Fishing Frenzy

Lying off the coast of Croatia, in the Dalmatian archipelago, is Hvar. This beautiful island was an important trading location in ancient times and is now being rediscovered as a magical destination for holidaymakers. It has the mildest climate of all Croatian islands, with sandy beaches, hidden coves and limpid waters. Hvar has made the top-ten listings as one of the loveliest islands to visit and is earning a reputation as the "New Riviera", not least because of the good restaurants, the range of accommodation and the excellent sailing.

Getting to the island is easy by taking the ferry from the coastal city of Split or from beautiful Dubrovnik, or from Ancona in Italy across the Adriatic Sea. Split is well-served by international flights as well as by a fast rail service from European cities. Ferries to Hvar Island dock in both Hvar town and Stari Grad on the far side of the island.

The more adventurous can reach Hvar under sail power. All the islands of the Croatian archipelago are cater to yachting, with with well-equipped marinas. Sailors have the option of self-sail trips, flotilla sailing holidays or bareboat yacht charter. You can simply sail in to town and drop anchor.

Accommodation on Hvar caters to every visitor's needs. From four star luxury hotels to the fun of a family camping break, you should be able to find accommodation a stone's throw from the water. End the day watching the sun sink into the sea, sleep to the musical lapping of the waves on the shore and wake to another sunny day.

The island caters to four star needs, with top end spa hotels with all the treatments and dining options you'd expect. There is a good selection of family-friendly resorts with activities and services tailored to parents and children. Budget-conscious holidaymakers can opt for a simpler two star hotel, while young travelers have the option of hostel accommodation.

If you plan a longer stay on the island, or prefer to self-cater, you can choose from one of the many, affordable apartments located in towns around the island. These might range from top-end luxury accommodation to a simple beach apartment.

The island has campsites located on the water's edge and suitable for family holidays. Here you can get lessons in sailing or diving, windsurf or simply lie on the beach and soak up the sun. The campgrounds provide accommodation in mobile homes or tents, or you bring your own. They are fully equipped with snack-bars and restaurants.

The joy of an island holiday is that you're never far from the sea. And while simply lying beside it and dabbling your toes is marvelous, it's good to get out onto the water. Hvar specializes in nautical tourism. It is well set up to cater to the novice or practiced sailor looking for a perfect experience. Many companies provide sailing courses as well as day trips to local sites such as the beautiful Blue Cave. You could opt for a longer sailing break, up to five days, and visit the neighboring islands of Brac and Vis. You can even take part in an Adriatic Regatta.

Hvar makes an excellent destination for a summer break. It suits the adventurer who loves water sports, it's an easy option for a family holiday and it makes the perfect place for a romantic island getaway. It is best visited from April to September.