As October unfolds on Hvar island, the landscape transforms into a canvas of deep greens and golds, ushering in the season of the olive harvest.
The golden days of summer slowly make way for the quieter yet no less enchanting autumn. The island's warm breeze cools ever so slightly, carrying the scent of ripe olives, mingled with the earthy aroma of Hvar’s ancient groves.
This time of year is special on Hvar, not just for the harvest, but also the stories etched into the soil and woven into the fabric of the island's history. This is the month when the land itself seems to exhale, preparing for the sacred ritual that has united generations.
A legacy of ancient roots
For centuries, olive trees have been the silent witnesses to Hvar's unfolding narrative. One of the most remarkable is the ancient olive tree in the village of Zastražišće. Owned by the Beroš/Matunov family and estimated to be over 2000 years old, it stands as a living monument, embodying the resilience and deep-rooted connection between the islanders and their land.
As you stand beneath its sprawling branches, the whispers of the past come alive, reminding you that this island’s history is entwined with the olive tree’s legacy of endurance, patience and abundance. With its quiet majesty, the tree is more than an attraction; it is a piece of Hvar’s soul.
The rise of olive growing on Hvar
The story of olive growing on Hvar is as rich and layered as the oil it produces. It experienced an economic boom in the early 19th century, but it was in 1990 that a true resurgence began, continuing to this day.
Olive cultivation here remains deeply traditional, with the most widespread varietal being the oblica. This resilient olive variety thrives in Hvar’s dry rocky soil, producing a slightly spicy oil with a balanced bitterness and sweetness. The oil is processed in both new and old oil mills, and unlike the mechanised methods used in many of the larger olive-growing countries, Hvar's approach nurtures a deep respect for the environment.
The essence of olive oil, lovingly referred to as ‘liquid gold,’ is something words can hardly capture. Each drop tells a story of the island’s unique terroir, enriched by traditional and modern flavours. Only through tasting it can you fully appreciate its harmony and depth.
Harvesting in Hvar’s most cherished locations
For those looking to unearth this centuries-old tradition firsthand, there are several areas on Hvar where olive picking is popular. The village of Zastražišće is a wonderful place to begin, where you can witness the legendary 2000-year-old olive tree. Among the peaceful groves, you’ll feel a sense of time standing still, as you help gather the olives about to be pressed into liquid gold.
Another favoured spot for olive picking is the Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fertile plain, cultivated since the ancient Greeks, is lined with centuries-old olive trees and dry stone walls that speak to the island’s agricultural heritage. Harvesting olives here adds an extra layer of meaning to the experience, where every grove tells a story of generations past.
A time of celebration
The camaraderie of the harvest is palpable, as families and friends gather to work under the autumn sun. There’s a rhythm to the process, a harmony between the hands that gather the olives and the land that nurtures them.
Traditional songs fill the air, laughter joins the rustling of the trees and the scent of ripe olives blends with the earthy aroma of the land. For the people of Hvar, olive picking is more than just an agricultural task – it is a time-honoured ritual and celebration.
After the olives have been harvested, they are taken to be pressed into oil – an art form in itself. This freshly pressed olive oil is nothing short of divine. Olive oil tasting is also a beloved tradition, where locals gather to sample the first oil of the season, drizzled over warm bread, fresh tomatoes and local cheeses.
Many villages host small gatherings and festivities, where food and wine flow as freely as the conversation. Visitors are welcomed not just to witness the harvest, but to feel it – to taste, touch and connect with the island at every level.
A taste of island life
To fully immerse yourself in this timeless tradition, Villas Hvar offers the Taste of Life experience. This isn’t just a tour, but a journey into the heart of the island’s soul. The Stari Grad Plain plays a key role in this story. With over 220,000 olive trees cradled by ancient dry-stone walls, this landscape speaks volumes through its silence and natural beauty.
The tour offers a glimpse into the heart of Hvar’s craftsmanship and hospitality. Discover the artistry of local olive oil masters as they breathe new life into an ancient elixir. Meet winemakers who create exquisite vintages, inviting you to indulge freely. Along the way, share moments with islanders serving the finest delicacies, where local flavours blend with genuine human warmth. It’s a journey that celebrates the hardworking people of Hvar, guiding you through the island’s life-loving story.
Experience the olive harvest with Villas Hvar
Harvesting olives here is not just about the fruit – it’s about connecting with the land. Every moment spent in the field becomes an intimate dialogue between nature and those who tend to it. The experience is a testament to the deep respect for tradition, culture and sustainability the islanders hold dear.
If you want to witness the island at its most authentic – when the beaches are quieter, the air is crisp and the island’s true heart is on display, October is the perfect time to visit Hvar. For an experience that transcends mere travel, join Villas Hvar for the olive harvest and become part of the island’s enduring legacy, where every olive, drop of oil and moment is infused with history, flavour and love.
