July 23, 2022 - The Four Seasons may have never opened, but that didn't affect the quality of hotels in Hvar town and Stari Grad over the last few years. 

International media has not been shy about Hvar as the hotspot of summer, but that's to no one's surprise. However, instead of praising Hvar Island as one of the best in Europe (well, it was named that again, too), a different aspect of Hvar is in the spotlight this time around, outside of the sun and sea - its hotels.

Hvar Island has seen its accommodations enhanced to another level in the last few years as the rise of quality hotels have taken the front seat - and Hvar Island is now the only Croatian island with three 5-star hotels! 

So, who is international media raving about?

A look at the quality hotels in Hvar town and Stari Grad. 

Let's kick things off with Hvar town jewel Palace Elisabeth, a 5-star heritage hotel and historic landmark that opened in 2019.

With a vibrant history that dates back to the 13th century, Palace Elisabeth was rebuilt in 1898 and renamed Spa Hotel Empress Elisabeth, after the Austrian Empress Sisi, a crucial asset to its construction. Hvar's oldest hotel and Empress Sisi inspired Sunčani Hvar's 100 million kuna investment to transform the 3-star Hotel Palace into Palace Elisabeth, the first 5-star hotel on the island. Costing nearly 300,000 euros per room, Palace Elisabeth was also one of the most significant investments in the Croatian hotel industry. With 45 rooms and suites, Palace Elisabeth offers refined luxury and timeless design and is a member of the prestigious The Leading Hotels of the World. And things have only gone up from here. 

Suncani Hvar

Sunčani Hvar continued their investments to heighten Hvar town's hotel accommodation this year, also recognized by American business magazine Forbes. 

Namely, the newly refurbished 4-star Beach Bay Hvar Hotel opened earlier this month as Hvar town's first-ever sustainable hotel, located just around the bend from the busy town harbor. The hotel's renovation revamped 21 rooms with many eco-friendly features for guests to enjoy an interpretive travel experience inspired by sustainable development and care for the environment. All rooms and suites also have a sea view! 

Suncani Hvar

Sunčani Hvar also pumped 40 million kuna into the newly renovated Riva Marina Hotel, one of the first hotels in Hvar town, which opened in 1914, or 15 years after Palace Elisabeth. Targeting guests primarily from the British and American markets who are after superior service and high-quality accommodation, Riva Marina offers 50 new unique rooms and suites and an upgraded restaurant and bar concept. And it's pretty hard to beat its iconic outdoor terrace with a view of the Hvar town's yachts and marina.

Suncani Hvar

Conde Nast Traveller also couldn't forget to mention the family-friendly Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort as one of the best hotels in Croatia this year, another product of the Sunčani Hotels brand. 

Newcomer Moeesy Blue & Green Oasis Hotel was also applauded by Forbes as Hvar town's newest 5-star hotel just 10 minutes from the city center. With foundations dating back to 1929 (formerly known as Hotel Croatia), Moeesy has 37 rooms and four suites, pools, and a beautiful garden, spa, and Mediterranean restaurant. Its green area spans approximately 5000 sqm! 

And that's just Hvar town. 

The Daily Mail recently revealed it was smitten with Stari Grad, especially the 5-star Maslina Resort, a Relais & Chateaux hotel that opened in August 2020. Applauding its 'Mindful Luxury' philosophy which is seen at first glance as the facade 'blends seamlessly into the pine-tree-clad hillside,' Maslina Resort has revived Maslinica Bay with 50 rooms & suites and three villas, a standout spa, Michelin-recommended restaurant, beach bar and beach area where high-end hospitality is king. Conde Nast Traveller also named Maslina Resort one of the best hotels in Croatia this year, where Hvar's history as a well-known healing destination (since 1868) is reflected in its philosophy. A savvy, safe and serene choice away from the hustle and bustle of Hvar town. 

Maslina Resort

But Maslina Resort isn't the only newcomer to Stari Grad. The Valamar [PLACES] lifestyle hotel brand launched last year with the opening of HVAR [PLACESHOTEL] by Valamar, designed for travelers seeking "freedom of choice and a vibrant Mediterranean holiday in a hotel by the sea." Taking over the former hotel Lavanda, HVAR [PLACESHOTEL] by Valamar welcomed a 53 million kuna investment to reinvent accommodation suitable for the millennial generation. Offering 179 rooms, a pool complex, bars, DJs, modern design, and smart features like cashless payment and contactless check-in, this hotel is also only 50 meters from the sea.  

