Brac
Famed for its stunning white stone, used to build palaces on the mainland, and its poster-boy beach, Zlatni Rat, Brac offers the ideal window into authentic Dalmatian island life
Brac is mostly famed for two things, firstly its beautiful white stone, used to build the Diolcletian's Palace on the mainland in Split, and also widely rumoured to have been used in the construction of the White House in Washington.
The second is Zlatni Rat beach, a long and unusual stretch of beach that changes from shallow and shaded to sun-bathed and deep, depending on the time of day and the direction of the wind.
The island is well-known for its delicious olive oil, from a rare variety of olive trees called buhavica. There are well over half a million trees on the island, their cultivation stemming from Venetian times.
There are many other local delicacies to be enjoyed: honey, cheese and wine are all produced on the island, as well as the Dalmatian favourite - lamb.
There are a great number of restaurants to sample during your stay, serving authentic and delectable Croatian cuisine.
Spend your days wondering around the island's many historical landmarks and museums, including Franciscan monasteries, stunning 11th century churches, and the Gallery of Contemporaray Croatian Art, ' Branislav Deskovic' - all well worth a visit to fully immerse yourself in the rich history of the island.
Wander round the narrow, cobbled paths into wide piazzetas in search of lunch - Brac is definitely an island that has kept a Mediterranean spirit.
There is plenty to do for the more active type too - with trekking, climbing, diving and windsurfing on offer. It is also a surfer's paradise, due to extraordinarily good winds in the area.
Enjoy dinner at one of the island's best restaurants, before heading out for drinks and one of many wonderful bars to be found in Brac.
Those that want to continue in to the early hours can find clubs and bars open later in the town of Bol, and don't forget for those that are seriously dedicated to the night life scene, the island of Hvar is but a hop, skip and a jump away..
Brac is just perfect for those wanting to experience authentic and unspoilt island life. With its fascinating and deep history, beautiful scenery and stunning beaches, its a place with so much to offer, and many beaches and peaceful, hidden bays.
Good for those who seek a proper get-away, as its a lesser know Dalmatian island that retains its authentic charm.
Relax in the sun, explore the stunning and varied coast line, head further inland to the thoroughly unspoilt little villages, visit beautiful examples of exquisite stone masonry and fascinating museums rich in history.
The beauty of Brac is that it is still relatively undiscovered, meaning its a perfectly preserved Dalmatian island in every sense. It might be wise to keep it our little secret..