11 August 2016

Suitcase. Dubrovnik, Croatia - Travel Guide

Quite possibly the highlight of my trip, and the spot I was most looking forward to seeing, was Dubrovnik. Not just because we were staying here [jaw drop] but because of all the incredible things I'd heard about this historic city.


Let's start at the beginning...

We left Split bright and early and took the breath-taking 4 hour drive down the coastline to reach Dubrovnik. The scenery along the way is incredibly contrasting. Think sheer oceanside cliffs, desert plains, winding mountain roads and bayside towns. You'll even cross through Bosnia for all of 5 minutes, still, they feel the need to check your passport twice!


Shortly after lunch we pulled up outside our new home - Villa Dubrovnik. Nestled in the cliffside just outside Dubrovnik, this is THE place to stay in town. Luxurious. Contemporary. Sophisticated.
I felt right at home.


After settling into our sea-view room (all rooms look right out to the ocean with a view of the Old Town) and investigating the pool and the beach, we headed upstairs for a cocktail on the roof terrace.


There’s a certain air of exclusivity here yet it’s not a pretentious one. The decor is like an amalgamation of a Scandi chic residence with a beach cottage. The service is exacting yet extremely friendly. No pompous waiters to be found here. In fact, I'd go so far as to say the staff and their service was the best I've experienced. Ever.


No breakfast buffet here. You can order off a menu and it's freshly prepared. Hallelujah. If you get a chance I also recommend dining in the restaurant for dinner. The menu is a Croatian take on fine dining with plenty of seafood. The pasta with tuna tartare is particularly special.


When you've soaked up enough sun by the pool and beach, you can hop on the hotel's private Riva boat and the strapping young captain will whisk you off to the Old Town. It's an extra special touch of luxury. Just like being in Venice, but in Croatia.


In town you'll easily find yourself lost in the winding streets. Bougainvillea pops out at regular intervals and church steeples often peek into view. It's a charming place just like Split but with an extra dose of history. This place feels truly old.


When dinner time calls head for Nautika. With incredibly charming waiters and delectable food, here you can watch the ships roll in and out towards the horizon to your heart's content. More coming on the evening in my next post.


Then as the sun makes its lazy descent into the ocean, be sure to catch the view from the walls of the city or from your balcony - it's spectacular either way.


If you're heading to Dubrovnik and fancy a treat, there is simply no other place to stay, it has to be Villa Dubrovnik. It is a hotel experience you won't ever forget. I'm already planning 2017's visit.


Thank you to Villa Dubrovnik for having me.

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Photos by Krissie.