And all this without the Four Seasons ever opening.

For more, make sure to check out our dedicated travel section.

July 6, 2022 - Summer continues to heat up in Hvar town with the opening of the Beach Bay Hvar Hotel on Friday, July 8!

The newly refurbished 4-star Beach Bay Hvar Hotel is the latest show-stopper by Sunčani Hvar. Located in Hvar town just around the bend from the busy Hvar harbor, Beach Bay Hvar Hotel is tucked into a tranquil area by the sea for those looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating holiday on the island.

And while its beachside location is one of the hotel’s many benefits, we'd like to argue that its redesign also takes the cake. Namely, the Beach Bay Hvar Hotel's renovation included many eco-friendly features so that guests can take part in an interpretive travel experience inspired by sustainable development and care for the environment. Better yet - all rooms and suites boast a sea view! 

"Our mission is to provide sustainable practices so that our guests can have enriching and authentic experiences at our hotel. We encourage responsible travel and provide responsible vacations in order to achieve a negligible carbon footprint. That is why we created a concept that is perfectly aligned with the hotel's natural surroundings," announced Beach Bay Hvar Hotel before its opening on Friday. 

It's also no surprise that Hvar is one of the sunniest islands in the Adriatic, bringing in around 2843 hours of sunshine a year, which made it easy for Beach Bay Hvar Hotel to incorporate solar power as a natural solution and the best renewable energy source into the hotel's redesign.

"The hotel features a solar power system on the hotel, with energy-efficient equipment such as programmable thermostats and energy-efficient lighting. The focus is in its entirety on nature and sustainability. The hotel also features locally sourced ingredients and foods in order to support the local community and tailor to guests who favor locally authentic experiences," added Beach Bay Hvar Hotel. 

Beach Bay Hvar Hotel is also running a special pre-opening deal with 10% off for the first guests at the newly renovated property this summer! Don't miss out on Beach Bay Hvar Hotel's stunning sea-view guest rooms and suites, ready to welcome guests this Friday, July 8! 

For more, make sure to check out our dedicated travel section.

June 11, 2022 - If you're looking for the best places to eat in Hvar town this summer, Sunčani Hvar has you covered. 

From captivating beach restaurants with sensational sea backdrops to hip rooftop dining with panoramic views of the city, Hvar really does have it all. The most popular hotel group on the island, Sunčani Hvar, has compiled a list of some of their favorite places to eat while spending time in Hvar town. 

Beach Club Hvar

Dubbed as one of the hottest beach clubs in Europe, BCH is also one of the coolest places to eat in Hvar. Book your sunbed throughout the day and enjoy a signature cocktail right by the seaside. If you get hungry your table is just a few steps away in the central part of the restaurant area among stunning white stone colonnades. Discover carefully prepared Mediterranean delicacies, delicious salads, and original seafood entrees.

San Marco

Located at the 5-star heritage hotel Palace Elisabeth, San Marco is surely one of the best restaurants in Hvar. Perched on top of the hotel’s terrace, it boasts beautiful views of the main square and Hvar bay. Ideal for those who want to enjoy tasty Mediterranean cuisine with innovative and artfully presented dishes inspired by fresh, local products and aromas that together create a truly unique culinary experience.

Val Marina

This renowned marina-front terrace is situated directly on the promenade and allows guests to enjoy picturesque views of the old town of Hvar, the Arsenal, and the harbor. Perfectly balancing space and privacy, it is the ideal spot for a romantic dinner. Pair fantastic international and unique Hvar wines from some of the finest local and world-renowned producers with your exquisite culinary experience. This is surely one of the top places where to eat in Hvar.

Top Bar

Located on the roof-top of spa hotel Adriana, Top Bar is one of the places that will simply leave you in awe. Soak up the atmosphere and enjoy stunning panoramic views spanning from the fortress all the way to Paklinski islands. Enjoy different Mediterranean tastes with a twist of Asian-inspired cuisine. Later, mingle with friends and enjoy tasty cocktails or a bottle of wine accompanied by chill lounge music.

