ALH TIMES - 2018 edition by Adriatic Luxury Hotels

issue 2018

w elcome

ALH TIMES the official adriatic luxury hotel s periodical

w at e r p o l o l e a g u e

Dubrovnik’s Wild League page 29

dingač wines

September in Pelješac vineyards page 37

t h e g i b r a lta r o f d u b r o v n i k

The Fortress of St. Lawrence page 40

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

naslov teme

content

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Content r egul a r columns

highligh t s

Summer houses of Rijeka dubrovačka

September in Pelješac vineyards – Dingač wine

04 News 06 Dubrovnik — a Mediterranean treasure 08 The short list

26 Lena Kramarić The new Croatia collection

29 14 Oh beautiful, oh dear, oh sweet liberty….

Dubrovnik’s “Wild” Water polo League

40 The Gibraltar of Dubrovnik – Fort Lovrijenac

Sveti Andrija

Pardon My Croatian – Ice cream edition

34 Extreme Big Game Fishing

10 Dubrovnik Quintessentially 21 Dubrovnik as a Stage 23 Dream-Haves / Fashion 24 Dubrovnik Summer Festival 33 Events in Dubrovnik

44 Get outdoors! Adventure Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik Top Instamoments — Skalini

Konavle Tips

Life According to Kawa

Dubrovnik FestiWine

52 Cavtat diving bucket list

46 Delicious Secret Dubrovnik Recipes 48 ALH Kitchen confidential 54 Adriatic Luxury Hotels

Impressum Publisher: Adriatic Luxury Hotels, Jadranski Luksuzni Hoteli d.d. | Masarykov put 20 | 20 000 Dubrovnik | Phone: +385 (0)20 300 350 | Fax: +385 (0)20 300 319 E-mail: marketing@alh.hr | www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com Editor in Chief: ALH Sales & Marketing Team | Design and pre-press: Negra Nigoević | Photo credit: Adriatic Luxury Hotels archive, Maria Concept Store, Blue Planet Diving Centre, Dubrovnik Beer Company, Dingač – Skaramuča d.o.o., Kawa, Epidaurum Diving Centre, Dubrovnik Summer Festival, Hrvatski restauratorski zavod / Croatian Conservation Institute, Zaklada Caboga Stiftung, Dubrovnik PartneR d.o.o. | Advertising: Silvija Valjalo | e-mail: silvija.valjalo@alh.hr | Tel: +385 (0)20 300 317 M: +385 (0)91 430 1508 | Printing copies: 15 000 | Print: Alfa-2 ©Adriatic Luxury Hotels March, 2018

alh news

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

News alh

Welcome to our hotel group! Adriatic Luxury Hotels (ALH) is a management company managing most luxurious hotels and villas in Dubrovnik, Croatia. Currently, our portfolio consists of 12 properties. Find out more about our properties and ideas for your next holiday destination on page 54.

small luxury hotels and adriatic luxury hotels on a joint mission Small Luxury Hotels of the World is a brand affiliation with 520 luxury hotels in more than 80 countries. Their zeal for one-of-a-kind experiences, led them to independent-minded, smaller, niche properties that have one thing in common: excellence. What we particularly like about SLH is how they define luxury: ‘True luxury doesn’t conform, it’s rare and unique.’ We couldn’t agree more. SLH are the champions of small, independent luxury hotels ensuring guests enjoy genuinely authentic luxury travel experiences - and we are thrilled to join them on this mission. We are delighted to announce that two of our properties – Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik and the Villa Orsula - have entered 2018 as a part of the SLH family.

hotel excelsior dubrovnik became a part of the distinguished hotel lover’s club Every passionate traveller who takes pride and time in the careful selection of properties when planning the next dream vacation, simply must have looked for Mr & Mrs Smith recommendations at least once. As their tagline says, they are The travel club for hotel lovers – and like-minded people. And they are very serious about it.

’’Every club has a purpose. Ours is to knock your socks off, with help from the world’s best bedrooms. We don’t want this to be a one-night stand or a quick fling; we’re in it for the long-haul.’’ Though Mr & Mrs Smith will always emphasize quality over quantity in their collection, they became a renowned worldwide brand with around 950 hotels in more than 80 countries.

They pick the world’s best boutique and luxury hotels which combine premium locations, fabulous service, unique design, tradition and, of course, a Smith’s kind of atmosphere. After an extensive renovation in 2017, the beloved century-old landmark Hotel Excelsior begins a new chapter in its storied history, now proudly as a member of Mr & Mrs Smith’s reputable collection.

Membership in this carefully curated collection is by invitation only, so our joy was even greater when Hotel Excelsior was invited to join Mr & Mrs Smith on their endeavours to make travellers happy in the long-run. How better to describe them but in their own words?

michelin guide recommended Secluded from the outside world at the top of a 30-metre cliff, the Hotel Bellevue’s a la carte restaurant, Vapor, is a must-taste dining experience for gourmet visitors to Dubrovnik. In 2017, the prestigious gastronomic guide Michelin published a selection of top restaurants in Croatia among which, Restaurant Vapor was also listed. We are proud to confirm the Michelin recommendation for a second year and to continue serving great food to great people! To find out more about the restaurant or to book a table, please contact the hotel Guest Relations Desk.

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

naslov teme

dubrovnik — a mediterranean treasure

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Dubrovnik a Mediterranean Treasure At the southern tip of Croatia’s long coastline, Dubrovnik has long been known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, but it is in fact one of the great sights of the Mediterranean, rightly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to its natural beauty and rich history, Dubrovnik’s cultural events and diverse programme of attractions and activities in all seasons, make Dubrovnik the perfect destination for sightseeing, sport, cultural events or simply relaxing in a beautiful Mediterranean setting. For many centuries Dubrovnik was an independent Republic, a proud cultural centre and an important Mediterranean trading power. Although no longer politically independent, it remains a centre of culture and tourism - a city of museums and galleries, famous for its annual Summer Festival, an international celebration of outstanding music and theatre. Add to all this the seductive charm of a balmy Mediterranean climate and coastal scenery of incomparable beauty, and you have a powerful magnet for international tourism.

Dubrovnik is more than a city. A perfect combination of past, present and future, of culture, heritage and natural beauty, it offers a unique experience and unforgettable holidays. No wonder it has become the latest must-see Mediterranean destination.

The enchantment starts with the panoramic view of the Old Town of Dubrovnik, glimpsed first from the winding road that brings you to town from the airport. Rare are the cities that can boast a comparable location, or such well-preserved medieval walls. These ancient fortifications were built with good reason - conquerors have always been attracted to Dubrovnik’s beauty and wealth, even as recently as the last decade of the 20th century. But now Dubrovnik’s walls teem not with soldiers, but tourists and open-air theatre performers. Half a million people visit the city every year, to experience its fascinating historic attractions. Dubrovnik is itself a living museum, a treasure trove of Baroque, Renaissance and medieval churches and palaces. The people of Dubrovnik are immensely proud of their city. They love their beautiful coastline, the sparkling emerald and sapphire hues of the clear sea as it crashes against the rocks of countless bays and coves, and the cliffs of lush subtropical vegetation. And they love the warm southern climate. With more than 250 days of sunshine a year, Dubrovnik sunbathes even in winter, when the orange and

lemon trees are filled with fruit. The average temperature is 10°C in winter and around 26°C in summer. Dubrovnik’s long history of renowned visitors starts with Richard the Lionheart, crusader king of England, whom legend claims visited here in the 12th century. The city’s guest book includes royalty, statesmen, athletes, actors, artists, and musicians of every nation. Edward and Mrs. Simpson, Queen Elizabeth II, King Olaf, Margaret Thatcher, Edward Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Michael Douglas and Catharine Zeta Jones, Richard Gere, Nick Nolte and Tom Cruise are just some of the great names who have walked the shining marble stones of the Old Town Stradun. Many celebrities anchor their luxury yachts just outside the Old Town, in front of the island of Lokrum. Roman Abramović, Paul Getty, Bill Gates, Caroline of Monaco, the King of Jordan and the Sultan of Oman are among those who value the privacy of their floating palaces. Oligarchs and humble backpackers alike succumb to the seductive beauty of Dubrovnik.

Did you know? The Dubrovnik Republic was one of the first countries in the world to recognise the newly independent United States of America, in 1776.

Richard the Lionheart, King of England, came to Dubrovnik in the autumn of 1192, on his return from the crusades. He took shelter from a storm on the island of Lokrum.

In 1296 the Dubrovnik Republic built a sewage system which is still in use.

The pharmacy in the Franciscan monastery in Dubrovnik has been operating continuously since 1317.

The Dubrovnik maritime insurance law (“Ordo super assecuratoribus”, 1568) is the oldest such law in the world.

Dubrovnik’s navy in the 16th century consisted of 40,000 sailors and more than 180 large ships, and was one of the most powerful in the Mediterranean.

Dubrovnik passed a resolution abolishing slavery and forbidding the transport of slaves on 27 January 1416, making it the first state in Europe to abolish slavery.

The orphanage founded at the Convent of St. Claire in 1432 was one of the first in the world.

Shakespeare’s “Merchant of Venice” and “The Taming of the Shrew” mention the term “argosy,” meaning “a boat from Dubrovnik.”

The first quarantine in the world was established in Dubrovnik in 1377. Travellers arriving from areas infected with contagious disease were separated and held in the quarantine until they were proven to be healthy.

When the Minčeta Tower was builtin 1464, the builders did not have enough stones to complete the building. Everyone arriving from Gruž or Ploče was required to bring with them the heaviest stone they could carry to contribute to the project.

Trsteno arboretum near Dubrovnik was founded in the 15th century and is the oldest arboretum in the world. Some of the plane trees are almost 400 years old.

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

naslov teme

dubrovnik — the short list

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

T HE REC T OR ’ S P ALACE The unadorned simplicity of this Gothic-Renaissance palace may seem too modest for the affluence of the Dubrovnik Republic, but restraint was the style of those times, and this splendid building has survived explosions and earthquakes throughout the years. The Rector of Dubrovnik lived in this palace during his one-month rule, separated from his family, and was only allowed to leave the building for official business. The atrium is a harmonious space, with Corinthian columns, galleries, a beautiful Baroque staircase and outstanding acoustics. It is often used for chamber music concerts.

The Short List

S T RADUN Although its official name is Placa, everyone knows the main street of the Old Town as Stradun, the favourite promenade of every Dubrovnik resident and visitor. Rebuilt after the earthquake of 1667, it is a broad axis of graceful and harmonious stone buildings, impressive in their simple dignity. After the disaster, the devastated city needed to secure its defence quickly and ensure that life in the city would continue. Thus all the houses along the Stradun were rebuilt according to designs approved by the Senate of the Republic. Buildings along the Stradun were all rebuilt to a uniform height, with nearly identical facades, and similar layout, with shops on the ground floor, as trade was a top priority of the Republic of Dubrovnik.

Our guide to must-see Dubrovnik sights LOVRIJENAC F OR T RESS

CI T Y WALLS Dubrovnik’s most celebrated landmark is its city walls, a 1,940m stone curtain surrounding the old city. Much more than a simple wall, the strongest and most beautiful city fortification complex on the Mediterranean includes towers, bastions, castles and fortresses. The outer dimensions have remained the same since the 14th century, but the structures themselves took shape gradually during the golden age of Dubrovnik - from the fall of Constantinople in 1453 to the great earthquake of 1667. Walking the ramparts is a magnificent introductory tour of the city.

Perched on a cliff 37 m above the sea, this fortress was built in the 16th century to protect the city from Venetian attack. On the fortress’ walls an historic inscription can still be read: Non bene pro toto libertas venditur auro. Freedom cannot be sold for gold. The fortress is often used as a performance stage during the Summer Festival, and makes a magnificent setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

dubrovnik — the short list

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

S P ON Z A P ALACE All trade routes of the Dubrovnik Republic led to this building, one of the loveliest palaces in the city. Constructed in a blend of late Gothic and Renaissance styles according to the designs of Paskoje Miličević, the palace successfully combines many styles and gives us a glimpse of the richness of the lavish palaces that stood in Dubrovnik before the 1667 earthquake. The arcaded courtyard was a lively trading centre and meeting place. One wing of the building housed the state mint, founded in the 14th century and operated within the Sponza Palace until the fall of the Republic. Today the palace is the seat of the Dubrovnik archive, which safeguards the city’s oldest documents and invaluable historical materials. The square in front of the Sponza Palace is the site of the opening ceremony of the Dubrovnik Summer Festival each year; from the palace’s beautiful piano nobile terrace, actors dressed in costumes of Dubrovnik’s rector and noblemen evoke the spirit and noble traditions of the Dubrovnik Republic.

ROLAND ’ S COLUMN On the main square, between the Sponza Palace and Church of St. Blaise, stands a 15th century stone column with a sculpture of a warrior. The sculpture represents the knight Roland, who allegedly saved Dubrovnik from the Saracens and was deeply revered during the Dubrovnik Republic. The white flag of the Republic was always flown proudly here.

MIN Č E T A F OR T RESS Dominating the city, and defying all enemies, this beautiful fortress is a symbol of Dubrovnik’s freedom. A smaller rectangular tower on this site dates from the 14th century, while the monumental round tower we know today was designed by the Florentine Renaissance architect Michelozzo Michelozzi and the Croatian Juraj Dalmatinac, and was completed in 1464. From the top of Minčeta tower, you can enjoy a stunning view of the town and surrounding areas.

CHURCH O F SAIN T BLAISE This church is a symbol of the city of Dubrovnik and its protector and patron saint. It stands at the centre of the Old Town. Each year the city celebrates St. Blaise’s Day on February 3, in festivities attended by the citizens of Dubrovnik and visitors from many cities across Europe.

d u b r o v n i k q u i n t e s s e n t i a l ly

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Dubrovnik Quintessentially EX P LORE Choose your own Dubrovnik adventure

Walking the walls and enjoying the beach is always fun, but for a happening holiday packed with the best parties, bars and shops, you need some inside information. Let ALH Times be your guide to an oasis of chic, in a Dubrovnik you’ve never seen before.

Getting there You can get to Lokrum by a lovely 10-minute boat ride on the “Skala” and “Zrinski” vessels, which depart every half hour in peak season from the Old City port. Tickets can be purchased at the pier, just before boarding. The first boat departs from the Old City port at 9 a.m. and the last one returns from Lokrum at 7 or 8 p.m. (depending on the season).

01 Dubrovnik Cable Car Ride up to the top of Mount Srđ and enjoy, without a doubt, the best view of the Old Town, the Adriatic Sea, and nearby islands, along with a coffee or cocktail. Up here, even the rainiest day makes inspiring scenery.

BRING HOME SOME T HING S P ECIAL

Inside tip Wait a bit later in the day, and avoid the morning crowds.

Unforgettable buys for everyone on your gift list

03 Pjaca Dubrovnik Green Market

02 Island of Lokrum Just off the coast of Dubrovnik Old Town, the island of Lokrum is a place of stories, mysteries and legends. Once home to Benedictine monks, this island was also a legendary safe haven for Richard the Lionheart on his return from the crusades, a defence point built by Napoleon in 1806, and GOT’s city of Quarth. Today, Lokrum remains a sanctuary – a perfect, crowd-free summer getaway for the people of Dubrovnik. Mother Nature has always reigned supreme here. Virtually untouched for centuries, Lokrum is legally protected as Nature Reserve and a Special Forest Vegetation Reserve, inhabited only by families of rabbits and peacocks that were introduced to the island in the 19th century by the Austrian archduke Maximilian, who also started an exotic botanical garden. The entire coast of Lokrum can be considered a beach, with rocky shores that in some places create perfect swimming spots. A must-see is the lake known as the “Dead Sea” - a small salt water lake connected to the open sea on the east side of the island. The bravest visitors can also go cliff diving on the island’s open sea side or visit the Purple Cave hidden at the far end of the island.

