Under three hours from the UK by air the Croatian harbour resort of Split is steadily growing in popularity, yet remains fully authentic. This section of the Adriatic coast is simply stunning; the water runs astoundingly clear, with vibrant aquamarine and blue hues further out. And Split itself has a fascinating history, having been under Roman, Venetian, Austrian, French, Italian and Yugoslavian rule – its Old Town is a delightfully relaxed place to sightsee and sample some of the sea’s bounty. Or head a little further south of the city to encounter a Riviera that’s sprinkled with many excellent high-quality beachside hotels.
AC Hotel By Marriott Split
The AC Hotel by Marriott Split, situated on the upper levels of the 135-meter-tall Westgate Tower, offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the unique cityscape of Split. It promises guests The Perfectly Precise Hotel™ experience. The hotel’s architecture and interior, crafted by Otto Barić and Atellior Studio respectively, feature clean lines, warm colours, and natural materials like oak and brass, creating seamless transitions between spaces. Its design encourages comfort and utility in communal areas, ideal for both business and leisure activities. The AC Lounge is adorned with local art and a variety of books, resembling a sophisticated gallery and another feature enables visitors to view a segment of a historic Roman aqueduct through a glass door within the hotel.
The hotel has 214 minimalist guestrooms designed for flexibility and presents panoramic city views. Dining options include the Laureto Restaurant, offering Mediterranean cuisine under Chef Goran Šikić, and the Cumano Bar, known for its inventive cocktails. The hotel also boasts a spa with an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room, a gym equipped with top-tier Matrix gear overlooking the sea, and a sizable meeting space that can host up to 240 guests.
Le Méridien Lav
Found on the Dalmatian Coast, in Podstrana, this Marriott property commands 800 metres of pristine beach (like many in the area it’s pebbly but perfect). The property makes fine use of this position, with an infinity pool, restaurants and bars angled to take advantage of the expansive blue views. The Gooshter Beach Club provides a base for guests to order cocktails, shelter from the midday sun on a day bed under a thatched roof, or grab a bite to eat in barefoot-chic style surroundings. There are also tennis courts, an indoor pool, the RE:CUPERA Spa (which is one of the largest in the country) and a kid’s club.
Radisson Blu Resort & Spa
Less than two miles from the city centre, the Radisson Blu in Split caters to those wanting a city break beside the sea. It’s right beside a pebble beach, with an outdoor pool surrounded by palms and plush modern daybeds, several eateries, bars and a large spa. Glass plays a big role in the architecture here; there are floor-to-ceiling windows, glass balconies and a low-level glazed wall at the edge of the pool projects against any strong breezes. The public rooms are infused with sea-influenced colour schemes, while bedrooms are categorised according to the floor’s colour palette.
Cornaro Hotel
Stay just a stone’s throw from the Old Town by booking one of 156 rooms at the Cornaro Hotel. It’s housed across three heritage buildings, one of which used to be the city’s main post office. Inside, the decor is modern yet classic, making use of earthy tones and complemented by monochrome photography of Split. It has two restaurants, King Tomislav and Nodilo, a rooftop bar with hot tub and views across to the sea, plus a further basement wine bar. There’s also a spa, fitness centre and bike concierge services for cyclists. Pets and children are made very welcome at the Cornaro Hotel.