Little-known holiday island that’s just 3.5 hours from London… and visitors say it’s as good as Ibiza

HOLIDAYMAKERS have shared their favourite island that's just three hours and 30 minutes from London - and it's just as good as Ibiza.

Hvar, Croatia, is the sunniest place in the country and has gorgeous white sand beaches.

The Adriatic island has only 11,000 residents, and boasts gorgeous lavender fields, white sands and a growing nightlife scene.

Overlooking the picturesque city is the Tvrdava Fortress, offering gorgeous views of the bright blue sea below.

Getting to the island is easy, as it lies just off of major city Split, which has an airport.

For only £8 you can take a ferry to Hvar and the surrounding islands, forming the gorgeous archipelago of the Pakleni islands.

The burgeoning techno scene is popular among younger visitors, and the city lights up after dark - providing fun for all ages.

A promenade stretches across the coast, and outdoor parties are held in good weather.

One visitor gushed: "Perfect and beautiful place. Sea is very clean and nice to swim and snorkel."

Another said: "A piece of land that God tried to leave for himself. You sit, drink and eat an you forget the time.

"And then when it comes to sunset you realize once more that life consists of small beautiful moments."

A popular activity is renting a small boat and driving it with friends to the small islands surrounding Hvar - for roughly £60 total.

Though swimmers are warned - sea urchins are common in the pristine waters, so make sure you don't get poked.

The cuisine is highly rated as well, with fresh seafood and local dishes available for decent prices.

Val Marina Restaurant is ranked as the best eatery in town - and has glowing five star reviews.

One diner shared: "Everything was fabulous from start to finish.

"The service was outstanding and the food was impeccable - I would eat here every night of my stay."

The closest airport to Hvar is in Split. Wizz Air and easyJet have flights available - and they're only 2hr30mins long.

Then an hour-long ferry ride drops you off at the island.

Hvar isn't the only destination in Croatia that Brits are raving about. Poreč has been praised for it's cheap pints and gorgeous beaches.

Found in the north of the country, there are more than 20 beaches to choose from, many which are Blue Flag so you can expect them to be clean.