Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery

Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery Review

Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery located in northern Croatia’s Istria region, offers country-glam interiors, multiple pools, an amazing spa, and delicious dining to travelers who want to explore this culture-rich area! With it’s inland location and a quick drive to the beach, Meneghetti is the perfect spot to explore Istria’s culinary delights (think wine and olive oil tastings, truffle hunting and more) as well as the cultural monuments and UNESCO World Heritage sites of the area. Spend your days hiking, biking, and tasting your way through the area before retiring to enjoy the amenities at the resort.

The main building the hotel is a 19th-century stone house that used to be a country house owned by Mr. Meneghetti (no one knows his first name). He planted the property’s first vineyard and olive grove and started an animal farm that supplied produce to nearby military bastions. During Yugoslavian times, the estate was abandoned, but in 2000 the original stone house was lovingly restored into a small four-room boutique hotel. Through the restoration process the estate was brought back to life with new vineyards and olive trees and new winery facilities that cater to the needs of modern life, but fully respect the tradition and heritage of the historical property. Through their dedication to marrying the past with the future, the hotel has continued to grow as new rooms, suites and residences have been added in keeping with the style of the original house. The estate’s olive oil and wine brand as well as the on-site restaurant have also grown in stature over the years with numerous awards being given to them over the years.

Style

The 39 accommodation options on property with 43 bedrooms total all offer country glam interiors that immerse guests into the Mediterranean and Istrian lifestyle. The Istrian house (or stancija) on property was built at the beginning of the 20th century and blends right in to the scenery of the secluded estate. Made from white Istrian stone on the exterior- and boasting wooden beams, hardwood floors and antique furniture on the interior- this is a dreamy countryside escape. With accommodation options ranging from traditional rooms to multibedroom residences (some with their own private pools), there is a room option for every traveler. Talk with your River Oaks Travel Advisor to discover the perfect room for you!

Accommodations:

The spacious guest rooms, residences, and villas

Rooms

10 hotel rooms and suite

22- 65 sq.m2

Amenity Highlights: Egyptian cotton linen; premium toiletries; Twice daily housekeeping service; Mini bar; Nespresso coffee machine; complimentary digital media library with newspapers, magazines and eBooks

Residences

30 Residences with a private garden and/or pool

75-150 sq.m2

Villas

Villas with private pools

225 sq.m2

Get out & Explore:

Roman amphitheater Arena in the city of Pula, dating from the 1st century

National park Brijuni

Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč, registered on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Beautiful beaches, bike & hiking trails, rich gastronomic offer

Truffle Hunting

Wine and Olive Oil tasting

With Our Compliments:

Ask your Travel Advisor for River Oaks Travel Amenities

Getting There:

Flight into Zagreb (ZAG)

1h30 min drive to Meneghetti

Ideal Length of Stay:

3 – 4 days

When to go:

A year-round destination
Peak season from June to September

Who should go:

Wine Lovers, Couples, Families, Groups

Combine with:

Venice

Opatija Riviera

Zagreb

Member of Relais & Chateaux

Spa

The Energy Clinic Spa Center is a peaceful oasis where you will find relaxation for your body and mind. All products are made from premium quality ingredients of organic or natural origin and plant extracts known for their exceptional therapeutic qualities and are manufactured in Croatia, in cooperation with the most renowned experts in the field of pharmaceutics. You can choose among programs that offer a variety of massage and body treatments. The spa also offers guest the use of a sauna, fitness room and indoor swimming pool, in addition to the two outdoor pools on property.

Culinary

Meneghetti Restaurant:

Michelin recommended a la carte restaurant with up to 70 seats offering Mediterranean cuisine with estate-produced single sort olive oils and ten estate produced wine labels. According to La Liste, the restaurant was awarded 15 points and three chef’s hats in the Guide Gault & Millau 2019 and listed among the world’s top 1,000 restaurants.

Olivetto Restuarant & Lounge Bar – Casual outdoor seating surrunded by vinyards and oak trees the best place to enjoy a colorful cocktail or a light meal from our pool bar menu.