There has been much written about the Mediterranean diet extolling the benefits for the health and longevity of residents of the region. Certainly enjoy local cuisine while you are here. In addition to diverse offerings from local restaurants, take home some of Dubrovnik’s famous delicacies such as kotonjata (quince jelly), arancini (candied orange peel), caramelized almonds and dried figs. Taste seasonal cheese, olives, honey and Mediterranean spices or home-made fruit and flower liqueurs and brandies with herbs, all of which can be safely packed for your journey home. If you choose hand-made, cold-pressed soaps made exclusively of natural ingredients such as olive, palm- and almond oil, goat milk, essential oils, lavender or crushed almonds, they will give you the pleasure of natural care long after your vacation is over. One of the best places to pick up these natural souvenirs is the daily outdoor market on Gundulić square. The oldest market in Dubrovnik, set up in 1892, is located in the prominent, baroque square not far from the Rector’s Palace and Cathedral. Enjoy the smell of fresh local produce, listen to locals bargain and, perhaps, get a great bargain yourself, but head there early as the market closes up at noon. Inside tip Mantala – a traditional local sweet created from grape pulp leftover in wine production is a must try!

04 Du brov nik’s Traditional Jewellery The goldsmith’s craft is one of the oldest and best-known arts in Dubrovnik. Flourishing in the 14th and 15th centuries, goldsmiths created the favourite adornments of Dubrovnik noblewomen with special care, skill and artistry. Jewellery was also an integral part of local folk costumes and played an important part in local family rituals as girls received earrings at baptism and at other important stages in their lives. It was traditionally around Zlatarska ulica (Goldsmiths’ Street) that the main jewellery workshops were to be found, although these days they are more randomly scattered throughout the Old Town. Inside tip Gold or silver filigree, rečini (earrings), puce (decorative buttons) or red coral necklaces with gold-plated balls, make unique souvenirs that last a lifetime. Their timeless designs have been worn by dignitaries and celebrities such as Queen Rania of Jordan and actress Gillian Anderson.

d u b r o v n i k q u i n t e s s e n t i a l ly

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

05 Maestral Dubrovnik Beer Company When talking about drinks in Dubrovnik the conversation usually went in direction of “elegant, multilayered, with ripe fruit notes of cherry and prune, and vibrant, ruby colour.” Dingač wines. But local craft beers have also recently appeared on the scene, and the talk stirred more into the “Pale golden coloured, medium sized white head, some grain in the nose. Malty, light bready and herbal hoppy taste, with a dry bitter finish. A clean and easily drinkable lager …” tones, in this case for Maestral, a signature craft of Dubrovnik Beer Company. Named for the refreshing north-western wind that blows during the warmest part of summer’s day, Maestral is the best way to keep cool along the Dalmatian coast. If you are interested in the actual brewing process, using yeast, hops and malt, you can book one of their regular brewery tours, or pick up a bottle in specialty shops including Kawa (Ploče Gate), Pomalo (Lapad) and bars around Dubrovnik Old Town.

COLLEC T MEMORIES

07 D u b r o v n i k S u m m e r F e s t i va l – T h e Op e n i n g N i g h t Each year, July 10th officially marks the beginning of true summer in Dubrovnik. In addition to the extensive festival programme, don’t miss the legendary opening fireworks, as they light up the Old Town harbour. Inside tip: Hotel Excelsior’s Abakus Piano Bar or Victoria Restaurant & Lounge are prime locations to enjoy the fireworks. But make sure to make a reservation at your Guest Relations desk.

09 Barbieri di Ragusa The beginning of the 20th century marks the “golden age’’ of barbershops. Visiting one was a weekly routine that every man, regardless of the depth of his pocket, did with a smile. As soon as you stepped into the shop, you would have been fully absorbed in the homey, almost family atmosphere of these small spaces. Well-known fragrances of home-made soaps, after-shave, various hair and face tonics, oils and neck powders were infused deep in every crevice of the wooden furniture. Comfortably settled, at the first splash of warm water on your face, relaxation was guaranteed. Barbershops were also a source of information; people discussed politics, traded important gossip, and engaged in heated debates about sports. It was a tradition, something that fathers and sons did together, a place to socialize, to connect, with a “women-forbidden” unwritten rule. This was no place for depilation, epilation, highlights or facials. Only a good haircut and good conversation. Inside Tip This was not a romantic story of times gone by. There were times when Dubrovnik barbers and shoemakers could form their own football teams, but today you can hardly get the four of them together to play a game of cards. However the same old-fashioned atmosphere still awaits you at Od Puča 41 Street in the Old Town where Mr. Čikato and his team of permanent regulars are happy to inform you of everything that is going on in Town. We’re sure they would say ladies are welcome too!

08 Treasure Hunt … with a twist! Blue Planet Diving Center

06 A dr i atic fleur de sel Under the influence of the strong Adriatic sun, the sea surface creates a highly prized, thin crystal plate of salt which is pure and nutritionally different than ordinary sea salt - Fleur de sel (“Flower of salt” in French). It is hand harvested by workers who scrape only the top layer of salt before it sinks to the bottom of large salt pans. Particularly appreciated for its distinctive taste of calcium and magnesium sulphate, Fleur de sel is a delicacy and a ‘finishing’ salt; you don’t cook with it, but sprinkle it over dishes just before serving … Our first suggestion would be purchasing it in Ston; a small village 59 kilometres (37 miles) from Dubrovnik whose salt harvesting tradition dates back to 14th century and the time of Dubrovnik Republic. If Ston doesn’t end up on your itinerary you can also find it in local delicacy stores and souvenir shops from another Croatian producer – Nin Salt Works.

Usually, when you put on a diving suit, you’re not prepared to visit a winery, but … this season our Hotel Dubrovnik Palace diving center Blue Planet and their partner Edivo company have created a unique opportunity to combine these two great pleasures - diving and tasting of famous local red wine. Wine of highest quality is stored underwater in tightly sealed and beautifully designed amphorae, waiting for all divers and wine lovers to discover them. The sea really seems like a logical storage choice. Seawater offers perfect conditions for aging wines. At the depth of 20 meters, temperatures are stable, there is minimum light and the silence that you can find at these depths is tranquilizing both to the wines and passionate divers. Inside tip: Not only are wines available for tasting after the dive, but an Amphora covered with seashells also makes an excellent diving trophy to bring home!

10 Best v iew of the Cit y stage In 1385 Dubrovnik joined the city-states of the Italian Peninsula, France and England whose public clocks were calibrated to chime the exact time. Starting in 1444, the clock enjoyed a new location – newly built bell tower on central axis of the main city promenade. At the top of the tower, bronze figures (known locally as Maro and Baro) strike the bell with hammers on the hour and half-hour., From their enviable 31 meter-high position, they have overseen the city as time and life unfolded in the very heart of Dubrovnik. Their chimes, resounding with pride, also used to convoke the Republic’s Council session or warn in cases of danger. Distinctive and familiar, they still chime today with the only difference being the green patina acquired over time, which gave them the well-known nickname ‘Zelenci’ (Green guys). Sending hundreds of pigeons soaring in the air with each blow, they are a constant reminder of a glorious past that everyone in Dubrovnik feels proud to be a part of. Inside tip once the exclusive domain of the diligent workmen who maintained its clock mechanism, the city bell tower has recently opened to the public. Climb up, witness its past and share a “selfie” with Dubrovnik’s main promenade and red-tiled roofs as a backdrop.

summer house bunić kaboga

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

L J ETNIKOVAC BUNIĆ KABOGA

Summer houses of Rijeka dubrovačka be performed. The large and specially laid out gardens were dedicated to the leisure pursuits of noble families and their friends, as well as to the satisfaction of their cultural needs. The most knowledgeable individuals of that time - philosophers, poets, painters, artists, scientists, and politicians-gathered here to share and discuss their thoughts, ideas, interests, and discoveries. The villas themselves were frequently decorated with artworks which enhanced their cultural significance. Indeed, it wouldn’t be unfair to say that Dubrovnik’s cultural and scientific life took place in the villas outside the walls rather than inside the city itself.

If you happen to drive or take a tour down Rijeka dubrovačka, you will be tempted to stop and gaze at one of 50 summer residences, stretching along the five-kilometre coast of the Ombla river. Dubrovnik nobility started building these villas in search for an ideal life, inspiration, and, of course, for more fertile commercial negotiations and political decisions. The number of villas increased enormously in the 16th century, when it became the standard aspiration of noble families – and the wealthier non-noble families – to have a place outside the city. Translations of the Croatian terms ljetnikovac (summer house) or ladanjska kuća (country house) don’t quite convey how important these residences were to the life of the city. Indeed, this villa culture is just as important to the city’s heritage as its medieval walls or its monastery cloisters. These residences were used all year round, and very often became the centre of a family’s social life rather than a place of quiet retreat. They were frequently located near the family’s fruit orchards, vineyards and olive groves, so played an economic role as well. The 16th century explosion of second homes led to changes in lifestyle and culture. It was at these villas that people would meet to talk about the latest developments in business affairs or the arts, or attend parties at which music or plays would

Although there is plenty of fine architecture within the city walls, especially when it comes to the former citystates’ governmental buildings (e.g. Sponza Palace, Rector’s Palace), these family homes tend to be hidden behind plain stone facades – private grandeur was rarely put on public display. Outward extravagance was considered bad form among Dubrovnik nobles, though these palaces offered both the luxury of space, and access to the outdoors therefore these second homes were rarely showy or palatial. They were usually located along the waterfront, protected by high stone walls, while their construction reflected the trends that prevailed in Renaissance Italy. There were certain conventions governing the shape of these villas. They usually took an L-shaped form, with a main building comprising a central hall surrounded by four rooms, and an annex leading down to the waterfront boat house. Within the villa’s walls there was always a garden divided into box-hedge quadrants, with pergolas to enable shaded strolling, and possibly a fishpond connected by a small channel to the seafront outside. Dubrovnik’s Renaissance villas are still an important feature of the landscape, although they are often hidden behind high walls and palm trees, or edged into anonymity by neighbouring modern buildings. Given the many violent upheavals in Dubrovnik’s history (notably the great earthquake of 1667, or the destruction wrought by the Franco-Russian War of 1807 or the recent Croatian War of Independence 1991 - 1995), it’s perhaps surprising that

Owning a villa outside the crowded city centre still remains a dream of many - and it hasn’t changed much since the 14th century when members of the Dubrovnik nobility started to understand the benefits of spending summer months away from the city crowds. During the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries when the Dubrovnik Republic was at its height, the area of Rijeka dubrovačka offered beautiful countryside, beside the river, where the nobility could watch the sun rise and set, in peace and pure beauty in comparison to crowded city noise. The area proved to be ideal for cultivation due to the benefits of mild climate, fertile soil and abundant water resources. Patrician families in Renaissance Dubrovnik were well aware of this.

summer house bunić kaboga

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

so many of the city’s Renaissance villas have survived. Few of the original villa-owning families are still around. Today, some of these villas remain in private hands, some are owned by institutions, and quite a few languish uninhabited, the potential targets of some future renovation project. Very few indeed are accessible to the public, rendering Dubrovnik’s villa culture an enduringly secretive, semi-hidden world. The one villa that regularly opens its doors to the public is the Bunić-Kaboga Villa. Recently restored to its Gothic-Renaissance glory by descendants of the original family, this colonnaded mansion is a frequent venue for conferences and social events.

BUNI Ć - KABOGA SUMMER HOUSE The summer residence of Miho Junijev Bunić (Bona) and later of the Kabužić family – known nowadays as Bunić-Kaboga, was built from 1520 to 1540 at Batahovina in the Rijeka dubrovačka district - a narrow inlet only a few kilometres from the historic nucleus of the City of Dubrovnik. This villa is undoubtedly one of the finest examples of Gothic - Renaissance style in Dubrovnik rural architecture. After the great earthquake of 1667, the Kaboga (Caboga) family became the owners of the house, so the villa currently holds the name Bunić-Kaboga reflecting its legacy. In the 19th century, the Stay-Caboga summer house (a beautiful residence next door to the Bunić-Kaboga house) became a part of same ownership and by the turn of the 20th century the villas’ gardens were physically reunited into a unique complex and thoroughly redesigned thanks to the zeal of the last owner of the two estates, Bernard Henrik Caboga. The changes in design reflected the European trends of the time, when many public and private gardens were redesigned in the Romantic spirit under the influence of the English landscape style. In the 20th century, the villa changed hands several times, witnessing decay and inadequate interventions. It was especially damaged during construction of the Adriatic Highway in 1963, when half of the wing of the villa Stay-Caboga was demolished, and the highway simply devoured a part of the garden onto which both villas faced. At this point, its tight bond with the Ombla River, which was the whole point of the constructing these villas in the first place, ceased indefinitely. Along with numerous other Dubrovnik summer residences and country houses, the Bunić-Kaboga summer residence is as glorious as any well-known Italian 15 th and 16th century villa, as far as its size, lavishness and playful

architectural mastery are concerned. This picturesque summer house stands on a very narrow coastal belt. The complex consists of a building and garden. The building itself is characterized by its L-shaped layout and clear horizontal division. In addition to the main building, this summer residence has a portico, a loggia, a terrace in front of the facade, a chapel dedicated to St. Bernard and an orsan (a boat shelter).

Thanks to the enthusiasm of Mr. Ivo Felner, the last descendant of the noble Caboga family, who devoted 10 years of his life (including the overall preparation and the restoration itself) to this project, after three years of extensive restoration, the Bunić-Kaboga summer house was returned to its original state and proudly opened its doors to the public in July 2013. The neighbouring villa Stay-Caboga has been home to the Dubrovnik Restoration Institute since 1998, and is also available for group tours with advance booking.

i va n g u n d u l i ć

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Oh beautiful, oh dear, oh sweet liberty…. Oh beautiful, oh dear, oh sweet liberty, Gift among all treasures God has given us, The true source of all our glory, The only adornment of these woods, Every bit of silver, every bit of gold, All human lives, Cannot repay your pure beauty!

The “Hymn to Liberty“ written by renowned Dubrovnik poet Ivan Gundulić, is one of the most beautiful expressions of freedom and perhaps the first known hymn to freedom in Europe. This Dubrovnik anthem is found in Gundulić’s pastoral play Dubravka, a text that glorifies liberty and shines with patriotism. Who was Ivan Gundulić? Why did Dubrovnik name the city’s largest square after him and even place his timeless statue in the middle of the square? Let us take you a bit in the past, precisely to the year 1589 when it all started….

Ivan Gundulić (1589 — 1638) • Gundulić’s “Hymn to Liberty” is traditionally spoken, and then followed by the singing of the chorus, each year on the same date, July 10th, during the opening ceremony of the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. This emotional ode, known to every citizen of Dubrovnik, rings out on this day as the “Libertas” Flag of the former Dubrovnik Republic rises from the mast on top of Orlando’s Column.

On 8 January 1589, one of the most prominent Croatian Baroque writers and poets, Ivan Dživo Franov Gundulić, known as Mačica (kitten), was born in Dubrovnik. Being the son of a wealthy and well respected diplomat, Francesco di Francesco Gundulić, Ivan’s future was nicely secured. He received the best education, studying Roman law and philosophy. After graduation in 1608, at the age of nineteen, he became a member of the Great Council of Dubrovnik. In 1615 and 1619 he held the temporary function of Rector of Konavle, an area southeast of the city. At the age of 30 he married Nikoleta Sorkočević with whom he had three sons and two daughters. In 1634 he became a senator, in 1637 a judge, and in 1638 a member of the Small Council. He died on the 8th of December 1638, at the age of 49, of an intense fever, resulting from an infection in his ribs. It is believed that, if he hadn’t died, at the age of 50 he would probably have been elected Rector of the Dubrovnik Republic, the highest office of the time. This position was held for a term of just one

month by the most respected members of the nobility (the Dubrovnik legal statute did not allow the Rector to have less than 50 years of age). Ivan Gundulić was buried in the Franciscan church of Dubrovnik where even today you can see his grave. However, Gundulić was never forgotten, neither by the people of Dubrovnik nor by Croatians). On the 25th of July, 1893, in honour of this beloved Dubrovnik poet and writer, his statue created by the famous sculptor Ivan Rendić, was unveiled on Dubrovnik’s largest square which was also named in his honour.

