Focus on the Sea
The beaches may be empty and the winter sea temperatures less appealing than July and August, but much of Hvar tourism in winter continues to be focused on the sea, and this year is no exception.
Swimming and sunbathing are of course popular attractions on Hvar, but so too are sailing and fishing, and there are four events in the closing months of the year, each with their particular Hvar appeal, just four of many great reasons to visit the island out of season.
First up on October 1 is the Big Game Fishing Hvar Cup, which starts on October 1, and is organised from Toto's on Palmižana.
Now in its second year, the first big game fishing challenge was a big success last year, and was attended by the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries. Its timing coincides with the celebrations of the Day of Hvar Town on October 2, one of the best times to visit Hvar Town if you want to experience true relaxation and catch up with the locals after yet another busy season.
Just a few days later is the Festa Forske Pulene, one of the most romantic events in the entire Hvar calendar, as the traditions of Hvar traditional sailboats are celebrated. The sight of these elegant older boats moored up at Mandrać is a throwback to Hvar Town as it once was.
Another popular late season attraction which is growing in popularity is Peskafondo, a squid-fishing championship which was introduced to the Hvar tourism scene in 2011 by luxury fish restaurant Gariful. The tournament is now support by many of Hvar's businesses and attracts both national television coverage and international teams. A beacon of light in Hvar Town at the beginning of November.
And Hvar could not claim to be a 12-month destination without the annual Europa Laser Cup, now in its 39th year. A three-day sailing regatta after Christmas is the perfect introduction to the New Year celebrations, and the combination with Suncani Hvar Hotels makes the last few days on the year - and the first few of the next - a special time to visit Croatia's premier island.
*Author - Paul Bradbury
*Photo Credit - Aleksandar Topalovic Photography
