"Among the Dalmatian Coast’s most stunning towns, Korčula is full of Baroque, golden-stone buildings, set on a thumb of land surrounded by blue-green water. One such building, the historic Hotel Korčula, was completely renovated in 2015 to showcase high-ceilinged guestrooms with marine-blue walls, white furniture, and crisp linens, as well as modern bathrooms with walk-in showers. Each morning, guests gather for breakfast on the hotel’s elegant loggia, where they enjoy views of the harbor and the Pelješac peninsula across the strait. Afterward, they head out to explore the narrow streets of Korčula, as well as surrounding sites like the Marco Polo House (the island is his rumored birthplace) and St. Mark’s Cathedral. There are also several beaches in nearby Lumbarda, and the hotel can arrange for sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling in local coves. Come sunset, head back to the hotel and sit on the terrace with a chilled glass of grk, a white wine made on Korčula, while the woodsy maquis trees scent the breeze."