IM P AC T ON CROA T IAN LI T ERA T URE AND LEGACY Ivan Gundulić had an immeasurable influence on the formation of today’s Croatian language. His whole life, Gundulić had a passion for writing poetry. He first started as a writer of love poems and melodramas, but at the same time he was revising and rewriting Italian mythological dramas. Sadly, most of his love poems were lost, and out

i va n g u n d u l i ć

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

of ten dramas only four have survived, but unfortunately, not completely. Those where: Arijadna, Prozerpina ugrabljena, Dijana and Armida. Later, after this first youthful phase, Gundulić translated seven biblical psalms and printed them as a collection of poems in Rome in 1621 under the title of “Pjesni pokorne kralja Davida” (Poems of King David).

The four bas relief panels on the base of the statue illustrate the main episodes from Gundulić’s most important epic, Osman.

Later on Gundulić began to write more mature works and published only his largest works with Baroque elements, which, have been, from the first moment, treated as masterpieces and are also listed as essential reading on Croatian literature in Croatian high schools. His major works are: “Osman”, baroque epic poem in 20 cantos (1621) This is Gundulić’s most complex work in which he lays out his own interpretation of the difference between freedom and slavery. Osman’s theme is the victory of Poland in the battle against the Turks in Hoćim (Khotin, now in Ukraine) in 1621, as well as the rebellion against the young Sultan Osman in 1622. The epic was created from 1621 until Gundulić’s death in 1638. Osman had 20 cantos, but the 14th and the 15th were never found. It is thought that Gundulić died before being able to finish them. The poet Ivan Mažuranić (a member of the so-called Illyrian movement that sought to unite South Slavs) successfully composed the two cantos that were missing, and thus completed Osman which was then published in Zagreb in 1844.

“Suze sina razmetnoga” (Tears of the Prodigal Son), a religious poem in three cantos (1622) This is a well-known biblical poem through which Gundulić elaborated the three “Cries” as a metaphor for Christian faith: Sin, Cognition and Repentance, focusing on the transience of life and a powerful reflection Christian beliefs. The poem represents innovation in the composition of older Croatian literature and also served as inspiration for young poets. A single copy of the first edition is preserved at the National library in Paris. The work was later reprinted in Venice in 1670 and 1703, and in Dubrovnik in 1828 and 1838.

“Dubravka”, a pastoral play in three acts (1628) This is Gundulić’s most famous play in which he glorifies liberty and cherishes the former glory of Dubrovnik while using contrasts like freedom-slaver y, beauty-ugliness and truth-lies. Liberty is here shown as the symbol of beauty. The play starts and ends with the most famous verses in Croatian literature which became known as Dubrovnik’s “Hymn of Liberty”. Dubravka was first printed in 1837 and since1888 it has been frequently performed in Croatian theatres.

DID YOU KNOW

GUNDULI Ć WORE A CRAVA T BE F ORE LOUIS XIV Although it was a general belief that the French King Louis XIV was the predecessor of tie-wearing fashion (according to one of his portraits made in the late 17 th century where he is shown wearing a scarf, tied as a cravat), the recent evidence (according to Academia Cravatica) show that the oldest portrait of a person wearing a cravat was the one from 1622 and was made in Dubrovnik. The portrait shows Ivan Gundulić and is kept today in the Rector’s Palace. Interesting thing is that, until this discovery, it was never thought that Gundulić was wearing just a scarf that looked like a cravat. Instead it was always thought that he was wearing a cravat. This is obvious evidence that the origins of the cravat derive from Dubrovnik, thus showing that Dubrovnik gentlemen wore the cravat 55 years before it was even introduced in France.

MONEY T ALKS Ivan Gundulić and his works have been celebrated until the present day, keeping him immortal not only in Dubrovnik but also in Croatia. To show how important he is to Croatian literature and national identity, his figure has been printed on the Croatian 50 kuna banknote.

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

life according to kawa

b e s t d u b r o v n i k i n s ta m o m e n t s

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

B e s t D u b r o v n i k I n s ta m o m e n t s

Skalini As you’ve probably already noticed, Dubrovnik is a city with a LOT of stairs. This is one of those universal statements that are so overwhelmingly correct that even our fittest guests have to acknowledge this truth. One of them even went so far as to describe it like this: “If a Stairmaster could somehow be turned into a town – that would definitely be Dubrovnik Old Town.”

skalini cro. a series or flight of steps; a staircase.

The longest Buža staircase These stairs on Boškovićeva Street lead from the Stradun up to the small gate on the northern wall of the city, which is also called Buža. This set of stairs is actually not the longest but it surely feels that way because of the steep and continuous climb. Fortunately, there are plenty of interesting shops and boutiques to stop and visit on your way up or down.

T h e mo s t fa mous Jesuit staircase These beautiful and elegant Baroque stairs just off Gundulić square lead up to the Church of St. Ignatius and 17 th - century Jesuit College, reminiscent of the famous “Spanish Steps” in Rome on the Piazza di Spagna. Over the years, these steps have been used for productions of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, and various music performances during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. Most recently these steps were used for the infamous Game of Thrones “walk of shame” in season 5. This controversial film scene was originally blocked by local church authorities, since it contained nudity, however, permission was eventually granted for one of the Cersei’s most iconic scenes.

The most photogenic Steps from Prijeko Gardens are rare within the Old City walls, but when ficus and cacti plants growing from small pots manage to overtake the stone facades, #dubrovnik on Instagram is filled with scenic images like this one:

So, how many steps are there? A few years ago a research team armed with cameras and recording devices actually spent time counting all the steps. They discovered there are a grand total of 4,343 steps within the perimeter of the city wall and 1,080 steps on the wall itself, making the grand total 5,423. Which makes Dubrovnik the city with the most stairs on the Mediterranean.

So … No excuses in Dubrovnik Old Town: if you really want to see the areas where locals still live, you’ll have to step it up a notch. Away from the noise and crowds of the main street and up charming side alleys, you’ll find small galleries, authentic souvenir shops and restaurants, as well as locals simply living their daily lives.

The most beloved The church of St. Blaise We’re quite sure that our Tourist Board will not be using this fact in their advertising slogan any time soon, but the steps and stairs are part of Dubrovnik’s charm and we love them, (or at least we tell ourselves that we don’t mind them all that much). Stairs are considered a cool (and cold) place to unwind with friends on a late summer night, a place to wait before meeting someone, a play area for children and an impromptu concert stage if needed. These are our favorite spots:

The wide staircase in front of the church, shaded from the sun for the good part of the day, is the popular place for weary tourists to sit people-watch for a while. In all that hustle and bustle of the main street Stradun, these steps seem to promise some inner peace and relaxation, drawing people in to take a break. For locals, this is often the most common meeting point in the Old Town.

l i f e a c c o r dni n a sg l to ov kt ae w m ae

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

LIFE ACCORDING TO KAWA

Shopping in Dubrovnik: from A to Z

Forget tacky souvenirs and tourist tchotchkes, this is what you want to buy when you are in Dubrovnik.

A converted garage that sheltered locals during the war isn’t where you might expect to find our favourite shop in Dubrovnik. But with its breezy views of the Old Town, convenient central location, and with the help of a talented young architect from Sarajevo (Armin Mešić, fo4a.ba), the space was reimagined by Jonathan and Sanja Kawaguchi into a modern and airy boutique showcasing the very best from local Croatian designers and artisans.

T HE NEIGHBOURHOOD Just outside Ploce Gate, and minutes from Dubrovnik’s main street and the city beach, Life According to KAWA is surrounded by fine Mediterranean eateries, world-class Japanese fusion cuisine, a traditional stone masonry, a local pizzeria, Asian street food, and a wonderfully retro self-service launderette.

— ACCESSORIES —

— KI T CHEN —

From must-have handbags to wooden phone cases, watches, sunglasses, backpacks, bowties, suspenders, and wallets, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to pick up unique accessories to compliment your wardrobe.

You’ll find plenty of great gifts for you and your favourite foodie friends. From gorgeous recipe books created by local chefs, hand-crafted leather aprons, olive wood utensils & serving trays, to a fine selection of world famous Croatian olive oils, Istrian truffles, salts, and other goodies.

*** What to Take Home: contemporary handmade ties by Isola; leather wallets & flasks by GoRetro; Sheriff & Cherry sunglasses; handbags for the ladies.

WHA T T O BUY

*** What to Take Home: Gold Award-winning Olive Oil by Perdisacca; anything made from local olive wood; KAWA Recipe Kits; salt.

Beautiful homeware, small-batch design, traditional treats, ceramics, craft beer, wine, hand-roasted coffee, local delicacies, souvenirs, cosmetics, books, handbags, shoes, sunglasses, jewellery, clothing, and artisanal ice cream.

— KID S T U F F —

— COSME T ICS —

Lavender dolls and shadow puppets. Handmade fairies and princesses. Dinosaur cutouts and lollipops. Parents will love the KAWA KIDS adventure packs with colouring maps of kid friendly activities, birdseed, and other fun surprises!

Organic handmade soaps, skin care, moisturizers, and men’s beard oils may sound a bit hipster but in reality, this is your chance to take advantage of some incredibly high-quality cosmetics. Locally sourced and without the high mark-up of international brands, you might end up back at home wishing you bought more.

*** What to Take Home: KAWA KIDS Adventure Packs; T-shirts; Dinosaurs.

*** What to Take Home: Sapunoteka soaps & body creams; Cosmel skin products; Azena herbal balm.

life according to kawa

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

— CLO T HING —

— JEWELLERY —

— CO F F EE —

When it comes to clothing, you’ll find unique one-off pieces and a rotating selection of tunics, dresses & tops from both indie and established Croatian designers. We love the limited edition cotton t-shirts and streetwear (Hint: Happy Cevapi and Dubrovnik Showdown will have strangers smiling at you the world over). GoT fans will be delighted to find original shirt designs given to the cast and crew of Game of Thrones during filming in Dubrovnik.

The shop is well stocked with distinctive pieces and styles to suit a wide range of tastes. From playful and fun jewellery to clean modern pieces. You’ll also find silver filigree, whimsical designs created by a local biologist, and nautical bracelets.

You either love the local coffee scene or you miss your local coffee house. Regardless, you can find freshly ground single origin and select blends at KAWA. They do takeaway filter coffee and grind hand-roasted beans to your preference. Brewing kits and filters also available.

*** What to Take Home: Iva Stojkovic; Vicious Delicious; Zizou.

*** What to Take Home: Tesla Blend by Cogito; Ceramic espresso cups.

*** What to Take Home: Happy Cevapi & Battle for Dubrovnik T’s; Embassy Films original production shirts for GoT.

— F OOD —

Collector’s Edition

Croatia is well known for its olive oils, salt, and truffles but it’d be a shame to miss out on the other wonderful artisanal products available at KAWA. Our favourites include candied orange peels, hot sauces, local honey, smoked sea salt, vegan & gluten free energy bars, natural ice cream, and hand-made chocolate! *** What to take home: Award-Winning Taman Artisan Chocolate; Nuts About Dubrovnik; Croatian Honey sampler pack.

— F ABULOUSLY KI T SCH — In such a beautiful and well-curated shop, you might think there isn’t room for the fabulously kitsch. But you would be wrong. This place has a wonderful albeit small selection of baubles, postcards, coffee mugs, magnets, and decorative knick knacks.

— IN T ERIOR & HOUSE — You’ll find a wonderful mix of unique and original items certain to look great in your home. From furniture (everything ships internationally so ask for a free catalog) to quirky canned illustrated dioramas by Croatian actor Vladimir Tintor. Wood bowls made from thousands year old reclaimed oak Nikola Tesla & David Bowie pillows.

— GI F T BOXES & VI P S —

*** What to Take Home: Mocvarni Hrast oak bowls; handdrawn pillows; vintage style Wallware plates; Tint-O-Rama.

— CRA F T BEER & w i n e — Sommelier Bozidar Jukic who offers bespoke foodie & wine tours (insiderholidays.eu) helped select his favourite local wines for KAWA. Pick up a bottle of chilled rose for your next beach picnic (piknikdubrovnik.com). You’ll also find a wide selection of Croatian craft beer. Sip a cold beverage while shopping or mix and match a six-pack to take back to enjoy on your balcony. *** What to take home: Go local with Dubrovnik Beer Company; The Garden Brewery Sour or Citrus IPA; Buzdovan Croatian apple cider.

Forgot somebody’s birthday? Looking for the perfect wedding gift? Or do you just want to impress your next boss? KAWA offers gift boxes and international shipping. If you are planning an event in Dubrovnik that requires welcome gifts or mementos, their knowledgeable staff can help customize unique Croatian gift boxes based on both your needs and budget. VIP private shopping with champagne and personal shoppers available upon request.

working hour s 9:00 — 00:00 (Season) 12:00 — 20:00 (Offseason) Life According to Kawa Hvarska 2, Dubrovnik TEL: +385 20 696 958 GSM: +385 99 6680 145 E-MAIL: info@kawa.life

— SHOES — Hip hand-crafted canvas sneakers recently featured in Vogue & InStyle magazine? We’re talking about Startas by Borovo of course! Best part? The sneakers are made in Vukovar, Croatia so you can pick up a pair or two at a fraction of the price you would pay stateside.

Facebook facebook.com/KAWA.LIFE8 Instagram instagram.com/kawa.dubrovnik

d u b r o v n i k a s a s ta g e

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

k i n v o r b u D e g a t s a s a

Where can you find kings, bandits, spies, Jedi knights and dragons all in one place? In Dubrovnik, of course! With its historic beauty, cobbled streets, ancient buildings and welcoming locals, it’s no wonder this picturesque city on the Adriatic coast has earned a starring role in Hollywood.

GAME O F T HRONES

The City of Dubrovnik has played many roles recently, from Sherwood Forest to King’s Landing, but with all the hype around Game of Thrones, Star Wars and ‘Robin Hood: Origins’ some other multimillion dollar productions seem to have passed under the radar. For example, NBC used Dubrovnik as the backdrop for the critically acclaimed TV series Emerald City, while the US television series Knightfall, directed by Douglas MacKinnon and produced by the US A+E Television Networks filmed for three days on different locations in Dubrovnik. Hollywood is not alone in its love for Dubrovnik as a film location. One of the world’s largest film centres, Bollywood, has come twice to film on location in Dubrovnik. The first production was Fan, starring Shahrukh Khan, the most famed and beloved Indian actor. A second was the film Prisoner no. 150, whose dance scenes were shot in Dubrovnik. And with more big-name blockbusters taking to Dubrovnik’s streets this year, your next favourite film may be among them.

For those who may not have yet heard, (which seems impossible), Dubrovnik is the main filming location in Croatia for King’s Landing, the fictional city in Game of Thrones, one of the most popular TV series of all time, based on fantasy novels by George R.R. Martin. With its terracotta tiled roofs, impressive stone walls and wild seas, Dubrovnik seemed perfect to pose as King’s Landing with high-rising cliffs and a stunning ancient city wall overlooking the Adriatic sea.

