A Perfect Mediterranean Getaway: Hvar Island, Croatia

Hvar Island, located in Dalmatia, Croatia, is one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Hvar Island covers an area of 290 sq. km, with a population of under 15,000 inhabitants. The yearly average temperature is 16 degrees Celsius, with an average of 7.7 sunshine hours per day.

The island has been inhabited since 3,500 BC. Hvar was then colonized, in turn, by the Greeks (4th Century, BC), the Slavs (7th Century), the Republic of Venice (12th Century), the Kingdom of Hungary (1238), the Venetian Republic, the French Empire (during the Napoleonic Wars), and the Austrian Empire. It became part of the Republic of Croatia in 1992.

The major places to visit in Hvar are: the town of Hvar, Stari Grad, Jelsa, Sucuraj, and Vrboska. They are all located on the coast. The east cape of the island (Sucuraj) is located just 6 km away from the mainland. The town of Hvar and other towns and villages on the island have many architectural and cultural monuments that await discovery. Friendly people, pristine beaches and bays, a rich history and culture, the scents of lavender, olive trees, and wine are some of the reasons that Hvar makes for a perfect vacation in the Mediterranean sun.

Island Cres - The Hidden Gem of Croatia

Island Cres with its many coves, lagoons, caves and beaches has always been a favorite vacation spot for the natives of Croatia. Now this island garden spot is gaining the attention of tourists around Europe and the world.
The largest of the Croatian Islands, Cres is a long and mountainous island of with some 248 kilometers of idyllic coastline. Pebble covered beaches on the west and south side invite you to partake of the sea. The north and east sides of the island feature spectacular rocky slopes. A favorite of ecotourists, Cres is home to several endangered species, including the largest of European birds, the Griffon Vulture. The freshwater Lake Vrana supplies the island with drinking water and it is said that one drink will assure your return.
The island has several small hotels, but to experience the culture at its best, consider renting a room. There are also apartments available. Camping and short term apartment rentals will also let you blend into this island paradise. No matter where you stay; museums, gallaries, and ancient collections await you. Then at the end of the day you can lose yourself in the unspoiled natural beauty of this hidden gem.