Bonaca Hotel Reviews

The Hotel Bonaca (pronounced Bon-at-sa ) is on the island of Brac (pronounced Bratch)

It is part of the RUI hotel chain, which are part for the TUI (Thomson) group so most of the guests are with Thomson, although we booked through Thomas Cook.

We arrived in Split airport and made the 45minute journey to Split Harbour. Our bags were unloaded from the coach and left on the quayside. We were then told to meet back in 2 hours time to catch the hydrofoil, while our cases were guarded at the port (glad it was not raining, as they said our bags would have got soaking wet!) We enjoyed the free time to get a feel for the place, but some of the other holidaymakers were not happy with the unexpected wait. The hydrofoil then took us on the hour journey to Bol Harbour, where a coach then took us 5 minutes down the road to the Bonaca.

We changed our GBP for Kuna in one of the many exchange offices in Split. We got a rate of 10.6, compared with the best rate of 10.5 in the UK. I also used my Nationwide debit card in one of the two cash machines in Bol and got an exchange rate of 10.75, but beware it gives you your cash and receipt, and then your card- I nearly walked off without it!

The hotel complex is divided into several blocks - the best view is from the side facing block (which is where we were), where the balcony overlooks both mountains and the sea, as well as the pool area. We were on the second floor and we found our room to be clean and comfortable. The blocks are fairly old, but have been recently refurbished.

Meals were in the main reception block. Breakfast consisted of a choice of various hot and cold options including continental style food, cereal, fruit, fresh pancakes, scrambled egg, sometimes sausages, bacon or beans, and more. When this is finished part of it goes outside to the terrace where you can snack on it until lunch if you're not too full from breakfast!

Lunch was impressive. You have a vast salad selection, carvery, pizza, a choice of hot meats and fish, chips, vegetarian options, vegetables, pasta, icecream, cakes, etc.

Dinner was very similar to lunch, but this didn't matter as there was so much choice. In fact the menu did not vary significantly throughout the week, but as there were so many different combinations of food available, you never have to eat the same thing twice. Overall the food was excellent - all tasty and freshly cooked in front of you.

Snacks were also available during the afternoon on the terrace. Although notices said snacks would also be available late evening, as we were not there in peak season, these were not of offer (not that we were hungry enough to eat anything more after dinner anyway!).

Drinks were available throughout the day at the poolside bar, and at the bar salon in the evenings where local entertainment is put on.

The Croatians don't seem to have discovered the English word 'activity' and use the word animation to describe all entertainment, and things to do!

A range of activities are available at the hotel, such as archery, windsurfing, aerobics, craft club, kids activities, etc. Although we didn't take advantage of these facilities, other guests seemed more than happy with their experiences.

We took advantage of the four hour free bike hire on offer at the hotel to explore both the east and west of Bol, where there are good cycle tracks. The west side has a better track, however, we felt the east side had better views and scenery. We also went on the bike tour of Hvar Island which the hotel put on (approx £6 including the ferry fare). Unfortunately it rained heavy this day, but Hvar is definitely worth visiting for its pretty little villages and scenery.

We took an optional excursion to Dubrovnik (approx £50 each). Although pricier we felt that this was well worth it. Don't be put off by the long coach journey and early start as you get a commentary of the towns and villages along the coast. Breakfast and dinner times are extended to accommodate the excursion. Dubrovnik is definitely worth seeing.

We took a bus to Supetar (a good way of seeing the island) and then caught the ferry to Split. This ancient city is another must see place, with plenty to do and see for a day. You can catch the catamaran straight back to Bol. Out of peak season there are limited services so do check the times.

Overall Croatia is a beautiful country, safe and friendly, and we would highly recommend it.

We arrived in Bol by hydrofoil after flying into Split. Bol is a pretty little town framed by mountains. The hotels are found along a tree lined promenade by the sea just outside the town towards the famous Zlatni Rat beach, which is beautiful but pebbles.

We cannot criticise the Bonaca Hotel in any way. The rooms are in well spaced blocks situated in pleasant gardens, and although not air-conditioned, they are spotlessly clean with good balconies.

The food at the Bonaca is good with a variety of meat and fish dishes with plenty of fresh veg and salads. (No full English breakfast but good alternatives). Drinks are available at any time and nothing is too much trouble for the friendly staff. There is lots to do at the Bonaca, but it may become very busy in peak season. There must have been a record amount of nationalities staying at the Bonaca when we were there but very few British which was a shame as they don't know what they are missing!

We had an enjoyable trip to Hvar on the Veritas boat from Bol. We also had a day in Split, travelling by car ferry from Supetar and returning to Bol on the 4o'clock catarmaran. For a real treat take the local bus from Bol to Supetar. For 2.20 kunas you have spectacular views as the bus negotiates the hair pin bends climbing out of Bol into the rugged interior of the island.

We had a wonderful, different holiday and we cannot wait to return to Croatia.