Of the 1,185 Dalmatian islands of Croatia, Brac is one of the most popular and accessible – with the only island airport and good ferry links to Split – while it also remains unspoilt by over-development compared to other European resorts. "Brac appeals to those tourists and buyers who want to get away from commercial resorts and enjoy a more traditional environment.," says Martin Hill, Director of Croatia Coast Property. "The beauty of the island is one of its best attractions – with rugged coastline, clean pebble beaches and clear, turquoise-blue seas."

Brac is the largest of the central Dalmatian group of islands with an area of 395 square kilmetres and population of just under 14,000. The island also has much to appeal to the culturevulture crowd. The towns on the island are rich with historical buildings, including Roman ruins and a 15th-century Dominican monastery in Bol. Indeed Bol, on the south of the island, is said to be one of the island's investment hotspots. "Bol is certainly top of the list," says Hill. "It offers the best selection of cafés, bars, restaurants and activities. It is also home of Zlatni Rat beach, the most famous beach in Croatia, which has been ranked one of the ten most beautiful in the world. "Other towns – such as Milna and Sutivan – are also popular and are expected to attract more tourists in the next few years, while smaller towns such as Povlja, Sumartin, Postira and Pucisca are also stunningly beautiful, and will feature as future holiday destinations."

The property market in Brac has experienced growth in recent years. "Just five years ago we had trouble finding anything that resembled an estate agent as we knew it in England," says Hill. "Now the island has more than 20 estate agencies. "Over the last two to three years prices have increased steadily at between 10 to 20 per cent per annum, with the more sought-after properties – on the beachfront or old stone houses – increasing at a slightly higher rate." However, most of the island's authorities want to limit construction and will not allow building above three floors. "Croatians are very determined to keep the coastline as natural and unspoilt as possible," says Hill. "So the good news is that most developments are of between three and ten apartments. A one-bedroom apartment of good quality and location sells for around 95,000 euros, with two-bedroom apartments from 140,000 euros. "We believe future growth may be seen in the island interior as prices of property are significantly lower, come with larger grounds, and from inland villages the coast is still just 15 minutes drive away." Brac may no longer be a secret, but it has potential.

Related articles:
Croatia property overview
Croatia Country Guide

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Article published 22 April 2008