BB Club Social Bar & Kitchen

Still thinking about where to eat in Hvar? BB Club Social Bar & Kitchen is Hvar’s newest restaurant and bar concept. Not to mention that this restaurant in Hvar is located in the heart of the city, directly in the marina. Perfect for mega-yacht gazing, BB’s lavish terrace is also the ideal place to enjoy Mediterranean delicacies with an emphasis on local ingredients. 

For more info click here.

For more on where to eat in Croatia, make sure to check out our dedicated lifestyle section.

June 3, 2022 - The newly-renovated Hotel Riva Marina in Hvar town opens today!

Situated in the Hvar city center, this historic gem boasts 50 uniquely decorated rooms and suites and a stunning terrace with outdoor seating and a bar area. The hotel was completely renovated this year. 

Namely, Suncani Hvar Hotels completed the 40 million kuna renovation of Hotel Riva Marina to ensure it would be ready for its June opening. 

Hotel Riva was one of the first hotels in Hvar town, opening in 1914, precisely 15 years after the historic Hotel Elisabeth. It was named Hotel Kovačić after the initial founder of the hotel and named 'Riva' in 2006 when it was completely renovated. In 2022, this century-old hotel with striking and original architecture changed its name to Riva Marina, emphasizing its first-class position in the heart of Hvar's marina. The hotel is intended for guests who expect superior service and high-quality accommodation and will primarily be focused on the British and American markets.

Thus, the Riva Marina Hotel has 50 new unique rooms and suites made for complete comfort and enjoyment. The carefully designed and executed interior design further emphasizes the historic building itself and its quality is harmonized with the most prestigious Hvar hotel Palace Elisabeth. The newly renovated hotel boasts a restaurant and bar, designed according to the latest standards and adapted to modern world travelers. Guests can enjoy a variety of delicacies and drinks on the iconic outdoor terrace with a unique view of the yachts and marina.

The project was entrusted to the architectural studio Tissa from Poreč, the interior design by Oto Blaha, and the contractor Kvantum from Zagreb.

Book your dream Mediterranean getaway today by visiting the Suncani Hvar website. And don't forget their other hotels on the island, including Palace Elisabeth, Adriana, Amfora, Beach Bay, Pharos, and Hotel Delfin!

For more, make sure to check out our dedicated lifestyle section.

May 4, 2022 - The new-and-improved Riva Marina Hotel by Suncani Hvar opens in Hvar town just in time for the summer! 

The start of summer is well and truly around the corner, though we're already feeling a breath of what it used to be with a tourism boom since the long Easter holiday weekend. With Covid measures lifted and travelers back to planning trips as scheduled, all forecasts reveal a standout summer ahead, which will be enhanced this year on Hvar thanks to the newly renovated Riva Marina Hotel. 

Namely, Suncani Hvar Hotels continues with intensive investments in 2022 to strategically reposition its portfolio towards high-quality offers and services. The most significant investment this year is the complete renovation of the Riva Marina Hotel, worth 40 million kuna. The planned opening of the newly renovated hotel is at the beginning of June.

Hotel Riva, located in the center of Hvar, is one of the first hotels in Hvar town, opening in 1914, precisely 15 years after the historic Hotel Elisabeth. It was named Hotel Kovačić after the initial founder of the hotel and named 'Riva' in 2006 when it was completely renovated. In 2022, this century-old hotel with striking and original architecture will change its name to Riva Marina, emphasizing its first-class position in the heart of Hvar's marina. The hotel is intended for guests who expect superior service and high-quality accommodation and will primarily be focused on the British and American markets.

"Today, trends in the hotel industry are changing rapidly, and it is important to keep up with new challenges and competition, both in Croatia and in the wider world market. The Riva Marina hotel renovation confirms the company's development strategy, aimed at continuously improving the quality of portfolios and services for high-paying guests, which will further raise the competitiveness of the entire Hvar destination," said Gordana Tomičić, President of the Management Board.

Thus, the Riva Marina Hotel will have 50 new unique rooms and suites ready for this season, providing every guest with complete comfort and enjoyment. Carefully designed and executed interior design further emphasizes the historic building itself, and its quality continues the direction harmonized with the most prestigious Hvar hotel Palace Elisabeth. The newly renovated hotel will also have a new restaurant and bar concept, designed according to the latest standards and adapted to modern world travelers. Guests will enjoy a variety of delicacies and drinks on the iconic outdoor terrace that offers a unique view of the yachts and marina.

