Palace Elisabeth stands on St Stephen's Square in Hvar town, above the harbour. The building dates back to the 13th century and was reshaped in 1899 with the support of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, whose name it keeps, and it was the island's first five-star hotel. Venetian and Austrian details survive in the architecture, and the interiors are classic with a contemporary touch. There are 45 rooms and suites, many with views over the marina and the main square. San Marco, the restaurant, serves Mediterranean cooking with views of the Adriatic, and a glass of local Plavac Mali suits it well. The spa takes its lead from Sisi's devotion to health and beauty, with natural skincare, a sauna, a Turkish bath and an indoor pool, and there is a pool with views over the town and a gym. The hotel can arrange a private yacht, for up to eight guests, for transfers and day charters, and Split is about 40 kilometres away across the water.
- Nearest airport
- Split (SPU), 26 Miles / 41 Kilometres
- Rooms
- 45 rooms and suites
Insider tip Arrange the hotel's private yacht for the crossing from Split: it avoids the ferry timetable and can be kept on for a day charter.
Why I choose it It puts you in the heart of Hvar's old town in a building with real history, with the harbour and the square at the door.