On the cusp of the UNESCO-listed old town of Split, we found a super-modern, chic oasis – the Hotel Luxe, Split – the perfect base (and juxtapose) to explore this unique and ancient port city.
Set in a refurbished old steam-power factory near the ferry terminal, it’s pretty clear that the Hotel Luxe, Split owners wanted to bring a slice of Milan, Paris and NYC to Croatia’s second and Europe’s rapidly up-and-coming city. The maximalist interior of this boutique property is wannabe Phillipe Starck, but with flashes of bright, Adriatic-inspired colours to give it a sense of place. Alright, that’s underselling it somewhat – it’s borderline ‘bling-bling’ / ‘Real Housewives’ if we are to be perfectly honest, but the loud decor comes without the attitude, which is nice. Some will call it individual, others might say that it’s over the top!
There are just 30 rooms in total, each on the small side, but perfectly designed and all sea-facing, to add to the vibe. Split is a city you’ll want to spend hours exploring, so frankly you won’t be in your room too much. Breakfast and drinks are taken in the lobby bar and restaurant, where you’ll get to spend time with the hotel’s lovely staff – who just can’t do enough for you.
| Perfect for | Fly into | Right on time |
| The Insider | SPU | GMT +1 |
| While you’re Out There |
| The best food in Split is on the other side of the port from the hotel (just a short walk away along the seafront). Ask the hotel for a recommendation for a local Konoba (Croatian for Taverna) for some delicious, local delights. These places are small, but brimming with ambience; but they can get very busy during the summer – even in the week – so make sure to ask the lovely team at the Luxe to book ahead for you. |
Photography courtesy of Hotel Luxe, Split
