I had arrived on the Dalmatian coast and I had to head over to one of the main attractions, the island of Hvar. I opted for the cheaper and slower (two hour) car ferry for 6 euro to the opposite side of the island and then took a 15 minute bus to the city of Hvar. This little port city was once of great strategic importance with its protected harbor and guardian castle perched above. Now its smooth stone streets and filled with cafés and restaurants and gift shops and boat tour operators and of course, tourists. The bottle green water was very clear and it was difficult to resist. But I did. Hvar is not known for its beaches, just its rugged shorelines and plentiful natural beauty. I hiked up the hill to the castle, paid the equivalent of $3 USD, and saw the same as most castles: thick stone walls and a really good view. It had a small dungeon that was interesting at least. Being an inmate in a castle prison would not have been a good thing.
Even with sun block and my hat, I had gotten more than enough sun for the day. I headed back on the ferry and for the first time in nine months I had the traditional backpacker meal; pasta with a jar of pre-made sauce. I threw in some tasty olives and it was great (and cheap).
