Boutique Hotel Alhambra – Review

Tucked away in a quiet cove on the shores of Čikat Bay, Boutique Hotel Alhambra captures the essence of Mediterranean charm with an air of refined elegance. Surrounded by pine forests and overlooking the Adriatic’s crystal waters, the hotel combines historic character with contemporary luxury and a level of personalised service that has earned it a place in ‘The Finest Collection’ by Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

The property’s history dates back to 1908, when the villas Alhambra and Augusta first graced the bay. Today, they are seamlessly united into a sanctuary of wellness and gastronomy, home to Michelin-starred dining and a spa experience that reflects Lošinj’s long-standing reputation as a place of healing and rejuvenation.

Background & Concept

The beautiful backdrop of emerald pine forests and the gentle curve of Čikat Bay set the scene for the Boutique Hotel Alhambra which embodies the art of refined hospitality. Originally constructed in 1908 as two grand villas, the property has been expanded and thoughtfully restored, combining the beauty of Mediterranean architecture with elegant, modern interiors.

Subtle nautical touches serve as a nod to Lošinj’s seafaring history – with rooms named for legendary sea captains, maritime-inspired artworks, and timeless design flourishes that are reminiscent of the golden age of exploration.

The hotel is a seamless blend of the rich island heritage and contemporary living, offering a restorative escape where bespoke spa treatments, tranquil gardens, and gourmet cuisine unite to create the perfect relaxing retreat. Whether it’s floating in the bay’s clear waters, strolling through pine tree trails, or enjoying a candlelit dinner with unmissable Adriatic views, Alhambra offers guests an atmosphere of serene exclusivity.

Location

Set on the tranquil island of Lošinj, renowned for its oxygen-rich air and therapeutic plant life, Boutique Hotel Alhambra creates an immersive wellness escape. The surrounding pine forests not only create breathtaking views but also infuse the air with natural aromas of rosemary, sage, and lavender, known for their calming and restorative qualities. 

Although the tucked-away location ensures absolute tranquillity, the hotel is just moments away from Mali, Lošinj’s charming waterfront, rich with vibrant local culture. Guests can explore nearby hiking trails, take part in watersports on the bay, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of the unspoiled coastline and azure seas.

Food & Drink

Alfred Keller Restaurant

Led by the acclaimed chef Alfred Keller, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant offers a journey into gastronomy that celebrates Mediterranean flavours with artistic precision. The multi-course tasting menu is a masterclass in balance and creativity, with each dish a complementary composition of seasonal ingredients sourced from the island and the surrounding Adriatic.

During my visit, every course was perfectly paired by the in-house sommelier, creating a harmonious progression of flavours. From delicate seafood to rich, earthy meats, each meal is balanced with sustainably sourced herbs, fruits, and vegetables. The restaurant’s minimalist elegance and sweeping bay views create the perfect backdrop while Keller’s gastronomic artistry takes centre stage.

À la Carte Breakfast

Start the day off right with a delicious breakfast at Alhambra. The à la carte breakfast menu features freshly baked pastries, indulgent classics like eggs Benedict, and lighter options such as seasonal fruit and fresh juices. My personal highlight was the fluffy waffles with fresh berries and maple syrup, they made for a decadent start to the day.

Porto Cigale Lobby Bar

With over 50 whiskies, 20 gins, 20 rums, and an exceptional selection of sparkling wines, the Porto Cigale Lobby Bar offers an elegant setting for an afternoon aperitif or a post-meal nightcap. Expert mixologists craft cocktails to suit every taste, and the refined yet relaxed atmosphere makes it an inviting spot to unwind.

Pasara Beach Bar

Directly accessible from the hotel, Pasara Beach Bar offers a laidback coastal vibe with light bites and snacks, refreshing smoothies, and chilled beverages to keep you cool in the sun, served just steps from the Adriatic. It’s the perfect place to enjoy sun, sand, and attentive beachside service.

Guest Rooms & Suites

With just 36 rooms and 15 suites, the Alhambra ensures exclusivity and personalised attention for every guest, in an intimate setting. Interiors are a study in understated elegance; natural materials, soft neutral tones, and bespoke furnishings create serene spaces designed for pure relaxation.

For those seeking true indulgence, the Augusta Grand Suite offers two bedrooms, two marble bathrooms, and an expansive 15m² balcony with some of the best views in the hotel. Every detail, from Croatian maple furnishings to elegant lighting, is designed to exude refined comfort and luxury.

My Room During Our Stay

My stay in a Premium Sea View room was nothing short of blissful. The floor-to-ceiling windows framed uninterrupted views over Čikat Bay, while a private terrace, complete with plush loungers and a dining set, became my favourite place to greet the morning with a cup of coffee or watch the sun dip into the horizon before a delicious meal.

