Hvar

Hvar is rich in cultural and historical monuments that can still be seen in many of the towns and villages. Your scenic drive will take you from Hvar to Starigrad, a small town renowned for its stunning bay, which has long inspired artists and poets. Starigrad has majestic surrounding countryside and, like the rest of the island, it is famed for its mild climate and lush subtropical vegetation. There will be a short stop at a view point that affords vistas to both sides of the island, the archipelago and Starigrad. The town of Starigrad was the largest settlement on the island and it dates back to the 2nd century BC. After a short guided tour, you’ll have a short amount of free time in the town.

Continue to the village of Vrisnik, where your friendly host will welcome you to his traditional country home and introduce you to the local fine wines produced during a special wine tasting and a snack of local ham and cheese. The island wines range from light whites to full-bodied reds; all of them made locally and produced only in small quantities. You will have the opportunity to taste some of the finest wines produced on the island.

Leaving the village of Vrisnik, continue your ride back to the town of Hvar which include magnificent views of the town and Pakleni Islands can be enjoyed. The tour will end on the main town square, a short walk to the ship.

Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the narrow, characteristic streets of Hvar. The first port of call on the walking tour will be 15th century Franciscan monastery where you’ll visit the impressive Renaissance cloister, the old refectory that today houses a collection of lace, manuscripts and books and the church with its remarkable collection of paintings.

The walk continues to the main square to visit the Cathedral of St Stephen which shows the distinguishing mark of the Venetian rule. The Cathedral dominates the town square with its marvellously decorated 4 storey bell tower. In 1612 Europe’s oldest community theatre was established in the imposing building called the Arsenal. It has been under reconstruction for the last 2 years and currently can only be viewed from the outside.

For the last 100 years, the production of lace has been one of the traditional crafts that local inhabitants have perfected. Take a look at the lace on display that is manufactured from threads of agava leaves at the Benedictine monastery.

Set sail for a cruise bound for the Hvar archipelago, which is a labyrinth of inhabited islands and rocky islets.

Pakleni Islands are a group of islands located just off Hvar town not dissimilar in looks to a scaled down version of the Maldives, offering lush vegetation, sandy and rocky beaches surrounded by clear blue sea. This amazing area is a big favourite with visiting yachts from all over the world.

Enjoy a glass of locally-made brandy or soft drink as you coast past the breathtaking sights of the hidden coves and bays of the archipelago. A stop will be made to visit the jewel of Hvar Archipelago, the island of St Clement, the largest of the islets. The marina is concealed in a dense pine forest surrounded by tropical vegetation. On arrival at the island you will have the option to explore, visit the cove, swim in the crystal blue sea or sit in the shade of a café: one thing is for sure you will be sorry to leave this hidden treasure.

Upon your return to Hvar, you will have the option to look around this charming town before taking your tender back to the ship.