"From the moment we stepped into the glass lift and swept down to Villa Dubrovnik’s spotless pale stone reception, we knew we were in for a treat. With its modernist rooms, chic spa and wonderfully atmospheric restaurant, this is the perfect romantic retreat. Each room comes with a private terrace facing the sea and sleek glass bathrooms; select suites have private whirlpool baths. Built into the rocky coastline just outside Europe’s best-preserved medieval walled cities, the hotel is blissfully peaceful and secluded. Soak up some culture amongst the marble cobbles and open-air cafés of Dubrovnik Old Town, before returning to unwind on the hotel’s beach or in its world-class spa. As dusk falls, ascend to the cool rooftop bar for sunset cocktails overlooking the Adriatic and Lokrum Island. Our favourite moments were spent over dinner on the alfresco restaurant terrace; lights twinkled in the trees as we dined on exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, captivated by the moonlit sea and the distant glowing walls of the Old Town. Highs Excellent service from the pleasant and knowledgeable staff - our dinner was accompanied by some exquisite local wine thanks to our waiter’s recommendations Walking distance from the Old Town but blissfully removed from the hordes A private beach area with steps into the sea and a pretty garden for lounging and alfresco breakfasts An outstanding spa, with a huge range of treatments (massages, facials, mud therapies) and a sauna, steam room and large indoor pool Romantic rooms and private terraces; some also have Jacuzzis or private gardens - honeymoon heaven Lows The hotel is tucked down some particularly narrow streets so drivers will need to have their wits about them, but there’s good private parking once you get there Though all rooms have their own balcony, some are more private than others (the Comfort Room is the only one without sea views) The hotel’s beach is a rocky outcrop where guests can sunbathe and swim, but don’t expect sand or shallow water This kind of luxury doesn't come cheap We haven't visited since its recent facelift, but the renders look gorgeous (photo shoot due in December 2025)" - Melissa Burfitt