The iconic Croatian beach of Zlatni Rat, usually referred to simply as the Golden Horn, is one of the finest European beach destinations. With crystal clear waters, sandy beaches and a magnificent shoreline that’s lined with restaurants and bars, this spectacular corner of Southern Croatia is one of the continent’s lesser-known tourist hotspots.
The Golden Horn beach is located around 15 minutes walk along the seafront promenade from Bol, a sleepy coastal town on the island of Brac. Surrounded by wineries, mountainous hiking trails, historical sites of interest and nautical centers where you can waterski or jet ski, Bol is a lovely destination in its own right. Naturally, one of the town’s top attractions will always be the stunning Golden Horn.
Frequently ranked as one of Europe’s top summer destinations, Golden Horn is a white sand beach where you can explore the nearby islands by boat, go windsurfing, swimming or snorkeling. Of course, for visitors who just want to relax in the sunshine, you can have a picnic on the beach, stroll along the promenade or have a leisurely lunch in one of Bol’s popular restaurants.
How Do You Get To The Golden Horn, Croatia?
The easiest way to get to Golden Horn in Croatia is to fly to Split Airport, known locally as Resnik Airport. The flight from London to Split averages around 2 hours 30 minutes while a flight from New York will take between 9 to 11 hours, depending on whether or not you need to catch a connecting flight.
Once you reach Split, you can spend a few nights enjoying the city’s numerous cultural highlights before you travel onwards to the island of Brac to visit Bol and the Golden Horn. The best way to travel from Split to the island is to catch one of the car ferries or catamaran ferries that connect Brac to the mainland.
Alternatively, if you’re flying from within the European continent, you could choose to fly directly to the small Brac Airport on the island. Croatia Airlines flies directly to Brac island from many European cities including Amsterdam, Berlin, Madrid, Milan, Paris and Rome, among others.
Lastly, if you’re traveling to the Golden Horn by car then you should drive to Split where you can take a car ferry to the island of Brac.
When Is The Best Time To Visit The Golden Horn, Croatia?
Croatia has a warm climate with hot summers and temperate winters. The high season for the island of Brac is between June and late August when temperatures range from 23-31 Degrees Celsius, the ideal conditions for boating, water sports, or a relaxing holiday on the beach.
The island is less busy during the Spring and Autumn when the weather is still pleasant and warm. However, the perfect time to visit Golden Horn is during the summer months when you can really make the most of the sun, sea and sand!
What Is There To Do At Golden Horn, Croatia?
Take A Full Day 4-Island Boat Tour.
There are 8 main islands off the coast of Split, including Brac where the Golden Horn is located. All of the nearby islands are absolutely divine and hidden away in peaceful lagoons with picturesque beaches of their own. Joining a full day boat tour to explore the islands is a fun way to see Brac, Pakleni, Solta and Hvar, 4 of the main islands in the bay.
During the tour, you’ll have the chance to go ashore throughout the day to see unique beauty spots and have lunch on Pakleni island to refuel yourself! You’ll also be able to visit the Spanish fortress on Hvar island and snorkel in the turquoise waters of the Adriatic.
Join A Personally Tailored Speedboat Tour.
With two departure points available, one from Split and one from Trogir, this personalized speedboat tour is an exhilarating way to see the Dalmatian coast. A typical route will take you to all the main islands but since you’re in control of the itinerary it’s up to where you stop and spend time swimming, snorkeling, or discovering the islands on foot.
Private Full Day Tour Of Brac Island – Including An Authentic Local Lunch.
This full day trip from Split includes visiting the island of Brac as well as sampling local wine and olive oil in a guided tasting session. You’ll also have lunch in a local Olive Oil Museum and travel with an English speaking guide who will explain the sites you visit
During the day you’ll learn all about the history of Skrip, a local town, Supetar, Nerezisca and Golden Horn beach. The tour takes between 6 to 10 hours and will give you a wonderful look at life on the islands and the cultural heritage of this charming area of the Croatian coastline.
Eat At The Pumparela Restaurant In Bol.
There are a lot of great restaurants in and around Bol but the Pumparela is a real local favorite. With amazing views across the ocean from the restaurant’s outdoor seating, this is a fantastic place to have breakfast, lunch or dinner while you’re in Bol. With a hugely diverse menu, including genuine Croatian cuisine, Mediterranean dishes, European classics, vegetarian and vegan options, there’s something for every palette.
The restaurant also specializes in fresh seafood, has an in-house bar, free WiFi and table service. The Pumparela is completely wheelchair accessible and accepts all major credit cards.
Stay At The 5 Star Villa Giardino Hotel In Bol.
If you’re looking for a palatial boutique hotel just a few steps from the stunning shoreline of Bol, and a mere stone’s throw from the Golden Horn, then the Villa Giardino is the absolutely perfect choice for you. As a winner of Trip Advisor’s prestigious ‘Traveler’s Choice Award’, the Villa Giardino has free WiFi throughout the property, an in-house restaurant and a choice of family rooms, luxury suites and non-smoking rooms. All the rooms have air conditioning, a private balcony, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and super comfortable furnishings.
The hotel also provides room service for its guests and offers a free breakfast each morning. The hotel’s staff are always on hand to help you plan your itinerary and book tickets for tours and local attractions. While staying at the Villa Giardino you’ll be close to nearby shops, restaurants, cultural attractions and several stunning beaches, including the Golden Horn.
You can find out more or book your stay at the Villa Giardino Hotel, here.