S T AR WARS The Croatian city has had a starring role in the latest Star Wars film — “The Last Jedi” as the filming location for Canto Bight. The posh casino planet – which appeared for the first time in this movie – is the Star Wars version of Monaco. Stradun and the City Walls were used as locations for the filming of this epic American space opera, based on the film series created by George Lucas.

d u b r o v n i k a s a s t a gnea s/ l o f av s thei m o ne

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

ROBIN HOOD ‘ ORIGINS ’ Robin Hood is an upcoming American action-adventure film directed by Otto Bathurst and written by Joby Harold, Peter Craig, and David James Kelly, based on the tale of Robin Hood. The film stars Taron Egerton, Jamie Foxx, Eve Hewson, Jamie Dornan, Ben Mendelsohn, and Paul Anderson. Dubrovnik was transformed in the legendary town of Nottingham. Stradun, the old city port, St. Dominik street, and the Ploče gate bridge were just few of the places where sets were erected and where the major scenes of the film were filmed. It will be released by Lionsgate’s Summit Entertainment in standard and IMAX theatres on November 21, 2018.

f a s h i o n Maria store recommends

Dream - haves day — bold colors Paint your everyday style with bold hues and choose your ideal color palette from fiery reds, electric blues and shocking pinks to energetic yellow and orange – mix them all up or go monochrome from head to toe – color is your best fashion ally all year long.

EMERALD CI T Y Described as a mixture of the Wizard of Oz and Game of Thrones, Emerald City is an American fantasy television series developed for NBC by Matthew Arnold and Josh Friedman, and based on the Oz book series written by L. Frank Baum. Parts of the series were filmed in Dubrovnik, in fact using exactly the same location as Game of Thrones, in the Bay of Pile at the base of the ancient city walls.

— gucci —

— stella mccartney —

— balenciaga —

KNIGH T F ALL Knightfall is a historical fiction-drama television series on History, directed by Douglas MacKinnon and filmed for three days beneath the Pile gate bridge. This ten-episode drama series is set during the Crusades and explores the tales of the Knights Templar. The famous American actor Jeremy Renner is the producer and a guest star. Tom Cullen (Downton Abbey) stars as Landry, a veteran warrior of the Crusades, who becomes the leader of the Templars and serves as the driving force behind their quest to retrieve Christianity’s most prized relic: The Holy Grail.

night — statement chic Keep the drama alive when the night falls in designer statement pieces that push the idea of ultimate luxury and seductive femininity to the max with powerful silhouettes that will make every fashionista’s heart beat faster!

BOLLLYWOOD – P RISONER NO . 1 5 0 & F AN The Indian film Prisoner no. 150, whose dance scenes were shot in Dubrovnik in November 2016, was one of the most watched films in India last year. The dance sequences were, among other locations, also filmed in Dubrovnik, and scenes from Croatia can be seen in the trailer which, to date, has more than 6.4 million views on YouTube. The lead role is played by singer and dancer Konidela Siva Sankara Vara Prasad, better known as Chiranjeevi, who returned to acting after a ten-year break. This was his 150th role.

— loewe —

This was the second major production from India filmed on location in Croatia. The first was Fan, starring Indian megastar Shahrukh Khan, which was filmed in Dubrovnik in March, 2015. Fan stars Khan, a man with arguably one of the greatest fan followings globally, in the role of being the biggest fan himself. — stella mccartney —

— yves saint laurent —

d u b r o v n i k s u m m e r f e s t i va l

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

69 Dubrovnik Summer Festival th

Dubrovnik Summer Festival A. Od Sigurate 1, Dubrovnik

web & tickets online: www.dubrovnik-festival.hr FACEBOOK: dubrovnik.festival MAIL: info@dubrovnik-festival.hr TEL: +385 (0)20 326 100

69 TH FESTIVAL OPENING CEREMONY 10 July, 21:00 In Front of St Blaise’s Church

— ZAGREB PHILHARMONIC PIER CARLO ORIZIO — Conductor MISCHA MAISKY — cello J. Gotovac, B. Smetana, A. Dvořák 11 July, 21:30 In Front of St Blaise’s Church katona twins 21 July, 21:30 Vala Beach Club, Hotel Dubrovnik Palace Peter and Zoltan Katona have been acclaimed by the Daily Telegraph as “the classical world’s best known guitar duo”.

ROSAS — A LOVE SUPREME SALVA SANCHIS, ANNE TERESA DE KEERSMAEKER — choreographers 14 July, 21:30 Revelin Fort Terrace

IVAN KRPAN — piano R. Schumann, F. Chopin 15 July, 21:30 Rector’s Palace Atrium First Prize in the Ferruccio Busoni International Piano Competition, Bolzano, 2017 — Zagreb Youth Theatre KRISTIJAN NOVAK / TOMISLAV ZAJEC: BLACK MOTHER EARTH DORA RUŽDJAK PODOLSKI — director 16 July, 21:30 Island Of Lokrum Best Direction Award to Dora Ruždjak Podolski at the 32nd Gavella Evenings Festival; Croatian Theatre Awards in Best Play Category, Best Direction Category (Dora Ruždjak Podolski) and Best Supporting Role Category (Urša Raukar) | SUBTITLED IN ENGLISH — linđo folklore ensemble 17 July; 04, 13 and 20 August, 21:30 Revelin Fort Terrace

10 J u ly – 2 5 Augu s t For seven weeks of high summer, while the rest of the Mediterranean sunbathes, the old city of Dubrovnik gives its’ heart and soul to the Arts. Marbled streets, Baroque palaces and Renaissance piazzas are the magical setting for concerts and live theatre. At Summer Festival time, all the city’s a stage …

YUYA OKAMOTO — cello ROBERT KULEK — piano L. van Beethoven, S. Prokofiev, R. Schumann, C. Franck 19 July, 21:30 Rector’s Palace Atrium Second place, Eugène Ysaÿe Award, in the Queen Elisabeth International Competition, 2017 — MARIN DRŽIĆ – VICTORY OVER THE ENEMIES IVICA BOBAN — director 20, 21, 22, 23 July, 21:30 Art School Park Orlando Best Play Award at the 68th Dubrovnik Summer Festival Croatian Theatre Award for Best Dramaturgical Concept and Text Adaptation (Hrvoje Ivanković) and for Dramaturgical Adaptation of the Text (Ivica Boban) | SUBTITLED IN ENGLISH — SCHUMANN QUARTET J. Haydn, T. Takemitsu, F. Schubert 22 July, 21:30 Rector’s Palace Atrium

LADO - Croatian traditional dances and songs ensemble 24 July, 21:30 Revelin Fort Terrace — DUBROVNIK SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA ORATORY CHOIR OF ST MARK’S CHURCH Maxim Emelyanychev, conductor | Soloists: Leon Košavić, Ivana Lazar, Marija Kuhar Šoša, Krešimir Špicer W. A. Mozart: Grand Mass in C Minor 25 July, 21:30 Franciscan Church — BITEF DANCE COMPANY MACBETH | after William Shakespeare play MILOŠ ISAILOVIĆ — choreographer 26 July, 21:30 Revelin Fort Terrace — PREMIERE MIROSLAV KRLEŽA: MICHELANGELO BUONARROTI Dubrovnik Summer Festival and Ivan von Zajc Croatian National Theatre of Rijeka

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.comd

u b r o v n i k s u m m e r f e s t i va l

SEBASTIJAN HORVAT — director SUBTITLED IN ENGLISH 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 July, 21:30 Island of Lokrum

VINCENT PEIRANI — accordion EMILE PARISIEN — saxophone 31 July, 21:30 Vala Beach Club, Hotel Dubrovnik Palace

Voronezh Chamber Theatre ANTON P. CHEKHOV: UNCLE VANYA MIKHAIL BYCHKOV — director 5 August, 21:30 Gradac Park SUBTITLED IN ENGLISH — DANIIL TRIFONOV piano F. Mompou, R. Schumann, E. Grieg, S. Barber, P. I. Čajkovski, S. Rahmanjinov, F. Chopin 6 August, 21:30 Rector’s Palace Atrium Grammy Award 2018 for Best Classical Instrumental Solo Album: Transcendental Third Prize in the Fryderyk Chopin International Piano Competition in Warsaw First Prize in the Arthur Rubinstein International Competition in Tel Aviv First Prize and Grand Prix in the Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow — Public in Private / Clément Layes TITLE 7 August, 21:30 Location to be announced — ANDREAS SCHOLL countertenor ENSEMBLE 1700 J. S. Bach, A. Vivaldi, G. F. Händel 8 August, 21:30 Rector's Palace Atrium — Ballet of Croatian National Theatre of Split DEATH AND THE DERVISH IGOR KIROV — choreographer 9, 10 August, 21:30 Gradac Park

DUBROVNIK SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA TIBOR BOGÁNYI — Conductor MARIN MARAS — violin 11 August, 21:30 Rector's Palace Atrium — CORRECTING RHYTHM GORAN SERGEJ PRISTAŠ — director Dubrovnik Summer Festival, Croatian National Theatre of Zagreb, BAD.co 12, 13 August, 21:30 Location to be announced — GUITARISSIMO ZORAN DUKIĆ, PETRIT ÇEKU, MORANA PEŠUTIĆ, TOMISLAV VUKŠIĆ, TVRTKO SARIĆ, KREŠIMIR BEDEK, PEDRO RIBEIRO RODRIGUES, MAROJE BRČIĆ — guitars A. Vivaldi, M. de Falla, A. Piazzolla, I. Josipović, G. Tudor, P. Bellinati, L. Boccherini 16 August, 21:30 Rector’s Palace Atrium — PREMIERE Festival Drama Ensemble RANKO MARINKOVIĆ: UNDER THE BALCONIES DARIO HARJAČEK — director 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 August, 21:30 University Campus Park SUBTITLED IN ENGLISH — Croatian National Theatre of Zagreb MATE MATIŠIĆ: MEN OF WAX JANUSZ KICA — director 23, 24 August, 21:30 Gradac Park SUBTITLED IN ENGLISH

—

closing concert CROATIAN RADIO AND TELEVISION SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 25 August, 22:00 In Front Of St. Blaise’s Church

naslov teme

t h e n e w c r o at i a c o l l e c t i o n

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

CROATIA COLLECTION

A love affair between Fashion and Art — “Exploring feminine designs and the conscious use of raw materials, Fabiana worked with collage and overlap techniques that she observed on Lena’s paintings. Applying together pieces of fabrics that would be disposed of, decorative and floral elements, the collection delivers artisanal and artistic pieces, that also have environmental responsibility. A loose creation process, that allows different sensations and receptions.“ — extract from Croatia Collection catalogue

Over the years we have witnessed how the two quite seemingly different worlds of art and fashion have always managed to, somehow, walk side by side, forming creative relationships that seldom go unnoticed. From the fashion creations of Fabiana Milazzo, to the art-inspired collections of Lena Kramarić, fashion and art have once again joined forces to create a collection of “must-have” pieces!

Famous Brazilian fashion designer Fabiana Milazzo, fascinated by the beauty of Dubrovnik and inspired by the work of the Croatian artist Lena Kramarić, has created a new collection of clothes dedicated to Croatia. Last summer, Fabiana came to Dubrovnik to spend her holidays with her husband Eduardo. Wandering the streets of Dubrovnik, it must have been fate that led Fabiana and Lena to to meet on Prijeko street. This charismatic and sensitive artist, whose strength is best manifested in choosing truly complex themes for painting, was recognized by renowned fashion designer Fabiana Milazzo. Fabiana was so impressed by Lena’s paintings that she proposed a partnership to create a new designer collection. Lena’s paintings inspired Fabiana who transferred Lena’s motifs and paintings to the entire collection of her dresses and clothes. Fabiana Milazzo named her new collection “Croatia” which undoubtedly proves how impressed she was by Dubrovnik, Croatia and Lena’s art. We bring you a glimpse of this irresistible combination of art and fashion by Lena and Fabiana… It won’t be easy to pick your favourite!

a13 | Mixed media on canvas | 100 x 80 cm | 2015

— The new Croatia collection was presented on March 15 at São Paulo Fashion Week, Brazil, accompanied by an exhibition of paintings by Lena Kramarić.

t h e n e w c r o at i a c o l l e c t i o n

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Lena kramarić Born 30. 11. 1982 in Zagreb, Croatia, she lives and works in Dubrovnik. She completed her postgraduate doctoral studies (PhD) at Academy of Fine Arts in Zagreb, and has exhibited widely in solo (Vienna) and group shows. — “Exploring the world around me in relation to my own inner world in an introspective and self-referential way I am trying to connect motifs of the real and surreal, of the actual, imaginary and subconscious in the narrative scenes, leaving enough space for observers to offer their individual interpretation. Collage as an art technique is an integral part of my work, as well as drawing, which comes at the beginning and at the end of everything I do.“

F ABIANA MILA Z Z O Graduated in fashion design at the Italian Academy of Fashion, Art and Design. She is passionate about creating clothes in combination with art or any kind of creative process. Fabiana Milazzo is the creative mind behind a luxury brand worn by Hollywood stars such as actress Katie Holmes and singer Fergie.

If I ever feel better | Mixed media on canvas | 60 x 50 cm | 2017

Fabiana Milazzos’ luxury designer collection is inspired by the art of Lena Kramarić

where were you this year | Mixed media on canvas | 100 x 80 cm | 2016

—

The dresses are also exhibited at Milazzo’s store in Los Angeles. In the background of the showcase, Milazzo also stacked red and white cubes, an unmistakeable symbol of Croatia.

crazy cat | Mixed media on canvas | 80 x 60 cm | 2017

“ w i l d ” wat e r p o l o l e a g u e

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

TIP — If you are in Dubrovnik in August, do not miss the finals, traditionally held in the Old Town port, with fans supporting their favourite players from every side – the auditorium, floating boats, city walls, etc. — ... And if you are a bit more adventurous: In addition to normal water polo rules, it is a rule that only amateurs may play in the league, so even you can try to join if you manage to find one of the league’s “officials”.

Dubrovnik’s Wild Water polo League Water polo has a long tradition both in Dubrovnik and throughout Croatia; the national team currently holds the title of Olympic gold medallists, and have held several World Championship titles over the last 20 years. Sport aside, Dubrovnik’s “wild” league is primarily a unique spectacle of competitive spirit, diligent teamwork, and an entertaining and adventurous approach to sports. It is played for fun, or at least half-seriously, and the main goal is for everyone to have a good time.

if someone can’t get a day off at work. It is not unheard of for the referee to be thrown into the sea because someone in the audience feels that his decision is not fair. And for the most part, the real competition happens outside the water - whose fans are going to dominate; be louder, funnier, numerous and all together more noticeable. One of the players from last year’s winning team explains:

“

Wild league has been an essential part of Dubrovnik summer tradition since 1949. It is more than a hobby, more than a pastime, more than a sport. For me, it is the rituals each team has. It is the boat “caravan” of fans that follows us to the games and the celebration that begins before the game and lasts long after it is over. It is the atmosphere, the comradery, the friendships, the feeling of belonging … It is something we grew up with and something I’m gladly passing on to my kids.

To illustrate it: It is no surprise if one of the teams doesn’t show up if they feel that the sea temperature is too cold or

”

A trophy displayed in the team’s official cafe bar and a year of bragging rights are the grand prize of the league.

Divlja liga or The Wild League is an informal water polo league in Dubrovnik, played during the summer season among teams representing different Dubrovnik beaches.

s t. a n d r e w ( s v e t i a n d r i j a )

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

S t. A n d r e w ( S v e t i A n d r i j a )

A floating Island with a legend of forbidden love SAIN T ANDREW St. Andrew is a small island located six nautical miles (11 km) from Dubrovnik. Observed from the seashore, there are particularly vivid and steep rock cliffs on the south side of the island. In one stop, cliffs tower over a sea-blue depth of 125 meters. That’s where the diving treasures of this floating island come into play… But let’s go one step at a time. This small, but yet, mighty island has so many stories to tell, so many legends to reveal, so we will go through them shortly, one by one.

designs are kept in the British Museum. Today, one can see only few traces of the Benedictine monastery; a well and a piece of the towers and smaller remains of the walls. Undoubtedly, this is the only one of the five Benedictine monasteries on the territory of the Dubrovnik Republic that has not been preserved.

