Croatia
Two great apartments right in the old town and next to the harbour. Owned by a very friendly family who will tell you all you need to know about the island and its history as well as helping you plan trips around the island.
I spent a long time researching apartments in Hvar as I had heard it was better to book ahead in August (although in the end, there were lots of people offering accommodation as we got off the ferry).
This was one of the few apartments I found that looked comfortable, central (in old fortress part of town) and modern for a reasonable price. We paid £34 a night for two people. The terrace was huge and had a fantastic view of the harbour and Pakleni islands. We had air con (you will need it in July/Aug), and were two minutes' from the main square. Owners were friendly and speak good English. I think they also have an apartment for four people.
Prosper Caric <prosper.caric@st.t-com.hr
00385 91 725 2481 (Natasa Caric)
(google "prosper caric" for photos)
For peace and nature lovers it would be wise to find accommodation somewhere around city of Hvar: www.hvarinfo.com might be a site to look. I found my accommodation in Basina bay there. Otherwise, you might find your self sleepless if you try to find accommodation somewhere in city centre.
Ok so its not exactly off the beaten path, however Hvar is beautiful nonetheless. For the best seafood ever and fun, friendly staff go to Palladini restaurant in the backstreets behind the main square. The beaches in Hvar are rocky, but for a £3.50 return fare in a taxi boat you can explore some of the neighbouring islands such as Palmizana and Jerolim for the nudists.
As far as nightlife is concerned, the main bar is Carpe Diem, which is fun but pretty expensive.
Find accomodation through the tourist office www.hvar.hr. The general standard of private accommodation on is very high; we stayed at apartments Konstantin and experienced true Croatian hospitality.
A stunning 20-minute costal walk from Hvar Town, rooms here come with sea views and a liberal dose of style. The hotel's garden restaurant cascades right down to the sea - perfect for watching the sun go down over a cockail. It costs slightly more than you need to pay in Croatia, but is worth every penny.
www.podstine.com
Tel +385 21 740 400
Luca rents out rooms in his house overlooking the harbour in beautiful Hvar. Let him look after you and you'll be treated to fish feasts with homemade wine and olive oil. Be his friend and you'll leave with handpressed family-grown lavender oil too!
he'll be waiting when you get off the ferry in a white t-shirt and blue jeans :-)
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