Adriana Marina Hotel & Spa

Sophisticated design hotel on the waterfront in Hvar Town, with one of Croatia’s most luxurious spas

A 16th-century cathedral presides over a large paved piazza; wooden fishing boats and sun-kissed yachts sway gently to the ebb and flow of the tide in a Venetian-built harbour. Views don't come much better than this.

Purpose-built in the 1970’s, this 59-room hotel reopened in summer 2007 after a total makeover, and the result is light and airy, modern and fun. Playful elements include a purple Perspex backlit reception desk and a blue mosaic-tile rooftop pool lined with hanging wicker chairs. The spectacular rooftop lounge-bar has stunning views over Hvar Town’s old stone buildings and out to sea; the vast Sensori Spa offers luxurious beauty treatments, massage, yoga and Pilates. Bedrooms come with floor-to-ceiling windows and narrow sliding shutters to maximise the views. With its sleek design, up-market facilities and romantic waterfront location, the thoroughly sophisticated Adriana appeals to those who appreciate the finer things in life, and have the money to pay for them.

Highs

• Prime location right on the waterfront of Croatia's most glamorous island
• Chic, funky interior design by London-based architects Jestico + Whiles
• The top-notch spa offers everything from aromatherapy to yoga, plus a heated seawater indoor/outdoor pool
• The ground floor restaurant serves exceptional Mediterranean food
• The stunning rooftop bar is THE place to see and be seen
• The adventurous can book fishing trips, kayaking, wine tasting, even jeep safaris ... more info

Lows

• Very expensive by Croatian standards
• Service is sometimes patchy
• Rooms have a shower but no bath (suites have a whirlpool bath); and only a few rooms have balconies
• Hvar is the jewel of the Dalmatian Riviera: expect lots of visitors, yachties and late partying in summer