ONE O F T HE T WO WORS T DUNGEONS

St. Andrew played an important role in the time of Dubrovnik Republic. The Republic used the island as a dunT HE MONAS T ERY geon where convicted murderers, robbers, and traitors were sent to be locked in the The first inhabitants of St. monastery forever. Exile on — Andrew island were BenedicSt. Andrew in the Dubrovnik tines. Interestingly, the patriRepublic was considered It is part of the Elaphiti archipelago and is cian family Crijević from Duone of the two most severe located 3 nautical miles (6 km) from the Island of brovnik built the Benedictine punishments of those times Koločep, 2 nautical miles (4 km) from the island monastery on the island in (the worst punishment was of Lopud and 4 nautical miles (7 km) from the the 15 th century. The monasisland of Šipan life-long imprisonment in tery was isolated and distant the dungeon Rector’s palace from the city. For some time, — where food was delivered to it was used as quarantine lenght: 475 m a prisoner through a small for inhabitants of the island m a xim a l w itdh: 80 m opening in the wall). of Lopud. Since, during this tota l a r ea: 53,757 m 2 time, the island was often the height: 57 m (with lighthouse) main target of pirates, the — T HE HEALING monks had two hideaways ISLAND on the island: a large defence tower and an enclosed cave located in the middle of the Along with its religious history, St. Andrew was used as an abyss on the south-eastern side of the island accessible ideal place for healing and rehabilitation. The foundation only by a narrow, steep, dangerous pathway. The monasfor having these kinds of services on the island was the tery was destroyed during the great earthquake of 1667 island’s fresh air, the clear sea rich in iodine, as well as and has never been restored. The true appearance of its isolation, away from the rest of the world. the monastery is not well known, because the original

LIGH T HOUSE Renovation of the building on St. Andrew started in 1872 when, at the decision of the Austro-Hungarian government, a lighthouse was built on the foundations of the Benedictine monastery remains. It was completed in 1873. A two storey building was built, with a four-sided masonry tower in the centre. The arrangement of the rooms in the interior of the lighthouse was adapted for military purposes, since the Austro-Hungarians also used it as an artillery outpost. The building itself has an area of 210 m 2 and a lantern room with a gallery fitted in the tower. Nestled at the highest point of the island, 69 meters above sea level, the light of the lantern is visible at a distance of 24 nautical miles (44 km). It is considered to be one of the strongest lights on the Adriatic Sea. At the end of the 19th century, two auxiliary buildings were added next to the main lighthouse - an aggregate room and a warehouse. Ever since the construction of the lighthouse to the present day, there has always been a crew living on the lighthouse. There is also a large landscaped pier on the north side of the island with a stone staircase that leads to a lighthouse building. Today, with the lighthouse keeper who lives on the ground floor of the lighthouse, there is also a suite furnished on the first floor, which can be rented to tourists in the warmer part of the year to spend a special vacation on this majestic island.

s t. a n d r e w ( s v e t i a n d r i j a )

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

This southernmost island of the Elaphiti group has been the subject of many stories and legends throughout history. Regardless of your standing point, St. Andrew always seems to be in a different place, floating mysteriously in the distance and greeting travellers with one flash of light every ten seconds from its lighthouse.

LEGEND O F T HE LO P UD OR P HAN Moreover, the building has electricity and thanks to the solar power equipment visitors will never be thirsty as the water is desalinized.

F AMOUS RESIDEN T S The Dubrovnik Abbot and famous 16th century Croatian poet and dramatic writer Mavro Vetranović Čavčić spent most of his life here as a monk’s hermit. Here he created his greatest achievements, writing about the flora, fauna and the sea; choosing to spend his time with the caves and the cliffs.

ORNI T HOLOGICAL RESERVE Steep and high cliffs leave the impression of much a larger island, especially when viewed from the air. The whole island is densely covered with centuries-old pine trees and lush Mediterranean vegetation. In the dense pine forest during autumn and winter, there are many migrating birds that always rest on St. Andrija when departing and returning from their journey south. For this reason, the island was also proclaimed an ornithological reserve.

DIVING The sensation of diving into one of the most beautiful blue depths on the Adriatic is one of profound tranquillity. On the south part of the island is a perfect diving site; a cliff that drops 125 meters to a sandy seabed. On the ascent, make sure to stop and explore an underwater cave at 12 metres. The site abounds in beautiful, colourful sponges, pink algae, rare red coral and fish – greater amberjacks, damselfish, saddled seabream, territorial triplefins and if you are lucky enough, you will maybe encounter a couple of dusky groupers swimming together under the lighthouse (this is usually not typical for adult groupers), believed to be the incarnation of the two lovers from an ancient legend.

This is a true story about forbidden love between a nobleman and a common girl from the island of Lopud dating from the second half of the 15th century. Together with her three brothers, Mare lived in a dilapidated fisherman’s house on the island of Lopud above Šunj bay with three brothers. The wide open sea and the island of Saint Andrew are the only view from here. Mare’s parents died while she was small and although the youngest of the siblings, she was like a mother and father to her brothers. Her friend’s brother Niko was in love with Mare and but Mare turned down his proposal of marriage. One stormy night her brothers saved a man named Ivan in shipwreck. Mare took care of him and they fell in love. Ivan was a son of one of the most powerful Dubrovnik noblemen, and she was a village girl, so his father did not allow them to be together. Their love was forbidden because they came from different classes. Disappointed that he couldn’t obtain permission from his father to be with Mare, Ivan fled to the island St. Andrew to become a monk, but he kept meeting with Mare. As it was not always possible for them to get to a boat, and as they were afraid of being noticed, every evening when night fell, Mare would swim across to Saint Andrew, and Ivan would light a lantern on shore to guide her through the dark and show her the way. Niko discovered the secret of these two lovers and in envy and jealousy told Mare’s brothers. One night they followed her into the dark with intention to punish her for disgracing her family. When night fell, they lighted a lantern in a boat and made Mare swim further and further into the open sea thinking that she was swimming toward the Saint Andrew island. The sky was covered in clouds, and the sea was restless but Mare kept swimming although she was tired. Lighting flashed over the open sea revealing the figures of four men in a boat. Mare realized that those were her brothers and Niko trying to deceive her. Finally, when she didn’t have any more strength left to swim, her body sank and got lost in the sea depths. Ivan waited for Mare for two nights. On the third morning, he found her lifeless body cast on the rocks of St. Andrew. He was so devastated that he decided to remain in the monastery forever.

This story was even recorded in the archives of Dubrovnik in a document from 1483 describing the scandalous story of unhappy love between a priest from the island of St. Andrew and a common girl from Lopud. The beauty of this story was recognised by the great wordsmiths like Gundulić, Preradović, Botić, Šegvić, Ročić Schiller, Hölderlin, Gillparzer (Des Meeres und der Liebe Wellen). This is truly a timeless story, which even became the basis for a film.

A stamp of St. Andrew island issued on June 10, 2015 – a great souvenir for philatelists (stamp lovers) It is nice to see St. Andrew from the distance so lonely and green. Only when you come closer and pass it from the south side, can you see the beautiful, wild appearance of steepness, the large vertical rocks, remarkably formed holes and caves, in, on, above and below the sea level. At some parts, the rocks are slightly rounded, while others are sharp, split and deep. To ordinary viewers and passengers (with sailboats and yachts, or divers), such rough, tangled, large, vertical south steep rock, leads us to imagine if St. Andrija always looked like this, or whether it is just the remains of some larger island, which perhaps was lost long ago.

events in dubrovnik

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Events in Dubrovnik PERFORMANCES & M U SIC F E S T I VA L S TIŠINA, MOLIM! (QUIET, PLEASE!) April 4 – 11, 2018 This new film festival in Dubrovnik offers to its visitors interactive educational content, film screenings, visual attractions, and plenty of surprises. During the fourteen days of the festival, tourists and Dubrovnik locals of all generations have the opportunity to become acquainted with all of the ties between Dubrovnik and the history of film culture over the last hundred years. AKLAPELA – VOCAL GROUP FESTIVAL April 6 – 8, 2018 Aklapela is a yearly gathering of the most accomplished klapa a cappella singing groups in Croatia. Concert performances feature both men’s and women’s groups, in this traditional vocal style. The festival is held after Easter. More info at: www.aklapela.hr PERFORMANCES OF FOLKLORE ENSEMBLE LINĐO May – October, 2018 (Tuesdays and Fridays at 21:30), Lazareti (east entrance of the Old Town Dubrovnik) The Linđo Folk Ensemble was founded in Dubrovnik in 1964 and consists of more than 300 members between the ages of 12 and 30, who perform traditional songs and dances from all regions of Croatia. More info at: www.lindjo.hr LE PETIT FESTIVAL DU THÉÂTRE June 14 – 17, 2018 The theme of Le Petit Festival 2018 is “Sun & the Land of the Rising Sun”. The Festival every year raises the curtain revealing creations carefully selected and talented artists whether they are poets, actors, dancers, or something else. More info at: www.lepetitfestival.com MUSICAL SCENE FESTIVAL “ANA IN TOWN” June 21, 2018 This three-day music festival starts with a fantastic concert at the dawn of the first day of summer and World Music Day on June 21st, featuring cellist Ana Rucner, a young artist of distinctive musical style, in a dual role - a classical musician and a crossover instrumentalist. MIDSUMMER SCENE FESTIVAL June 21 – July 05, 2018 St. Lawrence Fortress Take a look at Shakespeare’s one of the most beloved comedies “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (performed in English) as a main part of this famous Croatian festival aimed for international visitors. More info at: midsummer-scene.com PARK ORSULA MUSIC FESTIVAL 2018 July – September, 2018 Open Air Stage – Archaeological Site –Panoramic Gazebo. Apart from being a place where one can enjoy nature and the view, the park was conceptualised as a unique open air stage for cultural and entertaining events with 250 seats in new amphitheatre. More info at: www.parkorsula.du-hr.net

*some event programmes are subject to change. Please visit their web domains for more information.

SUMMER EVENTS PROGRAM AT DUBROVNIK SOURROUNDINGS July 1 – August 31, 2018 Enjoy music and entertainment programs on the Elafiti Islands, in Zaton and Orašac and witness the Mediterranean melody, folklore and folk traditions that have been cherished for ages. More info at: www.tzdubrovnik.hr CLASSICAL MUSIC CONCERTS Featured by Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra *concert programme is subject to change. Please visit www.dso.hr for more information DUBROVNIK SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA program April 13 - 27, 2018 | Rector’s Palace Featuring a wide repertoire and many distinguished guests, performing famous classical, Baroque, romantic, contemporary and Croatian compositions. ORLANDO FURIOSO June 5 - 12, 2018 | Rector’s Palace, Lokrum Island and Dubrovnik Cathedral This is new happening in the city that presents a cycle of a Baroque music. In 2017 the event was led by a Russian multitalented musician Dmitry Sinkovsky. 11th INTERNATIONAL OPERA ARIAS FESTIVAL “TINO PATTIERA” June 30 – July 6, 2018 | Rector’s Palace The festival honours the memory of the world famous tenor Tino Pattiera, who was born in 1890 in Cavtat, a town about 20km from Dubrovnik, where he died in 1966. Tino Pattiera was one of the major singers in the opera houses of Europe and throughout the world during the first half of the 20th century. MUSIC FESTIVAL – DUBROVNIK IN LATE SUMMER August 26 – September 22, 2018 Rector’s Palace With concerts, which are traditionally held in beautiful ambience of Rector’s Palace, we bid farewell to summer through four weeks of the festival, hosting many Croatian and internationally renowned artists. AUTUMN MUSIC VARIETY September 29 – October 13, 2018 Gypsy jazz, Chamber music and many renowned artists.

SPORT EVENTS RUN THE WALL – DU MOTION April 28, 2018 An unforgettable, but dangerous race as well. Once a year The Walls of Dubrovnik, considered to be amongst the greatest fortification systems of the Middle Ages and running an uninterrupted course of approximately 1,940 metres while encircling most of the Old City, serve as a track field to a very tricky 2,5K race. More info at: www.du-motion.com

DUBROVNIK HALF MARATHON – DU MOTION April 29, 2018 The marathon running, especially two-kilometre long race with a limited number of participants held at Dubrovnik walls is certainly an attraction. With the motto “More than a race” this new event is more than just a sporting event since, through running, healthy lifestyles will be promoted. More info at: www.du-motion.com 5K - CHARITY RACE – DU MOTION April 29, 2018 One of the most beautiful race tracks for a good cause. More info at: www.du-motion.com WATERPOLO “WILD LEAGUE” July 12 – August 05, 2018 This is the largest amateur water polo competition in the world, started in 1922. More than 40 teams from various local neighbourhoods compete at beach locations throughout the city. More info at: www.divljaliga.hr STON WALL MARATHON September 23, 2018 Starting and ending in the picturesque town of Ston, the full marathon route takes you south to Pržina and north to Duba Stonska, following stretches of the medieval Ston Walls and the Adriatic coast. More info at: www.ston-wall-marathon.com ITF MENS FUTURES & ITF WOMENS CIRCUIT October 7 – 12, 2018 Prestigious sporting event of an international in character held at the Lapad Tennis Courts.

GASTRONOMY DUBROVNIK FESTIWINE April 16 – 22, 2018 This regional wine festival gathers more than hundred regional winemakers who have the opportunity to present their wines to numerous wine professionals and visitors. In 2017 the festival opened its doors to participants outside Croatia and thus became an international festival. Visitors will have an opportunity to taste fine wines and be a part of numerous wine workshops together with wine experts and sommeliers. More info at: www.dubrovnikfestiwine.com CROATIAN FESTIVAL OF JAMS AND MARMALADES September 28 – 29, 2018 | in front of St. Blaise church Exhibitors dress in the national costumes of the places from which they come, from counties from all around Croatia, and present their products to visitors and Dubrovnik restaurateurs caterers, who will use these native delicacies to elevate and enrich their gastronomic offerings. More info at: desa-dubrovnik.hr GOOD FOOD FESTIVAL DUBROVNIK October 18 – 21, 2018 The four day programme includes several presentations of culinary specialties of the region, cookbooks in English, programmes for children, tasting of regional wines, culinary workshops and other activities such as “dinner with a famous chef“ and workshops on how to prepare a typical Dubrovnik sweet “gulozece”, “Eat & Walk“ gastro tour, “Sweet Tooth Map“ – a map for those who have a sweet tooth and other surprise activities. More info at: www.tzdubrovnik.hr

NIGHTLIFE

CULTURE CLUB REVELIN Located in the Revelin fortress at the entrance to the Old Town at Ploče Gate, the club is famous for its 3-day festival in August featuring famous performers on the global electronic music scene. More info at: www.clubrevelin.com

CELEBR ATIONS

FESTIVAL OF ST. BLAISE February 2 - 4, 2019 Each February 2nd, Dubrovnik celebrates the Virgin Mary Candlemas. An old saying is then repeated: Candelora, winter is gone, followed by Saint Blaise, who says it is untrue? Indeed, on this day, Dubrovnik is full of mimosa, narcissus, and sunny, spring weather. On the morning of the festival, white doves are released in front of St. Blaise’s church, and prayers are said in front of the altar by the faithful the entire day. The priests bless everyone with a cross shaped out of two intertwined candles, and raise a silver monstrance to their lips, the work of Dubrovnik goldsmiths. More info at: www.dubrovnik.hr DUBROVNIK CARNIVAL FESTIVITIES February 9 – 13, 2019 Our ancestors had fun, so why shouldn’t we? This proverb can often be heard in Dubrovnik in February, during the carnival season preceding Lent. Experience the special atmosphere of the Dubrovnik carnival festivities characterized by jokes, laughter, merriment, joy, satire. 70th DUBROVNIK SUMMER FESTIVAL July 10 – August 25, 2018 This is the largest and most representative cultural manifestation not only in Dubrovnik but in Croatia. Festival sees more than 80 performances of music, theatre, dance and film, at various open-air locations in the old town, plus a programme of outdoor cinema. More info at: www.dubrovnik-festival.hr DUBROVNIK WINTER FESTIVAL December, 2018 – January, 2019 During the Advent season, Dubrovnik shines with magical decorations and sparkles with lights, creating an atmosphere of a fairy-tale Renaissance city. The festival offers innumerable reasons for gatherings while combining fun, culture, enjoyment, music, gastronomy and art on the most attractive stages in the City and its surrounding areas. More info at: www.tzdubrovnik.hr ADVENT IN THE CITY The program of Dubrovnik’s winter festival – Advent in the City – begins with the lighting of the first Advent candle. This year’s Christmas market will be set up on the most beautiful street in Dubrovnik, Stradun featuring local craftsman presenting traditional arts and crafts, Dubrovnik sweet delicacies, Christmas decorations, candles, toys, glassware, embroidery, ceramics, porcelain and a variety of other hand-made souvenirs and gifts. DUBROVNIK NEW YEAR’S PARTY On New Year’s Eve, the musicians of Dubrovnik see the old year out with traditional carols and an all-day music program leading up to the wildest night of the year. The Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra’s New Year’s Day concert on the Stradun on January 1 will be a special gift to those visiting the city.

