Villa Meneghello

Eating

The 2 kitchens (1 in each apartment) are well kitted out for self-catering, with a range of utensils and basic provisions (cooking oil, sugar, salt, pepper, washing-up liquid, bin bags etc). Both have microwaves, fridges, ovens, hobs, freezers and dishwashers, as well as indoor dining areas and terraces for alfresco dining.

But the highlight for us has to be the stunning shared outdoor kitchen and dining area, in an open-fronted lean-to decorated in black and white, with a big BBQ and a long table seating 10 (plus a washing machine for guests to use). Set amid lush Mediterranean planting, with the pool just a few steps away, it’s so special that many guests end up spending almost their entire stay here.

When you arrive you’ll find a bottle of good local wine waiting for you, plus everything you need for your first breakfast - fresh bread, butter, jam, coffee, tea, milk and fresh fruit. If you're feeling lazy, the owners can arrange for a private chef to whip up delicious meals - see Rates.

There are dozens of restaurants to choose from in Hvar if you want to eat out, and Dalmatian specialities include black risotto, langoustines, octopus salad, lobsters and fish stew. Just 5 minutes from the villa, Terramarique has a great reputation and is right next to the pretty Franciscan monastery. In the centre of town, just off the main square, Macondo is a sound choice for fresh fish and seafood, plus delicious desserts. Nearby, Menego is tucked away on a narrow stepped alley leading up to the castle - come here for homemade wine and platters of pršut i sir (prosciutto and cheese), then round off with the restaurant’s famous 'drunk figs'. The luxury harbourfront Riva (aka Hvar Yacht Harbour Hotel) is a great place to sip champagne and watch the sun set over the sea.

If you spend a day at Villa Meneghello's sister property Palmizana, on the car-free island of Sveti Klement, you can enjoy fab seafood snacks at beachside bar Toto's, and more elaborate seafood meals at the Palmizana restaurant.