Hvar is open 12 months a year, and tourists do come out of season. But what do they do?
I was contacted a few weeks ago by a Hungarian couple who wanted to spend a few days on Hvar between Christmas and New Year and were looking for a place to stay, as well as some tips on what to do and how to meet some of the winemakers of Hvar for tastings.
Although I was glad to fill one of my mother-in-law’s apartments for a little extra revenue for her, tourism on Hvar between Christmas and New Year was hardly peak season, and I had no idea what might be open for them.
One of the nice things about the island out of season is the proximity and approachability of people, and over a coffee on the square in Jelsa, I managed to introduce them to the great Jelsa trio of winemakers – Ivo Dubokovic, Andro Tomic and Teo Huljic – who all just happened to be there at the same time.
Having accompanied them to Teo Huljic and his abundant lemon tree, I drove them to both Dubokovic and Tomic so that they could find them for their appointments.
A simple Facebook message – Amazing wine tasting with Ivo Dubokovic – was the message with the photo above, suggesting that an evening with Croatia’s leading boutique winemaker was a success, as I am sure the Romanesque cellars of Andro Tomic were this morning.
Wine is a year-round tourism activity, but in Hvar Town at the moment, as the island prepares for its New Year celebrations, the focus is very much on the sea with the New Year International Regatta.
And for those with an interest in traditional music, there are concerts aplenty in various churches and other public places – check out Klapas Frecija and Kastilac in Pitve three days ago in the video below.
And there is plenty of nature to enjoy as well, from walks and hiking, to something altogether more active. And while I would not choose it for myself, there are those mad enough to swim in late December – proof below.
The island of Hvar. Something for everyone. Twelve months a year.
