Hvar – the star
Hvar is the longest and sunniest Croatian island – one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Both rustic and worldly, bucolic and chic, Hvar is an island of fields. Inland, it is as rugged as ever – strong-smelling dense maquis, rocky mule tracks, and abrupt cliffs dropping down to the sea. Elsewhere, there are entire fields where fragrant lavender bushes grow, hillsides overrun with wild herbs, slopes covered with carpets of green vines and clear creeks. With its architecture, beautiful nature and mild climate many would describe it as a true fairy-tale city. Not surprisingly, many of a famous writer has been bowled over by Hvar, Croatia.
Back in the Hvar Town, the port and its marina offer plenty of diversion for leisure-seekers: not only is there an abundance of restaurants, trattorias and konobas, but spiritual replenishment can also be found in the form a theater, purportedly Eupore’s first for the people and aristocracy alike, housed on the first level of the Arsenal building. Thanks to the mild climate, the warm winters and pleasant summers Hvar receives many guests, scientists and travellers, who are attracted by the dense Mediterranean nature, rich tradition and architecture, and nightlife.
A slightly different form of spiritual replenishment is found in the Cathedral of St Stephan housing one of Croatia’ oldest icons; the Benedictine monastery where lace is still made from dried agave leaves; and the garden of the old Franciscan monastery with its 200-year-old cypress tree and painting of the Last Supper, in the refectory, undoubtedly influenced by Leonardo da Vinci’s world-famous masterpiece.
