Hvar Yacht Harbour Hotel

Brilliantly located amid the exclusive city buzz, it is the place to enjoy mega-yacht watching from its terraces. Riva Boutique Hotel Hvar property pays respect to its original architecture, captivating you by its thrilling story and century-old charm.

Previously known as Riva, hvar yacht harbour hotel, the hotel underwent complete refurbishment in 2022. With 50 elegant and tastefully designed rooms and suites, it pays respect to its original Mediterranean style villa architecture.

All of its public spaces are re-done, including the reception, public areas as well as its restaurant and bar, which enjoys a completely new F&B concept. The hotel also embraces a new name: Riva Marina, hvar hotel, emphasizing its prime location. This architectural jewel is your perfect choice for your most awaited European getaway.

RIVA MARINA SUITE TERRACE SEA VIEW
Perfectly designed for pure comfort, this suite delivers all the luxuries needed for a perfect vacation. The suite also features a private terrace for lounging. Sleeps up to four, in twin bed. Further comforts include free high-speed Wi-Fi, state of the art bathroom with shower and bathtub.

DELUXE TWO BEDROOM SUITE
Discover the distinguishing features and design of the Deluxe Two Bedroom suite. Fully equipped for your utmost comfort and relaxation. Sleeps up to four, in double bed and twin bed. Further comforts include free high-speed Wi-Fi, state of the art bathroom with shower and bathtub.

CORNER SUITE BALCONY SEA VIEW
Unwind in our elegant and spacious Corner Suite featuring a private balcony. Enjoy splendid sea views of the marina and yachts docked below. Sleeps up to four, in twin bed, plus sofa or sofa bed. Further comforts include free high-speed Wi-Fi, state of the art bathroom with shower and bathtub.

GRAND TERRACE SUITE
Indulge in the splendidly luminous and ample Grand Terrace Suite. The suite unfolds in beautifully furnished spaces with a spacious terrace to enjoy laid back evenings. Sleeps up to three, in double bed, plus sofa or sofa bed. Further comforts include free high-speed Wi-Fi, state of the art bathroom with shower and bathtub.

MARINA ROOM SEA VIEW
Cozy, intimate rooms with either twin or double bed. All rooms have ample windows with stunning sea views of the Adriatic Sea and marina. Further comforts include free high-speed Wi-Fi, state of the art bathroom with shower, inter-connecting rooms.

BB SOCIAL BAR & KITCHEN
BB’s lavish terrace is the perfect place to enjoy Mediterranean delicacies with an emphasis on local ingredients. Dubbed as one of the top places to sample artisanal cocktails and tasteful bites, it is also the place to see-and-be-seen. From a la carte breakfast to all day-dining, please your senses with perfectly executed dishes!

COOK & TASTE FROM GARDEN TO TABLE
Pick your very own vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices from an organic, ecological garden! With chef Mario, you will prepare and cook Dalmatian delicacies from appetizers to main courses such as “Hvarska gregada or brudet”.

In addition you will make delicious homemade desserts. These cooking classes take place in a secluded olive grove and incorporate local food, domestic recipes, the best wines, olive oil and homemade drinks.

CHEF’S TABLE
We are located conveniently in the centre of Hvar town, in one of its cobble stone streets. Our menus are seasonal and focused on local produce sourced from our fishermen, family-run farms and finest winemakers. Our focus is on the pure Mediterranean dining – the menu has been fully created by the head chef Hrvoje Tomicic.

CAVE WINE TASTING
Wine lovers are encouraged to taste the local red wine “Plavac Mali”, sold directly from the Cliffbase wine cellar. The cellar itself is an intimate experience.

Built over a span of five years, it is located inside an old limestone chasm next to the sea. A marvelous entrance leads you down a few winding stairs and into a beautiful tasting room! You will be hard pressed to find a more exotic location to enjoy a local, organic wine.

DISCOVER HVAR
Hvar is one of the most beautiful islands of the Mediterranean, its hillsides are covered in pine forests, vineyards, olive groves, fruit orchards and lavender fields. The island climate is characterized by mild winters and warm summers with 2718 hours of sunshine so it is no wonder that the island is known as the sunniest island in Croatia.

