28th October 2016: Croatia is quickly gaining in popularity for holidaymakers who are looking for sea views, gorgeous food and history. On my recent trip to the country, I was lucky enough to sample a handful of stunning hotels in Dubrovnik, Croatia’s capital. Here is my guide to some of the best hotels in the region.
Hotel Excelsior
Dubrovnik’s hotel Excelsior is part of the Adriatic Luxury Hotels group and is very well located, just a 10 minute walk away from the city’s Old Town. Each room is clean and sleek with a modern, understate look and has great amenities; turn down service, free Wi-Fi and en-suite bathroom with power shower just to name a few. Many rooms also come with a stunning sea view with an Executive Suite room including a furnished balcony, so you can watch the sun as it sets across the beautiful Adriatic Sea.
The Excelsior has an indoor pool and a beautiful area for sunbathing complete with access to the sea so it’s perfect for those seeking a city break with the added luxury of a relaxing beach holiday. The hotel will be undergoing a further modernisation which will include brand new floors, fixtures and fittings and will reopen in March 2017.
Grand Villa Argentina
Just along the road from the Excelsior is the stunning Grand Villa Argentina. The hotel is separated into three parts; the Grand Villa Argentina, the Villa Glavić and the Hotel Argentina. My favourite part of the three was by far the Villa Argentina as it was the largest and most grand hotel. The Villa Argentina has a beautiful seaside pool with incredible un-spoilt views of the Old Town. A classic room boasts dark wood furnishings and romantic views across the hotel’s gardens.
Hotel Kompas
4km from the Old Town we reach Lapad which houses the refreshingly modern hotel Kompas. After its renovation in 2015 the hotel has been transformed with each room feeling luxurious and relaxing; a picture of contemporary comfort. It boasts indoor and outdoor swimming pools along with a stunning range of rooms and suites. Situated in the picturesque Lapad bay, the Kompas hotel is a short walk from Lapad beach. I highly recommend the rooftop bar which has stunning views and is a great place to enjoy a cocktail.
Dubrovnik Palace
Also along the Lapad peninsular stands the lusciously grand Dubrovnik Palace. Being on the tip of the coast certainly has its advantages as most of the rooms at the hotel are completed with a sea view. Rooms are spacious and have fantastic facilities. The hotel also includes a state-of-the-art spa, tennis court, indoor and outdoor pools and a dive centre.
Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik
Having originally been built in the 19th century, Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik has been beautifully and elegantly restored. The hotel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and perfectly encapsulates the history and culture of Dubrovnik, definitely not what you’d expect from a ‘typical’ Hilton hotel. Just meters from the medieval Old Town, Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik is ideal for those who love to explore. Rooms are bright and airy and with many rooms overlooking the sea and the Old Town there are plenty of views to take in. The hotel is completed by a lovely indoor pool and state-of-the-art gym.