THERE’S a small island in Europe that’s home to crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches.
Located in the Adriatic Sea, Šolta is part of the Dalmatian archipelago, lying just off the coast of Split.
The Croatian island is just nine nautical miles from Split.
It takes just one hour by ferry to reach Šolta from Split, with services starting from £4 for a one-way ticket.
While crossings via Catamaran are quicker, they are also more expensive.
The small island has been described as a “little piece of heaven” thanks to its secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters.
In the winter, the island is home to just 1,700 locals, with this number climbing during the summer months when tourists flock to the island.
Set in a small bay, Rogač is the island’s main port, connecting Šolta to Split.
The port also happens to be near Grohote – the oldest and biggest settlement on the island.
It’s centre is a maze of narrow alleyways made up of residential buildings and tavernas.
Despite being the largest settlement on the island, holidaymakers are typically drawn to Maslinica, Stomorska and Nečujam.
The three small fishing villages are home to traditional Dalmatian stone houses.
Other towns and villages on the island include Gornje Selo, Donje Selo, Srednje Selo and Maslenica, another small fishing village.
More often than not, tourists head to the island thanks to its stunning natural beauty, peaceful bays, coves and beautiful beaches.
Set on the western side of the island, Šipkova Cove, near the fishing village of Maslinica, is the only sandy beach on the island.
The sandy beach can be reached in the car or on foot.
Even though the island isn’t known for its sandy beaches, there are plenty of other bays on the island, including Šešula Bay, which has been described as a “nautical treasure” by travel experts, making it the ideal place for a boat excursion.
There’s also Zaglav Bay, a small pebble beach backed by a few stone houses, other beaches on the island include Tatinja Bay and Livka Bay.
From several beaches, holidaymakers will be able to hire kayaks and use them to explore other, smaller, coves.
Šolta is also well-known for its production of wine and olive oil too, which means trying local delicacies are a must.
Split Airport is the closest international airport to the island.
Direct flights between the UK and Split operate from UK cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Glasgow and Leeds.
Flight prices start from £15 for a one-way ticket from London Gatwick Airport to Split.
Another place Brits can visit is Drvenik Veli, also known as Drvenik Veliki, the island is just off the coast of Split in Croatia.
Located in the central Dalmatian archipelago, Drvenik Veli is only 2km away from the Croatian mainland.
One of the island’s main draws is Krknjasi Bay, also known as the Blue Lagoon Croatia, which is located on the far side of the island.
It takes just 50 minutes by boat to reach Drvenik from Trogir, with daily ferry services costing €2 (£1.71).
Because the island doesn’t have any paved roads, cars are forbidden.
Lopud has also won favour with the Beckhams who often visit the Croatia island for a holiday.
Here’s another amazing European island that is great for a budget holiday