The project was entrusted to the architectural studio Tissa from Poreč, the interior design by Oto Blaha, and the contractor Kvantum from Zagreb.

For more, make sure to check out our dedicated lifestyle section.

April 21, 2022 - The first sustainable hotel in Hvar town designed according to the latest environmental principles will open in July this year.

It is located in the city center, on the famous Hvar waterfront. The hotel in question that is being renovated is the annex of the old hotel Dalmacija. Upon completion, this 4-star hotel will shine in new splendor. Moreover, it will be renamed Beach Bay Hvar Hotel, which will emphasize its superlative position along a natural pebble beach a few meters from the entrance to the hotel. All rooms and suites have a view of the picturesque bay, the Franciscan monastery, the Hvar bay, and the Paklinski Islands.

The investment is valued at 22 million HRK, and after the renovation, the hotel will receive 21 completely renovated accommodation units with carefully designed interior details. Rooms and suites are harmoniously decorated, with natural fabrics and materials, and provide guests with complete comfort at all times. The hotel is entirely designed according to the principles of sustainable development so that guests can enjoy a pleasant and environmentally conscious vacation.

"The development of "green hotels" is the future of sustainable tourism and represents an opportunity to completely transform the accommodation offer. By renovating Beach Bay Hotel, we are establishing the concept of sustainable development that communicates built-in values ​​with modern and environmentally conscious guests. This way we are preserving the natural environment and the authentic offer of the local community," commented the President of the Management Board Gordana Tomičić.

The island of Hvar is the sunniest island in the Mediterranean. With 2843 hours of sunshine a year, solar energy is a natural solution and the best renewable energy source. The hotel is equipped with solar panels and energy-efficient equipment to increase the energy efficiency of the building. Special emphasis is placed on local foods and products from small local suppliers, in order to support the local community and provide guests with an authentic experience when holidaying on the island.

The project is assigned to the architectural studio Tissa from Poreč. The contractor is Slavonska gradnja.

For more, check out our lifestyle section.

March 4, 2022 - Because you don't have to wait until the summer to visit Croatia's sunniest island. Sunčani Hvar Hotels Spring Specials are here! 

It's no surprise that the glamourous Hvar town is one of the busiest summer hotspots in Croatia. Still, many may not know that the popular town is also a gem in the offseason months - and you get to experience it without the peak season crowds. 

As a way to tempt travelers to Croatia's sunniest island in the calm before the tourism storm, Sunčani Hvar Hotels Spring Specials are here, with enticing offers at two of its most in-demand hotels - Adriana & Amfora!

Namely, spice up your Easter break with a minimum 2-night stay at Adriana spa hotel, with prices starting from 59 EUR per person and breakfast included! But that's not all. Adriana guests will receive a bottle of house wine and a 10% discount at its restaurants and bars during their stay. This offer is valid for the month of April with a free upgrade upon availability. 

And if you can't make it in April but still want to explore the charms of Hvar this preseason? 

Amfora resort has also announced a Spring Special during one of the most beautiful periods to visit the island. From 51 EUR per person with breakfast included (and a minimum 2-night stay), guests also receive a bottle of house wine, a 10% discount at its restaurant and bars, and a free upgrade upon availability. This offer, however, is valid from April 20 to June 1, 2022! 

And should you need another reason to visit Hvar? 

The island Hvar was voted the #1 island in Europe according to Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards, with readers naming its abundant nature, culture, and rich history as to why you should visit. 

“With warm summers and mild winters, the island of Hvar is the sunniest spot in Croatia—there are over 2,800 hours of sunshine annually. It may be known for its beaches and turquoise water, but there’s another side to this resort island. From the town of Hvar on the island’s southern shore, make the slow, uphill climb to Tvrđava Fortica, a 13th-century fortress with the best views on the island. Pro tip: To see Hvar’s spectacular fields of lavender in full bloom, visit in early summer. The harvest takes place in late July, but you can buy all sorts of scented souvenirs in the local markets year-round,” writes Condé Nast Traveler.

Need we say more?

For more on travel in Croatia, follow TCN's dedicated page.

February 14, 2022 - Moeesy Blue & Green Oasis Hotel will transform the existing Hotel Croatia into a 5-star hotel with 37 rooms, 4 suites, and an exclusive presidential suite.

Hvar town will be enhanced thanks to another five-star hotel this summer, reports Dalmatinski Portal.