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

extreme fishing

Extreme fishing on the Adriatic All you need is a cap, a jacket, sunglasses, sunscreen, a valid travel document and – a camera! Without a camera no one will ever believe you caught a bluefin tuna since you will have eaten the evidence. It will be one of the most delicious meals you have ever had. The Dalmatian archipelago is renowned for its pristine naThose who have already participated in an extreme or big game fishing tour are sure to know the feeling; however, ture, crystal-blue sea and an array of secluded coves and if you’ve never caught a 50-kg predator, Bota Extreme beaches ideal for a tranquil vacation. The Adriatic Sea is Fishing is ideal for beginners. The captain is more than currently one of the clearest seas on the planet, known willing to share his knowledge and experience in various for its salinity and ideal for indigenous marine life forms. fishing methods. We would like to recommend a fishing trip that will give you an opportunity to appreciate — Majestic fish glide below the crysthe true beauty of the Adriatic Many men go fishing all of their tal-blue surface. You’ll be fishing while at the same time providing bluefin tuna, swordfish, ambera rush of adrenaline as you reel in lives without knowing that it is jack, dentex, scorpion fish, grouimpressive fish from the open sea. not fish they are after. per, mackerel, John Dory, horse Regardless of your level of fishing mackerel and bonito. The boat sets skills, whether you’re attracted to Henry Dav id Thor eau off from Dubrovnik, Cavtat, Mljet, the magic of the sea or in search — and the Elaphite Islands. of a true gourmet experience, we highly recommend Bota Extreme Fishing experience. All you need is a cap, a jacket, sunglassTheir greatest joy is fishing for bluefin tuna, the star of es, sunscreen, a valid travel document and sport fishing which can weigh up to 600 kg – even in the – a camera! Without a camera no one will ever believe you Adriatic Sea and is a rare type of warm-blooded fish. caught a bluefin tuna since you will have eaten the evidence. Tuna is an excellent swimmer and predator that lives in a It will be one of the most delicious meals you have ever had. school of its peers. Its graceful, spindle-like body, strong

constitution and a markedly strong tail fin enables it to swim for long periods of time and move swiftly in search of prey. Tuna is one of the fastest fish in the sea. Its average speed is 12 km/h, but can also reach speeds of over 100 km/h. It also has one of the fastest recovery times thanks to its metabolism which can maintain a body temperature 20 degrees higher than that of the sea.

True connoisseurs enjoy swordfish fishing. It is a predator of open-seas pelagic fish. Adrenaline addicts emphasize that its sword is not just for show, even though this fish served on a plate is a treat for any foodie as its meat is juicy and has a distinctive flavour. Fisheries statistics indicate that their population in the Adriatic Sea increases every year. Should the skipper shout out “Gooooooof” be ready to tackle one of the Adriatic’s greatest predators – a greater amberjack called gof or orhan in Croatian (Lat. Seriola Dumerili). Its mouth is as large as its appetite, and even though it has no teeth, we’ve never heard of anyone bold enough to stick their hand into its mouth twice. People say that the greater amberjack is an oily fish with white flesh. This means that it belongs to the oily fish family, but cuisine often treats it as a white-fleshed fish. This will be the dilemma of the day, along with – which wine to pair it with. Dalmatia is the home of Plavac Mali, a red grape variety of unique qualities, and of various white wines made from indigenous varieties that pair well with fresh fish, which enhance the gourmet experience. Those lucky enough to taste amberjack aboard a boat and a selected Vugava wine from the island of Vis, or a tuna steak with the Plavac Mali wine from the Pelješac Peninsula, are bound to dream about it for the rest of their lives. One way to ensure this experience is to sign up for Bota Extreme Fishing. The boat’s seasoned captain Pero, winner of several medals from professional big game fishing competitions, is well

extreme fishing

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

plete 80 lb and 30 lb fishing tackle sets (rods and reels), a fighting chair, jigging gear and jigging master rods and Shimano spinning reels which are a major component of our equipment. The boat offers comfort and an enjoyable fishing experience for four guests and two crew members. The interior consists of a lounge with a dining table, a galley and a toilet with a hot-water shower. A fishing trip packed with adrenaline is part of the daily routine aboard the Bota Extreme Fishing boat and we suggest seasoning your ideal holiday with a dash of just that.

A bout the boat Luhrs 29 Tournament Engine: twin; LPH 6, 315 hp each Length: 9.5 m Breadth: 3.55 m GRT: 7.47 Fly bridge Trolling outriggers Live bait tank Electronic equipment, a sounder, plotter, radar, auto-pilot, radio

at the Adriatic Luxury Service desk located by the hotel’s front desk or boat captain: Pero Šare sales2@bota-sare.hr gsm +385 (0)91 1754 484

aware of this fact. He claims to be happiest right where he is, where he grew up on the coast, spending his days fishing in one of the clearest and richest seas of the world. It is also one of the seas with the highest level of salinity, which is favourable to its biodiversity. It is this energy and enchanting beauty of the Adriatic that the crew would like to share with you. The boat is equipped with everything that is required: fuel, beverages, bait, and tools, and the most important thing – two seasoned crew members who love sharing their knowledge and secrets of unique fishing methods as well as preparing seafood delicacies aboard the vessel. They are entirely flexible during multi-day fishing trips, so you can fish during the day, and spend the night at hotels on any of the Adriatic islands. There is also room for two persons to sleep on the boat.

They organize fishing trips for beginners and professionals alike They offer: — Short fishing trips — All-day fishing — Multi-day fishing — Multi-day extreme fishing — Yacht tracking min. number of guests: 1 max. number of guests: 4 The usual departure is at 9 am, returning at 5 pm

About the vessel Bota Extreme Fishing uses a Luhrs 29 Tournament (9.5 m), fully equipped for big game fishing, specializing in drifting – hunting tuna, swordfish and sharks, and suitably equipped for trolling smaller species of tuna and little tunny with nine or more rods. The boat is ideal for catching the greater amberjack and dentex using the jigging technique. With its comfort and luxury furnishings, the boat offers an unforgettable experience on the open sea. Fishing from this boat provides direct contact with the sea and the fish, and each team member can actively participate in extreme fishing. The boat has a spacious cockpit and is fully equipped for fishing: top-notch electronic fish-finding devices, four com-

Join them and enjoy an exciting and unforgettable experience!

dubrovnik festiwine 2018

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

5 th e d i t i o n o f D u b r o v n i k F e s t i W i n e

For the love of wine

Dubrovnik FestiWine 2018 Program April 16 – 22, 2018 (Monday - Sunday) Wine week Enjoy carefully selected wines paired with authentic meals in wine friendly restaurants and bars April 16 – 18, 2018 Dubrovnik FestiWine Trophy, closed for public Panel evaluation by the international jury. The partner of the Festival, the Adriatic Luxury Hotels, will include the winning wine into the wine list of hotel Excelsior. April 18, 2018 BLIND DATE „In love with Ston oyster“, closed for public — Competition in pairing some 20 selected wines with Ston oyster — The Jury consists of the FestiWine Trophy jury, sponsors and media representatives April 19, 2018 FestiWine Gala dinner – Hotel Excelsior, closed for public

Dubrovnik FestiWine was founded in 2014 as the leading wine festival of Dubrovnik-Neretva County with the vision and goal to promote wine culture and the unique wines of Dubrovnik-Neretva County. The southernmost Croatian region is widely known for its centuries-long tradition of wine-making and is globally recognised by many wine makers, researchers, promoters and wine lovers. Following the successful repositioning and promotion of local wines in the overall promotion of Dubrovnik-Neretva County, last year the Dubrovnik FestiWine opened its doors for the first time to international wine producers. This year’s Dubrovnik 5 th FestiWine, will take place from 16 to 22 of April, 2018 in the stunningly beautiful Dubrovnik. With springtime in full swing, Dubrovnik will again welcome some of the best wine producers, sommeliers, enologists and wine promoters in Croatia and Europe. The central event of the festival is the Dubrovnik FestiWine Exhibition on April 20 and 21. The exhibition will take place at the ideally positioned Sunset Beach in Lapad bay, overlooking the nearby islands and providing the most scenic views. During the exhibition, many wine professionals, guests and tourists, will meet the winemakers and they will all have the opportunity to take part in the most enjoyable part of the Festival, the wine tasting. In addition, guests will have the opportunity to take part in different wine and culinary workshops, lectures and educational programs.

As in the earlier years, the Festival will be opened by the Dubrovnik Wine Week, during which guests of Dubrovnik are invited to visit restaurants, taverns and wine bars with the “Wine friendly” sign, and taste the finest wines of the Dubrovnik-Neretva County expertly paired with the delicacies of the Dubrovnik region. The entire week is rich in wine appreciation experiences, one of the most sought after of which is definitely the Dubrovnik FestiWine Gala, which will take place at the iconic Excelsior Hotel, which overlooks the magnificent city walls of Dubrovnik. The seven winning wines from the last edition of the Festival will be the basis for the culinary creations by our young and renowned chefs, the guest chef Igor Jagodić and the host chef Petar Obad. The entire proceeds of the gala will go to providing scholarships for the young Dubrovnik talented chefs and sommeliers. For additional information about the fifth edition of Dubrovnik FestiWine, we invite you to head to www.dubrovnikfestiwine.com or look up the #Dubrovnikfestiwine hashtag on social media platforms.

Make sure to taste the winner wine of this year’s Dubrovnik Wine Festival at Hotel Excelsior.

Chef Igor Jagodić from Slovenia will couple his creative and culinary talent with that of Petar Obad, the chef of Adriatic Luxury Hotels. Together they will create a dynamic menu inspired by top wines, the winners of the last year’s Dubrovnik FestiWine Trophy competition. In creating inventive and inspiring delicacies, the renowned chefs will be joined by last year’s scholarship winners, the young and ambitious culinary talents Kristina Curić and Ivo Kmetović. April 20, 2018 Sunset beach, Lapad bay 14:00 — B2B 15:00 — Opening ceremony 16:00 - 21:00 — Exhibition open April 21, 2018 Sunset beach, Lapad bay 12:00 (noon) - 20:00 Exhibition open

dingač wine

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

dingač wine

September in Pelješac vineyards Sprawling over 355 square kilometres, the Pelješac Peninsula is the largest peninsula in Dalmatia. Introduced by the Greeks and then advanced by the Romans, wine production has a long history in Pelješac. Nowadays, you’ll find acres of vineyards interspersed by olive trees throughout the Pelješac peninsula but concentrated mainly in the southeast. Region’s all-star is definitively ”Plavac Mali or “Little Blue(grape)” and the Dingač area, where the best varieties are grown. It is a small patch of picturesque vineyards located on southern hillsides, unique for the microclimate, which can have up to 3000 hours of intense sunlight annually.

The Wine This elegant, multi-layered wine with ripe fruit notes of cherry and prune is vibrant and rich with an impenetrable

Wine lovers, this is it! The most exciting time of the year in wine country. The reasons are threefold: the weather is a little cooler, the grapes are ripe and everywhere is bustling with activity. This is the season that all the growers, winemakers, and winery owners live for. If you are vacationing in Dubrovnik in September, you should take the opportunity to feel it, see, it, smell it! A two-hour drive to Pelješac is definitively worth your drive.

ruby colour. The rich and layered fruitiness mixed with a final spicy touch of oak, typical of Dingač, results in the pure pleasure of excellent balance: luxurious, powerful and warm.

Why Dingač? Dingač is a small patch of land covered in picturesque vineyards located on the southern hillsides of the Pelješac Peninsula northwest of Dubrovnik. The area is unique for its microclimate and position: it receives up to 3000 hours of intense sunlight annually and extremely high temperatures, as it spreads over steep slopes above the Adriatic shoreline. Sunlight comes from three sources: the Sun (daa :), the reflection from the sea and the limestone from beneath.

The Grape Plavac Mali - the region’s most prominent and most popular red wine grape, is the basis of many of Croatia’s award-winning reds. Often compared to Zinfandel (or the Italian Primitivo), Plavac Mali was actually found to be its immediate family relation as they share roots in the ancient Croatian variety of Crljenak. While the name translates to “Little Blue (grape)”, the wines from this intense variety are anything but small. High in both alcohol and tannins, these wines are dense and robust, often with a spicy finish.

The Winery The Skaramuča family vineyards are found on the southern slopes of Dingač, spread across 20 hectares of sunkissed slopes on the Pelješac Peninsula.

dingač wine

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Visiting the Pelješac Peninsula and Dingač vineyards is an excellent one day trip from Dubrovnik. For more information on how to book this trip please contact ALS (Adriatic Luxury Services) desk at your hotel.

To savour one of many award-winning Dingač wines, ask your server or bartender for a recommendation or wine pairing advice. In the spirit of the mantra of Galileo Galilei, who said: “Wine is sunlight held together by water”, Plavac Mali is all about the sun. The very key to its taste lies in the fact that the steep limestone slopes which spread above the Adriatic shoreline give the grape “three Suns” – from high up, reflecting from the limestone and reflecting from the sea, giving the grape almost 60 degrees Celsius to mature in. Like all great things, the terrain is both a curse and blessing. To add to an already arduous job, vineyard owners in certain areas have parts of their vineyards so steep that the only way to maintain them is by hanging on a suspension rope. The production is still very small, very traditional and the vineyards are family-owned, but don’t be mistaken - the images of the harvests from a bygone era, where donkeys were transporting the wine crates and women pressed the grapes with their feet as they sang are now a distant memory. But the countryside is still swarming with people and tractors carrying crate loads of handpicked grapes to the wineries, where they are immediately pressed, as the air becomes filled with the characteristic fragrance of the “must.”

This leading indigenous grape variety, like its cousin the Californian Zinfandel, is a descendant of the Crljenac wine variety from Kaštela. Despite the name, the wines from this intense variety are anything but small. It is one of Southern Europe’s best red wines, with earthy Mediterranean aromas of plum, rosemary and olive. The bouquet of an outstanding Plavac wine is unmistakable, and its rich texture full of strong tannins, high in alcohol, often followed by a spicy finish.

If you are visiting Pelješac vineyards on your own, before starting out, make sure to pick up a map of the wine cellars at the Ston tourist office. Don’t worry - the wine cellars aren’t hard to find since there is only one main road running through the Pelješac peninsula and the cellars are all well signed.

