Touristy Hvar

 

Pakleni Islands

The town of Hvar on the island of Hvar is a tourist mecca.  Being listed as one of the top ten islands in the world to visit by Conde Nast has drawn celebrities to visit - curious to see what its all about.  Although we looked we did not run into Beyonce or Tom Cruise.  However, I did see some drunken Irish folks fall down the stairs 😊.  One of the big attractions of Hvar island is the Pakleni island chain that lies just off the coast.  That is where we decided to stay to avoid the commotion in Hvar town harbor.  A quick taxi boat delivered us to Hvar town for a look about.

Hvar town harbour

The highlight of the Hvar town itself is the 16th century fortress at the top of the hill.  You can take steps from the center of town to the top (we did) and then continue to walk a winding path until you reach the fortress.  The views are from the top of the fortress are stunning.

Hvar Town

 Hvar island is a UNESCO world heritage site that has been inhabited since neolithic times.  Story is that they have been making wine on this island for 2,500 years!! On the Croatian islands we have seen so far, the people live near the coastline and then farm the hillsides.  The fields looks so amazingly steep that you wonder how they get tractors up there.  But apparently they do as they have many, many vineyards and lavender fields. Croatians still make a lot of wine but it is not exported as they do not have enough growing space for that. 

Hvar town

Hvar and Dubrovnik are probably two of the best known towns in Croatia and they are beautiful for certain.  But we are withholding judgement until we see more of the country.  One thing is for certain - there are many, many charter boats here.  Something like 40% of the worlds charter trade is here in Croatia.  Its an easy place to sail - good for beginners.  Our experience so far is that there has not been enough wind.  Talaria is a "fat bottomed girl" as Michael likes to say, so she needs more that 5 knots of wind to move her.

Hillside fields

The good part is that its usually nice and still at night which is good when you are anchored.  Unlike Greece where the katabatic winds coming off the mountains try to blow you away!  Greece is a lion and Croatia the lamb.

Monastery/Nunnery

Talaria gets several looks and comments because folks are not used to seeing a boat like her around here.  She is a serious ocean going vessel - solid and sturdy.  Built for the open ocean and for safety - everything about her says "seaworthy".  Also, the American flag throws people off - Americans are also an oddity here.  We are asked all the time - "how did you get here?  Did you sail your boat all the way across the Atlantic Ocean?" 

Streets of Old Town Hvar

 Next stop will be Stari Grad which is also on the island of Hvar and then on to Split.