Some call Hvar the queen of the Croatian Dalmatian islands. It offers rich history due to its important strategic and nautical position and has many cultural monuments. Due to the mild climate of warm winters and even warmer summers, Hvar is a popular tourist destination especially in the summer season. The island's beautiful rocky coastline is surrounded by the Adriatic Sea. There are many small harbors where boats tie up and sailers debark to enjoy a nice meal and perhaps a swim. The sea water is stunning and clean. Inland, there are vast fields of lavender, ancient olive trees and vineyards, perfect for hiking, biking and wine tasting.

Hvar is compact and easy to navigate. However, be ready for a workout depending on where you are staying. We walked down 185 steps to get from our place (which was close to the fortress) to town, and up 185 steps to get home. There is a small market in the town square where you can buy fresh local food which is amazing. Visit Ivo in his little shop next to the bus station for wine, cheese, olives, and dried meats. It will be a memorable visit because Ivo speaks terrific English and has lots to say! Be sure to tell him, Rick sent you.

Biking in Hvar

Bikes are easy to rent and quite reasonably priced. You can rent from several locations in the main square and the cost for the day was about $14 per bike. Ride to the little town of Bursje, a 7km climb, and you arrive at one of the highest points on the island at about 1200 ft. From Brusje you traverse the spine of the island for a while and then wind through vineyards and fields with ancient stone walls. You can see the Adriatic on either side of the island! Then head down through Velo Grabjie towards and Malo Grabjie which are ancient small stone villages. The descent has some gravel on the road so be careful. After about 8 km of descending you end up at Milna which is on the sea. Take the main road back to Hvar. This is a great little loop of about 20 miles. Very scenic with low traffic.... Or, you can ride along either side of Hvar harbor for a few kilometers, along the coast and it is flat!

Hvar Grad is Party Central in the Summer