Hvar is situated at the center of the Adriatic sailing routes, which made this island an important base for commanding trade on the Adriatic.

The deep and tame bays of the island have enabled docking and communication already in the prehistoric times, originally inhabited by Neolithic people whose distinctive pottery gave rise to the term Hvar culture, and later by the Illyrians. In medieval times, Hvar (city) rose to importance within the Venetian Empire as a major naval base.

Prosperity brought culture and the arts, with one of the first public theatres in Europe, nobles’ palaces and many fine communal buildings. After a brief time under Napoleonic rule, the island became part of the Austrian Empire, a more peaceful and prosperous time.

In 2018 Hvar celebrated 150 years of organized tourism, with a focus on the natural and historical heritage that played a crucial role for the island’s development since 1868, when the Hygienic Society was founded.

This was what encouraged further development of the tourism branch, turning Hvar into a world-famous tourist destination that it is today. Hvar is the only island with 6 UNESCO Heritages:

• STARI GRAD PLAIN: Also known as Ager. This unique plain remains almost untouched as it was 384 BC when the area was colonized by the Ancient Greeks. The landscape features ancient stone walls and trims, as well as small stone shelters bearing testimony to the ancient geometrical system of land division, which has remained intact over 24 centuries.
• PROCESSION ZA KRIŽEN: This unique tradition “Following the Cross” holds a deep spiritual connection with the island’s population, dating back to the 16th century. It takes place through the night on Maundy Thursday, passing through Jelsa, Pitve, Vrisnik, Svirče, Vrbanj and Vrboska. Each of the six groups start at their church and follow the course in a clockwise direction, meaning that the groups never meet. The group is led by one cross-bearer, while other members are dressed in white tunics.
• BENEDICTINE NUN’S ALOE LACE: Aloe lace is made in Croatia only by Benedictine nuns in the town of Hvar. Thin, white threads are obtained from the core of fresh aloe leaves and woven into a net or other pattern on a cardboard background. The resulting pieces are a symbol of Hvar.
• MEDITERRANEAN DIET: The tradition of a healthy lifestyle and gastronomy on island Hvar can be dated back centuries. This is not a surprise due to all the fresh fish, seafood, home grown fruit and vegetables as well as wine made from sun kissed grapes, which all play a very large role in the Dalmatian diet.
• KLAPA SINGING: This multipart singing is an expression of the cultural identity of Dalmatia as a whole, therefore including the island of Hvar. The leader of each singing group is the first tenor, followed by several tenori, baritoni and basi voices. During performances, the singers stand in a tight semicircle.
• STONE WALLING: The art of dry-stone walling is something that is commonly used to separate land plots. Stone walling means the assembly of stones on top of each other without the use of any connection material, except sometimes soil. Locals call it “suhozid”.

