8 Te Travel Guide Embrace the glow of Hvar Hvar’s enchanting mix of natural splendour, deep-rooted heritage and mouthwatering cuisine makes it an irresistible destination
Promotional Content • Saturday 3rd May 2025
H
var is known as the sunniest place in Croatia and the island’s mesmerising land-
scapes, fragrant hills and charming stone-paved streets all add to its warmth and charm. With around 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, Hvar greets visitors with dazzling blue waters, lavender-scented breezes and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. To truly experience Hvar beyond its
undeniable vibe, stay for several days. Only then can you fully immerse your- self in its rich culture, hidden gems and authentic island lifestyle.
Walk through lavender-laden hills If you visit Hvar’s hillsides in early June, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking display of vibrant purple
lavender, especially around Brusje and Velo Grablje, a charming village just outside Hvar Town. Te air is filled with the soothing scents of wild rosemary,
immortelle and thyme,
creating a truly immersive sensory experience. By arranging a visit with small family-run farms, visitors can witness the traditional lavender harvesting process and learn how this fragrant plant is carefully trans- formed into essential oils and hand- crafted products. Te island’s winemaking tradition,
introduced by the Greeks around 2,400 years ago, continues to flourish. Local vineyards invite guests to sample bold plavac mali reds and the indige- nous bogdanuša white, whose name fittingly means ‘a gift from God’.
Retreat to hidden shores Hvar’s rugged coastline is dotted with secluded, pebbled coves framed by aromatic pine forests. Many of the most serene beaches are accessible only by boat, making an excursion to the nearby Pakleni Islands a must. Tis idyllic archipelago boasts tran- quil bays, flat rocks, and small coves with pebbles and inviting turquoise waters. Sveti Klement, the largest island, provides a peaceful retreat, while Marinkovac and Jerolim capti- vate with stunning coastal views. Tere are also picturesque swimming spots at Mlini and Ždrilca.
Step into the past Te historic heart of Hvar Town, St Stephen’s Square, is the largest
square in Dalmatia and an architec- tural masterpiece. Te magnificent St Stephen’s Cathedral, with its striking bell tower, stands as a symbol of the island’s Venetian heritage. A climb to the 16th-century Fortica Fortress rewards visitors with panoramic views stretching over the Pakleni Islands. Another journey through time
awaits at the UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain, where vineyards and olive groves remain much as they were when planted by Greek settlers in 384 BCE. Walking among these ancient plots, bordered by dry-stone walls, offers a rare glimpse into the island’s enduring agricultural traditions.
Savour the flavours of Hvar Hvar’s cuisine is a celebration of the
sea and the land,
featuring freshly
caught seafood and locally grown ingredients. Waterfront restaurants serve specialties such as hvarska gregada, a rich fish stew layered with potatoes and delicate flavours. Traditional Dalmatian cooking
embraces the Mediterranean diet, with dishes centered around sun-rip- ened vegetables, handmade olive oil and grilled fish. More than just food, it represents a way of life, bringing people together around the same table and contributing to the pres- ervation of the cultural identity of Mediterranean communities. One of Hvar’s most cherished culi-
nary experiences is peka, a slow- cooked dish in which lamb, pork or octopus is baked under a cast-iron
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