Hvar part V - Hvar city

Just when I began to get in a holiday mood and finally managed to turn off all of my to-do lists that would await me at home, the vacation was coming to an end. Still, there was still one major thing to see: Hvar city. 
After a one hour drive to the western part of the island, we started our city tour at the cathedral of St. Stephen, which is located on the main square. 

After that, we'd stroll through the city...

... to the marina...

... from where one can see the magnificent Spanish Fort that resides above the city. 

Before we'd get there, however, we had a peek into the Benedictine convent to get to know the art of making lace of agave threads. Who'd have ever thought anything like that would be possible!

Back in the city center, we walked the seaside promenade and continued our tour to the Franciscan monastery.

The convent, that is located literally next to the sea, displays not only a beautiful entrance and inner courtyard...

... but also a collection of religious art...

... and a stunning garden with a 500-year-old cypress tree.  

More to admire: the church of Our Lady of Mercy - quiet, richly decorated and full of fresh flowers.

Back into the "real" world. With some time off and a time set for the bus transfer to the fortress, one could of course just find a place at the beach.

Other option: trade the bus transfer for a walk uphill and take the free time to explore the city.
Lots of blooms and greenery everywhere...

...all sorts of murals...

... and more of old narrow streets.

And after a little break, it was time to hit the stairs that lead to the main road...

... and further through the Mediterranean herb garden which displays a number of native flowers and trees. The trail that leads towards the fortress is well taken care of and offers a great combination of shadow and sun that makes the hike pleasant even in May heat.

Here and there, it even enables the view of the city and the sea underneath.

Of course, the view from atop the hill is the best: Pakleni islands just off the shore of Hvar.

Inside the Spanish fortress itself, there are numerous viewpoints to discover. Rooms and hallways offer information on the fort, too. However, there doesn't seem to be an opportunity to get to know the building in an organised way or have any activities here other than a cafe and a small souvenir shop. 

Back home, it was time for another seaside hike...

... and some new discoveries at the beach...

... as well as a closer look at the roks itself ...

... and then, finally, one last sunset before the packing would inevitably mean the end of a wonderful getaway.

~ to be continued ~