Cheers! Živjeli [Zhee-ve-lee]

Nazdravlje! [Naz-dra-vlee ]

t h e g i b r a lta r o f d u b r o v n i k

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

lovrijenac

The Gibraltar of Dubrovnik

The Fort itself is often referred to as ‘The Gibraltar of Dubrovnik’ due to its dramatic location jutting out grandly into the Adriatic Sea, standing guard against attack. If the walls weren’t enough to discourage an invasion of Dubrovnik, the Fort of St. Lawrence definitely played a crucial role. Along with the smaller Bokar Fort, Lovrijenac dominates both the sea and land entrances to the city’s western side surrounding and protecting Dubrovnik’s oldest harbour. As a symbol of the greatest defender of the city’s freedom, an ancient Latin inscription is carved in stone above the door leading to the fortress: “NON BENE PRO TOTO LIBERTAS VENDITUR AURO” — “Freedom is not to be sold for all the gold in the world.”, the words of one of Dubrovnik’s great poets, Ivan Gundulić.

T HE F OR T RESS O F S T . LAWRENCE ( LOVRIJENAC ) Built upon a 37 meter cliff overlooking the sea, the Lovrijenac fortress is one of the most impressive monuments in

Dubrovnik. This detached fortress was of prime importance for the defence of the western part of Dubrovnik against attack from both land and sea. During its service, the fortress was manned by a 25 man garrison and a Commander. View of Dubrovnik City walls and Lovrijenac fortress from sea side. Historians date the fort’s earliest construction to 1018 or 1038. However, the earliest written records date from 1301 when the city council voted on the Commander of the Fort. According to legend, in the 11th century Venice planned to entrench its troops at this rock in front of Dubrovnik and build a fortress in order to conquer the City. However Dubrovnik learned of this plan and the citizens were mobilized to build a fortress at the very spot before arrival of the Venetians. They were successful with the building project and as the Venetians came with ships carrying troops and supplies, much to their surprise, they realized their plan had failed. The fortress was expanded several times during its construction with major alterations made during the 15th and 16th centuries when the parapets were repaired by the municipal builder I. K. Zanchi of Pesaro. Having suffered damage in the great earthquake of 1667, Lovrijenac was again repaired in the 17 th century. Triangular in shape and following the contour of the rock on which it was built, narrowest, highest part of Lovrijenac faces towards the west, and its longest wall is open towards the city - the tower of Bokar and the western city wall, protecting the city’s smallest and oldest port - Kolorina. The fortress has a rectangular court surrounded by impressive archways arches. As the height is uneven, it has three terraces with powerful parapets, the broadest looking south towards the sea. Lovrijenac was defended by 10 large cannons. The largest was called “Gušter” (the Lizard), marvellously carved and decorated. However, it never fired a single shot. It was designed and cast in 1537 by master founder Ivan Rabljanin. Sadly, the Lizard is now lost at the bottom of the sea below Lovrijenac. While

the Fortress was being disarmed by the Austrian troops in the 19th century, a rope holding the gun broke off during hoisting and transport, and the cannon fell to the depths of the sea. It was never recovered. Since Lovrijenac occupies an extremely strategic position, its capture could threaten the entire defence of Dubrovnik. Therefore, a fail-safe mechanism was designed into the fortress. The walls facing the sea and possible

t h e g i b r a lta r o f d u b r o v n i k

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

One of the very first things that catches your eyes when you set out from Pile gate, is the imposing fortress of St. Lawrence (Lovrijenac) standing alone outside the city walls, guarding the city of Dubrovnik. Perched on a cliff 37 metres high, this symbol of the endurance and fortitude of the people and the city of Dubrovnik rises high above the city, protecting it for centuries.

enemy fire are almost 12 meters thick (40 feet), but the large wall surface facing the City does not exceed 60 centimetres (2 feet). The caution of the Republic was not only directed against the foreign enemy, but also against possible rebellion of the Commander in charge of the fort garrison or mutiny of the troops. In case of any trouble, the thin wall could never hold against the firepower of the mighty Bokar fortress facing Lovrijenac. To prevent any such mutiny or rebellion, the Commander of the fortress was elected from the rank of the nobility and replaced each month. Today, the terraces of Lovrijenac are no longer filled with armaments, but with theatre audiences, as the fortress has become a popular location for theatre productions during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. In particular, Lovrijenac is known as a favourite location for productions of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”, providing an unforgettable set for this world renowned tragic play.

Tips The best view of the city and major filming Location for Game of Thrones Red Keep Fans of “Game of Thrones” should make sure to visit Lovrijenac, perhaps more familiar to them as “The Red Keep” from King’s Landing. Many scenes were filmed here, including the tournament thrown in honour of King Joffrey’s name day in Season Two. Admission to Lovrijenac is included in the price of the ticket to the Dubrovnik City Walls. There are plenty of stairs to climb up to the top, but the view of the walls and old city from the fort is a worthwhile reward. A visit to Lovrijenac takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Make sure to visit the chapel of St. Lawrence, and its courtyard with cistern.

WEDDINGS A T LOVRIJENAC F OR T RESS Once a defensive military site, now a frequent film and theatre set, the Lovrijenac fortress is also an unforgettable wedding venue. With its stunning views and authentic historic ambiance, Lovrijenac is certainly a place where memories are made to last a lifetime. Our specialised and experienced staff are available to assist with planning wedding ceremonies and receptions for at least 100 guests. Please reserve well in advance for events in July and August.

pa r d o n m y c r o at i a n

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Pardon my Croatian If you are one of those:

Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy ice cream, which is kind of the same thing ... kind of people, you’re in luck - we’re entering high season of frozen treats!

Waking around the Old Town, especially the main street, Stradun, you’ll probably be tempted to stop for one, or two, or three colourful scoops before sightseeing ... and after sightseeing, and on your way to the beach ... and before dinner, and most probably before you go back to the hotel... And that’s ok, we completely understand!

pa r d o n m y c r o at i a n

Here are a few useful Croatian phrases: (though don’t be surprised if your ice-cream vendor knows how to say “Would you like one more scoop“ in approximately 20 different languages.)

Hi – Dobar dan. [DOE-bahr dahn ] ... Can I please get one scoop of … – Mogu li dobiti kuglicu … [MO-gu lee DOH-bee-tee KU-gli-tsoo] Chocolate – Čokolada [cho-ko-LAH-dah] Vanilla – Vanilija [VAH-nee-lee-yah] Strawberry – Jagoda [YAH-go-dah] Dubrovnik bitter orange (we definitely recommend) – Ljuta naranča [L’Yoota nah-rahn-cha] Lemon – Limun [LEE-moon] Walnut – Orah [O-rah] Pistachio – Pistacijo [PI-stah-CHEE-o] Now that you know the basic flavours, all that is left to decide is whether you want it in: A regular cone – Kornet [KOR-net] or a big sweet scone – Slatki kornet [slaht-kee KOR-net] Cup – Čašica [CHA-SHEE-tsa] T i p with a selection of approximately 20 different flavours, sometimes it’s hard to decide which one, but most places offer a: Half-and-half scoop - Just ask for POLA-POLA (half and half) Bon appetite – Uslast [OO-slast]

get outdoors!

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Get outdoors! ( a n d w e d o n ’t m e a n j u s t t h e b e a c h )

Adventure activities in Dubrovnik Late spring and early fall are great times to be in Dubrovnik. With perfect mild temperatures and lots of sunshine, it’s great to be outside and explore Dubrovnik beyond its culture and history.

Kayaking Sea Kayaking around the City Walls and Lokrum island You can opt for a morning or sunset-tour, group or private excursion, but make it a half-day tour to fully explore the Old Town City Walls from a unique perspective and uncover secrets of hidden caves and mysteries of Lokrum Island. Most tours start beneath the ancient fort Lovrijenac in the small port of Pile or from the Old Town port. Paddling to and around Lokrum, with several stops for rest and informative stories are just the start. Lokrum caves, a nudist beach, and the crystal clear Adriatic sea invite you to leave the world behind, relax and dive into paradise.

On land or by the sea, there are variety of activities and unique adrenaline trips available, to experience Dubrovnik’s natural wonders. So why not book a guided active break and really make the most of your time here? Here are our top picks...

On the way back to town, don’t miss the Betina cave, with its secret beach, approachable only from the seaside. This is a great stop for swimming, snorkeling and cliff jumping.

Elaphite Island Hopping - Pedal & Paddle Tour This day trip explores the local islands by ferry, kayak and bike. From the port of Gruž, hop on a ferry to Lopud Island, paddle over to Šipan Island, and then trade your kayak for a bike to cycle across the island’s vineyards, olive groves, chapels, and medieval villages. With the sun high in the sky, take a break for an authentic seaside lunch in the quaint village of Luka Šipanska and spend the afternoon swimming in the bay. Finish your day by pedaling back to your kayak and paddling to Lopud, to catch the sunset ferry home to Dubrovnik. The tour is not as physically demanding as it may seem, but if all that pedaling and paddling is not really your definition of a good time, there are plenty of other Elaphite Island Hopping Tours that include laid-back, good food & good wine boat cruises around the islands.

Bug gy S a fa r i On the Mountain of Srđ Get out of the city and off the beaten track in two-seater buggies. Even though the starting point is within easy reach of the Old Town, this guided expedition will take you to locations rarely seen by visitors to Dubrovnik, including hilltop fortresses and a Croatian ranch.

Dubrovnik Buggy Safari is the ultimate fun activity for all ages. The one- hour program includes off-road driving, sights from the recent war, fortresses, animals, woods, and an amazing 360° view of the whole Dubrovnik area, islands and mountains. A Mediterranean style ranch buggy tour will take you through typical Dalmatian rocky landscape, enjoying the natural scenery and wildlife. At the end of the day, catch the sunset and the magical “blue hour” - keep your cameras handy!

get outdoors!

Kon av l e R e gion Ac t i v i t i e s Biking & Wine Tasting This excursion usually starts at the village of Gruda in Konavle and runs along the small village roads in the lively Konavle region. This whole area, due to favorable climate and plenty of water, was the main source of agricultural products for Republic of Ragusa. Today’s trails take you through orchards, vineyards, and along the historical and natural landmarks such as the Franciscan monastery, the old mill in Ljuta village, and the waterfalls of the river Ljuta. The main route of 15 km (approximately 9,3 miles) is easy to cycle on, quite flat with just few short climbs. Taking small village roads, you return to Gruda to one of the local wineries where you can taste and buy famous wines produced from local grapes, along with homemade liqueurs, bread, pancetta and cheese.

Horse Riding Tour the same countryside from a unique perspective – the back of a friendly horse. This gentle trail is suitable for both novices and seasoned riders, while the slow pace ensures absolute peace of mind.

ATV Safari Tour If you just don’t feel like cycling (you can always blame the weather for being too hot), or if you prefer a bit more “horsepower”, dare to join an adrenaline-packed trip through the region that includes riding on four completely different off-road terrains. Storm the Ljuta river, visit the plains of Konavle field, the marshland and coast beneath Konavle Cliffs. Drive through beautiful olive groves, pine forest, old train tracks and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Adriatic Sea as you let yourself experience the thrills of an ultimate active holiday in the south of Dalmatia.

Tailor Made Trips with Adriatic Luxury Services Whether you are looking for a sailing trip along the coast, docking and fishing in the small fairytale villages, a private guided tour of the Old Town, or wine and oyster tastings on the Pelješac peninsula, leave the hassle of a coach tour behind and let our travel experts at Adriatic Luxury Services can put together a perfect tailor-made itinerary just for you.

***

All of the above-mentioned activities, group or private, can be booked at ALS information stands at Adriatic Luxury Hotels.

old dubrovnik recipes

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

DELICIOUS SECRETS : OLD DUBROVNIK RECIPES

Rozolin There is a certain pure and poetic feeling when the fragrance of Centifolia roses takes over the garden. Giving all their strength to blossom in a full, “thousand-petal” bulb, they bloom only once a year, and for a brief period of time. It’s no wonder that diligent Dubrovnik ladies, with an almost motherly care, used to carefully collect each blossomed petal to capture a little bit of that enchantment for the rest of the year in rose liqueur, locally called “Rozolin”. The essence of the rose is so powerful, that the Rozolin recipe is quite simple.

All you need are — petals of 12 Centifolia roses (old ladies would probably suggest you pick them while in full bloom, and in the early morning when it is said that the rose scent is the strongest and the oils most powerful) — 1 kilogram of sugar — 1 litre of grappa — 40 days of sun

Remove the green chalice from the bottom of the blossom and put the petals in a 5-litre glass jar, Add grappa and sugar, and place in the sun for 40 days. After 40 days, when the liqueur turns a light golden colour, strain the liqueur and pour it into bottles. Releasing a little bit of that early summer feel for Christmas has always been a treat reserved for special guests, even from the times of the Republic when members of the Dubrovnik nobility presented rozolin as a special gift (or bribe) to clergymen and dignitaries visiting the city. Deserving equally as much time in the spotlight, Rozolin is also the secret ingredient of Dubrovnik Crème caramel (Dubrovačka rozata), distinguishing it from its French counterpart - but this is something that you simply have to try to believe us!

tip Try this Dubrovnik classic at Hotel …., or head to the Dubrovnik green market for your bottle of “Dubrovnik in a jar”.

alh kitchen confidential

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

TAVERN MASLINA

A Contemporary Dalmatian Tavern

Everything about this Tavern is fresh. The breeze coming in from the open sea directly beneath you, the taste of Adriatic seafood on the plate in front of you, and the smell of salt and sea rock coming in on the splashing waves. Located at Dubrovnik Palace Hotel, Maslina offers a twist on traditional, Dalmatian al fresco dining. It is nestled directly on the balmy beachfront and offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic and nearby Elaphiti Islands. You may want to jump in the sea or the nearby pools after you’ve finished your meal. And you can!

Maslina has the atmosphere of a Mediterranean tavern, with a menu inspired by the finest local ingredients. From light appetizers, and a choice of fresh fish specialties, to typical Dalmatian meat dishes, you’ll enjoy fabulous cuisine complemented by stunning views all the way to the Elafiti Islands.

General info L oc at ion: Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, Masarykov put 20, Dubrovnik St y l e t i p : Seaside casual – summer dresses and sandals will do nicely HOURS OF OPERAT ION: Monday – Friday 12:00 - 24:00 (Open seasonally April–November) SIGNAT URE DISH: F ISHERMAN’S P O T — Everything that the sea offers, including shrimp, shellfish, lobster, and fish braised in white wine with the finest herbs and plum tomatoes.

For reservations, please contact the Front Desk

alh kitchen confidential

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

VICTORIA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE BAR

A Peruvian plate with Adriatic flavour

Back in 2004 The Economist magazine wrote that Peru was in the throes of a “spontaneous revolution” in gastronomy and could lay claim to one of the world’s dozen or so great cuisines. Original, vibrant, entertaining, unbelievably diverse, tasty, and most importantly, healthy, Peruvian cuisine has rapidly gained more and more fans all over the world. A visit to Peruvian restaurants has recently become a kind of a ‘must’ among trendsetters in European metropolitan cities. So, what is the secret of this vivacious, ‘sought after’ cuisine? Besides the number of ingredients and spices, which in a way mirrors the geographic diversity of Peru itself, what distinguishes Peruvian cuisine from others is its openness to new influences and skilful integration of other culinary cultures into its own tradition. This is what makes Peruvian cuisine the ‘ultimate fusion’ cuisine.

Set on a grapevine-draped terrace overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Restaurant Victoria is a gastronomic destination in itself. Victoria offers a unique Peruvian fusion experience complemented by an extensive wine list and sublime views of the Dubrovnik Old Town - where best local and international ingredients are carefully prepared by detail-oriented chef Roberto Chavez and his team.

