Hvar has the most sun and throws the best parties in the Adriatic

Hvar is the most popular of the Croatian islands for good reason.

Blessed with 2,715 hours of sunshine per year, Hvar is the sunniest and lushest island in the Adriatic. Its mountains are blanketed with lavender and pines, its towns dotted with monasteries, churches and palaces, while its coastline offers up naturist beaches and delectable seafood in its waterfront restaurants.

Hvar's bars and nightclubs do justice to its reputation as Croatia's party island.

The capital, Hvar Town, is arguably Croatia's most beautifully-preserved medieval town. Its pedestrianized alleyways and fashionable waterfront area are a constant buzz of restaurants, cafes and bars. Fishing boats bob in its harbour, while ferries and catamarans come and go.

Most travellers base themselves in Hvar Town. From here it is a short water taxi ride to one of the 11 nearby Pakleni islands, where beach bumming in the forested coves and lounging in eateries is the order of the day. You can even frolick in your birthday suit on naturist Jerolim Island.

Buses head north from Hvar Town to the resort of Stari Grad and the seaside villages of Vroboska and Jelsa where you'll find a more laid-back vibe as well as some fine snorkelling.