Tips for other activities

If you want to take a break from sunbathing and relaxing by the sea or the swimming pool, the island of Hvar offers many interesting possibilities for your free time.

Underwater fishing is forbidden in the Hvar area. Divers are recommended diving around the islet Vodnjak and cape Stambeder. There is a canal between Hvar and Brač ideal for windsurfing. On the south there is a cliffbase situated above the sea. Mountaineers may enjoy a steep climb through vineyards and olive groves to the 626 metre high hilltop of Sveti Nikola.

Hvar offers also a wide range of sport activities such as windsurfing, yachting, water skiing, diving, tennis, basketball and table tennis, combined with rich culture program.

Hvar is known for its excellent red wine, which ranks among the best in Europe. The island boasts a long wine history that dates back to the ancient Greeks, who here in 384 BC. planted the first vine. Therefore, there are many local wineries on the island where wine is definitely worth a taste. Wine lovers will welcome guided tastings that are perfect to be combined with delicious fresh dishes or organized half-day or full-day excursions to the best local wineries. The best wineries include Duboković, Tomić and Huljić.

If you want to spend one evening more actively, we recommend climbing to the stone white cross on the hill called Glavica, with a magnificent panoramic view of Stari Grad and neighboring islands. Enjoy this great view especially at sunset. The original cross was built in 1900 to celebrate the Christianity but was destroyed during World War II. The present cross was built in 1990 and is located 111 meters above sea level. It can be reached by a short walk along the marked path, which will take you approximately 20-30 minutes walking from the main road near Rudina.

On the southern slope of Grabak hill there is a cave called Grapčeva špilja, which for scientists is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. The cave was discovered by accident, not until the 19th century and yet there are preserved archeologic finds from the early Stone Age from the period 4000 – 5000 years BC, when the cave was inhabited by people. The cave is located a 45-minute drive southeast of Rudina and thanks to its magnificent stalagmites and stalactites, everyone really enjoys its visit. To enter the cave, it is necessary to book a guided tour, for example in Jelsa.

Hvar is nicknamed the lavender island. Especially at the turn of June and July the island is almost flooded with these purple fragrant plants. It is grown mainly in the west of the island. The most famous place is the scenic village of Velo Grablje with beautiful lavender terraces. The world-famous lavender festival is held here every year at the end of June, accompanied by delicious food and entertainment. Lavender grown on Hvar is also said to be one of the best quality in the world and its products are among the most popular souvenirs.

Discover Pakleni Islands from Kayak – Pakleni, or the “Hells’ islands“, is a group of small islets that lie very close to southwest of Hvar. The name of the archipelago is derived from pine resin, which was previously used here to seal ships. Organized kayaking excursions are an ideal choice for exploring this magical place, as guides know exactly which nooks of the islands must not be missed. You will love an active hike including relaxation on the quiet beaches with a time to dive.

Both in Stari Grad and in the capital of Hvar, a summer festival takes place every summer, which entertains visitors and locals alike in the evenings. Almost every day there is a different event, be it a concert of local or foreign performers, a theater performance, a sporting event, local wine tasting, program for children and much more. There is no stroll through the night Stari Grad for jazz music. Take a relaxed night stroll through the streets of Stari Grad with the jazz music in the background.