Zavala, Hvar

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On the southern coast of the island facing the open sea is a small fishing village Zavala. It is located on the local road that goes from Jelsa. If you come from Stari Grad (as we did) in Jelsa you turn right onto a narrow curvy road via Pitve and then through a narrow and dark tunnel (1400 m long). The tunnel is regulated with traffic light because it's so narrow that two cars can't pass each other.

Zavala is a picturesque and tranquil village on a slope by the sea embraced by the scents of lavender and rosemary, and surrounded by olive trees and vineyards. The village is famous for its excellent white wine bogdanuša. The village has a harbour with a jetty, a few beach bars, small restaurants and a shop. Worth having a look is the summer residence of the family Duboković-Nadalini (from about 1830) with the chapel of St. George.

Below the village are some most beautiful pebble beaches and several small coves with crystal clear water where you can enjoy in tranquility, away from the crowds. The most attractive beach is at Petraščica (with a cave). Spending a day on a little island of Scedro is also nice. In Zavala you can stay in private accommodation (villas and apartments). Many of them are beautifully situated above the beach. If you enjoy untouched nature and peace you'll love it here.

Head to the south side of the island by following the signs to Zavala. You have to go through a long, one car width, very dark tunnel and then down some steep switch backs to get to this beach - but it's worth it for the peace and tranquility/ Have lunch at Skalinada - or even rent a room from them.