Boutique Hotel Alhambra

It pays to get to know Croatia’s Adriatic coast. Among the dividends is Boutique Hotel Alhambra, a carefully restored concern on the southwest shore of the narrow Cres-Lošinj archipelago, hugging the curves of Čikat cove, a pristine and clement-weathered harbor in limestone and dolomite, softened by characteristic stands of pine and palm. You can tell right away that this was once a grand old villa — however thoroughly renovated, its architectural personality still comes through in the Austro-Hungarian façade, picturesque in every detail, from the arched loggias to the elegant quoin corners to the terra-cotta roofing.

Indoors, public spaces run the gamut of styles. The lounge bar features eccentric parquet flooring and curvilinear seating somewhere between retro-futuristic and mid-century cool, while the main restaurant personalizes the view with gorgeous glass frontage and a spacious terrace, perfect for a leisurely bottle of local wine. The heated indoor saltwater pool is the star of the show at the spa, augmented by a waterfall and a captivating geometric wall treatment, though the saunas and specialty treatments give it a run for its money.

The 36 rooms and 15 suites hit all the right notes, chiefly visual: furnished balconies permit enviable Mediterranean views over intricate, wrought-iron rails, and Dean Skira’s concept lighting maintains an open brightness throughout. Bathrooms include deep soaking tubs, vessel sinks, and natural amenities against a backdrop of checkered stone and mosaic. King beds feature oversize headboards and cream-and-tan linens, accented with Adriatic blue and tawny orange. Alhambra rounds out the experience with wi-fi, satellite TVs, and docking stations, though they won’t be the clincher: that honor goes to the private beach and bar.

How to get there: Boutique Hotel Alhambra is a 20-minute drive from Lošinj Airport. Ferry service is also available to Cres Island from Brestova on the mainland or from Valbiska on Krk Island.

Booking Details: Boutique Hotel Alhambra requires additional information from guests to ensure the best stay possible. As such, reservations can only be confirmed through our customer service team. Contact us for assistance. Rates begin at 400 EUR per night.