Boho Beach Club – Private Beach area with Sunbeds and canopy bead and beach bar service

Meneghetti Winery

10 wine labels

Modern winery and tasting room

Annual production of 10,000 bottles of first-class wine

All the vineyards are cultivated with deep respect for nature, using the soft “Simonit & Sirch” pruning method

Olive Oil

Each year Meneghetti produces 1,500 litres of extra virgin olive oil, using olives from its own olive groves.

Olive oil is produced in 4 different varieties:

Buža (Izbor)
Leccino
Rosulja (Rosignola)
Bjelica (Bianchera)

Italian Flos Olei, the most prestigious international olive oil guide, every year includes Meneghetti among fifty highest quality producers of olive oil in the world and the world’s leading olive oil guide “L’extravergine” in 2007 declared Meneghetti’s ‘Izbor’ as the world’s best olive oil in one of the most challenging olive oil categories – “intensely fruity” aroma. Unique colour and pungent taste of Istria’s and Meneghetti’s olive oils are the result of the fact that Istria is among the coolest regions where olive trees grow in the entire world – and the best olive oil region in the world according to Flos Olei.

All in all, Meneghetti Wine Hotel and Winery offers guests a wonderful experience whether they want to explore the Istrian interior or they simply want to lounge by the water. They can even plan for corporate events of up to 30 people or stunning wedding ceremonies for up to 120 guests! Talk with your River Oaks Travel Concierge today to put this amazing hotel on your “to travel” list!

Interested in planning a stay at Meneghetti Hotel?

Contact River Oaks Travel Advisors to BOOK

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Ikador Luxury Boutique Hotel Spa

IKADOR LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA Review

Ikador Luxury Boutique Hotel Spa is a 16 room boutique hotel located in the town of Ika along the iconic coastline of the Opatija Riviera. This area has a unique microclimate; mild winters, humid air, and seawater with a high saline content which made it a healing retreat and a beloved resort of the European Aristocracy since the 19th century. Even today, the heritage of this unique area is alive and well in the remarkable architecture present along the coast.

Ikador Luxury Boutique Hotel Spa opened with the plan to create a name for itself as the most luxurious hotel in Croatia. The idea behind this particular project is simple, to create a space of re-defined luxury from which travelers can venture out to explore and enjoy this destination of endless inspiration and heritage.

The pride of Ikador is the exclusive partnership with the prestigious Italian Riva Yacht brand. As one of only 7 Riva Lounge locations in the world (other locations include Monaco and Venice), Ikador is the only hotel property that offers Riva Yacht brand concepts – the Riva Lounge pool & bar area and the Riva Privée chef’s table area, designed and furnished by Riva Yacht brand. The Riva Aquariva Super Speedboat is undoubtedly the pinnacle of this unique partnership, though! Hotels guests can explore the Opatija Riviera and nearby islands in true James Bond-style onboard the Riva Aquariva Super speedboat!

With only nine guest rooms and seven suites (including a Presidential Suite), the Ikador fits travelers looking for an exclusive getaway. Open year-round; this is also a perfect winter escape thanks to its luxurious spa and sea-facing location, not to mention the heated outdoor swimming pool, private beach deck, and even a mini-golf course!

Style

Croatian design firm Atellior was brought in to create the design plan for Ikador, and they took much of their inspiration from the land and sea surrounding the hotel. Opatija’s rich history and architectural style provided inspiration for the hotel’s overall design. Atellior wanted to evoke a feeling of the golden age of Opatija but with a modern twist. To do this, they’ve used timeless materials in new and fresh ways and have created architectural details inspired by the historical villas of the area. With infinite sea view of Kvarner Bay visible from every corner of the hotel and luxurious finishes, carefully chosen materials, and bespoke furniture filling out the interior, Ikador gives guests an exquisite and sophisticated vibe.

Ikador Luxury Boutique Hotel Royal Suite

Ikador Luxury Boutique Hotel Ikador Presidential Suite

Accommodations:

Ikador features nine spacious rooms and seven luxurious suites, refined contemporary design, and an array of state-of-the-art facilities.

