Villa Karla

On Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, Baška Voda lies just 15 minutes’ drive from the popular resort town of Makarska. Sitting between the towering Mount Biokovo and the Adriatic Sea, a place which was once a busy fishing port is now welcoming visitors to its beaches, spas and restaurants.

It’s a great place to get active, with mountain biking, water-skiing, paragliding, beach volleyball and lots more on offer. Lovely pebble beaches in the shade of pine trees are perfect for hanging out or relaxing walks, and you’ll find plenty of beach bars and cafés along the way. All sorts of Mediterranean specialities can be found on local menus, such as boiled frog fish, and tempting Baška Voda rafioli, filled with almonds, nuts and maraschino cherries.

Just down the coast, Makarska is a must-visit. Its wonderful sandy beach extends to almost 2km, while a Franciscan monastery and city museum add a little history and local culture. The city’s main square, Kačić, is the centrepiece, and impresses with the wonderful mountain views you can enjoy from its restaurant terraces.

You should have no problem finding places to go after dinner – Makarska offers all kinds of nightlife. In summer, evenings are enlivened by weekly Fishermen’s Nights, with fresh fish, local wine and plenty of fun and music. The town enjoys more than 2750 hours of sun each year, staying mild even in winter, so whenever you visit you should find the weather agreeable.

Walks in the mountains are a great way to spend your days, and you’ll find a few interesting sights along the way, including the holy shrine of Vepric at the foot of the hills, and the botanical garden, Kotišina. A recent addition is the impressive Biokovo Skywalk, a glass-bottomed viewing platform at more than 1200 metres above sea level. This incredible feat of engineering offers incredible panoramic sea views and is well worth seeking out.

Not far from Baška Voda, the glorious Punta Rata beach at Brela is another breath-taking sight, and considered the jewel of the Makarska Riviera. Nearby is the Brela Stone, a small rock island which is a favourite subject for photographers.

Read more about Brela

Brela, a picturesque region on the Makarska Riviera in Croatia, is renowned for its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and natural beauty. It offers a blend of serene relaxation and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect destination for various types of travellers.

Brela is renowned for its stunning beaches, often hailed as some of Croatia's finest. Punta Rata Beach, a Blue Flag beach, is particularly notable for its fine pebbles and crystal-clear, turquoise waters, earning frequent spots on the world's best beaches. Equally enchanting is Podrače Beach, celebrated for its picturesque beauty. Beyond lounging on these beautiful shores, Brela offers a plethora of water sports. Enthusiasts can delve into snorkelling and scuba diving to uncover the vibrant underwater life. Meanwhile, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding provide fantastic ways to explore the scenic coastline and its secluded coves.

While Brela may not be a traditional sightseeing destination, it does offer a few noteworthy attractions. Among these is the Lady of Karmen Church, constructed in 1730, a quaint historical site worth visiting. Another iconic feature is the Kamen Brela, a picturesque small rock island just off the coast, regarded as a symbol of the town. One of the most enjoyable activities in Brela is taking a leisurely walk along the lungomare, the scenic seaside promenade. This charming pathway stretches for over 7 kilometres, winding through Brela and extending beyond, making it perfect for a pleasant stroll, cycling, or jogging while soaking in the coastal beauty.

Brela's culinary scene is a delight for food enthusiasts, with its restaurants and taverns offering lovely Dalmatian cuisine. The focus is on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, especially seafood, paired with the region's renowned olive oil and fine wines. Each meal becomes a memorable experience, especially when enjoyed with a stunning view of the sea at sunset.

Just inland from Brela, the imposing Biokovo Mountain dominates the landscape, home to the magnificent Biokovo Nature Park. This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of hiking and biking trails that reward with breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding islands. A highlight within the park is the newly opened Skywalk - a glass-floored observation deck that juts out over the cliffs, providing a heart-pounding perspective of the stunning scenery below. For those craving more adventure, the nearby Cetina River area is perfect for adrenaline seekers. Zip-lining through its lush forests and dramatic gorges offers an exhilarating rush, while the local adventure parks cater to all ages with a variety of ropes courses and climbing opportunities.

The enchanting Brela region is a captivating blend of stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and a vibrant atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history lover, or simply seeking a tranquil seaside retreat, Brela caters to every type of traveller, making it an ideal destination for discovering the varied charms of the Dalmatian region.