This blue-green oasis is located on the promenade by the sea, on a green area of ​​approximately 5000 m2. Croatia-Hvar d.o.o. has launched an investment worth 100 million kuna, which includes the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the existing facility and environment of Hotel Croatia, which has so far worked in the 3-star category. The investment comprises raising the categorization of the hotel to five stars, so the company's management has decided to re-brand the hotel, which includes changing the name. The new hotel will be named MOEESY BLUE & GREEN OASIS because the name merges a mosaic of blue and green oases that, like poetry, merge into peace and beauty that will provide tourists accommodation within its beautiful surroundings.

This is a financially valuable and very demanding construction investment, given that it is a complete reconstruction and rehabilitation within the existing hotel building. A beautiful stone staircase will remain inside the hotel, and everything else is in the process of full reconstruction.

The hotel will have 41 accommodation units, including 37 rooms, four suites, and an exclusive presidential suite. Modern and airy design is a hotel feature and will surely delight tourists at the hotel. The restaurant will showcase direct contact of the chef with hotel guests through show-cooking, with a cascading restaurant, bar, and booths. The pleasant ambiance and accessibility to each guest are the qualities that have adorned the hotel's current management and staff, which will be maintained and continuously raised to an even higher level. As a result, hotel guests will be provided with the highest level of luxury during their stay. 

The big news is that the hotel will have an outdoor pool located west of the hotel which will be organized in cascades to monitor the configuration of the terrain. In addition, this facility will have an indoor pool and spa center that will offer massages, a sauna, and a large gym. This content ensures that the hotel can operate outside the summer period, i.e., deep in the pre-season and post-season, which is the goal of hotel management and part of the national strategy of Croatian tourism. The works on the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the hotel include the complete arrangement of horticulture around the building itself so that a green oasis is maintained around the hotel and preserves the recognizability that the building has had so far. The horticulture project includes replacing old trees with young ones representing Mediterranean cultures. Furthermore, all existing palm trees will be retained, so there will be an alley of palm trees in the southern part of the hotel.

This investment can be called a 'family hotel and project' because it has the unique feature that three generations of one family participate in the management and ownership of the hotel. Stanislav Visković is the director of the company and a representative of the third generation that runs the hotel and works to improve the quality of work and hotel offerings.

"This investment will enrich the offer of Hvar town and the entire Croatian tourism and follow the trends of investing in high category facilities for which there are special interests of tourists. In the Croatian tourist market, the task is to achieve that," says Visković.

While the pandemic created significant problems in the tourism market, it also pointed to the need to invest in very high-capacity facilities because such facilities had excellent occupancy during the pandemic. Visković further emphasizes the critical role of partners in implementing this project.

"This project, with the funds of the investor company and the support of HAMAG-BICRO, is monitored by Hrvatska poštanska banka, which has become a financial and operational partner of the project because they are involved in the complete course of project preparation and implementation. Furthermore, the management of Hrvatska poštanska banka, especially the Split office, monitors and directly supports the project itself. Therefore, the opening of the hotel will be a source of pride for all of us who have truly participated in the project in partnership," he says.

The construction should be completed by May 1, 2022, after which the hotel will be equipped with furniture, obtain a use permit, and finalize categorization. The hotel should receive its first guests at the end of June 2022. The expected markets are the USA, Great Britain, France, Australia, Germany, and other markets with higher spending power. An overnight stay in a hotel in the peak season will be from 600 to 800 euros in double rooms and from 1160 to 1800 euros in apartments, depending on the category of the room or suite.

For more, check out our lifestyle section.

November 25, 2021 – From the epic medieval harbour of Vrboska and the buzz of Hvar town to the historic streets of Stari Grad and 250 kilometres of brilliant beaches, this new footage of summertime on Hvar is making us yearn for next season.

© Goran Šafarek

Hvar Town is overflowing with life in summer. By day, families wander by the waterside or between restaurants in the old town. By night, bars and discos are vibrant and full. In Stari Grad, a constant stream of excited new visitors arriving by boat. Such scenes tell of the popularity of summertime on Hvar. Arguably, this is Croatia's most well-known island for holidaymakers.

