Hot Spot

Brac, Croatia

It would be easy for beach lovers to overlook Croatia. Despite miles of glorious Adriatic coastline fringed by clear turquoise seas, its beaches are more often pebble or shingle than golden sand, prompting many to steer south towards the Greek isles instead. But they miss out on beauties like Zlatni Rat (pictured), aka the Golden Horn, a long spit of smooth-pebbled beach that shifts its shape with the wind and tide. It’s a highlight of any island-hopping cruise along the Croatian coast, and smaller yacht-style vessels often anchor offshore so guests can swim across. It’s set on the island of Brac (pronounced Bratch), and from the beach it’s a pleasant half-hour stroll along the waterfront to the town of Bol, where you can rub shoulders with the yachting crowd, visit Dragon’s Cave, or just sit in the sun, dine out on sheep’s cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, while sipping local wine – bliss!

>> Turn to page 48 for more popular destinations to visit this summer