing as well. Murvica Beach is located in a small coastal village that bears the same name, not far from Bol.
There is an amazing view of the surrounding islands from its pebbly beach, while on the land side, you can admire the view of hills covered in vineyards. If you are hungry, there is a restaurant near the beach where you should try the local delicious specialties.
What to do in Bol: Programmes in nature
The highest mountain of the Adriatic archipelago is Vidova Gora, offering breathtaking views over the region. It is ideal for hiking thanks to the marked trails. Starting from Bol, you can find the first trail markers at the Church of our Lady of Mount Carmel. You can reach the 778-meter high peak in about two hours. There is a small restaurant where you can relax for a while after the hike. There is almost no shade along the way, so be prepared for the heat and bring enough water with you.
Zmajeva špilja, or the Dragon Cave, is near Murvica, next to Bol. It is only 20 metres long, divided into four halls. Inside, you can find the remains of a chapel and the residences of the hermits who used to live here. The cave is only open for guided walking tours. You have to book a tour in advance.
Things to do in Bol: Explore the sights in town!
Besides the beautiful Mediterranian environment, Bol also has some valuable monuments. The Dominican Monastery established in 1462 is located in the eastern corner of the village, on the Glavica peninsula. Its construction began in 1475. Today, there is a museum inside, exhibiting Baroque paintings, as well as archeological findings from prehistoric and ancient times. As for liturgical items, Venetian master Jacopo Tintoretto’s altarpiece, Madonna and Child with Saints are particularly valuable. Blaca Monastery from the 16th century is located farther from Bol, on a hill. After a boat trip, you can approach it by a 30-minute walk on a route from the establishment. The now empty monastery functions as a museum today. This is one of Brač Island’s most interesting hiking spots, it was nominated for World Heritage Site in 2007.
Traditions and events in Bol
On the first and last days of summer, they organise the so-called “Welcome Summer” and “Goodbye Summer” festivals. They offer fish dishes, wine, and live music, and end the event with fireworks. During the summer, they organise Klapa nights, perform plays and modern music concerts as well. Klapa singing is an original Dalmatian music form characterised by polyphonic singing. If you are looking for a good cocktail, you should choose the Bolero Cocktail Bar located in a wonderful environment. There are even more atmospheric clubs at the port and in the centre.
The gastronomy of Bol
Olive, which is produced in Bol as well, is one of the most frequently used ingredients in Dalmatian gastronomy. Croatians can spice up the simplest of dishes such as anchovy salad with it. Marenda is a dish similar to bean goulash: they make it with bacon, pršut (Dalmatian ham), and sausages. It is not a particularly Mediterranean dish, but it is definitely worth trying. Locals usually grill fish, fowls, and even pork. Blitva is a plant similar to carrots: they cook its leaves and pour olive oil on top. It is used as a side dish – they serve it with potatoes and fish. Since it tastes mostly like spinach, it can be served as a mash too.
Another dish called Mišanca is a mixture prepared with uncultivated wild herbs, and they eat it as a side dish or salad. As for the latter, they use capers and olives, anchovy, and eggs to make it richer.
The best restaurants
Restoran Punta
This excellent restaurant in the Mediterranean Supetar is located right by the sea. It offers delicious meat and fish dishes, pizzas, and great desserts. Take a seat on the terrace so you can admire the sunset during dinner. The portions are large and the prices are not too high compared to the quality. If you are visiting Supetar, Apinelo or Konoba Vinotoka are also great choices.
Ranc Restaurant
Only a 15-minute walk from the marina, Ranc is not only the best restaurant in Bol but also on the island. It is characterized by delicious dishes and excellent service at reasonable prices. The terrace offers a breathtaking view of the sea. Since it is very popular, we recommend booking a table in advance. The restaurant opens in the evening, so you can only dine here.
Konoba Mendula
It is also one of Bol’s best restaurants, on the same street as Ranc. Delicious meals and first-class service await you here. The restaurant has the best price-quality ratio, and it also offers a free salad bar.
Arguola Sandwich Bar
Would you like to grab something to eat? Visit the Arguola Sandwich Bar on Bol’s beachfront promenade. Aside from the huge, fresh sandwiches, you can drink coffee and beer. They bake the bread in the bar.
In this article, we listed the best things to do in Bol. The oldest establishment in Brač Island awaits you with Europe’s famous beach, several watersport opportunities, and amazing gastronomy. Read more if you plan Bol sailing or rent a boat in Bol.