Hotel Boskinac

A romantic little family-owned hotel with a gourmet restaurant and well-regarded winery, set in peaceful gardens on the island of Pag

On the rugged, almost mystically beautiful island of Pag, Boškinac is a small family run hotel with just 11 rooms. It is set amid vineyards and olive groves, just 4km from the seaside resort of Novalja, and its peaceful surroundings, discreet staff and gourmet dining make it an ideal retreat for a romantic break.

The venture began in 2001, when wine producer Boris Suljic opened his cellar for tastings. By 2003 he had added this small hotel built from local stone in traditional Dalmatian style, plus a lovely colonnaded terrace restaurant. And keen to make his enterprise really special, he brought in a team of chefs to offer sophisticated yet innovative cuisine based on local ingredients.

What guests love most about Boškinac, though, is the serenity. Set in gardens planted with pine trees, fragrant jasmine, mint and sage, just being there is profoundly relaxing.

Highs

• Far from the bustle of the coast, yet the dining terrace offers sea views
• Gourmet restaurant serving beautifully presented, exciting food, along with Boškinac's excellent wines
• Helpful and professional staff, who are constantly praised in the guest book
• A pretty, leafy patio with wrought iron tables and chairs
• Spacious, airy rooms all have a sitting area; suites have a jacuzzi tub

Lows

• Room decor is rather bland and business-like
• The nearest town and beaches lie 4km away in Novalja; you'll probably need to hire a car for your stay
• Novalja itself is a rather characterless modern resort, though the island’s capital, Pag Town, is well worth a look for its Renaissance architecture
• The hotel (and island) get very busy in July-August; book early - or, better, come in the shoulder season