CITY LANDMARKS

• ST. STEPHEN’S CATHEDRAL – CITY HVAR: The square of St. Stephen locally known as the Pjaca is the largest main square in Dalmatia. It is bordered on the east side by the cathedral and bishop’s palace, on the west by Mandrač (a small port for boats) and to the northwest by the Leroj (clocktower) and the Loggia, which today form part of Hotel Palace Elisabeth. The cathedral was completed in the 18th century, when it acquired its present appearance. The cathedral has many valuable works of art, altar paintings and altars in different colored marbles.
• ARSENAL THEATRE – CITY HVAR: The Arsenal Theatre is one of the oldest public theatres in Europe and belongs to the highest category of protected monuments. The building dates from the 13th century but was completely renovated and completed in 1612 when it took its present form. Today, it is one of the most imposing structures in the town. The theater is located on the first floor of the Arsenal which celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2012. It owes its existence to the then Prince of Hvar Pietro Semitecolo who was inspired by Italian theatre. Priorly, it was used as a maintenance and storage building by the Venetian navy, which overwintered in Hvar harbor.
• SPANISH FORTRESS – CITY HVAR: Towering way above the city of Hvar is the famous Spanish Fortress (Španjola), built in the early 16th century during the Venetian rule. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hvar, offering spectacular views of the town and the archipelago below. The fortress can easily be accessed by car or by foot directly from the city center.
• FRANCISCAN MONASTERY – CITY HVAR: Walking along the promenade, past the Riva, yacht harbour hotel and the catamaran dock, the Franciscan Monastery comes into view. Built in 1465, it was jointly financed by the nobles of Hvar and sea commanders as a testament to the gratitude for many lives saved at sea. The local contribution included 1000 gold coins from Antun Lučić and his son Hanibal Lučić the famous poet which is buried under the main altar. Worth to visit also for the “Last Supper” painting by Palma the Younger which was given by the church during the Venetian rule.
• HEKTOROVIĆ CASTLE – CITY STARI GRAD: The poet Petar Hektorović and his age are brought back to life in the Hektorović Castle, located in Stari Grad. In fact, it is a fortified Renaissance villa, with some characteristics of a monastery. The character of the man who created is reflected in its romantic park and fishpond and the stone inscriptions in which he explained certain aspects of his building venture and religious contemplations.
• STARI GRAD PLAIN (HORA/AGER PHARIENSIS): The most unusual testimony to the past which you will see in Stari Grad, leading towards the towns of Vrboska and Jelsa is the Stari Grad Plain. It was first colonized by the Greeks in the 4th century BC and remains practically intact since then. It was one of the first forms of parcelization and it is enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The landscape features ancient stone walls and trims, as well as small stone shelters bearing testimony to the ancient geometrical system of land division.
• THE FORTRESS CHURCH – CITY VRBOSKA: The church of St. Mary, which stands like a tall stone ship above the town, dominates Vrboska. Originally, it was quite small, but after two great Turkish invasions when Hvar, Stari Grad and Vrboska were destroyed it was transformed into a strong fortress. It is worth climbing up the roof, where you can see how fortifications were organized. There is also a wonderful view of the town and the bay.
• ST. LAWRENCE CHURCH – CITY VRBOSKA: Some of the most valuable works of art, such as those by Paolo Veronese from the 16th century is kept in the St. Lawrence parish church. Many used to be stored in St. Mary’s (The Fortress Church) but were moved due to due to high relative humidity of the air in its interior, which does not provide appropriate conditions for keeping art.
• ST. JOHN CHURCH – CITY JELSA: In the southwest extension of the modest square in Jelsa you can find a hidden gem. The Renaissance-Baroque square is worthy of admiration, but the octagonal Church of St. John is particularly notable, with its different stylistic features from the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque periods.

PLACES TO SEE

• PAKLINSKI ISLANDS: This is one of world’s most beautiful island chains composed of 21 islands, islets, reefs and narrow passages. Today, many resort to visiting the archipelago to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Spend a day away from the crowded beaches, enjoy the sun in the serenity of hidden coves, swim in a clear-blue sea and relax in the untouched nature. It is easy to see why this lovely necklace of little islands that surrounds the city of Hvar is so special.
• HUMAC: This little “stone” settlement is unique to Hvar island. It is located 350 m above sea level, 10 km from the city of Jelsa. It was originally a shepherd’s dwelling and over the ages was used as a temporary seasonal dwelling by the people of Vrisnik for agricultural work. Today it is an etno village with tourist attractions.
• SVETA NEDJELJA: A charming old village, high above the sea, consisting of stone houses carved into the steep hillside, nestled together for better protection from dangers from the sea and making the best use of every inch of land for vines which produce excellent fruit and later wine.

