Croatia / Hotel Monte Mulini

A Leading Hotel of the World just 15 minutes from old town Croatia, this ultra luxurious boutique retreat is a pocket of calm on the threshold of raw, wild nature.

A place to cast any cares aside and focus on the pleasures of the here and now, the three-level spa and views across a secluded cove to Lone Bay means this is a property popular among those in the know looking for some undisturbed down time. With this much space and attention dedicated to the spa, it’s no surprise the treatments here go beyond the average massage; leaning on its wild surroundings, expect combinations of natural ingredients. Their signature Wine Vault Full Body Rejuvenation – named after the hotel’s restaurant and its 320 wines – uses a blend of vineyard massage oil and micronised grape skin, while the juniper massage – inspired by the extensive in-house gin library – features volcanic stones and herb-soaked native Istrian botanicals.

To get loose limbs moving again, step outside its walls for an amble to Rovinj or feel humbled by the enduring sensibility of nature on a bike ride through centuries-old protected Zlatni forest. For a more chilled out experience of Croatia, Gooshter Beach Club, much like the rest of Hotel Monte Mulini, makes for a discerning gathering place for sophisticated world travellers.

Travel notes:

• 113 rooms and suites, all with sea-facing balconies
• Chef’s table in the exposed brick wine vault, and cellar tours with the head sommelier
• 4 swimming pools around the gardens, one with underwater massage and geysers
• Overlooks Lone Bay; beach is more pebbly than sandy and has full beach-side concierge
• Within walking distance of the atmospheric cobbled lanes of Rovinj town