The opulent marble bathrooms feature satin brass faucets and fixtures, spacious walk-in showers, and Hermès toiletries. Other in-room perks include Illy coffee machines, electric kettles, and a free minibar of soft drinks and snacks. High-tech features include smart room lighting controls, smart LCD TVs, tablets, and wireless charging stations.

With room options varying from the lovely 38 square meter Premium room to the impressive 140 square meters Presidential Suite with a huge terrace and private jacuzzi, Ikador has room options perfect for every type of traveler. Most of the rooms have stunning sea views of Kvarner Bay, and they all have either a balcony or terrace so that guests can savor these views!

Premium double room

Premium double room: Sea view, 38m2 twin beds (2 x 130*210cm) or one king-size bed (260*210), 12m2 furnished terrace (loggia), bathroom with a walk-in rain-effect shower and bidet, complimentary espresso coffee machine, and tea kettle, complimentary minibar with soft drinks and snacks, bathrobe and slippers, Egyptian cotton bed linen, Hermes toiletries, Smart SAT & cable TV, Safe, Working desk and in-room IPAD

Deluxe double room

Deluxe double room: Sea view 46m2, one king-size bed (200*210), 12m2 furnished terrace (loggia), bathroom with a walk-in rain-effect shower and bidet, complimentary espresso coffee machine and tea kettle, complimentary minibar of soft drinks and snacks, bathrobe, and slippers, Egyptian cotton bed linen, Hermes toiletries, Smart SAT & cable TV, Safe, Working desk and in-room IPAD

Suites

Executive suite: Park/garden view 60m2, one bedroom with king-size bed (200*210) and one living room with optional pull-out sofa bed (160*200) for up to 2 persons, 6m2 terrace, bathroom with a walk-in rain-effect shower, and bidet, complimentary espresso coffee machine and tea kettle, complimentary minibar with soft drinks and snacks, bathrobe and slippers, Egyptian cotton linen, 1 Smart SAT & cable TV, Safe, Working desk, in-room IPAD

Junior suite: Panoramic sea view, Penthouse floor 42m2, twin beds (2 x 130*210cm) or one king-size bed (260*210), 33m2 furnished corner terrace, bathroom with a walk-in rain-effect shower and bidet, double sinks, complimentary espresso coffee machine, and tea kettle, complimentary minibar with soft drinks and snacks, bathrobe and slippers, Egyptian cotton bed linen, Hermes toiletries, Smart SAT & cable TV, Safe, Working desk and in-room IPAD.

Deluxe suite: Sea view 60m2, one bedroom with twin beds (2×130*210) or king-size bed (260*210) and one living room with optional pull-out sofa bed (160×200) suitable for up to 2 persons, 12m2 furnished side balcony, bathroom with walk-in rain-effect shower and bidet, complimentary espresso coffee machine and tea kettle, complimentary minibar with soft drinks and snacks, bathrobe and slippers, Egyptian cotton bed linen, Hermes toiletries, 2xSmart SAT & cable TV, Safe, Working desk, in.-room IPAD

Royal Suite & Presidential Suite

Royal suite: Sea view 78m2, one bedroom with twin beds (2×130*210) or king-size bed (260*210) and one living room with optional pull-out sofa bed (160×200) suitable for up to 2 persons, 112m2 furnished side–balcony, one bathroom with walk-in rain-effect shower. bathtub and bidet, one guest toilet, complimentary espresso coffee machine, and tea kettle, complimentary minibar with soft drinks and snacks, bathrobe and slippers, Egyptian cotton bed linen, Hermes toiletries, 2 x Smart SAT & cable TV, Safe, Working desk, and in-room IPAD

Presidential suite: Panoramic sea view, Penthouse floor 140m2, one bedroom with king-size bed (200*210), 92m2 of living room, dining room and kitchen, fireplace, 105m2 of furnished terrace with dining table, lounge area, and private jacuzzi. One bathroom with a walk-in rain-effect shower, bathtub, and bidet, one walk-in closed. Complimentary espresso coffee machine and tea kettle, complimentary minibar with soft drinks and snacks, bathrobe and slippers, Egyptian cotton bed linen, Hermes toiletries, 2 x Smart SAT & cable TV, Yamaha Music Cast 50 audio system, Yamaha Sound Bar system, Safe, Working desk and in-room IPAD

