Private Hvar Island Tour and Olive Oil Tasting

Experience the Hidden Charm of Hvar on a Private Island Tour with Olive Oil Tasting

This new way to experience Hvar offers a glimpse beyond the bustling port and famous beaches, taking you inland to see local villages, fragrant lavender fields, and some of the finest olive oils the island has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises a more authentic, intimate look at Hvar’s landscape and local traditions.

What we love about this experience are the personal touches — your guide’s knowledge and friendliness shine through — and the chance to taste some of the best extra virgin olive oils in Croatia. It’s a refreshing break from the beaches and busy streets, giving you space to breathe in the island’s scents and sights at a relaxed pace.

The one thing to keep in mind is that this tour is relatively short — just about three hours — so it’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of inland life without a full-day commitment. It’s perfect for those who value authentic experiences, scenic views, and a good dose of local flavor.

This tour is ideal for travelers craving a personalized adventure that reveals a different side of Hvar — especially those interested in food, agriculture, and scenic vistas. If you’re looking to connect more deeply with local customs and enjoy some quiet countryside, this is a good fit.

Key Points

Inland Perspective: Offers a fresh view of Hvar’s landscape beyond the usual coastal attractions.

Olive Oil Tasting: Includes sampling of single and multi-blend extra virgin olive oils, with insights into how they’re made.

Beautiful Scenery: Passes lavender fields, old villages, and offers views of neighboring islands like Bra and Korula.

Expert Guide: Knowledgeable and personable guides make the experience engaging and informative.

Convenient Transport: Round-trip vehicle pickup and drop-off make logistics simple and comfortable.

Authentic Experience: Focuses on local traditions and rural life, providing a well-rounded taste of the island’s heritage.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at the Hvar Point Tourist Agency, a central spot that’s easy to reach whether you arrive by foot, taxi, or other means. The initial meeting involves a friendly driver-guide who will start your inland journey. From the outset, the emphasis is on making the experience personal — you’re not just a number in a large group, but part of a private adventure.

Scenic Drive and Village Exploration

The drive takes you beyond the main town, winding through winding country roads and past some of the island’s most captivating landscapes. Expect to see lavender fields, which fill the air with a sweet aroma that’s especially potent during flowering season. These fields are not only beautiful but also aromatic and photo-worthy, making for some memorable snapshots.

You’ll visit Svire, home to one of the island’s top olive oil producers. Here, you’ll get to see the olive groves, learn about traditional and modern extraction methods, and taste fresh, high-quality olive oils. Reviewers praise the guide’s detailed explanations and genuine enthusiasm — “the olive oil tasting was very interesting,” says one traveler — helping you appreciate the effort and craftsmanship behind each bottle.

The Olives and the Greek Heritage

The drive continues through the Ager Plain, a UNESCO-protected site filled with ancient Greek ruins and cultivated fields. This area is particularly notable for being the best-preserved Greek cadastre in the Mediterranean, giving you a sense of historical continuity and land use that dates back millennia. Walking through this area, you might find yourself imagining ancient farmers tending their crops just as they did centuries ago.

The Village of Malo Grablje

As the tour wraps up, you’ll stroll through Malo Grablje, an abandoned village from the 16th century. Despite its ghost-town status, it retains a haunting beauty that offers a window into past life on Hvar. The quiet stone streets and ruins evoke a sense of history and nostalgia, and many reviewers say this stop is one of the highlights — “we saw interesting sights around the island and felt relaxed and at ease,” notes one.

Final Impressions and Value

Throughout the tour, the balance of scenic views, local culture, and tasting opportunities creates a well-rounded experience. For just around $168 per person, including round-trip transport, olive oil tasting, and a private guide, the value is quite good. You won’t get a comprehensive history lesson, but you’ll gain a genuine understanding of Hvar’s rural side and contribute to supporting local producers.

What We Think About the Details

Transportation and Timing

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort even on hot days, while the flexible pickup and drop-off make it easy to integrate this tour into your broader Hvar itinerary. The three-hour duration is perfect for a relaxed afternoon, especially if you’re already exploring the island or need a break from the crowds. The tour operates daily during the high season (April through October), with departure times between 9:00 AM and 6:30 PM, giving you plenty of options.

Group Size and Personal Attention

As a private tour, your group will be small, which means more personalized attention and flexibility. Multiple reviews comment on the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more engaging and fun. If you’re traveling as a couple or a small family, this setup is ideal.

Price and Value

At $167.85 per person, this tour offers good value considering the personalized service, scenic transport, and tastings included. It’s a worthwhile investment if you’re interested in local food culture, scenic drives, and authentic experiences.

Review Highlights

Several reviews mention the guide’s expertise and personable nature — “Tea is knowledgeable and personable,” says one reviewer. Others highlight the stunning views and the delicious olive oils, with one traveler noting, “the olive oil tasting was a high point.” A few found it a bit brief or wished for more historical detail, but most agree that it’s an enriching, enjoyable outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re seeking a relaxing, scenic, and authentic taste of inland Hvar, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for food lovers, history buffs interested in Greek heritage, and anyone wanting a quieter, more reflective side of the island. Those new to Croatia or Hvar will love the accessible, private experience — a nice change from crowded group excursions. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and local craftsmanship.

However, if you’re after a comprehensive historical tour or a full day of sightseeing, this three-hour experience might not satisfy that appetite. It’s best viewed as a complementary activity rather than a comprehensive island overview.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a relaxed pace suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers. The tour is private, so it can be adjusted as needed.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers round-trip transport, a knowledgeable driver-guide, bottled water, and olive oil tastings. It’s a private tour with only your group.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately three hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable afternoon activity.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is popular and typically booked about 67 days in advance. Confirmations are received within 48 hours of booking.

Are there any additional costs?
All main features are included in the price; there are no mention of extra charges for stops or tastings.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private experience, there’s some flexibility to adjust stops or timing, but it’s best to coordinate directly with the provider.

Final Thoughts

This private Hvar Island tour with olive oil tasting offers a charming and authentic side of the island that many travelers overlook. By visiting inland villages, fragrant lavender fields, and a top local olive oil producer, you’ll experience a quieter, more traditional Hvar — perfect for curious travelers who want to learn and taste their way through the landscape.

The knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and personalized approach make it a compelling choice for a half-day adventure. It’s especially suitable if you’re interested in food, local crafts, and history, and appreciate a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities.

While it may not replace a full historical exploration or a day at the beaches, it fills an important niche for those seeking genuine local flavor and scenic beauty. Overall, it offers excellent value and a memorable, behind-the-scenes glimpse of Hvar’s countryside.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this tour can deepen your appreciation of Hvar’s land, its traditions, and its flavors — all served up with a friendly smile and a good dose of Croatian hospitality.