Welcome to the island of Hvar, the destination you didn’t know you needed this summer.
This stare-worthy island located in the Adriatic Sea off the Dalmatian coast is renowned as the ‘St Tropez of Croatia’. Hvar has attracted tons of A-List celebrities such as Beyoncé, Demi Moore, and Bill Gates, not to mention British royalty by the name of Prince Harry.
Popular with sun-worshippers and globetrotters alike, Hvar is blessed with freshwater springs on its 68km-long island, as well as an abundance of natural bounty.
From the fertile coastline to the lush vineyards, and from the olive groves to the lavender fields, there is something for everyone on this quaint, accommodating gem, delighting all the senses.
Pristine beaches await your arrival, including Malo Zarace, Pokonji Dol, and Jagodna Beach. Not forgetting secret nearby islands where that moment of serenity undoubtedly arrives, and you remember how good it is to travel.
Where to sleep
1) Hotel Moeesy, Blue & Green Oasis:
Opening in June 2022 and situated on the promenade, this 5-star luxury boutique hotel is a stone’s throw away from a striking beach and a short walk to the city centre. Boasting 37 rooms, four suites, avant garde pools, and a stunning garden, Moeesy is an exciting addition to Hvar’s luxury sector.
2) Palace Elisabeth, Hvar Heritage Hotel:
Resplendent with classy Venetian and Austrian architectural detail, Palace Elisabeth dates back to the 13th century and is considered a historic landmark in Hvar. Located above the city hall and overlooking the main square, it boasts 45 luxury rooms and a rich history of accommodating the lavish travelling lifestyle.
3) Masline Resort:
Classic Mediterranean style meets contemporary French flair at Maslina Resort – where ‘mindful luxury’ is just the mantra you need to let your hair down. Situated in the breath-taking Maslinica Bay, high-end hospitality with an emphasis on wellness lies at the heart of this chic resort which offers 50 rooms and three villas, all set amongst a lush pine forest.
4) Villa Gariful:
Newly renovated and located on the Hvar waterfront, here you will find “the luxury of home – away from home”. Spread over four levels, privacy is of the utmost importance as each villa has its own discreet entrance. The entire villa can be hired out, or each of the four suites can be rented separately, depending on your needs. The view from the balcony of the Adriatic Sea with the Pakleni Islands in the background is something to behold.
Where to eat
1) Black Pepper:
You’ll find this charming restaurant down a side alley in the old town. It’s owned by friends offering great service and modern cuisine (with a focus on peppers from around the world). The fish is always fresh and there is an impressive selection of potent cocktails crafted by experts in their field. Try the scampi risotto and enjoy courtyard dining at its very best.
2) Restaurant Gariful:
Right on the water, Gariful is surrounded by yachts and there is always a vibe. Fresh fish that you will soon order from the menu is displayed on ice as you arrive. Enjoy octopus carpaccio and lobster ravioli executed to the highest standards. If it’s seafood that you’re after, along with some great vegetarian options, then you’re on to a winner.
3) DiVino Restaurant:
With a breathtaking view of the Pakleni Islands, DiVino prides itself on a gastronomical experience that flies the flag for the finest local food around. Opt for the popular tasting menu if you’re looking to sample a few culinary delights, as well as an impressive main menu that will satisfy even the most discerning epicureans. Wash down your meal with only the best local wines carefully-selected by a pro.
What to do and where to go
1) Beach Club Hvar:
Exclusive, private, and oozing classic charm, Beach Club Hvar’s reputation precedes itself. Lavish beach life never looked so good with four-poster outdoor beds to lounge on alongside an aquamarine ocean. Indulge yourself in a spa treatment with a wide range of options to revitalise the body and mind. Enquire about the VIP Private Cabanas if you’re in the mood for something even more special.
2) Cruise the Pakleni Islands:
Enjoy a luxury private boat tour to the archipelago of the exquisite Pakleni islands. There are 16 islands in total, spanning 10km in length – perfect for a day of snorkelling, paddle boarding, being a beach bum, or exploring with a few friends.
Spoilt for choice, there are so many pristine islands that will satisfy your sun-worshipping needs. Our recommendations include Ždrilca island, Vlaka, Stipanski Island (where all the cool kids go if you are into the party scene) Jerolim island which is famed for ‘Amo Beach’ and Kordovan (Google it and thank us later).
3) Private luxury Speedboat tour of the Blue Cave, Green Cave, and Budikovac Islands:
The Blue and Green Cave excursions are definite Instagram moments that shouldn’t be passed up. The colour of the waters around Budikovac Islands is simply unbelievable and is best marvelled at from your luxury motorboat. Budikovac famously only boasts one local resident all year round, who also happens to be the owner of the local restaurant. The beach in the lagoon is also a sight for sore eyes – you’ll be swimming in no time!
4) VIP Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour:
Located on the steep southern slopes of Hvar in Sveta Nedjelja, Zlatan Otok is an award-winning family-run winery with a wide variety of Dalmatian wines that are stored in an archive that is below sea level. Yes, below sea level!
Millennia of unbroken tradition ensures that your epicurean appetite is well catered for. Producing over 900,000 bottles of wine a year, you can also stay in their guesthouse, and eat at their renowned restaurant ‘Bilo Idro’. Walk off your meal in the lush, picturesque surrounding natural area. Why not stay over in the marina in your own private yacht while you’re at it.
Our team of travel gurus are only a click or phone call away to make your luxe Croatian summer holiday from dream to reality where we will be with you every step of the way.
Contact us now and let’s make it happen!