April 26, 2025 – As thoughts turn towards lazy summers on Croatian beaches, active tourists are heading to Hvar in May, where there is quite a programme.
Although I moved from Hvar in 2016, a lot of people think I still live there, and if people know anything about me, my love of Hvar and the 9,000 articles I have written about that magical island are probably top of the list.
Yesterday at a press conference at Zonar Zagreb, I listened to another Englishman waxing lyrical so beautifully about ‘my’ island that I had to interview him afterwards. And not just any Englishman, but Giles Chapter, COO of the sporting phenomenon, Spartan.
I loved the way Giles described how Hvar was for him, but when he started talking about Hvar as the perfect adventure tourism destination, I felt proud. Hvar has been working hard to develop its shoulder season sporting credentials over the years, and to hear such an unprompted ringing endorsement of last year’s event which attracted 2,500 participants (expanding to 3,500 this year) from such a significant individual as the Spartan COO, was heartwarming. You can watch Giles’ interview here, and I encourage you to do so if you want to see what love for Hvar is like.
I went to Spartan last year, and it was magical, with over 2,500 participants from all over the world – you can check out my video of the event above. During yesterday’s press conference, Spartan announced it was coming back to Hvar from October 9-12, with an estimated 3,500 participants this time. More from the press conference here.
The Spartan World Championship is the latest high profile sporting event to come to the island of Hvar, an island which already has such as embarrassment of tourism riches, that one would think it would not need to work hard to attract more tourists – home to the oldest public theatre in Europe, the birthplace of organised tourism in Europe, the sunniest island in Croatia, no island in the world has more UNESCO heritage, including its protected Mediterranean diet with world class olive oil, wine and healthy local food. Oh, and the beaches, the nightlife, the lavender – the list goes on.
And yet, the Hvar tourism strategy in recent years has been to try and prolong the season with a healthier more active offer. And it is working. And while the Spartan event will be the biggest sporting event on the island in October, there is a month adventure tourism lovers should start putting into their diaries – Hvar in May.
It is already one of the most beautiful months in the Hvar calendar, where everything is out in bloom, the temperatures are lower (but high enough to swim), and the locals have more time for you before the intensity of the peak season. And Hvar in May has quite the sporting calendar. Here is what is on offer:
May 2-3 – 1st regatta ‘Kolo Sveca’
May 9-11 – Tour de Hvar
Participants will run through lush vineyards, fragrant olive groves and ancient pine forests, immersing themselves in the island’s rich heritage and culture, which are also part of the UNESCO heritage. The race will pass by historic ruins and medieval fortresses, providing a journey through time.
You’ll have the option to choose between 4 courses – 12 km, 22 km, 40 km and 65 km. You can expect some nice single trails, perfect views of the Mediterranean Sea and other islands in the nearby area, and courses full of rich history and culture.
May 16-19 – UltraSwim 33.3 #7Croatia
The magical island of Hvar will host ‘early season’ European kickoff. A region steeped in history, and populated by hundreds of beautiful islands of all sizes, #7Croatia will challenge you with a tour around the western end of Hvar Island, between the two ancient towns of Stari Grad and Hvar Town.
This venue suits both the time-constrained swimmer wanting a fantastic long weekend 33.3km challenge, and also someone wanting a super holiday in this stunning region, with a rewarding challenge in the middle.
May 16-17 – PRO 3×3 Tour in Hvar 2025
After the spectacular events in 2023 and 2024, when the PRO 3×3 Tour was held at attractive locations in Croatian cities, this exciting story continues from mid-May to mid-August 2025. On May 16-17, 2025, basketball fans will be able to enjoy the moves of 3×3 basketball masters on Hvar’s Pjaca square.
May 24 – Hvar Half Marathon 2025
Hvar Half Marathon will bring you from the city Stari Grad on the northern side of the Island, over the 425m hill Radinjac, back to the sea level in the finish in the city of Hvar.
May 28-31 – European Aquatics Open Water Swimming Championships
And, of course, you do not need to be an active tourist to visit Hvar in May. It is simply glorious for all types of tourist. More information about all these events can be found on the Hvar Tourist Board website. And if you are looking for accommodation, Suncani Hvar Hotels have the biggest offer and are strong supporters and sponsors of this excellent initiative to portray Hvar as a more active tourism destination. You can check out the hotel selection and special deals here.