© Goran Šafarek

But, away from the throngs of people in Hvar Town and Stari Grad, there's a distinctly different side to this island. Famously, Stari Grad Plain (Starogradsko polje) on the interior looks much the same now as it did over 2000 years ago. That's how long grapes and olives have been cultivated here. Pretty rows of vines and fields of olive trees or lavender colour the landscape all over Hvar. Passing by these agricultural endeavours gives a better reminder of just how much room there is for everyone on Hvar.

As shown above, the long, ancient harbour at Vrboska © Goran Šafarek

With 250 kilometres of its own coastline, Hvar is not short of beaches. People love swimming in the island's crystal clear waters. Sailors love them too. In the ancient harbour of Vrboska, there's an altogether different feeling to arrivals by boat. Here, elegant yachts gracefully cruise into the long, thin harbour. They find temporary homes near small, traditional fishing boats. Inside, summertime sailors may have chosen this beautiful part of the island because of its famous restaurants. After the gastronomic joy of lunch, maybe they'll wander the historic promenade or visit one of the famous winemakers near here.

In the background, sailors into Vrboska © Goran Šafarek

All these different aspects of summertime on Hvar and more have been captured in an all-new video made by Goran Šafarek. Goran, who is an independent biologist, publicist, photographer and filmmaker, was on the Adriatic working in summer 2021. His assignments included film work commissioned by Croatian National Parks. But, he took advantage of being on the coast and made time between assignments for a family sailing holiday. He visited Korčula island and Hvar island, using the opportunity to make new videos of each.

© Goran Šafarek

Total Croatia News has already published Goran's new video of Korčula, which you can watch here. This new one of Hvar has us pining for summer and making plans for next.

For more info about Hvar island, look here. And for the latest news from Hvar, bookmark Total Croatia News pages here

Tuesday, November 9, 2021 - After a COVID-19 instigated break last year, the much-acclaimed Peškafondo 2021 was back to celebrate its 10th year as an international fishing and tourism event. 

365 GARIFUL HVAR

Organised by the “365 Gariful Hvar” association, 48 teams entered and competed in the waters of Hvar. Each team was comprised of four members, and registration was 500 kuna for each member. There was also an ongoing opportunity to donate in order to partake of the non-fishing festivities, money that will go to a local charity as chosen by the “365 Gariful Hvar” association. Read more here where Ivan Gospodnetić, owner of the much famed Gariful restaurant, talks to Paul Bradbury about why he started this festival in the first place and how he has watched it grow and evolve over the years.

KICK START CELEBRATIONS

Not having any idea what to expect, we were invited by Ivan via Paul to join in on the festivities and boarded the catamaran to Hvar town on Friday. The program officially started at 1 pm so we decided to catch the 10 am ferry to give us plenty of time to get settled before festivities kicked off. Little did we realise that the Šibenik Klapa group were on the same ferry, and they started things off early, pulling out their instruments and playing for all of us on the ferry. What a great way to kick off the weekend! 

THE SQUID GAMES BEGIN

As the ferry pulled alongside the Hvar Riva, they continued to play as they disembarked the boat, being welcomed warmly by everyone already gathered and set up outside Gariful restaurant. Peškafondo and Big Game Fishing 2021 was off to a great start. Teams began to gather at the tables set up outside the restaurant, everyone was registering, getting their t-shirts, having a warm hearty lunch. The trumpet signaled at 3 pm and was the sign for all of the fishing boats and their teams to head out in search of the desired squid. They would disperse in the waters around Hvar and Pakleni islands and put their lines down hoping for a bountiful catch. 

DAY ONE CELEBRATIONS

At 8 pm the boats returned amidst live music and the buzz of dinner beginning, and the catches were weighed and measured in full sight of everyone in attendance. Most teams were pretty successful and it was a great atmosphere for everyone to warm up and wind down after the hours spent out on the boat. The wine and beer were flowing, and the celebrations continued into the night. 

DAY TWO BEGINS

The next morning at about 8 am, the big game fishing boats departed the Hvar Riva and spent all day out fishing, in pursuit of the elusive big catch! After another very colourful departure of the squid fishers at 3 pm again, they spent another afternoon out to catch as many squids as they could find. It was a much harder day out, as rain impeded the time out for many, especially those in boats without shelter. Fishing is certainly a sport that is at the mercy of the weather 

RAIN, RAIN, RAIN

The rain continued as the days' catches were weighed and measured, and it certainly did not dampen the enthusiasm of the crowd that came out to support their friends and family members. A very wet award ceremony ensued, and it was great to see mixed teams, kids, and families having participated, as everyone came up to receive their prize and/or trophy. 

