We know Croatia as the paradisaical land located at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Asia, one that we have coveted for our spring getaways since forever. However, now that we have discovered one of Croatia’s gems, and its most exotic beach destination, Hvar, we are already making our itineraries. Given that the likes of Beyonce, Prince Harry, and George Clooney (among others) have found Hvar good enough for a getaway from the glitz and glam and the pap, we doubt if there’s reason for us to believe otherwise. If it’s good enough for the royals, it’s good enough for us, right? From celebrities to backpackers, history-enthusiasts to culture bees, foodies to explorers, Hvar has something on the menu for them all. Here’s looking at you, Hvar. By Shubhanjana Das
Best of Both Worlds
Hvar is the port town in the island of the same name in Croatia, one whose coat is always lined by the yachts of the crème de la crème and the youngsters who come to party to Croatia’s sunniest place to party. No wonder it is considered one of the top 10 islands in the world to visit! Flamboyance is spelled in capital letters here in the posh hotels, extravagant restaurants, and the many beach bars here in Hvar. If that’s not your scene, don’t say no to Hvar yet for the island has much more to it. The lavender fields, vineyards, rocky peaks, and ancient hamlet make the other side of the face of Hvar, meaning that if you find yourself in a dilemma as to which you want to choose, you could always simply do both! And, if you think it being Beyonce’s holiday destination makes it out of reach for a backpacker, you couldn’t be farther from the truth.
Jaw-Dropping Views
Thanks to its crazy rise in tourism, Hvar has substantially developed over the past few years. This means that you have beautiful roads to stroll through and discover nooks and crannies of the town, both old and new that no map can guide you to. Just 90 meters above the city is the Fortica fortress, a 40-minute walk from the old town following easy directions. Wait before you cringe at the thought of walking that much for you will be promised the view of the whole harbour! Early evening walks in the Promenade are also recommended. However, if you want to look at Hvar from further above to see the panoramic extent of this gorgeous port town, then Napoleon fortress, or Napjolun, perched 241 meters above sea level, is your place to be in. No matter what you choose, remember that when in Hvar, don’t rush your plans. Take it slow, soak it all in.
The Fields Will Never Disappoint You
Which fields, you ask? Why the olive and the lavender fields as well as the vineyards that Hvar so proudly boasts of? Once you leave the town and the parties behind, you will be welcomed by sprawling grounds of lavender field, the vineyards, and the olives. If you are planning your trip around October-November, you could get lucky and take part in the communal olive-picking which ends in a delicious local meal in the fields itself, cooked with the locally produced olive oil. As for the wine, you know what souvenir to take back from Hvar for your friends and family!
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