Spa

The hidden gem of the hotel is definitely the full-service spa! The entire 3rd floor of the hotel is devoted to well being and relaxation with amenities like Finnish Savu sauna, Steam Sauna, Salt relax room, Whirlpool for eight, Float zero gravity room, fitness room, and a relaxation area with chromotherapy loungers, not to mention the three treatment rooms where guests can enjoy custom treatments using local artisan ingredients. From the start of your stay, an Ikador Hotel guest experience manager, or Maestro, “orchestrates” your treatments, creating unforgettable experiences and memories.

Culinary

Nobilion Restaurant – a genuine gourmet hotspot of the Opatija Riviera. Seamlessly pairing an exquisite array of carefully picked local produce with the finest wines. A unique feature of the Nobilion Restaurant is the Riva Privee – the prestigious Riva Yacht brand designed a private dining chef’s table.
Edgar Cigar Bar – located on the ground floor next to the restaurant, offers a selection of world-renowned cigars
Lobby Bar – located on the ground floor, offers the finest selection of spirits, cocktails, and hot beverages
Riva Lounge Bar – Ikador’s pool bar and one of only 6 Riva Lounges in the world, a prestigious concept of the famous Riva Yacht brand, designed entirely in the style and materials of the legendary Riva vessels. The bar offers light summer meals during the daytime, available on the pool and beach area, signature cocktails, and a wide selection of top-quality drinks.

Get out & Explore:

While you may be tempted to simply luxuriate on property at Ikador, the hotel was created to offer a place from which to explore the rich history and culture of the surrounding area, so make sure to take some time to get out and explore Opatija.

Start with a stroll along the famous Lungomare Promenade and enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the sea before heading out to explore Kvarner bay and the area islands with Ikador’s Riva boat.

On another day head inland in search of truffles, local olive oil, world class wine and more throughout the Istria region.

Make sure to check the calendar during your stay, as the nearby village of Lovran hosts many food festivals throughout the year, including festivals in celebration of wild asparagus, cherries, and sweet chestnuts!

With Our Compliments:

Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily a la carte breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
$100 USD equivalent in local currency Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability
For stays of 2 nights or more in the Executive Suite, guests will also receive:
- Complimentary Ikalia Float Therapy (20 minute session), once per stay for up to two guests per room
For stays of 3 nights or more in the Deluxe Suite, Royal Suite or Presidential Suite, guests will also receive ONE of the below:
- Complimentary 30 min Riva Yacht experience for 2 guests (depends on weather conditions – available from mid April to mid October)
  - OR
- Complimentary Ikalia Spa Massages (50 minutes), once per stay for up to two guests per room

Getting There:

By Air:

Fly into Rijeka, Pula, Ljubljana, Zagreb (ZAG), Venice (VCE)

Driving distance:

Rijeka – 45 min

Pula – 1 h

Ljubljana – 1h45min

Venice – 2h30min

Ideal Length of Stay:

3 – 4 days

When to go:

May – October

Peak Season: July – August

Who should go:

Spa Lovers, Couples, Families

Combine with:

Istria

Venice

Montenegro

Ideal Length of Stay:

3 – 4 days

When to go:

May – October

Peak Season: July – August

Who should go:

Spa Lovers, Couples, Families

River Oaks Travel Planning Services:

Personalized travel itinerary designed for your unique preferences and style
Dedicated travel expert to manage all travel logistics and provide expertise
VIP amenities: room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, spa and dining credits, and more
24/7 emergency contacts and River Oaks Travel app to access our team

Let us plan your trip

Interested in planning a stay at Ikador Luxury Boutique Hotel Spa?

