Croatia is fast becoming the number one holiday destination for the discerning traveller.  Formerly part of Yugoslavia, the 5790km long coastal area (including its more than 1,180 islands) has long been a popular tourist attraction for Italian, German and Austrian travellers.  

The southernmost part of Croatia is known as Dalmatia, with Split being the area's main city.  In 350AD the Roman emperor Diocletian had a magnificent palace built here, and its well-preserved walls now encompass many galleries, shops, restaurants and apartments. Split has a modern airport 30minutes away from its busy ferry port.  Regular ferries travel from here to Ancona and Pescara in Italy, and to the various Dalmatian islands including Brac, Hvar and Vis. 

Of all of Croatia's islands, the island of Hvar is the most impressive.  In a readers poll conducted by 'World Traveller' magazine in 2003 it was voted one of the 10 most beautiful islands in the world.  In a recent edition of the American 'Islands' magazine Hvar was ranked as one of the 5 best islands in the world on which to live.  This is surely due to the stunning scenery of rolling mountains, pine forests, lavender fields and the 600 year old stone-built villages, its crystal clear waters, and its lack of any pollution or industry (save wine-making and tourism).  Add to this its amazing record of 2700 hours of sunshine per year and you will understand why Hvar is a most compelling destination. 

The islands current capital is Hvar Town, with its splendid hillside fortress, large white-stoned main square and stunning harbour - a favourite stop-off for the rich and famous yachting fraternity.  Recent celebrities spotted on its promenade include Bernie Ecclestone, Steven Spielberg, Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt. 

Whilst Hvar town is a 'must-see', there is much to be said for island's former capital, Stari Grad.  This old town, situated around the main harbour, with its cobbled streets, authentic restaurants and welcoming locals will give you a much more intimate experience of the island, and is only a 30 minute bus ride from Hvar town.