I only spent 24 hours on the island of Hvar, Croatia, but I’ll never forget it. A magical energy on the island pulses through you when you step onto her rocky shores. The turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea embrace the isle like a long-lost lover, and you find yourself lost in the beauty, daydreaming about never leaving. I’m so glad I experienced Hvar, Croatia’s lovely tranquility, stunning beauty, and rich history.
Lovely Tranquility
The charming town of Jelsa is home to only a few thousand lucky residents, which is probably why it’s so quiet. The only interruption to the tranquility is the regular sound of ringing church bells, which is common throughout Europe. Jelsa is nestled between the two highest mountain peaks on the island, with Hum to the east and St. Nicolas to the west. It has a lovely protected harbor, perfect for escaping storms and taking refuge.
The town is full of cute little shops and family-owned restaurants that serve some of the best seafood you’ve ever tasted. From souvenir shops full of brightly colored textiles and their signature coral jewelry to little coffee shops serving up a perfect cappuccino, it’s a wonderful place to relax and people-watch. It is also a thriving wine region renowned for its delicious red wines.
Stunning Beauty
As much as I adored the quaint buildings and town square of Jelsa, the picturesque scenery of Hvar took my breath away. I was there on May 1st, and it seemed fitting that all the flowers were blooming, filling the air with the sweet aroma of roses and lilies. Palm trees swayed gently in the salty sea breeze, and pine cones and seashells were scattered about the shores. A giant fig tree outside our hotel spilled figs onto the ground below. Grape vines were growing like weeds, decorating the terraces of happy homeowners and busy restaurants.
Rich History
The island of Hvar has a rich history of Greek colonizers in the 4th century B.C. and became part of the Kingdom of Croatia during the 7th century. The island has a giant fortress, like most towns in the region. Look up at the top of any mountain in the area, and you’ll see a mighty fortress that once protected commoners and royalty alike from attack. It’s also home to the Franciscan Monastery and the Hektorović Palace. Hvar is full of culture and has inspired many famous artists and poets.
Walking along the shoreline is a magical way to spend the day in Jelsa. There is an old cemetery on the far end of town overlooking the port, where proud residents have been laid to rest for several hundred years. Standing there, looking down at the crystal clear water and flower-lined shore, I instinctively knew that Hvar was special. I felt calm, relaxed, and surrounded by the tropical warm air and stunning beauty. It made me want to whip out my journal, start writing, or sit on a rock and meditate for hours. I guess you could say that Hvar stole my heart.