Contact River Oaks Travel Advisors to BOOK

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Maslina Resort

Tucked away near the UNESCO-protected town of Stari Grad on the Croatian island of Hvar lies a resort that blends with it’s natural surroundings and embodies the idea of “mindful luxury”, Maslina Resort. Croatian architects and French interior designers created this family-owned boutique property to offer an eco-friendly and contemporary resort inspired by nature’s elements.

Their commitment to sustainability is even present in the name. Maslina means ‘olive’, and the original olive trees from the grove that grew here were saved and relocated and now shade the two pools of the hotel.

Style

The design at Maslina Resort offers up a love letter to the Mediterranean, inspired by the natural elements that surround the property. Each of Maslina’s rooms, suites, and villas are decorated with organic materials, many of which were sourced from the island itself, and all enjoy stunning views of the sea and Dalmatian coast.

Discover the history and culture of Hvar without even leaving your room through the touches of terracotta, Brac island stone, brass, and local woods used throughout the design. With a variety of room types ranging from the spacious entry-level Bay Room to Pool Suites with stunning views, large terraces and private plunge pools, and even multi-bedroom villa options, there’s a perfect room for every guest.

Accommodations:

All of Maslina’s fifty-three spacious rooms, suites, and villas enjoy stunning sea views, total privacy, and absolute comfort

Rooms

Bay Room

Fabulous rooms that extend to sunlit loggias where you can enjoy spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea

Premium Bay

Oversized rooms with stunning views of Maslinica Bay; bask in the sun from the spacious loggia just steps away from the sea.

Panoramic Room

Sit back, relax, and enjoy sensational panoramic views of Maslinica Bay from the roomy and radiant loggia.

Premium Panoramic

Oversized rooms that extend to spacious loggias; enjoy scenic views of Maslinica Bay while soaking up the sun.

Suites

Garden Suite

Savor the stunning sea views amidst the lush rooftop gardens from your spacious loggia.

Family Suite

Perfect for families or friends looking for privacy and comfort with connecting bedrooms, shared living space, stunning sea views, and a spacious loggia.

Pool Suite

Enjoy the refreshing views of the Adriatic Coast from your private plunge pool and comfortable loggia.

Pool Garden Suite

Delight in the breathtaking sea views from the spacious terrace and private plunge pool surrounded by a scenic rooftop garden.

Villas

Villa Litica

Unparalleled sea view terraces in all rooms and a master bedroom with two separate walk-in showers; extensive living and open dining spaces make Villa Litica your home away from home.

Villa Uvala

Easily the most breathtaking villa on the Adriatic Coast, Uvala boasts its own gym and spa, five sea-view bedrooms, and a connecting studio with private entrance and office.

Villa Borovina

Fall in love with the breathtaking views of Maslinica Bay, stretching out from the jacuzzi of Villa Borovina’s spectacular terrace.

Get out & Explore:

With its secluded location away from Hvar Town, Maslina offers a peaceful home base to explore the island. Take one of the handcrafted wooden bikes out for a ride along the seaside or make the 10-minute ride into Stari Grad to explore the narrow, cobbled lanes. If guests prefer to venture further afield, the lavender fields of Velo Grablje village are easily reached by car, and the waters surrounding Hvar offer many opportunities to explore secret coves and rugged islands of the Pakleni archipelago or even the larger islands of Brač and Vis.

With Our Compliments:

Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

Daily full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant

Complimentary lunch or dinner for two people per bedroom, once during stay (excluding alcohol, taxes and gratuities)

Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability

Getting There:

Flight into Zagreb (ZAG)

1h30 min drive to Meneghetti

Ideal Length of Stay:

3 – 4 days

When to go:

A year-round destination
Peak season from June to September

Who should go:

Wine Lovers, Couples, Families, Groups

Combine with:

Venice

Opatija Riviera

Zagreb

Member of Relais & Chateaux

River Oaks Travel Planning Services:

Personalized travel itinerary designed for your unique preferences and style
Dedicated travel expert to manage all travel logistics and provide expertise
VIP amenities: room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, spa and dining credits, and more
24/7 emergency contacts and River Oaks Travel app to access our team

Let us plan your trip

Spa

If guests are more inclined to stay close to home, there’s no shortage of amenities on property to satisfy you! Spend an indulgent day being pampered in the Pharomatique Spa – the seafront location surrounded by native pines and olive trees is the height of relaxation. Many of the products are made from herbs and botanicals grown on the property.

