Hvar's Hidden Trails
For families looking to explore beyond the beaches, these walking paths offer opportunities to discover Hvar's inland beauty and coastal charms at your own pace. Here's what to expect on each path, with practical considerations for walking with children.
Family Walking Tips:
Start early in the morning during summer to avoid midday heat
Pack more water than you think you'll need, especially for unshaded routes
Local treats work wonders for motivating reluctant walkers
Turn nature walks into simple scavenger hunts to keep younger explorers engaged
Consider child carriers for toddlers, as terrain can be uneven on some paths
Wear hats and apply sunscreen generously before forest walks too—dappled sunlight can still burn
Dol – Likorova kuća - Purkin kuk
This enchanting path winds through a shaded Aleppo pine forest, providing natural protection from the summer sun—perfect for midday adventures even in warmer months. The forest atmosphere offers a sensory experience for children, with pine scents and the satisfying crunch of needles underfoot. The path leads to Purkin kuk, an imposing dry-stone wall at least 43 m long and about 5-6 m high. This makes it the largest prehistoric dry-stone wall on the entire island. Your family's efforts will be rewarded with remarkable views over the Ager – the UNESCO protected Stari Grad field and nearby islands and mainland mountains. The consistent shade makes this an excellent option for families with younger children or when you need a break from beach activities.
"Indijanac" Path: Vrisnik – Jelin kuk - Vrisnik
A local favorite, this mostly shaded circular route takes you to Jelin kuk, a fascinating rock formation resembling an Indian profile that sparks children's imagination. The path through Vrisnik introduces families to authentic island life, away from tourist centers. The shade provided by the surrounding vegetation makes this walk comfortable even during warmer hours. Consider bringing a small picnic to enjoy while examining the unique rock formation and playing "can you see it?" with younger explorers.
Jelsa – Tor - Galešnik
A shorter walking path that offers spectacular views but comes with an important caveat: almost no shade makes this walk challenging during July and August. Best enjoyed in early morning or late afternoon if attempting during summer months, or saved for spring and fall visits when temperatures are milder. The historical remains along the way provide natural conversation starters about the island's rich past, turning the walk into an impromptu history lesson.
Jelsa – Red Lighthouse – Mina Beach
This seaside path provides a pleasant alternative to the asphalt road when heading to Mina Beach. Following the coastline, this walk allows for spontaneous swimming stops at several points along the way—perfect for breaking up the journey when children's energy starts to flag. Pack towels and water shoes for the walk, as the impromptu swimming opportunities are often too tempting to pass up. The distinctive red lighthouse serves as both landmark and destination, providing a clear goal for younger walkers.
Jelsa to Vrboska Coastal Road
This easy path connecting two charming towns follows the coastline and works equally well for walking or biking. While cars are permitted, traffic remains minimal, making it family-friendly. The relatively flat terrain accommodates strollers and younger walkers, with the sea constantly in view providing both scenery and the promise of a cooling dip. Consider walking one way and arranging a taxi return if younger legs might tire, or bring bicycles for a mixed-mode adventure.