And then the final party began.  With the help of more delicious food, drinks, and live music, the vibrant and dynamic festivities continued into the night. An apt way to end the adult portion of a fantastic weekend celebrating the much-esteemed squid, in the quintessentially Dalmatian manner of celebration.

SHOUT OUTS FOR THIS EVENT

We had a couple of take-aways and shoutouts from this event.

AMAZING FOOD

Oh my goodness the food. Warming, fill-your-boots, hearty, nourishing food for a large crowd of people is one thing that Croatians really excel at. And all teams gathered by 365 Gariful Hvar Association totally went above and beyond to ensure that not only did the food taste good, it tasted amazing and it also showcased specific Croatian traditional dishes from a couple of different regions. Like arambaši from Sinj and the famous Skradin risotto! As well as demonstrating how heart-warming and relevant traditional cuisine still is in the setting of modern events and festivities. 

Huge vats of slow-cooked meats and seafood wafted incredible smells that led you down the Riva. All chefs were engaging and got involved in the fun, all while they were cooking and serving. They took time out to talk to us and show us what they were cooking. They helped to make the atmosphere bright and warm, despite the persistent rain! 

LACK OF RUBBISH

We were also very impressed by the lack of rubbish and the major lack of single-use plastic. Serving plates and utensils were paper and wood, cups were washable and reusable. And the staff working the event were fast, efficient and effective. There was no chance for any rubbish to blow onto the ground or into the sea because it was cleared away so fast. Full carafes of wine and bottles of sparkling water were brought to your table before you even realised that the existing bottles were running low. It was an incredibly clean, well-organised environment, which is an awesome achievement in normal circumstances and especially so given the incessant wet weather.

HIGH ENERGY ATMOSPHERE

The music was great. Even though it was all in Croatian, based on the enthusiasm from everyone else around us, they were clearly playing popular and classic Croatian songs. And we loved the variety. From the homespun acoustic style of the Šibenik Klapa to the powerful seasoned performance of Indira Vladić (Levak), it was all upbeat, enormously engaging, and great fun to be in the midst of.

The atmosphere was just great. The various elements, the music, the food, the staff, the logistics going on throughout the weekend, they all added up to a really enjoyable, wholesome event. 

ALL-INCLUSIVE

We also loved the fact that you don’t have to be out on a fishing boat to enjoy this event. In addition to the 500 kuna fee to register as a member of a team on a fishing boat, you could also donate and participate in the on-land parts of the event. Which were aplenty! Everyone felt included no matter your age, nationality, or fishing and squid catching skills, or total lack of! This was especially true on Sunday, which was Kids Day. Complete with bouncy castles, balloons, games, and activities, thank goodness the sun came out to shine down upon what felt like the whole of Hvar and their kids! The sound of delight, laughter, and joy filled the main square of Hvar. 

Given that we were non-Croatian-speaking foreigners who knew very little about the event and pretty much knew no one at this event, we felt very welcome and included. We had the opportunity to meet some of the fishermen, many of whom also work in the marine tourism industry. We enjoyed chatting with the chefs as they described what they were cooking for us. As well as making some awesome connections with individuals from other areas of Croatia, like Monika from Sinj (see her article here).

All in all, this was an event that we have heard nothing about during our five-year stay in Croatia. And now we have been, we can’t stop talking about it!

I think Ivan from Restaurant Gariful put it well when he said “I can't describe the happiness I feel knowing Peškafondo is no longer just about Hvar, it's becoming something that can be about all of Croatia.”

If you’re looking for an “authentic” experience in 2022 or beyond, this is one event you really need to check out. We highly recommend this event to any foreigners and Digital Nomads who find themselves in Croatia once the summer crowds have gone and are looking for real local events to take part in. This is all of those things in spades. 

If you have questions on anything sailing in Croatia, feel free to ask below in the comments or check out Total Croatia, Sailing in Croatia: Your One-Stop-Shop for everything sailing.

If you’re looking for a little more history around this event read Paul Bradbury’s interview with Ivan ‘Gariful’ Gospodnetić here: Celebrating 10 year of Peškafondo.

For more on the programme and reflections on the last ten years of Peskafondo, read Squid Games on Hvar.