The king-size bed was the epitome of comfort, and the marble-clad bathroom boasted both a rainfall shower and an indulgent bathtub to soak in after a busy day. The Acqua di Parma amenities added a touch of Italian luxury to the already elegant experience.

Other FacilitiesFitness Centre 

A fully equipped fitness centre offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape is available for guests to use throughout their stay.

Personalised Services 

At Boutique Hotel Alhambra, every detail is carefully curated to create an experience that feels effortlessly personal. Guests can set sail on private yacht tours along Lošinj’s beautiful coast, enjoying bespoke itineraries designed to showcase hidden coves and sparkling waters at their most serene. The concierge team is on hand to create personalised excursions, from guided hikes through the island’s fragrant pine forests to exclusive cultural experiences in nearby Mali Lošinj. For moments of pure peaceful indulgence, in-room spa treatments bring the tranquillity of the Cube Spa directly to your room, while the expert sommelier is ready to recommend the perfect pairing from their extensive selection of local and international wines. Even the smallest touches, such as the nightly turndown service, where rooms are prepared for restful sleep, or the seamless valet parking, are handled with quiet precision, ensuring that every guest feels like the only guest there.

Spa & Wellness

The Cube Spa is the heart of Alhambra’s wellness philosophy, offering treatments that combine modern techniques with Lošinj’s ancient healing traditions. Guests are welcomed with a traditional honey and ginger drink before embarking on a sensory journey through saunas, hydrotherapy pools, and relaxation lounges.

The heated seawater pool, complete with hydro jets, was my personal highlight – an almost meditative experience of floating weightlessly as my tensions melted away. The inhalation bar, infused with rosemary, sage, and pine, added a deeply restorative element to the spa’s offerings.

From aromatherapy and detox wraps to bespoke facials and sound therapy, every treatment is tailored to restore balance and promote total wellbeing.

The Cube Spa is a sanctuary where time seems to stand still, providing the ideal space to unwind, rejuvenate, and reconnect with both nature and yourself. From the soothing Finnish sauna to the serene saltwater pool, I found myself immersed in hours of pure relaxation, leaving the spa feeling refreshed and at peace with my mind and body. Every moment spent there was a journey of healing, and one I would gladly repeat again and again. 

USP’s

• Boutique Hotel Alhambra is a hidden gem in Čikat Bay, offering privacy, tranquility, and breathtaking views – a true feast for all the senses.
• Alfred Keller’s celebrated, Michelin-starred tasting menu paired with expert wine selections is a gastronomic delight that enhances every stay. Every dish offers an exploration of sustainably sourced ingredients and Mediterranean flavours, tied together flawlessly.
• The Cube Spa’s signature experiences are rooted in Lošinj’s centuries-old wellness traditions. The heated seawater pool and Finnish sauna are a must try.
• The hotel’s personalised services are a wonderful touch that makes you feel like the only guest staying there with the attentiveness the staff offer. From private yacht charters to in-room massages, every detail is tailored to the guest.

TLE Top Tips

• Book the Michelin-starred tasting menu in advance for a dining experience you’ll remember forever.
• Spend at least one full afternoon in the Cube Spa—don’t miss the hydrotherapy pool and inhalation bar. Be warned, once you try it, you may want to spend another afternoon or three there during your trip.
• Treat yourself with waffles and fresh fruit on the terrace for breakfast – it’s as indulgent as it is relaxing, and helps to start the day off on the right track.
• Take a private yacht tour to explore Lošinj’s hidden coves and pristine waters. There’s so much to see and your knowledgeable guides will keep you mesmerised the whole time.
• Visit the nearby Museum of Apoxyomenos, dedicated entirely to one extraordinary exhibit – the ancient Greek statue of Apoxyomenos, a beautifully preserved work of art recovered from the nearby sea, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient history.
• Wander through the quaint town of Mali Lošinj. Just a short drive from the Hotel, the charming town is brimming with character. Stroll along its picturesque streets, visit local boutiques, and savour the atmosphere at one of its outdoor cafés. We thoroughly enjoyed exploring the town, especially the sense of calm and authenticity that permeates every corner.

Final Thoughts

My stay at the Boutique Hotel Alhambra was defined by unrivalled luxury, tranquillity, and refined hospitality. The gentle rhythm of the waves set the pace for my days, while Alfred Keller’s thoughtful menus delivered dishes that were as beautiful as they were memorable.

At The Cube Spa, mind and body found the perfect reset, and from the privacy of my terrace, I enjoyed a front-row seat to one of the Adriatic’s most breathtaking views. It is a place where history and modern luxury intertwine seamlessly, creating an atmosphere of calm and understated elegance.