The Maslina Resort, a Relais and Chateaux property nestled on Croatia’s Hvar Island, deserves some serious thought for an upcoming fall sojourn.
The Maslina Resort
Arriving as the sun casts its golden glow, the island unfolds before you, accessed via the property’s sleek tender. The scene feels right out of a James Bond film—a picturesque portrayal with Hvar Island’s twinkling lights, the historic town of Stari Grad aglow, and the Maslina Resort nestled amidst nature’s embrace.
With a modest offering of 53 rooms, suites, and villas, the Maslina exudes an air of exclusivity akin to a private members’ enclave rather than a conventional resort. The unconventional front desk, a monolithic piece of Brac stone—a native Croatian stone—serves as both a tribute to the island’s heritage and a unique welcome. The common space, an indoor-outdoor fusion housing the restaurant and bar, is elegantly traversed before ascending to one’s quarters.
Interior design
The interiors, resplendent in neutral hues and fine linens, are complemented by indulgent bathrooms imbued with darker tones throughout Maslina. Yet, the pièce de résistance remains the panoramic balconies. The prudent upgrade to a “panoramic room” delivers a spectacle of sweeping ocean views, a sight truly worth savoring.
Having been rested in your tranquil-toned sanctuary, the early hours beckon. The serene joy of indulging in a leisurely balcony breakfast, accompanied by the gentle sea breeze, emerges as an epitome of island indulgence. Subsequently, the choices expand—time by the pool, a sojourn on the beach, or a bike excursion to Stari Grad. The suggestion would be to partake in all three, for each bestows a distinct flavor of magnificence.
Beach time at Maslina
The poolside setting is a visual masterpiece—a chiaroscuro deck, lush foliage, and the cerulean expanse of the Croatian sky—a veritable tableau of summer reverie. Yet, should seclusion beckon, the beach awaits. Croatia’s rocky shores, a hallmark of its coast, take on a charm here, offering intimate alcoves of paired beach chairs nestled along the natural contours of the coastline. A book, a glass of wine, and a kindred spirit—ingredients for an idyllic afternoon.
Notably, the resort boasts a sandy beach further down the coast for those inclined, but the allure of these rocky nooks, private and mere steps from the lapping waves, proves undeniable.
Before an evening repast, seize a chance to soak in the local ambiance. The hotel’s complimentary Coco Mat Bikes afford a delightful meander into Stari Grad for an aperitif. These wooden wonders often arouse curiosity among the locals, who might request a ride, yet rest assured, they’ll return it before you’ve sipped your wine. Stari Grad’s waterfront cafes, abuzz with a blend of visitors and townsfolk, proffer a charming setting for a glass of wine, an experience that astoundingly costs around 3 or 4 euros.
Dinner at Maslina promises culinary rapture—a fusion of local gastronomy, craft cocktails, and Croatian wines. The evening unfolds in its own rhythm, allowing you to relish every moment. And as dawn breaks anew, the canvas resets, inviting you to continue this blissful cycle as long as your heart desires.
Here are 10 of the best things to do in Hvar, one of the most beautiful destinations on the Dalmatian Coast. Known for its crystal-clear water, historic towns, lavender fields, and vibrant nightlife, Hvar offers a mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure.
1. Explore Hvar Town
Hvar Town is the island’s lively center, filled with marble streets, Venetian-style buildings, restaurants, and waterfront cafés. Spend time wandering through the old town and soaking up the atmosphere along the harbor.
2. Climb to Fortica Fortress
Also known as the Spanish Fortress, this hilltop fort overlooks Hvar Town and offers incredible panoramic views of the harbor and nearby islands. The short walk up is worth it for the sunset views.
3. Visit the Hvar Cathedral
Located in the main square, this Renaissance cathedral anchors one of the largest squares in Dalmatia, St. Stephen’s Square.
4. Take a Boat to the Pakleni Islands
Just off the coast of Hvar, this group of small islands features secluded beaches, turquoise water, and beach clubs. Many visitors rent a small boat or join a day excursion to explore them.
5. Relax at Dubovica Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Dubovica is known for its turquoise water, pebble beach, and traditional stone houses overlooking the bay.
6. Visit the Lavender Fields
Hvar is famous for its lavender, especially around the villages of Velo Grablje and Brusje. In early summer, the hillsides bloom with purple fields and fragrant air.
7. Wander the Village of Stari Grad
One of the oldest towns in Europe, Stari Grad offers quiet stone streets, charming waterfront cafés, and historic buildings dating back centuries.
8. Visit the Stari Grad Plain
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a remarkably preserved agricultural landscape established by Greek settlers over 2,000 years ago.
9. Experience Hvar’s Nightlife
Hvar Town is known for its vibrant nightlife, especially at popular waterfront spots like Carpe Diem Hvar and Hula Hula Hvar.
10. Watch Sunset by the Sea
End the day with sunset views over the Adriatic. Many visitors gather along the harbor promenade or at seaside bars to watch the sky turn shades of pink and gold over the nearby islands.
For more dreamy getaway ideas read about Santorini and Positano.
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