In the Hvar town, in the island of Hvar in the Adriatic Sea, Croatia

 "What inspires me most to write is the act of traveling.”

-- Tea Obreht
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(in the Southern Adriatic Sea, off the Dalmatian coast of southern Croatia) Hvar is an island that lies between the islands of Brač, Vis, and Korčula. Approximately 68 km (~45 mi.) long, with a high east–west ridge of Mesozoic limestone and dolomite, the island of Hvar is unusual in the area for having a large fertile coastal plain, and fresh water springs. Its hillsides are covered in pine forests, with vineyards, olive groves, fruit orchards, and lavender fields in the agricultural areas. The climate is characterized by mild winters, and warm summers with many hours of sunshine.

+ The longest island in the Adriatic, Hvar reaches 626 meters in elevation at Mount Sveti Nikola and is separated from the island of Brač by a narrow channel. The Mediterranean climate is favorable to the production of various fruits, honey, lavender, rosemary, and wine, as well as to a prosperous tourist industry. Boatbuilding, fishing, and marble quarrying are other means of livelihood. The eastern end of Hvar is just six km (~4 mi) from the mainland. Along the southern coast of the island there are several smaller islands, notably the Paklinski islands at the western end and Šćedro island, while Zečevo island lies off the north coast. Hvar's interior hides abandoned ancient hamlets, craggy peaks, vineyards, and the lavender fields that the island is famous for; this region is worth exploring on a day trip, as is the island's southern coast, which has some of Hvar’s most beautiful and isolated coves.

+ As the island retreat of choice for European jetsetters and celebrities alike, it’s easy to see why Hvar grabs headlines. Sun-soaked beaches, lavender-scented hinterlands, and cobbled medieval towns provide a welcome change of pace from the seemingly endless choice of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. One industry, tourism, has continued to grow and is now a significant contributor to the island's economy. The main towns are Hvar and Stari Grad. Stari Grad Plain, a natural area containing the ruins of stone structures and evidence of the agricultural style of the ancient Greeks, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008.

+ Today, Hvar combines a unique fusion of absolutely luxurious Mediterranean nature, culture, and rich historical heritage. The city rose to power during the Middle Ages and was an important port within the Venetian Empire. Now most people visit for its infectious atmosphere -- and it is a favorite destination for tourists heading to the Dalmatian Riviera.

+ Featured here is Hvar Town, which offers swanky hotels, elegant restaurants, and a general sense that, if you care about seeing and being seen, this is the place to be. Rubbing shoulders with the posh yachties are hundreds of young partygoers, dancing on tables at the town's legendary beach bars. (The northern coastal towns of Stari Grad and Jelsa are rather more subdued.)