UNIQUE MANIFESTATIONS

• FOLLOWING THE CROSS PROCESSION (Maundy Thursday): For more than 400 years, parishioners from the central part of the island have participated in the procession called Za Križen (Following the Cross). Beginning on Maundy Thursday, the mass is simultaneously held in the six parishes of Jelsa, Pitve, Vrisnik, Svirče, Vrbanj and Vrboska. The procession begins, following a 25-kilometre course into the early morning hours of Good Friday. Because each of the six groups starts from their respective churches and follow the course in a clockwise direction, the groups never meet. Each group is led by a chosen cross-bearer who walks the course either barefoot or in socks. Other official members of the procession are dressed in white tunics. Different Easter processions are also held in other places on island Hvar. One of the more interesting examples is the procession held on the afternoon of Good Friday in the town of Hvar, called ‘Through God’s Graves’.
• HVAR WINE FESTIVAL (End of August): The famous Wine Festival takes place each year in the town of Jelsa in August. It is a weekend long festival where you have an opportunity to taste unique and autochthonous wines from different wine producers on Hvar island. Visitors will be able to sample numerous wines, while also experiencing authentic Hvar food and entertainment.
• LAVANDER FESTIVAL (End of June): The variety of lavender products is best seen at the Lavender Festival in Velo Grablje on the last weekend in June. The story of Hvar lavender started in the beautiful little village of Velo Grablje near the town of Hvar, in which its rural architecture creates a specific atmosphere. Traditionally, every year at the end of June, the lavender festival takes place in that village. During the event a variety of different lavender products are available for purchase as well as presentations about traditional lavender distillation, local cuisine, exhibitions, workshops, concerts and many other events.

THE BEACHES

• BEACH CLUB HVAR: Previously known as Bonj ‘les bains’, the synonym for luxury, lavishness and style, the beach club was re-branded in 2020 and received a complete makeover. Now better known as Beach Club Hvar, it has grown into unprecedented leader in this industry established in 1927.
• PALMIŽANA: Located on the Paklinski Islands just across the bay, this beach is rich in flora and features a beautiful swimming area. The island has a shop, restaurants and popular bars. The main reason many like to come here is the opportunity to relax from the busy island of Hvar.
• AMFORA BEACH: Located just a short stroll from the city center along the promenade is Amfora beach, which is situated directly below hotel Amfora. Amenities at Amfora include the chic Splash bar & restaurant as well as facilities such as showers as well as paddleboat, kayak, sunbed and parasol rentals.
• MLINI: Mlini beach is located in a beautiful cove just off the coast from the city of Hvar, on the archipelago best known as the Paklinski islands. It is the perfect choice for those wanting to unwind and relax away from the busy center of Hvar. Easily reachable during high season as boats depart frequently from the city dock.
• DUBOVICA: Dubovica beach is one of the most picturesque bays on the south side of the island, just 8 km from the city of Hvar. The beach is instantly recognizable because of the old stone house that sits right by the sea. Spacious and ample in size, it is perfect for a whole day of sunbathing and swimming.
• GREBIŠĆE: While many of Hvar’s beaches involve perching on a rock before stepping gingerly out onto a stony seabed, the silkily sandy Grebišće is a perfect for smooth paddling around. Located 4 km east of Jelsa just off the Sućuraj road, the beach is reached by walking through the Grebišće campsite. The beach itself is very narrow and contains very little shade, but the bay is both very shallow and sandy. Drinks and basic snacks are available at the beach bar, nestling beneath trees on the headland to the east.
• CAMP VIRA BEACH: Beautiful pebble beach that is suitable for small children and non-swimmers. One of the great benefits of this beach is its position protecting it against all winds and waves, which makes it particularly suitable for pleasant swimming and sunbathing.
• ZARAĆE BEACH: Located in village Zaraće on the south side of the island, this beautiful beach provides natural protection from both the wind and the waves. The pebble beach is surrounded by turquoise sea and untouched nature. Perfect for quiet afternoons and relaxing.
• MILNA BEACH: Located in village Milna, this picturesque beach is recognized as being very child friendly. The cove is surrounded by a fragrant pine forest, perfect for laying in the shade when the sun gets too hot. The area is also perfect for exploring as you can find other secluded bays just a short walk away.
• ZAVALA: Zavala is an ideal destination for those who want to escape from city crowds and to sincerely relax surrounded by the hypnotic scents of lavender and rosemary, picturesque olive trees and vineyards, clear sea with magical undersea life.
• LUČIŠĆA: The beautiful bay called Lučišća is situated not far from the picturesque Sveta Nedjelja, on the south side of the island. Many say it is one of the most heavenly beaches on the island, with emerald, crystal clear waters and pebble stones. For those wanting to relax in the shade, a thick pine forest does the trick, whilst you enjoy the song of crickets during long and warm summer days.
• MLASKA: Located to the north of Hvar, not far from the town of Sućuraj. This sandy beach has shallow waters even 10 meters away from the coast. Thick Mediterranean vegetation above the beach provides shade. Mlaska is home to a famous auto camp of the same name.

