Let’s start summer: Hvar, Croatia
Hvar, Croatia is a destination that screams summer. Beautiful beaches and stunning nature come alive in the summer months. Croatia has so many special sites. However, for a dream summer holiday, we have a bit of a crush on the island of Hvar. It is a 68 km-long island (42 miles) in the Adriatic Sea besieged by natural beauty, friendly people, and incredible scenery. Also, it is the sunniest place in Croatia and offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Conde Nast magazine named Hvar one of the Top Islands in the World.
Visiting Hvar on its own or combined with other destinations in Croatia makes for a dream holiday in the sun. It’s an easy trip from Dubrovnik, and a visitor would be amiss not to stop there as well.
And after the rough past few years we had, who isn’t dreaming of getting summer started the right way?
Getting to know Hvar
The island of Hvar is the queen of the Croatian Dalmatian islands. It has been famous since ancient times. It has a position that was important both for mariners as well as strategic defense reasons. The mild climate, warm winters and dry, sunny summers make it a resort destination for travelers from around the world.
Living on an island has its difficulties. However, Hvar is protected from the more negative aspects of overdevelopment and hectic city life. Locals still live in harmony with nature and the sea. The island is famous for its ancient olive trees and picturesque vineyards. Hvar is also full of beautiful fields of lavender. It’s one of the top production places in the world for this prized flower.
Hvar has something to offer for every type of traveler. Those looking for a bit of night life might be attracted to cosmopolitan Hvar town. Others looking to spend their time exploring the bluest of blue seas would love a boat excursion to the Pakleni Islands. Beach bums would love to relax at the sandy beaches near Jelsa or the shady sandy stretches under the pine trees in in Zavala. There are so many things to see on this island that it could be a vacation all on its own!
Tour ideas in Hvar
With our local private guide, Hvar deserves one full day seeing the most important sites on the island. Starting in Hvar town, you can admire Venetian-style palaces and grand edifices in the main square. The most impressive is the Cathedral of St. Stephen, whose graceful 17th century bell tower adorns the town’s skyline. In the tranquil Benedictine Monastery learn about fine art of lace making from agave leaves. In the mighty Arsenal discover Europe’s oldest public theatre, dating from 1612. For breathtaking views, go up to the Hvar Fortress. The 16th century citadel is perched on a hill above the ramparts and offers awe-inspiring vistas of Hvar and nearby islands.
You’ll then drive to the forgotten village of Malo Grablje. Deserted by its residents in the 1960s in favor of Milna, today it’s a quirky open-air museum of a world gone by. However, you will not be totally alone! Your host Berti is a local that owns a small stone-built house in the abandoned village. Here he will make a traditional, tavern-style lunch for you. Enjoy local cuisine, touch of history and magnificent views before heading back to Hvar town for an afternoon at leisure.
Luxury accommodations for every type of traveler
Two of our favorite hotels in Croatia are located on Hvar. For clients looking to relax and enjoy nature, Maslina is a great choice. This luxury resort in a sheltered bay near Stari Grad, right on the water. The design is contemporary but also warm and local. They use stone, wood and terracotta from the island. The 50 sea-view rooms, pebbly beachfront and the breathtaking two swimming pools make this a great spot to relax.
Palace Elisabeth, located in the heart of Hvar town, is a more lively location that combines the historical elegance and modern luxury of this wonderful accommodation. Chic guest rooms overlooking the main square and a panoramic terrace make this our top choice in the town center!
Your perfect summer
The island of Hvar is a great vacation choice for starting off your summer. Please contact us to learn more and see some of the sample itineraries we can put together. Hvar is a seamless addition to a tailor made Croatian itinerary that combines some other wonderful summer spots.
We are happy and eager to help make your travel dreams come true – we hope to hear from you soon!
