Villa Timara

With dazzling turquoise waters, stunning architecture, cobbled streets and fragrant lavender fields, the island of Hvar offers visitors the chance to explore a Croatian coastal gem with a unique cultural heritage all of its own. The island is home to a treasure trove of beautiful beaches, from the white pebbles of Pokonji Dol to Dubovica’s pristine bay. Malo Zarace’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for a sunset swim, while Mina is a secluded sandy haven only a fifteen-minute walk from Jelsa. For those who fancy a day of island hopping, a visit to the Pakleni Islands is a magical experience. Pack a picnic and hire your own boat for the day, making your way to hidden coves and bright blue lagoons. Alternatively, you can join any number of boat tours departing from Hvar town’s main harbour.

If you decide to spend a morning in Hvar town, almost any of the pretty side streets will eventually lead you to Dalmatia’s oldest square, St. Stephen’s Square. Home to wonderful Venetian and Renaissance architecture, including the imposing St. Stephen’s Cathedral, this vibrant square in the town centre is the ideal place to enjoy a cup of coffee as you watch the world go by.

History enthusiasts will adore a trip to Hvar town’s historic fortress, overlooking the old town and the sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea. Originally constructed at the beginning of the 13th century, the fortress was reconstructed in 1579. Today, it is home to a small museum with an impressive collection of historical artefacts discovered around the island. The panoramic views from the top of the fortress are truly spectacular.

On the island’s northern coastline, Stari Grad is one of the oldest towns in Europe, located only a twelve-minute drive away from Villa Timara. Encompassing ancient winding streets, quaint laneways filled with flowers and plenty of Mediterranean charm, the town is the perfect place to visit for a quiet afternoon spent wandering along the promenade, followed by a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant. The blooming gardens at Tvrdalj Castle are enchanting, while a trip to the Stari Grad Museum is sure to fascinate visitors, with archaeological collections dating back six thousand years.

The UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain is home to a wealth of excellent wineries. You can also visit vineyards and intimate wine cellars in Jelsa, such as Vina Tomić and the Duboković Winery. There are gastronomic tours available around the island, offering visitors the opportunity to sample a wide variety of fantastic wines, often paired with traditional delicacies such as exquisite local olive oil.