For a more profound wellness experience, take part in some of the classes available on site like pilates, ashtanga yoga and reiki sessions. If stretching out on a beach towel instead of a yoga mat is more your style, head down to the private beach club or the infinity pool to relax next to the water and enjoy a selection of delicious snacks and juices made from local ingredients. End your day at A-Bay Beach Bar and enjoy craft cocktails as the sun sets.

The property also has a family pool and an outstanding kid’s club with fun activities like a climbing wall and pizza-making classes for the younger guests!

Culinary

As a Relais & Chateaux member, it stands to reason that the food and beverage options at Maslina are delicious. Order tasty bites all day at A-Bay Beach Bar, or venture to The Restaurant for a Dalmatian mainstay, the gregada fish stew, a tribute to Croatia’s coast. The lemon-soufflé pancake with orange-honey butter and whipped ricotta is a breakfast standout.

Interested in planning a stay at Maslina Resort?

Contact River Oaks Travel Advisors to BOOK

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15 Unforgettable Experiences in Croatia and Montenegro

Explore the Old Town Walls of Dubrovnik

Appreciate the beauty of the terracotta rooftops and sparkling blue waters of the Adriatic Sea from the top of the Old Town Walls of Dubrovnik. With its complex system of towers and forts, you are sure to transcend to another time in history. Looking to understand VictoryXCap better? Visit VictoryXCap trading features review for insights on its offerings.

Bask in the Natural Beauty of The Plitvice Lakes

Bask in the Natural Beauty of The Plitvice Lakes. Plitvice Lakes comprises 16 intertwined lakes that flow into one another via miniature waterfalls. Get up close and personal to these beautifully flowing forces of nature. Walkways and hiking trails wind around and across the water, and an electric boat can transport you from the 12 upper and 4 lower lakes.

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Roam the Streets of Diocletian's Palace in Split

Diocletian’s Palace is an ancient palace built for the Roman emperor Diocletian at the turn of the fourth century AD, which today forms about half the old town of Split. After the palace was abandoned in the sixth century, locals flooded into it. The 220 Roman-era buildings within the palace boundaries house homes, shops, bars, and other businesses. So grab a drink or a coffee and stumble through the enchanting architecture.

Go Truffle Hunting with a Four-legged Expert

Istria is Croatia’s truffle capital, home to some of the world’s finest truffles. This valuable mushroom grows best in the Mirna River Valley, and it can only be found with the help of trained terrier dogs or domestic pigs during a “truffle hunt”. Aside from Italy, Croatia is the only country where white truffles are found, whose peak price is around $4,000 per pound.

Enjoy Sophisticated Charm at a Boutique Hotel

Indulge your inner foodie at Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery in Istria. As a Relais & Chateaux property, you can expect the chefs to turn high-quality ingredients sourced from within 50 KM of the property into Istrian haute-cuisine as part of their quest to reconstruct and reinterpret the area’s traditional recipes. Stroll through the expansive vineyards or take a dip in the peaceful garden pool. Another favorite property, Ikador Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa, sits amid the timeless beauty of the Opatija Riviera. Explore this true oasis of Mediterranean luxury with 16 elegantly designed rooms and suites overlooking the endless blue Kvarner bay sea.

Spend a Day On the Water

Whether you choose to island hop via sailboat or relax and take in the glittering turquoise waters beachside, Croatia’s waters are truly breathtaking. Take a private motorboat to Korcula Island. With over 2000 years of history, the former Greek colony of the “Black Korcula” is a living monument with captivating island ambiance and valuable cultural heritage.

