A Month of Marathons
What is there to do in August on Hvar? Beaches, nightlife, gastronomy, these are the obvious choices, but it is also an active month.
With all the sunshine and the pristine Adriatic, sometimes is easy to forget about Hvar's diverse sporting offer. It is an island which offers excellent kayaking, sailing, rock climbing, cycling and hiking, for example, as well as hosting two rather different marathons in August.
The Hvar Half-Marathon has been described by several of its participants as the most beautiful half marathon in the world, and it would be hard to disagree. It takes place in the early evening from Stari Grad along the old road to the finishing line on the main square in Hvar Town, a race through the lavender fields, olive groves and vineyards of Hvar, where runners are rewarded with spectacular views of the Adriatic to the north and south as they race.
By contrast, the last Saturday in August is traditionally the date of the Faros Marathon, now in its 38th year, and one of the most challenging swimming races in the world today.
A world class and truly international field, which has included Olympic Gold Medal winners in the past, gathers in the old town of Stari Grad for a punishing 16 km race from the town to the tip of Kabal Peninsula and back, a race that takes a little over three hours for the winner. It is an event laced with tradition, and a fine time to visit Stari Grad.
Too much effort for you? There is a reason why lazing on the beaches of Hvar is one of the most popular activities...
*Author - Paul Bradbury
*Photo Credit - Igor Drača for Faros Marathon
