Why Visit Hvar

Hvar Island is typified by crystal blue sea, stunning bays and pebble beaches, mild climate, lots of sun, lush vegetation, vineyards, olive groves, endless fields of lavender and historical and cultural sights. This is why Hvar is one of the most well visited islands in Croatia during both the summer and winter months.

Described as 'the Mediterranean as it used to be', Hvar remains relatively unspoiled and it is of no surprise that it was voted among the ten most beautiful islands in 1997 by the Conde Naste Group's Traveller Magazine.

An old, small church in Jelsa

Hvar Geography

Hvar has been described as the Mediterranean as it used to be", "Spain as it was 15 years ago" and an "unspoiled island". A visit to Hvar confirms this impression. The Islands attractions include spectacular limestone hills, good (but not sandy) beaches, fields of scented lavender, caves, sheltered bays, woodlands, picturesque villages, mosaic-patterned olive gloves and vineyards clinging to hillsides, views over the surrounding islands and the mountainous mainland, and mountain forests. Moreover, these attractions have not been destroyed by rampant high-rise tourism.

Exchanging stories in Vrbovska

Hvar People

Hvar Island is situated in the Dalmatian Island region of Croatia. Dalmatian people are known for their friendliness, relaxed nature and hospitality. Their lifestyle has been influenced by the Mediterranean climate which leads to a lack of urgency & fuss. Everything can always been done a little later and most likely over a coffee or pivo (beer). In fact on Hvar they often greet each other with the word 'polmalo', meaning 'easy, relax', which applies to just about everything, from waiting for a bill at a restaurant to receiving the approval permit for your property purchase which will take longer than expected, and a little more.

A visit to a hidden inland village will often lead to an unexpected invite for coffee or a glass of wine. Dalmatian people are proud of their rich heritage and often lead a traditional lifestyle based around near-subsistence agriculture, fishing etc. Crime on Hvar island (population: 11,000) is virtually non-existent because everyone knows each others business". The Island is famous locally for its Easter processions and (Catholic) religious celebrations.

Hvar town square

Hvar Food & Drink

Dalmatian cuisine is another major plus of the region. The seafood is fresh and tasty, and many honest" local wines are made on the island. There are over 700 kinds of wine in Croatia, made from 54 grape types. These wines are not up to Italian standard, but improvements are expected over the coming years. There is a good standard of Italian food available in the region due to Croatias proximity to its more famous neighbour.

Gorgeous Dubovica bay, near Hvar town

Hvar Climate

Hvar Island is characterised by gentle winters, warm summers and many hours of sunshine. In fact Hvar is officially 'the sunniest place in Europe', enjoying 2,715 hours of sunshine per annum, with the warmest and driest months being from May to October. Hvar has an annual average of 7.7 hours sunshine per day and 3.8 hours of cloud. (By comparison Dubrovnik has 7.0 hours of sun shine and 4.4 hours of cloud; Nice/South of France has 7.2 and 4.2 respectively). Gentle and moist winters (January Hvar has an average temperature of 8.4° C) also makes Hvar and excellent spot for winter tourism.

With such a favourable climate it is unsurprising that Hvar was also a renowned health resort. "The Hygienic Society" was founded in 1868, and the first health hotel was opened in 1889.

A pebble beach in Zavala

Hvar History

The region has numerous sites of historic interest to the discerning visitor. On Hvar these include the walled Hvar Town, which dates from Venetian times (1278 onwards), the Renaissance Cathedral of Saint Stephen (with its fine artwork), the Franciscan Monastery (1461), the Fort at Stari Grad and the Dominican Monastery (1482). Moreover, Hvar has numerous quaint villages (some inhabited and some virtual ghost towns), some with paved old quarters, to visit and explore. The harbour towns of Hvar are particularly enchanting, relaxing and picturesque locations to nurse a double espresso and watch the world go (slowly) by.

A fisherman in Starigrad repairs his net

Hvar Activities

Many tourists visit Hvar for the reasons listed above. However, the islands also offer numerous activities (either formally or informally), particularly in the summer season. These include walking, cycling, motorcycle hire, swimming, scuba diving, boating, photography, painting, health-based tourism, naturism, windsurfing and rock climbing. Hvar Town has a summertime reputation as a party town" and is home to the Carpe Diem club / bar. Carpe Diem is famous throughout TFY for its after-beach party (a lot of beautiful, stylish people having a great time" according to one English glossy magazine) and is particularly popular amongst the Croatian in-crowd" and Italian visitors.

Hvar island is famous for its vineyards

Location:

Type:

Price from:

Sort by:

Code:

View all property Hvar