Go Hiking in Montenegro

Montenegro is celebrated for its long beaches (117 of them along 293 kilometers of coastline) and its Instagram-worthy hiking trails. No trip to Montenegro is complete without hiking around The Bay of Kotor which boasts an impressive view of the Sveti Andrika fortress at the 743-meter crest. Other notable hikes include the Via Dinarica, Mrtvica, and Mount Bjelasica. River Oaks Travel Advisor Tip: Stay at One & Only Portonovi

Explore UNESCO Sights

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites are important to cultural or natural heritage as described in the UNESCO World Heritage Convention. Croatia is home to 10 UNESCO sights, with 15 more locations currently being evaluated for adoption. Explore the Stari Grad Plain, an ancient agricultural landscape that has been preserved by careful maintenance of the stone walls over 24 centuries, and the The Episcopal Complex of the Euphrasian Basilica, with its striking mosaics dating back to the 6th century, is one of the best examples of early Byzantine art and architecture in the Mediterranean region and the world.

Be James Bond for a Day

Embark on your own Riva experience and explore the Kvarner archipelago in a true Bond style, with the majestic Riva Aquariva Super speedboat, available only in the prestigious Ikador Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa! Riva yachts have always been a synonym for elegance and luxury. The unique expression and impeccable design of the Riva brand vessels represent the pinnacle of Italian artisan skill. Ever since the ’50s and the “La Dolce Vita “- era, some of the most famous persons enjoyed the Riva lifestyle – from Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Elisabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, to Sofia Loren and Sean Connery in the famous Bond movies.

Re-Live Your Favorite Scenes From Game of Thrones

Winter is coming! Since most of the hit HBO show’s filming took place in Croatia, there are plenty of private and group touring opportunities to walk the very steps of Daenerys and Oberyn. You can even walk the “Walk of Shame,” see where Joffrey died, and find out what was going on behind the scenes while filming took place.

Collect and Eat Oysters Fresh From the Sea

Enjoy a private oyster boat tour with a local farmer, learn how the oysters are grown, and taste them fresh from the sea! Then, on his private island, under the shade of pine trees, enjoy a special treat: mussels alla buzzara. Relax and savor this traditional Dalmatian dish prepared with nothing but olive oil and local herbs, all topped with homemade wine.

Explore Krka National Park

If you don’t have enough time to make it inland to Plitvice Lakes, the waterfalls at Krka National Park are just a one-hour drive outside of Split and are equally as stunning. Plus you’ll get to take in the view of Visovac Monastery located in the middle of a lake.

Island Hop the Pakleni Islands

The Pakleni Islands, a chain of eleven playful islets watching over the Hvar port. Although their name popularly translates as Hell islands, it originally derives from paklina, the pine resin harvested here to coat ships. Enjoy the azure waves, beautiful coves surrounded by pine forests, and gentle breeze scented by aromatic herbs.

Aerial view of Paklinski Islands in Hvar, Croatia.

Advent Zagreb

If you’re looking to push your trip until the winter, you will experience what was awarded “Best Christmas Market” three years running. The sound of Christmas bells, the scent of gingerbread, mulled wine, and various other delicacies… Just forget everything and enjoy all these wonderful things! During the Advent season, Zagreb offers various events that will satisfy even the most demanding visitors. Plenty of fun, excellent food, unique events, art, but also a genuine Christmas atmosphere await you on the streets of Croatia’s capital.

Rent Your Own Scooter

Explore some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands by scooter. Follow your guide through quaint villages, past lavender fields and vineyards, and along isolated roads with dramatic views onto the glittering Mediterranean. Explore the islands of Brač, Hvar (rated by Condé Nast magazine as one of the “Ten most beautiful islands in the world”) and lovely Vis. After the ride, relax in charming, historic villages and enjoy the fresh cuisine and excellent local wines.

Interested in planning a trip to Croatia or Montenegro?

Contact River Oaks Travel Agency to Start Your Trip

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Greece & Croatia Open For Travel

US Travelers Can Now Visit Greece & Croatia

Over the last year, most of our travelers have had to stick closer to home with domestic adventures and Texas staycations. We’ve been looking forward to seeing destinations further abroad reopen, and are so excited that US travelers can now visit both Greece and Croatia! Read below for a quick overview of the travel requirements (and a peak of some of our favorite hotels and experiences), then contact an advisor to start planning your own trip!

