Holiday rentals in Hvar

There's a reason Hvar echoes the word heaven: With turquoise waters and lavender fields, this bucolic Croatian island is supreme bliss. In recent years it’s become the rising star of the Adriatic, earning rank as one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. The traditional stone cottages, meandering cobbled pedestrian streets, and 13th-century medieval walls remain, but now its marinas are filled with swank yachts and its beaches are alive with music and dancing. With 158 miles of coastline, there are plenty of coves, inlets, and bays to find your ideal beach speed — from the southern coast’s serene coves to Hvar Town’s legendary beach bars. When you need a break from the crowds, the interior is filled with top-notch wineries, lavender farms, and pine forests.

Hvar has bragging rights as the sunniest spot in Croatia. You can count on around 2,700 hours of sunshine every year. Peak season starts in July, when the sun and travelers come out in full force. The high temperatures average around 86 degrees Fahrenheit with a UV index of eight. July is also when the island’s lavender fields are in full bloom. September is an optimal time to book a villa: the sea is at its warmest, the days are an agreeable 79 degrees, and the crowds have thinned. At 57 degrees, the air is cool but pleasant for sightseeing in the winter, but the sea is too cold for comfortable swimming. Still, this makes it a good season for exploring the inland offerings.

Dubovica Beach

This idyllic sandy crescent is a must for anyone who loves their beach secluded and their sea turquoise. The beach itself is composed of small beige pebbles, and is flanked by olive-tree-studded hills. Reaching the beach requires a short hike from the main road, but it’s worth the effort. A couple of beach bars serve seafood and local wines.

Wine tasting

Wine cultivation has been an important part of the Hvar for centuries, and today you can explore the island by way of sampling its tipples at some of its historic wineries. Both white and red varietals native to Croatia are grown in the island’s interior; some of the popular wineries include Zlatan Otok, Tomić Wines, and PZ Svirce. It’s best to book a wine tasting tour.

Spanish Fortress

For a postcard view of the Adriatic and the deepest glimpse of Hvar’s history, hike to the Spanish Fortress at the top of the island. The Byzantines, Venetians, and Austrians have all held fortifications here, with the current citadel dating back to the 6th century. The hills surrounding it were first settled by the Illyrians in around 1,000 BCE.