TOTAL BEACH BODY
Stay on track while holidaying with our specialized program tailored according to your training needs. Our programs are fully adjustable in order for you to achieve the best results and to feel fit during your summer vacation. Activate your entire body so you can make leaps in your fitness and overall well-being and lifestyle!

The focus is on core muscles and natural body movements. Equipment-free exercises like planks, lunges, hip thrusts, push-ups and supermans can be done in the comfort of your hotel room, outdoors or at the gym. Exercise while in paradise!

HVAR ISLAND TOUR
A perfect opportunity to see the Island with its interesting landscape and numerous villages. We will take you on a scenic drive along the panoramic old road, which connects Stari Grad and Hvar to Velo Grablje.

HALF DAY OFFROAD TOUR
Like the Island of Hvar, our Hvar Offroad Tour is truly one of a kind. We begin with a short drive along a dirt road to Malo Grablje, an ancient village founded in the 16th Century and abandoned many decades ago. We will take a stroll through this picturesque village, allowing you the opportunity to take photographs while your guide discusses the village’s rich history.

HVAR HIKING TOUR
The island of Hvar is a paradise for walkers and nature lovers. Hike along the old shepherd’s paths and lonely tracks, experience wonderful views, unspoilt nature overflowing with the intense colours, and fragrances of lavender, sage and rosemary.

SKYDIVING ON ISLAND HVAR
Tandem skydiving doesn’t require any foreknowledge, just the decision to experience the amazing Hvar island from a bird’s perspective and you are ready to go. You will be assigned to your own tandem instructor who will guide you throughout the entire activity.

You will go through the preparation, positioning of your body in free fall and a short instruction regarding the landing. Don’t worry, the instructor will do everything for you, the only thing you have to do is to open your mind and get ready for a once in a lifetime experience.

WIND SURFING
Bota Advanced Windsurf courses are suitable for everybody aged 7 to 70. The only condition is that you are a swimmer! Discover the sunniest windsurf spot on the sunniest Island of the Adriatic coast! The windsurf center lies on the north side of the sunny island Hvar, in a charming town called Vrboska- the little Venice of Croatia!

SEA KAYAKING
Combine the historic town of Hvar with the emerald jewels of the Pakleni Islands. Explore the myriad of the Pakleni Islands, a divine collections in front of Hvar, whose pine trees provide shade to numerous idyllic coves. There is time to swim, snorkel, chill, get a coffee or refreshing drink at beach bar. Kayak slowly back to Hvar in the early afternoon.

FULL DAY SAILING TOUR
Our specially-designed Pakleni Islands Sailing Tour is one of the most popular we offer, affording you a glorious introduction to the emerald jewels of the Pakleni Islands without having to take a whole day. Sitting opposite the town discover the best bays, and don’t forget to look back and see majestic Hvar disappear into the distance from your boat.

SUNSET SAILING
Our specially-designed Pakleni Islands Sailing Tour is one of the most popular we offer, affording you a glorious introduction to the emerald jewels of the Pakleni Islands without having to take a whole day. Sitting opposite the town discover the best bays, and don’t forget to look back and see majestic Hvar disappear into the distance from your boat.

EXPLORING THE GREEN AND BLUE CAVES
This unique day on the sea starts with the majestic Green and Blue caves and includes Vis and the Pakleni islands! We’ll begin by cruising between Hvar and the islets of Ravnik and Biševo.

First we will visit the Green Cave where we will get a chance to swim inside and enjoy the emerald light show!. Then we’ll discover a picturesque hidden inlet called Stiniva, where you can enjoy a delicious swim or just relax and sun bathe.

After Stiniva, it’s off to experience the world-renowned Blue Cave, whose ethereal silvery blue color is created by the sun as it bathes the inside of the cave through an opening in the roof and is reflected back by the sandy surface below. Widely regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful natural phenomena, this cave is a must see.

Website: www.suncanihvar.com

Rooms: 7

Price: from 401 EUR per night