A European island paradise not far from a major capital city could be mistaken for the Caribbean or Maldives with its lush mountains, golden sands, and blue waters. Nestled close to the bustling city of Split, which attracts over 900,000 tourists annually, Brač remains one of Croatia’s best-kept secrets.

Despite its modest size of just 91 square miles, Brač boasts a rich history. It was originally famed for its white marble that has been used in iconic structures such as Dioklecian’s palace in Split and the White House in the USA, reportedly using the ‘Stone of Brač’ in 1792. Today, Brač has reinvented itself as a picturesque destination brimming with natural splendour and historical charm.

Travel experts from Wayfarer Wave said: “Despite its proximity to Split, Brač is less touristed than the glittering islands of Hvar and Korcula further south.

They added: “No celebrities or tycoons glide their yachts into Brac’s harbours nor do politicians stroll village streets. For that reason, it provides an excellent window into authentic island life, particularly in the interior.”

The picturesque Zlatni Rat beach, also known as the Golden Horn, captures the essence of Croatia’s stunning coastline with its iconic tongue-like stretch into the shimmering Adriatic Sea. Surrounded by green pine forests and towering cliffs, the site offers a serene escape or an adrenaline rush for windsurfing fans – not forgetting the discreet nudist area to the west for those who dare to bare.

For those keen on delving into the past, the Blaca Hermitage is an awe-inspiring slice of history nestled in the mountains. Founded by priests fleeing the Ottoman Turks in 1551, this hermitage served as both a sanctuary and educational hub, reports the Mirror. 

“By the 18th century the hermitage ministered to three remote villages, with the priests operating a school from one of the rooms,” Lonely Planet detailed. The hermitage stands as a testament to time, with its final chapter closing in 1963 upon the death of Fr Nikola Miličević, a renaissance man who embraced poetry and astronomy alongside his religious duties.

For the thrill-seekers, a trek up Vidova Gora mountain is an unmissable adventure. Soaring at 778 metres, it claims the title of the tallest peak among the Adriatic Islands, offering panoramic views that on a good day all the way to Hvar island and the distant mountains of Pelješac Peninsula.

The journey to the idyllic island of Brač is a well-kept secret, perhaps because reaching it is no simple feat. You’ll need to jet into Split on Croatia’s mainland, clocking up about two and a half hours in the air.

Direct flights are available from various major UK airports such as Bristol, Manchester, and London. For those with flexible travel dates, April return tickets can be a steal, starting at just £60.

From there, a ferry trip to Brač is necessary, which lasts about 50 minutes. “In the high season, it runs 14 journeys per day, in total 98 times per week from Split. In the low season it runs seven to nine journeys per day, in total 61 times per week,” according to Croatia Ferries.

A foot passenger fare will cost you a mere €4-€6.

As for stays on Brač, the accommodation options cater to all pockets. Opt for a basic double-room apartment from Monday, April 7-14, and you’re looking at a bill of only £227 for two occupants.

But if you fancy splashing out on a bit more grandeur, a stylish two-bedroom flat with a balcony will tally up to £768 for the very same week.