During your yacht charter holiday in Croatia, you will have the opportunity to visit the most raved-about cities and islands in the world, such as ancient Split, celebrity-worshipped Dubrovnik and wild Hvar. But this coastal country has so many secret gems it can be hard to keep count, and doesn’t cease to surprise and amaze.
One such gem is Brela, a dreamy town in Dalmatia, where the sparkly, aquamarine shoreline is contrasted by huge, dramatic Biokovo mountains which makes it look like the love child of the Swiss Alps and a remote Caribbean summer resort.
Known for its distinctive beaches, ethereal nature and mysterious coves, Brela is quickly becoming Croatia’s favourite summer destination.
Often referred to as “The Pearl of Makarska Riviera”, a coastline of this Adriatic country that stretches over 60 kilometres, Brela flaunts otherworldly beauty and unique natural sights that can only be found here - like pine trees that grow on a solemn rock that is just from the sea.
The famous Punta Rata Beach in Brela is regarded by many to be the most beautiful on Earth - Forbes called it the number one beach in Europe and put it right next to Bondi Beach in Australia and Miami Beach in Florida when naming the top 10 beaches globally.
The scenic town is actually divided into two, Gornja and Donja Brela, but the two are slowly blending thanks to urbanisation. In total, Brela barely has 1800 year-round residents - after a few hours here you might want to contribute to the population by permanently moving.
If after some time you start missing the hustle and bustle, Split is only minutes away with your luxury charter yacht.
Infact, thanks to its excellent strategic location, it serves as a great base to explore Croatia.
A paradise reserved for the well-informed guests, one could easily say that Brela might be the prettiest town of this coastal country, where you will find both untouched nature, exquisite tavernas and bars, as well as vertiginous hiking trails that will lead you to the peek of Biokovo mountains.
What To See In Brela
The picturesque town doesn’t require you to carry a tourist plan in order to find breathtaking sights - wherever you look, you will find rare natural phenomena or historic landmarks. First mentioned in the 10th century, Brela connects typical Dalmatian architecture with an astounding environment, resulting in unrivalled allure.
Brela Stone
If you’re decided to snap a photo that will turn Instagram on fire, make sure to see the Brela Stone, located on the western side of the legendary Punta Rata beach. The minuscule stone island that protrudes from the water, about 10 metres above the turquoise seas is a symbol of the town and can be found on many postcards. Several pine trees grow almost like they are defying the laws of physics, making for an unforgettable sight - the island holds the status of a natural monument.
The Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
If you are one that never skips on fully exploring the historical heritage of their travel destination, visit this medieval church with invaluable baroque architecture. Erected in 1715 as a sign of victory against the Ottoman army, the church is a superb example of baroque architecture made even more interesting by the mesmerising natural environment. The church holds a focal point in the highly religious resident community, gathered here every Sunday. Although the mass is in Croatian, it is a good opportunity to feel the true vibe and see the traditional way of life in Brela.
Church of St. Stephen
The third church to be built on the same spot and the only one that survived to this day is the small picturesque Church of St. Stephen, which dates to the 19th century, but holds some older pieces of Venetian art, including a priceless Virgin Mary statue. It also houses artworks of some of the most regarded Croatian artists from the era. It’s interesting to note that out of the 3 church bells, only one is authentic - the other two were replaced after being melted into ammunition in WWII. Located just by the sea, this church offers dashing views and moments of absolute peace, since it is usually less busy than the previous one from this list.
Best Beaches In Brela
The small town that made international headlines because its most famous beach is a paradise for swimming and snorkelling. Here, you will be spoiled with options - if these are not enough, more sunny spots are just minutes away, easily reachable with your fantastic yacht for charter.
Punta Rata Beach
Tucked away in a cape completely covered in pine trees, Punta Rata is the beach that put Brela on the map after being named the most beautiful beach in Europe in 2004 by Forbes magazine. Ten years later, the British Huffington Post wrote an entire spread about this dazzling haven, calling it “impossibly perfect”, warning their readers that if they just look at the photos, they will immediately want to hop on a plane.
On the west side of the beach, you will see the legendary Brela Stone, which has become a symbol of this picture-perfect town. Punta Rata is a place that shouldn't be missed during your yacht charter holiday in Croatia, and is just as great for romantic couples, as it is for those looking for a safe spot to teach their kids how to swim. Several bars, cafes and restaurants where you can find delicious snacks are right on the beach, and offer rental parasols and sunbeds.
Thanks to vibrant nature and the thick pine forest, there is plenty of natural shade that will help you avoid sunburns.
Soline Beach
If you’d like to explore further in order to find another almost equally pretty, but less famous beach, head to Soline, an exquisite pebbly beach that offers another alternative for a family beach day. The majestic Bikovo mountains further enhance the looks of this already ravishing oasis, making it a magnet for artists and photographers.
Podrače Beach
A slightly quieter beach that sports the same look as Soline or Punta Rata is the charming Podrače Beach, known to very few tourists, with an enchanting setting. A great place to relax, meditate and inhale the sea-salt fragranced air.
Vruja Beach
If you’d like to enjoy even more privacy than Podrače has to offer, head to Vruja Beach, the most secluded bathing spot in Vrela, where you won't find crowds even in peak summer season. Vruja also has a separate part for naturalists.
Other beaches worth noting are Stomarica, Scit and Porat, Maestral and Za Punton.
Best Restaurants in Brela
Thanks to excellent climate conditions and incredibly clean seas, Brela is where hedonists can rejoice wherever they go for lunch - fingerlicking dishes are almost a guarantee. Whether you follow our advice and book a table in one of these restaurants or simply pick a random place while strolling through the town, you will be amazed by the Dalmatian cuisine characterised by local ingredients and fresh taste.
Konoba Ivandica Dvori
A romantic restaurant housed in the first school of this small town that has been declared a monument of historic value by Croatia has a spectacular atmosphere for dinners shared with your special other. The family-owned restaurant specialises in typical Dalmatian cuisine, but offers options for vegans and those following a gluten-free diet. It is advisable that you book your table in advance, as Ivandica Dvori is arguably the most popular eating spot in Brela.
Obid Restaurant
A more creative take on Dalmatian food, with innovative delivery and intriguing presentation is the signature mark of Obid, a hip Brela restaurant that is more popular with younger guests.
Chic and modern, Obid offers excellent options for all three meals of the day - at breakfast, you could come for a delicious fruit waffle, while in the evenings you could treat yourself to a truffled fish carpaccio that deserves a Michelin star, if not two. The location is pretty amazing as well, especially if you manage to get a table on the terrace that overlooks the marina, ideal for the last cocktail before you go back to your luxury charter yacht to explore the rest of Croatia.
Restaurant Volant
To enjoy the best sea views while indulging in your delectable octopus salad, monkfish croquettes or black risotto, come to this magnificent Brela restaurant that has accumulated a cult following over recent years. The hosts are very welcoming and friendly, and the staff is fluent in German, English, and of course, Croatian.
Del Posto Restaurant & Wine Bar
While this restaurant is not located exactly in Brela, but rather in a nearby village of Baska Voda, it is worthy of the short drive since it offers a true haute dining experience for just the fragment of the cost that the artistry behind the dishes deserve. The neverending wine list includes both local and international options that would wow even the best travelled sommeliers, and all that comes with a romantic setting on the balcony that overlooks the gorgeous marina.
