Villa Dubrovnik: Cliffs, Sea, and Civilised Calm

The Setting

You reach the Villa Dubrovnik by boat shuttle from the old town (a ten-minute crossing included in the room rate), or by a steep walk down from the road above. The hotel descends the cliff in tiers, and almost every room has an uninterrupted view of the Adriatic and the red-roofed old city across the water. It is extraordinarily beautiful.

The Room

We stayed in a Signature Double, which gave us a private terrace at the level of the water, a king bed that faced the sea, and a bathroom with a standalone bath positioned at the window — so that you can lie in warm water looking at the Adriatic. It is a very good bath.

Restaurant Vapore

The hotel restaurant, Vapore, sits at the water's edge. The kitchen handles Dalmatian seafood with confidence: black risotto, prawn buzara, the freshest grilled fish brought in that morning from the market in the old town. The wine list leans Croatian — Pošip and Grk from Korčula are both excellent — with a selection of Slovenian and Italian bottles. Dinner as the sun sets over the water is exactly as good as it sounds.

The Pool

A saltwater infinity pool sits at the cliff edge. It is beautifully maintained and never crowded. The sunlounger situation is managed with reasonable civility, and service at the pool is attentive. The views from the pool extend across the open sea to the islands of Lokrum and Koločep.

Access to the Old Town

The boat shuttle runs regularly throughout the day, and the crossing to the old town's harbour is genuinely enjoyable in itself. The distance from the old town that makes the hotel peaceful also creates a useful psychological separation — you can escape the crowds when you want to.

Verdict

Dubrovnik is overrun in summer, but Villa Dubrovnik manages to feel secluded despite its proximity to the city. The position is irreplaceable. The food and service match the setting.

Best for: Couples, those wanting to combine cultural exploration with genuine relaxation Room rate: From €350 per night Tip: Arrive by boat shuttle rather than road — the approach from the sea is far more dramatic.