Rovinj, a stunning picturesque town of on the Istrian peninsula is now aiming for the top end market, with the opening of the five star Hotel Monte Mulini by the end 2008. Developed by Maistra d.d., Croatia’s leading hotel and tourism company, and designed by leading architects and interior designers WATG, Hotel Monte Mulini epitomizes Maistra’s ambition to position Rovinj as the elite destination in Croatia.

Fine Restaurants in Rovinj

Rovinj is in the heart of gastronomic Croatia, with heady white truffles, freshly caught seafood and fish and Istrian prosciutto, washed down with exquisite Teran, Merlot or Malvazija, the local blossomy white wine. Expect this and more in the Monte Mulini’s two gourmet restaurants, which chef Tomislav Gretic – who opened Dubai’s Asia de Cuba and perfected his craft at Zurich’s Dolder Grand and Dubrovnik’s Palace Hotel – aims to make the best in the area. The restaurant terrace seats 70 and overlooks the pool and gardens, with a further 128 covers available inside on cooler evenings. Alongside its world-class chef, Maistra’s sommelier Emil Perdec will preside over the Monte Mulini’s traditionally styled wine vault, which includes a private tasting and dining room and a further spacious terrace. Emil Perdec is proud to be the best sommelier in Croatia, having won several awards and twice the prestigious Trophée Ruinart in France, popularly known as the European Championship for Sommeliers.

Tourist Attractions in Rovinj

A short stroll along the marina from Monte Mulini is Rovinj, perhaps one of the most picturesque towns in the Mediterranean. Part of the Venetian Empire for over 500 years, the old town is perched on a narrow peninsula high up on a hill, cluttered with Venetian terracotta-roofed houses and crowned by the 18th century Church of St Euphemia, whose bell tower dominates Rovinj’s skyline. Atmospheric cobbled alleys invite visitors to wander around and explore colorful galleries and shops, filled with local arts and crafts. A central square is edged with lively cafes and restaurants spreading out on to a charming harbor crammed with sailing and fishing boats – perfect to watch the world go by.

In high summer, days in Rovinj are spent on the pine-backed, pebbly beaches minutes from the hotel. But there is more to Rovinj than beach front chic and those wanting to explore the delights of the region will find that Rovinj is an excellent base, all the year round. The nearby town of Pula has an impressive Roman amphitheater and art deco market and, for outdoor enthusiasts, the region offers incredibly diverse landscapes – from the rocky coast to pine-clad mountains and hills draped in cypress trees and olive groves. A highlight is the 11km long nearby Lim Fjord, a protected nature area which is perfect for Nordic Walking. Other recreational activities in the area include hiking in the unique forest preserve Zlatni Rt, as well as free climbing, mountain biking and water-based sports such as diving, snorkeling or sailing.

Hotel Monte Mulini

Maistra’s Hotel Monte Mulini is a haven of contemporary style and comfort and will be a luxurious all-year-round getaway destination. Set into the hillside of the Golden Cape, minutes from Rovinj’s town centre, it is surrounded by a lush century old protected nature park and overlooks a small bay.

The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, all with spectacular views of the hotel’s chic pool area, the crystal-clear sea and the surrounding nature reserve. The public areas are bright and airy, with double height spaces to maximize light and enhance views of the surrounding natural beauty. Guest rooms, too, are spacious and contemporary, featuring sensual fabrics and textures, bespoke furniture and original Croatian artwork. A regal color palette with shades of gold, purple and aubergine, is used throughout the hotel – creating an ambience of warm, soothing luxury.

Photos of Hotel Monte Mulini, Rovinj, Croatia courtesy of Maistra Hotels and Resorts

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Sibenik, or rather Šibenik, is the beautiful old town looking out over the Adriatic Sea, at the mouth of the river Krka in the south west of Croatia. The town’s most famous asset is the magnificent St James Cathedral (also know as the St Jacob Cathedral), on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list since 2000. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, the cathedral was consecrated in 1555. A remarkable decoration of this must-see church are the 71 sculptured faces of men, women and children throughout the cathedral.

2. Historic town of Trogir

The beautiful medieval town of Trogir is situated on a small island between mainland Croatia and ?iovo Island. The historical center of Trogir is dotted with Romanesque churches and fine Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Influences from the old Greeks, Romans, and Venetians make this 2,300 year old urban center a must-see attraction for the traveler to Croatia.

3. Old City of Dubrovnik

Also known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, the old town of Dubrovnik sustained major damages during the 1990’s armed conflicts and is now the focus of many restoration programs. From the 13th century, Dubrovnik has been a major sea power and naval force and the city flourished thanks to maritime trade. The old city of Dubrovnik is home to many beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, palaces, monasteries and fountains and is definitely worth a visit.

4. Euphrasian Basilica in Porec

The Euphrasian Basilica in Pore? is an impressive episcopal complex and its bell tower is a magnificent example of early Byzantine art in the region. Christianity was established in the 4th century in Porec and the monument is one of the most complete surviving complexes of its kind. The striking mosaics in the basilica date back to the 6th century. The old town of Porec is in itself is picturesque and very suitable for a lazy afternoon stroll.

5. Diocletian’s Palace in Split

Diocletian’s Palace was built the 3rd and 4th centuries AD and its ruins can be found throughout the city of Split on the Croatian Adriatic Coast. It is one of the most famous and best preserved historical complexes in Croatia. Among other things, Split also has 2 important archaeological museums and is a center of Croatian culture.