Traditional Hvar Cooking Classes, Dinners & ‘Poje’ Field Tour!

The Traditional Hvar Cooking Classes, Dinners & ‘Poje’ Field Tour offers a distinctive way to enjoy the flavors of Croatia’s island. For $167.85 per person, this roughly 2-hour experience takes place in the heart of Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO-listed landscape filled with olive trees and history. With a maximum of 6 travelers, the tour provides an intimate, personalized setting that emphasizes authentic ingredients and local traditions. Notably, the experience is highly rated, earning a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from six reviews, highlighting its quality and genuine atmosphere.

This tour is ideal for those who want more than just sightseeing — it’s a culinary journey rooted in family traditions, with homegrown olive oil, locally sourced fish, and homemade spirits. While it does not include private transportation, its focus on scenic, historic surroundings and delicious food makes it a compelling choice for food lovers and curious travelers alike.

Key Points

• Authentic traditional cuisine prepared with homegrown ingredients from a family farm.
• Scenic location in the UNESCO-protected Stari Grad Plain, surrounded by olive groves.
• Personalized, intimate experience with a shared table for up to 6 guests.
• Includes local wines, homemade aperitifs, and desserts crafted with family olive oil.
• Tour duration of approximately 2 hours, with options for additional cooking classes on demand.
• Free cancellation available with at least 24 hours’ notice.

The Unique Setting of Poje in the UNESCO Stari Grad Plain

The tour begins at Poje, a family-owned field in the center of Stari Grad Plain, a landscape protected by UNESCO. This location offers a peaceful, picturesque backdrop filled with olive trees, grapevines, and lavender. The setting encourages a relaxed, sensory experience where the natural scenery complements the authentic flavors on offer.

As you arrive, a shared table awaits amidst the olive groves. The ambiance created by the family host emphasizes warmth and intimacy, making this more than a typical cooking class. The environment is relaxed, with aromas of herbs and fresh produce filling the air, inviting guests to connect with both nature and tradition.

Tasting Local Beverages and Homemade Aperitifs

The experience kicks off with a sampling of homemade aperitifs, including herbal grappa, sweet wine, and grape brandy. These beverages are produced locally, with recipes passed down through generations. Alongside a variety of juices and local wines, this tasting introduces the essence of Hvar’s beverage culture.

Guests enjoy tasting goat cheese drizzled with extra virgin olive oil from the family groves, alongside salted blue fish, olives, capers, and pickled sea flowers. All these ingredients are either homegrown or locally sourced, adding to the authenticity of the experience. The extra virgin olive oil is a highlight, showcasing the quality of family-produced oil that complements every dish.

The Hvar Platter: A Taste of the Island

The Hvar Platter is a standout starter, featuring aged goat cheese, blue fish, olives, and pickled sea flowers. The drizzle of family-made olive oil elevates this dish to a true local specialty. The platter offers a balance of flavors—salty, fresh, and aromatic—that reflect the culinary heritage of Hvar.

This portion sets the tone for the meal, emphasizing fresh, traditional ingredients. The presentation and flavors demonstrate the simple elegance of island cuisine, rooted in family tradition.

Main Courses: Pasta, Octopus Stew, or Cuttlefish Risotto

For the main course, guests are offered a choice of Pasta with Tomato Sauce (“Hvar ala”), Traditional Octopus Stew, or Cuttlefish Black Risotto. The menu changes depending on the day’s freshest catch, highlighting the seasonality and freshness valued in Hvar’s cooking.

The “Hvar ala” pasta features a rich tomato sauce, crafted to perfectly complement the local ingredients. The octopus stew is prepared with care, bringing out tender seafood flavors, while the black risotto showcases the island’s seafood bounty with its characteristic squid ink. Each dish exemplifies authentic island flavors and the craftsmanship of the local cooks.

Delightful Lemon Olive Oil Cake for Dessert

The meal wraps up with a Lemon Extra Virgin Olive Oil Cake, a moist and flavorful dessert made with lemons from the family’s village, Dol. The cake combines fresh citrus with the richness of olive oil, culminating the tasting with a sweet, citrusy finish that ties back to the local ingredients highlighted throughout the experience.

Beverages and Pairings Throughout the Meal

Throughout the tour, a selection of local wines and spirits accompanies each course, enhancing the flavors and providing a cultural tasting journey. The homemade aperitifs and wines are appreciated for their quality and authenticity, making each bite paired with a carefully chosen local beverage.

The On-Demand Brunch Cooking Classes

Along With the main experience, there are brunch cooking classes available on demand. These classes allow participants to learn traditional recipes and techniques, extending the culinary adventure beyond the two-hour tour. This flexibility makes the experience appealing for those interested in gaining hands-on skills.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour starts at Poje Hvar, with the exact location designated by a Plus Code (5JMC+QF, 21460, Stari Grad, Croatia). The activity concludes back at this meeting point. The group size is intentionally kept small, with a maximum of 6 guests, ensuring a personalized and engaging atmosphere.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Family-Run, Authentic, and Scenic

The family connection behind this experience is evident — ingredients are homegrown, homemade, and locally sourced, emphasizing traditional methods. The scenic setting in the UNESCO-protected plain offers a rare opportunity to combine culinary discovery with natural beauty.

The personalized shared table fosters great company and conversation, and the small group size ensures attentive guiding. The authenticity of the ingredients and the hands-on approach make this tour stand out from generic cooking classes.

Practical Considerations and Cancellation Policy

The experience is suitable for pescatarians and service animals are welcome. Since the activity relies on good weather, it may be canceled if conditions are poor, with options for rescheduling or full refunds. Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

The Final Word on the Poje Field Tour

The Traditional Hvar Cooking Class and Dinner at Poje offers a genuine taste of island life, blending history, scenery, and local flavors into an intimate experience. The value lies in the authentic ingredients, family traditions, and scenic setting.

While it doesn’t include private transportation, the small-group atmosphere and personalized service make it a rewarding choice for foodies eager to deepen their connection with Hvar’s culinary heritage. This experience is best suited for those who appreciate homegrown produce, local spirits, and scenic tranquility, and who want to enjoy a relaxed, authentic meal in a stunning outdoor setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, private transportation is not included. The meeting point is Poje Hvar in Stari Grad.

Can I participate if I’m not a pescatarian?
The tour is suitable for pescatarians, but other dietary restrictions are not specified.

Are there options for additional cooking classes?
Yes, brunch cooking classes can be scheduled on demand, extending the culinary experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours prior. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

How many people can join this experience?
The experience is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring an intimate environment.

Is the experience suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly specified, the small, family-run setting and focus on traditional cuisine make it suitable for those interested in cultural and culinary immersion.