Greece Entry Requirements

Greece opened to international tourists on April 19, 2021 (one month earlier than originally planned!). Greece will allow entrance to US travelers that meet one of the following three criteria:

Have proof of COVID-19 vaccination
Have recovered from COVID-19 and have antibodies
Can show a negative PCR test result performed less than three days prior to departure

Your River Oaks Travel concierge will walk you through all of the requirements to enter Greece as part of our travel planning process.

Some of our favorite hotels in Greece:

Mystique, Santorini

Celebrating the finer pleasures in life, Mystique is sensual luxury on the sun-drenched isle of Santorini. Choose from a selection of suites and villas, each with a sea-facing terrace with sun loungers, and some with outdoor pools and Jacuzzis. With every comfort attended to, from private meals to personalized concierge experiences, you are left only to enjoy the resort. Swim in the infinity pools, then grab a cocktail at Aura. Head to the Secret Wine Cave for a ceremonial winetasting, then dine at Charisma Greek restaurant or ASEA Japanese restaurant.

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Blue Palace, Crete

Escape to the wild beauty and unrivaled island style of a bohemian luxe hotel on a private beach, with incomparable views and crystal waters. Blue Palace, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Crete has 251 guest rooms, suites, and private villas. Its lush cuisine, the award-winning Elounda Spa with thalassotherapy facilities, and unbeatable service set this resort apart. Enjoy private boat cruises around the Gulf of Elounda, a barbecue lunch on an isolated beach after snorkeling in turquoise waters, or simply gazing at the island of Spinalonga while sitting around an open-air fire at the Isola Beach Club.

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Dubrovnik, Croatia is Open to US Travelers

Croatia Entry Requirements

Croatia is currently open to travelers from the USA! In addition to showing confirmation of paid accommodations or private tour (which River Oaks Travel will arrange!), travelers must meet one of the following requirements:

Have proof of full COVID-19 vaccination and second dose received at least 14 days prior to arrival
Have a certificate of recovery from COVID-19 within 11 – 180 days prior to arrival
Can show a negative PCR test result performed less than 48 hours prior to departure – if staying in
Croatia more than 10 days, a rapid antigen test must be repeated within 10 days from initial test
Children under the age of 7 can enter without restrictions

Your River Oaks Travel concierge will walk you through all of the requirements to enter Croatia as part of our travel planning process.

Some of our favorite hotels in Croatia:

Villa Dubrovnik

Villa Dubrovnik is ideally set on the cliffs of Saint Jacob’s District with direct stunning views of the Adriatic and historical city, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Unique 56 residences offer sea or city views and all have private balconies. Easy access to the city and isolated position is a plus for this hotel. Enjoy the ambience and sunsets on the rooftop bar. Indulge in Mediterranean cuisine at Michelin recommended Restaurant Pjerin or Al Fresco Bar Giardino. Relish the breeze in the indoor/outdoor pool and seaside terrace or beach club. Soothe your soul at the lavish Villa Spa or at the contemporary gym.

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Hotel Monte Mulini

You’ll find plenty to love along Croatia’s heart-shaped Istrian Peninsula – beginning with Hotel Monte Mulini. Set atop a small hill overlooking the Adriatic with the Punta Corrente forest as a backdrop, the hotel affords gorgeous views from all 113 rooms and suites. Its 4,200-square-foot poolscape dazzles with four distinctive pools surrounded by lush gardens; claim a plush lounger, follow the hydro-circuit, or belly up to the pool bar. Go kayaking and paddleboarding, get a gold-infused facial, sip a gin and tonic in the cozy gin library, and take a seat at the chef’s table in the Wine Vault restaurant.

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Ready to plan your own trip to Greece or Croatia?

Whether you’re looking to relax on a beach in Santorini or tour the cobbled streets of Dubrovnik, you really should be using a travel advisor to maximize your experience! Send us a message using the below form and a River Oaks Travel agent will reach out to you to start the planning process.