Brela

Brela is a charming Croatian tourist destination nestled between Makarska and Omiš, renowned for its stunning beaches and picturesque coastline. I had the pleasure of visiting this beautiful spot on June 10, 2019.

Table of Contents

1. How did I arrive in Brela
2. My impressions of Brela
3. Things to do in Brela
4. Beaches in Brela
5. Church Our Lady of Karmel
6. St. Stephen's church
7. Conclusion of my visit to Brela

How did I arrive in Brela

I drove to Brela from Split, taking the scenic local road D8. The journey was enjoyable, just as you'd expect when passing through such beautiful landscapes. Luckily, the traffic was light, making the drive even more pleasant. I parked my car a few hundred meters from the village center, where the parking rate was 2.5 euros per hour.

My impressions of Brela

I loved Brela at first sight. I can say it is unique among Croatian tourist destinations. I can't think of a destination where I could feel that people are so relaxed. I had a feeling that there is no clock, no obligations, and no stress. There were no disturbing sounds, no hurry, just a simple beauty of the relationship between nature and man.

The main reason for my fascination with Brela is the natural beauty of the place. Brela features more than 7 kilometres of the beautiful coast. Just near the coast, there are many trees which contribute to the soothing atmosphere.

The next reason was the lack of cars and the crowd. Most of the coast is not accessible by car, which is actually great because people don't have to hassle with cars while enjoying their walk near the sea.

Things to do in Brela

The centre of life in Brela is its coast. It's a spot of romantic and family walks, entertainment and fun. It's also a great place for jogging and biking if you avoid the crowded parts of the tourist season.
As you walk along the coast, you will notice amazing forms of rocky beaches alternating with sandy ones. I believe many of them will be interesting to you as a selfie background.
Near the coast, there are restaurants and coffee bars where you can enjoy your favourite drink or meal while having a nice view of the sea.

Every week during the summer season, Brela organises live concerts on the coast, in the centre of the village.

Beaches in Brela

Two widely known beaches in Brela are Punta Rata and Podrače.

Punta Rata is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. Its famous attraction is so-called Brela's stone, a rock which emerged from the sea. Brela's stone is a recognizable symbol of the whole place.
The only Croatian beach that impressed me more than Punta Rata was Zlatni Rat on Brac.

Church Our Lady of Karmel

Hundred meters above the centre of Brela you can see an interesting neo-Romanesque church from the 18th century. It was built in honour of the victory over the Osman Empire. That's why it was called The Church of Triumph throughout history. Near the church, there is a monument to a priest who made a remarkable effort in its construction.
Sunday masses are held at 9 am and 8 pm during the summer season.

St. Stephen's church

The parish St. Stephen's church is located in the north part of Brela, a few hundred meters above the coast. The exact year of the church's construction is unknown. The written mention dates from the 16th century, but it was built earlier.
Sunday mass in St. Stephen's church is held at 11 am.
The church is accessible by car. You can reach it from the coast as well, but it takes some climbing effort.

Brela is not all about the coast, beaches, and sea: it's also an amazing place for those who like walking in forests, hiking and exploring nature. Above the D8 road, there is Biokovo Nature Park, featuring various activities. The most featured are walkways with different lengths and levels of difficulty.

Conclusion of my visit to Brela

Brela is a true pearl of Croatia tourism. It is kind of a destination I can recommend to all generations, young and older. The peacefulness and the natural beauty of the village will hardly leave anyone unimpressed. No matter if you arrive here with your wife, family, kids or friends, you will enjoy Brela. I recommend visiting in June or September when it is even more intimate and beautiful.

Find out accommodation in Brela on booking.com, platform of our choice.