5 of the best hotels in Croatia and Montenegro

Croatia and Montenegro are seeing a renaissance in hotels – here are five of the best hotels in the region. Food, service and style have come along way in Croatia and Montenegro, even in the last 5 years, with standards and quality improving constantly. Hotel Excelsior, Dubrovnik 2017 saw the complete refurbishment of the Excelsior Hotel in Dubrovnik, which was much needed and highly anticipated. The hotel has some of the very best views of Dubrovnik from the rooms, restaurants and sea terrace. Ideally located and within walking distance to the Old Town, the 158 rooms and suites are spread between the Villa Odak (built in 1913) and the modern Tower. We particularly like the Deluxe rooms with sea view and balcony, located in the Villa Odak. Whichever rooms you select, it should have a sea view! The Excelsior has stunning views of the old town and Dubrovnik walls. Enjoy a drink on the outdoor terrace, or eat right by the sea at the Prora Restaurant. Rooms are decorated in neutral tones and public areas now have a touch of modernity. Aman Sveti Stefan, Montenegro Truly unique, the Aman Sveti Stefan is a resort located on a private island that was a fishing village 600 years ago. In the 1950’s the island was turned into a hotel, and 10 years ago, Aman Resorts created their very first European resort. Some of the existing staff had family that were born on the island before it was turned into a hotel, so there are strong local connections. Sandy beaches, an amazing spa and even a working church on the resort are just three of the reasons to stay. To say that each individual room at Aman Sveti Stefan is unique would be an understatement. There really are no two rooms the same, and advice should be taken on which room suits your needs exactly. Villa Meneghetti, Bale The Relais & Chateaux Villa Meneghetti is the perfect inland retreat. Located in Istria, which is the foodie region of Croatia. Romans called it Terra Magica (magical land). The hotel is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves and the family that own it produce both wine and olive oil. During the era of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the Villa was used by officers that were stationed at the fort nearby in Pula. The buildings were completely restored in 2001 and now the villa has 10 rooms and suites and 15 stand-alone residences. The award-winning restaurant focuses on local produce. As the Villa Meneghetti is away from the coast, it feels like a secret. The hotel has three pools and a spa and is perfectly located close to the Brijuni National Park which offers plenty of opportunity for walkers and hikers and even golfing. The perfect place to switch off your phone and completely unwind and remember how to relax! Brown Beach House, Trogir The Brown Beach House is located in a converted Tobacco factory right on the water in the town of Trogir, about a 40-minute drive from the Dalmatian capital of Split. With just 25 rooms, and a new spa added this August, the Brown is one of the newest and most fashionable places to stay on the Dalmatian coast. Trogir itself is a UNESCO world Heritage site and a small island that is connected to the mainland by a bridge. Staying here is recommended for people that may be return visitors to the region and that value relaxation above exploration. Hotel Adriatic, Rovinj The Istrian peninsula has strong Italian influences in architecture and food. The town is also home to Monte, one of our favorite restaurants in Croatia, the only restaurant in the country to be awarded a Michelin star. The Hotel Adriatic has just had a dramatic renovation, and is unique in that it is located right in the heart of the old town in the harbor area, and not like the other luxury hotels located a 20-minute walk from center of the town. The hotel now has just 18 rooms in total and the best as the Piazza category that look on to Rovinj Old Town Square. Some also have views of the island of St. Katarina. The Adriatic is perfect for a fall season foodie trip. Mainland Croatia and Montenegro are also wonderful places to enjoy a trip just outside of the summer season – April and October are perfect months to travel, and not quite as crowded as May-September. Ala Osmond is Director at Exeter International. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.