Spanjol Fortress is perched high on a hill overlooking Hvar Town and affords amazing views of the town, harbor and Adriatic below. Spanjol was originally a medieval castle, and was converted to a fortress in the 1500s to ward off the invading Turks. In the 1800s, the Austrians strengthened the fortress and added barracks. Today, the gleaming white limestone fortress houses a restaurant/bar, and you can enjoy a drink while taking in the view through the crenelles of the battlements. The surviving sections of Hvar Town's old city walls lead up the hill to the fortress and add to its beauty and medieval charm.
To get to the fortress, pass under the main Town Gate and head directly up the very steep stone steps to the top - you will come upon a pathway that will lead you to the fortress. The hike up to the fort is a terrific workout, and you will be rewarded with spectacular views when you reach the top. The hike up itself provides great views of the side streets of Hvar. On a side note, there were several hundred bikers having a very civilized cocktail party in the fortress the day we visited. Their presence, along with that of almost 300 motocycles, created an interesting juxtaposition between the fort's medieval history and the many different types of folks that visit Hvar today.
Take a picnic and enjoy the amazing view! Admission to the fortress is free.