General info L oc at ion: Villa Orsula Dubrovnik, Frana Supila 14 St y l e t i p : Côte d’Azur allure: a coral or chartreuse dress, a crisp linen shirt HOURS OF OPERAT ION: MMonday to Sunday: 18:00 - 24:00 (April - October) SIGNAT URE di sh: T UNA TATAKI “ T IRADI T O” — seared tuna, burned green tomatillo sauce, avocado “leche de tigre”, garlic, chips

For reservations, please contact the Front Desk

If by chance you have not yet experienced your Peruvian gastronomic moment, this is what you should go for: — Ceviche (a seafood dish – fresh raw fish cured in citrus sauce with a mix of spices; — By all means try some colourful Peruvian potatoes – yellow, blue, purple, red (Peru is known for its variety of potatoes; it has more than 500 different sorts); — You cannot go wrong with a quinoa-based dish (there are some great quinoa desserts as well); it is not only tasty but also very healthy and a common ingredient in many Peruvian dishes; Peruvian people proudly state that their culinary style is unique - so does Roberto Chavez, the young head chef of Victoria Restaurant & Lounge Bar, the first Peruvian restaurant on the Adriatic. While combining fresh local ingredients with ethnic influences that make Peruvian cuisine so authentic, he prepares meals which inspire harmony and happiness beyond the kitchen.

alh kitchen confidential

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

p r o r a b e a c h r e s ta u r a n t

A secluded hideaway

Occupying an exclusive spot under the arches of the Excelsior Hotel on its sea front, with views across to the old town of Dubrovnik, the Prora Beach Restaurant is a lovely spot, day or night, to enjoy a light bite or a more indulgent meal during the summer time. If you want to be wined and dined in a setting that is both truly intimate and archetypal Mediterranean on Hotel Excelsior’s elegant terrace, Prora has it all. We invite you to linger over sun-drenched summer lunches and savour the local seafood alongside regional fish and meat dishes infused with the magic of the Mediterranean by the gifted hands of Executive Chef Peter Obad. Or, take a seat beneath the ancient stone arches where the finest seafood from the region is served in a relaxed setting. Start with a fresh fish carpaccio, followed by a beautifully presented fish or meat entree, and top it all off with one of our regionally inspired desserts to finish your journey. However, if you are really looking for a secluded hideaway that is utterly romantic, the Prora Beach Restaurant offers stunning setting for a romantic dinner for two on a warm summer night, with a magnificent view of Dubrovnik’s Old Town in the background. At Prora, the food can only be upstaged by the impressiveness of the setting: the sun flashing on the stone walls of the Old Town and crystal clear deep blues of the Adriatic in the background. Ou r t i p if you are planning a romantic dinner make sure to reserve a table on the stone terrace by the water’s edge. Make sure you are there right before the sunset. * After extensive refurbishment, the iconic Hotel Excelsior has been fully revitalized into a space that celebrates its rich history and a bright future. It reopened its doors this spring 2017 and showed its renovated grandeur as one of the most lavish hotels on the Adriatic.

The Hotel Excelsior is arguably Dubrovnik’s most chic hotel, catering to jet-setters from around the world, and an ideal base from which to experience all that the area has to offer.

General info L oc at ion: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik, Frana Supila 12 St y l e t i p : Casual by day, spruced-up by night. Linen for him – a silk dress for her. HOURS OF OPERAT ION: Monday to Sunday: 11:00 - 24:00 (June - September) SIGNAT URE DISH: LOBS T ER — with home-made pappardelle, baby tomatoes, olives, and pepperoncini SEA SCALOP S — with romesco pesto, zucchini, spaghetti, white wine and pink grapefruit sabayon

For reservations, please contact the Front Desk

d i s c o v e r ko n av l e

If you are up to escaping D u b r o v n i k f o r a d ay …

Discover Konavle Pa s j a č a b e a c h No music, no bars, no cars, no crowds, no phone or internet signal, just pristine waters and the open sea in front of you – sounds like a dream right? Or DiCaprio’s movie description? And it is, but a hard reached one. Pasjača shyly emerges from the giant Konavle cliffs, close by to the village Popovići. It is not a natural beach; the sea word down the surplus of stone left from the tunnels dug in World War Two creating a surreally beautiful beach. Locals have not made it east to find, and it is definitively not easy to reach; think about thousand steps up and down on a steep cliffside, and no mojto waiting for you on either end. But once you do get there, as a reward the views are simply breathtaking. Its sunny all day long, with a little cave offering a much needed mid-day shade and only a few people to share it with. This piece of heaven is not available for long; unfortunately, the beach is disappearing because the sea is eroding the sand. Di r e ct ions ... don’t think so. You have to be perusive enought to have the locals show you the way or persistant enought to google it youself (remember no internet signal).

Čilipi If you want to explore the folklore and ethnography of Konavle, you must visit Čilipi, the cultural centre and one of the largest settlements in Konavle. For over forty years now, every Sunday morning at 11.15 am, from Easter to the end of October, traditional folk dancing is held in front of the St. Nicholas church. This is surely the best way to get to know the tradition and customs of this region. We also recommend visiting the Konavle County House museum that contains the ethnographic treasures of Konavle, displayed in a perfectly restored typical Konavle house. The collection contains about 500 items including men’s and women’s folk costumes, embroidery, jewellery, arms, musical instruments and items used in the everyday life.

F o r t “ S o k o l” ( H aw k f o r t ) Dating from the 15th century, the impressive Sokol fort was built at the foot of the stone cliffs that rise above the village of Dunave in Konavle. It was the largest fort in the area, built to guard the border of the Dubrovnik Republic and defended the area from enemy invasions through the natural passage between the massive Snježnica and Bjelotina Mountains. Throughout the centuries it was constantly adapted and upgraded. T i p When you set foot on the last step and reach the top of the fort, you will be impressed by the breath-taking view of the entire Konavle region.

c av tat d i v i n g

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

Cavtat Diving bucket list

W h at to see

amphorae and pythoi, shipwrecks, underwater walls and caves

—

Level

basic skill and advanced divers, depth of amphorae is 27 m, pythoi, 30 m

—

How to get there

Cavtat is a 30 minute drive from Dubrovnik. Public buses take about 45 minutes.

—

Wat e r temper atur e

surface temperature is between 21 and 26°C, however at the dive sites the water can sometimes be colder depending on the currents.

—

Visibility

around 15-30 metres

—

season summer

Turk — (outside part of the island of Mrkan) – it has a large plateau with a wall and a large cave. The depth is from 7 to 55 meters. Dolije (pythos) — large antique containers (2,000 litres each) at a depth of 30 meters. It is the only fully preserved site with 10 whole specimens.

Diving trips are organized twice a day, in the morning and afternoon. All dives start from the boat. The time required to reach the location is maximum 10 minutes. Ancient shipwreck — biggest amphora site on the Adriatic coast with over 1800 preserved amphorae. The depth is 25 to 27 meters. In addition to amphorae, you can see a lot of eels, groupers and few morays.

Lenga Gaj — reef that begins at eight and goes up to 40 meters in depth. At the bottom, there is an underwater cave 20 meters long and one smaller tunnel. On the wall you can meet lobsters and morays.

Mrkanjac — an islet on which there is a notch and natural wall from 8 to 60 meters depth. You can see moray, lobsters, grouper, octopus and many pelagic fish. Lenga Bobara — a reef from 11 to 70 meters. It has always excellent visibility and is very rich in different fish species.

Bobara Cave — a big notch at a depth of 8 meters, which goes down to 40 meters depth. From there on, you can explore large walls and many small notches. Rocks of Croatia — this is a multitude of small and large stones with a variety of fish species and several large old anchors. The depth is 30 meters. Tomy — shipwreck from 1991 at a depth of 20 meters. Besides the ancient pottery and shipwrecks, it is possible to find some marine life hiding between the amphorae, including morays, lion fish, stone fish and other small fish and organisms.

c av tat d i v i n g

We are sure that you have already heard about the one of the best preserved archaeological sites of ancient amphorae in Cavtat, and that so far you have been very intrigued by the story of this unique underwater museum. In addition you can explore other extraordinary diving locations near the small islands of Mrkan, Bobara and Supetar, amazing underwater walls that reach up to 100 m in depth, fascinating underwater caves and much more! Surely, you have already started thinking of your next “must see” diving location. So for your convenience, here we present our diving “bucket list” of the best diving locations in Cavtat for your next adventure.

DIVING T I P S The local diving centres offer complete service including the organization of diving excursions in these locations, and high quality equipment rental. Diving is permitted only with a valid diving card issued by the Croatian Diving Union (HRS), which is valid one year after the date of issue. Individual diving in archaeological sites is strictly forbidden in Croatia. In other words, you can dive anywhere in the Adriatic given that you are accompanied by a professional guide (diving or scuba diving instructor), who is responsible for your safety and is hired to show you diving locations. If you are planning to explore the Cavtat’s underworld, visit the diving and water-sports centre “Epidaurum” “ and take an adventure in the Cavtat deep blue.

h o t e l i n f o r m at i o n

www.adriaticluxuryhotels.com

h o t e l i n f o r m at i o n

Adriatic Luxury Hotels DREAM COLLEC T ION HOTEL E XCEL SIOR DUBROV NIK Dubrovnik’s iconic Hotel Excelsior is one of the finest luxury five-star hotels in the Mediterranean. Completely refurbished, this lavish hotel has opened its doors in spring 2017. Overlooking the island of Lokrum and the Old Town of Dubrovnik, the hotel offers an outstanding location, understated elegance, and incomparable charm. Enjoying a rich 100-year history, the Hotel Excelsior has a longstanding reputation and loyal client base, having played host to some of the world’s greatest performers and royalty. Accommodation: 139 rooms and 19 suites Dining: three restaurants and one bar Conference facilities: six multifunctional rooms for up to 650 people Wellness and recreation: Energy Clinic spa and beauty centre; private beach

HOTEL BELLEV UE DUBROV NIK Hotel Bellevue is a boutique luxury hotel which prides itself on its chic style, attracting a younger, funkier, and more design-savvy clientele to the city of Dubrovnik. Perched 30m above the picturesque Miramare Bay, nestled in a sandy cove overlooking the Adriatic Sea, the Hotel Bellevue sets a new standard for Croatian properties, attracting the most discerning and affluent visitors. Accommodation: 77 rooms and 14 suites Dining: two restaurants and two bars Conference facilities: three meeting rooms for up to 140 people Wellness and recreation: Energy Clinic spa and beauty centre; pebble beach

V ILL A OR SUL A dubrovnik This new boutique hotel is just a five-minute stroll from the unforgettable UNESCO-protected Dubrovnik Old Town. Its prestigious seafront location offers spectacular sea views, while the surrounding gardens offer exclusive privacy in a secluded corner of Dubrovnik. Built in the 1930s, Villa Orsula’s gracious Oriental style architecture creates an atmosphere of exotic luxury. Accommodation: 11 rooms and 2 suites Dining: Victoria Restaurant and Lounge Bar

V ILL A AGAV E Recognised as the best way to experience the ancient and luxurious city of Dubrovnik, Villa Agave is one of the most exclusive villas on the Mediterranean. With an atmosphere of relaxation, comfort, and informality, Villa Agave is a three-bedroom, 270 m 2 summer house overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Surrounded by five terraces, Villa Agave offers exceptional privacy and breathtaking views across the bay of the Old Town of Dubrovnik and the Island of Lokrum.

V ILL A SHEHER E Z A DE Vila Sheherezade was built in the early 1920’s. Its outstanding white stone architecture makes it one of Dubrovnik’s protected historic sites. The legend behind this marvellous villa, about a great love manifested in the form of a monument, resembles the story of the Taj Mahal. This architectural masterpiece, surrounded by colourful gardens of palm and cypress trees includes over 4,200 m2 of exuberant greenery, creating a charming and unique atmosphere.

e s c a p e COLLEC T ION GR A ND V ILL A A RGENTINA Just minutes from the gates of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Villa Argentina was built as a gilded private residence at the beginning of the 20th century and was converted into a five-star hotel complex in the 1950s. Overlooking the blue Adriatic Sea and nearby island of Lokrum, the hotel is just a short walk from the Old Town of Dubrovnik, providing the ideal starting point for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accommodation: 127 rooms and 4 suites Dining: two restaurants and three bars Conference facilities: three meeting rooms for up to 200 people Wellness and recreation: Outdoor swimming pool; deck beach

HOTEL DUBROV NIK PA L ACE Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, a luxury five-star resort, opened in May 2004 and renovated in 2014. Revered for its multifaceted approach to lavish holiday escapes, Dubrovnik Palace offers a full range of activities and facilities for couples and business travellers. Celebrated as Europe’s finest five-star resort for 2011, the Hotel Dubrovnik Palace was also the proud winner of two World Travel Awards for two consecutive years – Croatia’s Leading Hotel and Croatia’s Leading Spa Resort. Its wellness and spa centre, conference rooms, superb gastronomy, and spectacular terraces with breath taking sea views make it the first choice for a memorable, luxurious stay. Accommodation: 271 rooms and 37 suites Dining: four restaurants and three bars Conference facilities: eleven conference and meeting rooms for up to 750 people Wellness and recreation: Energy Clinic spa and beauty centre, three outdoor swimming pools, PADI diving centre, tennis court, private beach, jogging paths and walking routes.

HOTEL CROATI A CAV TAT Located a pleasant 20-minute drive from historic Old Town Dubrovnik, near the picturesque village of Cavtat, Hotel Croatia Cavtat is the leading 5-star resort and conference hotel on the southern Adriatic. Built to demanding specifications allowing Hotel Croatia to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, it is the ideal destination for relaxation or business.

The hotel serves as a convenient base for exploring Dubrovnik, the crown jewel of the Adriatic. Accommodation: 480 rooms and 7 suites Dining: four restaurants, three bars, night club Conference facilities: ten conference and meeting rooms for up to 850 people Wellness and recreation: Energy Clinic wellness and spa centre, private beach, outdoor swimming pool

HOTEL KOMPA S dubrovnik All new 4- star hotel opened in August 2015, the charming Kompas is located in the most peaceful and calm neighbourhood of Dubrovnik, the beautiful Lapad Bay. Less than 4 km from the Old Town city centre - away from summer crowds, Hotel Kompas enjoys one of the best positions in Dubrovnik. Thanks to its proximity to the sea and the beach, its ideal location in a quiet area, hotel Kompas has become one of the most popular places to spend summer holidays in Dubrovnik. Accommodation: 170 rooms and 3 suites Dining: Sphere Restaurant & Lounge Bar and Zenith bar Conference facilities: conference room for up to 400 people Wellness and recreation: Energy Clinic wellness and spa centre, outdoor and indoor swimming pool

V ILL A GL AV IĆ dubrovnik Villa Glavić is an historic three-storey building, with 21 rooms, offering complete privacy and beautiful sea views. The location of the hotel makes it convenient for trips into Dubrovnik, to learn of its colourful history, to dine in its many restaurants or to shop in the boutiques of the walled city.

u n w i n d COLLEC T ION HOTEL ODISEJ mljet Hotel Odisej is a three-star hotel in the heart of the Mljet National Park, on the Island of Mljet. It is a perfect place for nature enthusiasts, history buffs; those who like to explore the myths of ancient times or scuba diving fans. If you are looking for a secluded island retreat, where time stands still, the island of Mljet makes a perfect choice. Accommodation: 153 rooms and two suites Dining: two restaurants and three bars Wellness and recreation: Children’s swimming pool; fitness studio; hiking and biking trails; diving centre

HOTEL SUPETA R cavtat Hotel Supetar is a comfortable 3-star hotel ideally situated for a family holiday in the centre of the charming historic town of Cavtat, a typical Dalmatian seaside town with harmonious architecture. The hotel is just steps away from the beach and offers guests a more intimate setting to enjoy their Adriatic vacation. Old Town Dubrovnik is a pleasant 20-minute drive away. Accommodation: 28 rooms Dining: restaurant and bar