Best Luxury Hotels in Istria

Within walking distance of a private beach, Kempinski offers an upscale atmosphere and lots of luxury. At this resort, visitors get to enjoy first class service, accommodation and unique amenities, while on vacation. In addition to its spa and wellness area with various pools, saunas, treatments, and gym, there are two restaurants serving traditional Istrian and Mediterranean food. It also boasts the region’s only 18-hole golf course. Sailing and diving is also possible, and the hotel staff is always happy to help.

With a curved exterior, reminiscent of a modern cruise liner, the concept for the 248 room minimalist hotel was inspired by Rovinj’s natural surrounds. Its deeply unconventional style, along with elegant cutting edge interiors and striking artworks, has earned its place as a member of Design Hotels (the first property in Croatia to do so). A large free-form outdoor seawater pool is hidden behind mature, tall trees, with its seductive array of whirlpools, waterfalls and geysers. Hotel Lone overlooks a pretty bay on one side and mature forestry on the other. 

Families holidaying in the area will appreciate the Grand Park Hotel’s dedicated kids’ club and proximity to nearby Mulini Beach. But it holds plenty of appeal for those seeking a sophisticated stay too. Pierro Lossini has designed the modern interiors –  wood, polished concrete and glass feature heavily and there’s an array of fashionable, high-end shops on the ground floor. Head up to the 50-metre rooftop infinity pool (which continues indoors to the Albaro Wellness & Spa), where you can enjoy woodland views from the plush lounger and beanbag strewn deck. Or if you need an escape from the heat of the day, sample the thermal suite’s cool plunge pool and ice fall shower.

As the city’s oldest hotel, this building dates back to 1892. However, it underwent a trendy renovation in 2015, contrasting the grand period facade. Adriatic’s prime location, right on the edge of the harbour is one of the many reasons to book, alongside its beautiful artworks, French Riviera-inspired brasserie and cafe bar serving one of the land’s finest selections of whiskies. A boutique atmosphere is maintained with just 18 large and luxe suites, each with attractive views. And while there are limited wellness facilities on-site, guests have access to nearby Hotel Lone’s indoor and outdoor pools, as well as the spa.

Just a 20-minute walk from the town centre, this five-star property is hidden away in the Zlatni Rt forest park, beside Lone Bay. 99 rooms are spread between two low rise buildings with a contemporary aesthetic. Bold accents are blended in among antique furniture pieces in a hotel that has earned a reputation as one of the best in the country. A sea-view pool complex offers a vibrant hub and sits beside the glamorous glass-walled lobby. There’s also a swim-up bar, children-only pool and hydrotherapy section, all complemented by an additional indoor pool area that’s attached to Monte Mulini’s glossy spa.

With the sea on one side and a pine forest on the other, the Grand Hotel Brioni Pula has an enviable location with cascading terraces making the most of its views. Set over three floors, the polished hotel accommodates 227 bedrooms including 12 suites, with Smart tech, ILLY espresso machines, pillow menus and luxurious Acqua Di Parma amenities. The wellness area offers treatments using body care brands including Gemology and Thalgo, an indoor swimming pool and jacuzzi, a water paradise shower experience as well as saunas, a steam room, salt wall, as well as a TechnoGym. There are three restaurants with stunning outlooks and four bars, including one beside the long, sea-view infinity pool.