June 3, 2024 – So what is there to do on Hvar apart from sit on the beach and enjoy the nightlife? A look at Adventure Hvar, by land, sea and air.
Some people come on holiday to sit on the beach for 2 weeks, others for the relaxed lifestyle. Hvar has plenty to offer for both of these activities, but it also has so much more for those looking to get a little more active. For an island which is globally famous for its glitzy main town, beaches, nightlife and Pakleni islands, many are surprised at the level of activities one can find there. Adventure Hvar is an adventure indeed, by land, sea and air.
Hvar has been building up its adventure tourism credentials over the last decade, and the island now boasts an impressive number of sporting events held on the island, the culmination of which will be in October when the Spartan World Championship will be held on Hvar in October, the first in a 3-year agreement. Other recent successes include having the leading world cycling team, Bahrain Merida, base their winter training camp there for 3 years, the Otillo Swim Run championship, over a decade of the Hvar Half Marathon, the Faros Marathon, and the UltraSwim 33.3.
But if you are not competitive and want to explore the island, there are a number of exciting options.
By air. Hvar has its own airfield in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Stari Grad Plain. Only small planes can land there, but there is also the possibility of organising a panorama flight of the island, a great way to enjoy one of the world’s most beautiful islands. Or if you are feeling a little braver, head to the same airfield between June and September for some excellent skydiving with a view.
The main connections most tourists will have with the water will be the ferry to and from Hvar and a dip in the azure Adriatic, but there are plenty of other activities as well. There are numerous sailing options, both for experienced sailors and non-sailors alike, and with the magical Pakleni islands calling, a day’s sailing is the highlight of a holiday for many. Don’t miss the half-day romantic sunset sail around the Pakleni Islands.
Taking a boat tour is also a must do when on Hvar. There are some excellent excursions, either with private speedboat or in a group tour – a wonderful way to get a better perspective on this lovely island. Popular excursions include the Blue Cave, a tour of the Pakleni Islands, and even wine tasting in a cave that can only be accessed by boat.
Kayaking has seen an explosion of interest since I moved to Hvar in 2003. The first adventure tourism agency on the island only started in 2004, and since then kayaking has grown in popularity. There are a range of tours available, including for complete beginners, and what a magical way to explore the island’s coast and Pakleni Islands, finding a hidden cove away from the rest of the world. There are also great options for windsurfing (in Vrboska), SUP, and scuba diving. For a little more detail on the options, click here.
There is plenty to do on land, of course. From heritage walking tours of Hvar Town to cooking classes learning how to make traditional Dalmatian fare from the very freshest ingredients, there is something for everyone. Popular activities include the Jeep Offroad Safari, which takes guests on a magical tour of inland Hvar and up to its very peak with a 360-degree panoramic view. You can also take a tour in your own personal Tuk Tuk.
Wine tasting is also extremely popular, and the island’s winemakers offer a diverse tasting experience. The island has its own micro-climate, and with 7 indigenous grapes of its own, you are sure to discover some new tastes for your palate.
Another great way to explore is on a wine and bike tour – exploring the magic of the island inbetween glasses. Cycling has become a big thing on the island, both regular and MTB, and there are now several well-developed cycling routes all over the island. As, too, is hiking, and there are various options, both guided and unguided. You can check out some of the land-based options here.
One stunning island, so many things to do. No wonder I spent 13 happy years living there.
