Hvar Town, Hvar Island - Croatia
Hvar Town, Hvar Island - Beautiful one day, perfect the next
The sun drenched island of Hvar has something for everyone, whether its getting back to nature, partying late into the morning or indulging in island luxury.
Walk the old town and get acquainted with venetian architecture of red tiled roof tops and stone buildings. Located within fortified walls, the old town retains much of its charm with a large local population. Alleyways are lined with trendy cafes and bars that sprawl down marble stair ways. St Stephens Square and Cathedral sits at the town’s core, abuzz with the coming and going of 20,000 visitors a day.
Passing through the town’s northern gate, the path bends and ascends a tree-shaded hill filled with the aromatics of Mediterranean flora. At its peak is the stone Fortica, a strategic site used to defend inhabitants throughout the ages. Originally the location of an ancient settlement, a medieval stronghold was later built to withstand a Turkish invasion. Today it serves as an attraction for visitors to bear witness to the architectural feat that offers panoramic views of the harbour town and its chain of islands.
Sitting just off Hvar’s coast are the quintessential Pakleni Islands. The wooded islands have numerous inlets and lagoons of turquoise water synonymous with Croatia’s coastline. A relaxed atmosphere permeates here and is the perfect escape from the buzz of Hvar. Still, there are all the creature comforts with restaurants and cafes tucked into rocky coves. Reasonably priced water taxis run frequently from the port of Hvar to the island beaches of Mlini and Palmižana.
In the warmer months, the harbour of Hvar is awash with the hustle and bustle of luxurious sailboats taking up prized moorings. The surrounding beach bars and their infamous party scene come alive of an evening also during this time. Join the it-crowd and sit back on a beach chair perched upon the rocky shore to enjoy one of the many stellar sunsets. Some of the strongest contenders are Hula Hula Beach Bar and Carpe Diem who regularly promote island beach parties.
If you are looking for something a little more off the beaten path, you’ll find it. On the perimeter of the old town sits the Franciscan Monastery that overlooks a calm and shady cove. Venture further afield and you’ll come across a coastline peppered with pebbled shores. Some of these remain surprisingly secluded. Alternatively, hike along ancient goat paths to the abandoned village of Malo Grablje.
This is an island that caters to everyone with full-service resorts, hotels, hostels, and family run BnBs available. A destination that continues to attract a diverse crowd, all of whom enjoy an island beautiful one day and perfect the next.
