Villa Hortensia

The stunning island of Lošinj is aptly known as Croatia’s ‘Island of Vitality’, famous for its lush greenery, beautiful beaches, fresh air and laidback atmosphere, as well as plenty of picturesque hiking and biking trails along the turquoise coast. Villa Hortensia is situated along Čikat Bay in Mali Lošinj, the island’s largest town, which boasts an idyllic harbour setting, a backdrop of rolling green hills and a distinctively Mediterranean feel. With a charming historic centre and spectacular natural beauty, Mali Lošinj offers visitors a dreamlike holiday setting and a fantastic base from which to explore the wonders of the Cres-Lošinj archipelago.

A scenic ride along the pristine waters of Čikat Bay is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon exploring, with private tours and speedboat excursions available to guests at Villa Hortensia. For those who enjoy exploring on foot, a paved pathway connects Mali Lošinj to the smaller town of Veli Lošinj, with aromatic pine trees providing plenty of shady spots as you soak up the ocean vistas along the way. Čikat Forest Park is the ideal place for a morning hike in nature, with a variety of marked trails leading through the peaceful woodlands to the coast, where you can finish your hike with a leisurely picnic or a rejuvenating ocean swim.

With a secluded oceanfront sundeck right on your doorstep, you will have every opportunity to spend time enjoying the warm, crystalline waters of the Adriatic Sea. For those who wish to venture further afield, a visit to the Historical Underwater Park, located within the Top Dive Diving Centre in Čikat Bay, is not to be missed. Here, underwater explorers can make their way down to faithful replicas of historic cannons, ancient statues and centuries-old anchors, with experienced divers offering guided visits to those who do not hold a diving license.

The picturesque streets of Mali Lošinj are perfect for wandering on lazy afternoons. Enjoy a morning espresso at a local café on the waterfront before visiting the fascinating Museum of Lošinj, located within the iconic Fritzi Palace. The Museum of Apoxyomenos, located in the imposing Kvarner Palace, is home to a beautiful bronze statue that was discovered by a diver on the seabed near Mali Lošinj, at a depth of 45m, after spending many centuries beneath the waves.

Lošinj offers visitors plenty of opportunities to experience its rich gastronomy, with excellent seafood restaurants and local taverns in Mali Lošinj serving the island’s delicious delicacies. The team at Villa Hortensia can also arrange private dining experiences. For guests who wish to indulge in some additional pampering, a visit to the renowned Bellevue Spa Clinic is easily arranged, or a relaxing treatment with an experienced masseuse can be enjoyed from the comfort and privacy of the villa’s outdoor massage area..

Read more about Losinj

The island of Losinj, located in the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea, beckons travellers seeking an authentic Croatian experience. Often referred to as the “Island of Vitality” due to its warm climate, fragrant pine forests and an abundance of aromatic herbs, Losinj is an ideal destination for sun-seekers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature.

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, there’s ample opportunity to explore Losinj’s picturesque coves and bays that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. One of the island’s most famous beaches, Cikat Bay, has crystal-clear waters and a beautiful promenade lined with century-old pine trees.

The waters surrounding Losinj are teeming with diverse marine life, making it a destination of choice for nature lovers and divers. The island is known for its efforts in marine conservation and is home to the Blue World Institute, a research and conservation organisation dedicated to the study and protection of marine life in the Adriatic. One of the most famous inhabitants of the waters around Losinj is the bottlenose dolphin, and visitors often have the opportunity to spot these majestic creatures during boat tours.

Losinj has a vibrant cultural scene that reflects its rich history and ties to the sea. The island's maritime heritage is celebrated in the form of festivals, museums, and events. Located in the town of Mali, the Museum of Apoxyomenos is a treasure trove of art and history, housing the bronze statue of Apoxyomenos, a masterpiece of Greek antiquity. This remarkable statue, which was discovered in the waters of Losinj, showcases the island's historical connections with ancient civilisations.

Throughout the summer, the island comes alive with a variety of cultural events, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and traditional folk celebrations. These events provide a glimpse into the island's unique traditions and a chance to mingle with the warm and welcoming locals.

The island of Losinj has been inhabited for thousands of years. Ancient artefacts and ruins bear witness to the presence of Illyrians, Romans, and Byzantines who once called this island home. One of the most prominent periods in Losinj's history is its role as a maritime hub during the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The island's sheltered bays and natural beauty attracted European nobility, including Habsburg monarchy, who frequented Losinj for their summer retreats. The legacy of this era is still visible today in the well-preserved architecture of charming seaside towns like Mali Losinj and Veli Losinj.

Losinj has long been associated with health and wellness, and it's considered a haven for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The island's microclimate, enriched with the scent of pine trees and sea salt, has been lauded for its therapeutic properties. Visitors can indulge in the island's wellness offerings, which include spa treatments, yoga retreats, and holistic therapies. Losinj's tranquil environment makes it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the stresses of modern life and embrace a holistic approach to well-being.

The island is accessible by car and ferry, with the ferry ride itself providing a scenic journey across the Adriatic. Losinj also has its own airport with regular flights from major European cities. Once on the island, the compact size makes it easy to navigate. If you're looking to escape to a place where time slows down, and the beauty of the Adriatic unfolds before your eyes, Losinj is just the paradise you've been seeking. Its natural beauty, rich heritage, and commitment to environmental conservation make it a standout destination.