For centuries Hvar has been famous for producing high-quality lavender and seeing a vast field in bloom is a romantic and awe-inspiring sight. For that exotic Instagram moment, you will have to visit in June and July. The sweet-smelling purple fields stretch for miles and the lavender is used in everything from food, medicine, spa products and aromatherapy oils. The Hvar Lavender Festival kicks off the harvest season and the scent of lavender and wild oregano fills the air.
While you are lucky to see the purple Croatian blooms, any time of the year is ideal for visiting Hvar Island in central Dalmatia.
The vibrant and beautiful port town of Hvar is the heart of Hvar Island, which spans nearly 70 km from northwest to southeast making it the longest island in Croatia. Hvar Town has it all with stunning beaches, luxury hotels, good shopping, historical architecture and happening nightlife. In the summer, yachts and ferries from Split and other destinations fill the harbor. Hula Hula Beach is the place to party from sunset onwards and a favorite spot for locals and celebrities who descend on the town in the peak season.
Hvar Fort, aka Tvrdava Fortica is a great place to view the quaint old town set to the backdrop of turquoise waters and the Pakleni Islands. The 13th-century fortress protected locals from an invading Turkish army that burnt the town down. Today you can explore the fortress and museum before taking the scenic walk back to town.
In St. Stephens Square, you can see stunning Hvar cathedral built in the 16th and 17th centuries. There are restaurants, shops and bars around the square and it's a great place to chill out and people-watch while enjoying a cool drink. It is one of those places that looks so perfect in the day and turns up wow factor at night when the lights are twinkling and everything is glowing.
When it is time to head out of Hvar Town and explore the rest of the island, you will find freshwater springs, more gorgeous beaches and charming villages. Vrboska, Milna, Sveta Nedjelja, Sućuraj, Stari Grad, or Jelsa are great places to stay. Base yourself at one of these places, meet the locals, visit old churches and other culturally interesting sites and enjoy the Croatian food.
Water sports, including diving and snorkeling and boat trips to little islands off Hvar Island, are great ways to enjoy the long sunny days on Hvar Island. A popular day tour is to the Blue and Green Caves, which are accessible by motorboat. The light filters through the gaps in the caves and illuminates them in brilliant colors.
A vacation on Hvar Island is pretty tempting, isn't it? We are ready to design a trip that will be one of the best memories of your life, so drop us a line so we can send you more info on Hvar Island and other incredible Croatian destinations.
