HIGHLIGHTS
MapHvar’s cathedral – together with Bishop’s palace, encloses the east side of the biggest square in Dalmatia Hvar’s Pjaca (St. Stephen’s sq.), dedicated to St. Stephen, the Pope and martyr, patron of dioceses and Hvar town.
Fortica (Spanjola) fortress – built above old city in the mid 16th century. Its architecture and military history will thrill you as much as the view of the city of Hvar and surrounding islands.
Arsenal – one of the first municipal theatres in Europe, founded in 1612., erected on the ancient Arsenal (a space used for repairing of galleons, and a storage of various seafaring tools). The theatre’s exterior is mostly preserved in its original form.
The Franciscan monastery – built in 15th century as a retreat for sailors. Within the monastery there are the artifacts exhibited in the monastery collection which is also the oldest on the island. It consists of paintings, manuscripts, old coins and incunabula.
Pakleni otoci – the oldest and most famous Hvar’s resort, spacious lagoon with shallow and sandy beach, surrounded by the thick, pine forest, fragrant heather and rosemary bushes and various, exotic plants.
DESCRIPTION
After picking you up at the pre-arranged meeting point or at your hotel,we’ll enjoy a panoramic view of Split and other islands as we begin a full day of fun and sun, surrounded by turquoise crystal water to what Conde-Nast Traveler calls “…one of the 10 most beautiful islands in the world,…” At one time, Hvar was one of the largest exporters of lavender and lavender oil. Its necklace of offshore islands, the Pakleni islands, is a mecca for nature lovers and sailors for its wild, untouched natural beauty.
Our first stop is Milna, a seaside village on the island of Brac. Time to walk around and experience this decidedly authentic Croatian town. Back on board, surrounded by the blue Adriatic, we’ll make our way to the lavender island of Hvar and its glittering port of Hvar town. Make sure you have your camera ready to capture the gorgeous harbor and stunning Fortica fortress, which sits high above the town to guard its many treasures. After we dock, it’s time for our local professional guide to take you on a walking tour of this memorable town. On the tour you will discover the essence of Mediterranean hospitality and learn about the heritage and history of the entire island. Afterwords there’s time to explore more on your own—the craft and custom jewelry shopping here is excellent. Known worldwide for its exciting night life, by day, the clubs, restaurants and cafes are just as enjoyable—so have a drink, maybe some delicious grilled fresh fish, or just sit and watch life go by like Tom Cruise, Pince Harry and hundreds of other celebrities who come here do every year! Or, go for a swim, or take a hike up the winding path that takes you all the up to the Fortica fortress.
Inside there’s a fine collection of old vases and other ancient and Middle-Ages excavations—and outside is a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire town of Hvar and our next destination – the Pakleni Islands. It’s just a few minutes sail to Pakleni but it’s a world away. Here you will have a plenty of free time to explore and swim in tranquil bays framed by untouched nature. After enjoying a day on these sun-kissed Croatian islands, it will be a lovely cruise back to Split.
