Villa Diana

I stayed at Villa Diana with family—eight of us in all—in July of 2023 for three nights. It’s a terrific boutique hotel located right along the shores of Cikat Bay in Mali Losinj. Just a few steps off the back dining area and you are in the water, a lovely and easily accessible inlet. Great bay views from most rooms and, of course, from the dining area. In terms of location, it’s well outside the heart of Mali Losinj . . . and while you could walk to the town center in 25 minutes or so, you’ll likely want to drive in if you want to walk and dine at the harbor. That said, there are a number of dining options within walking distance. However, we opted to dine at the hotel all three nights. Solid steak house . . . I’d recommend the veal chop and don’t miss out on the excellent potatoes gratin. The beef carpaccio for an appetizer was also outstanding. And the linguini aglio e olio with shrimp is a must . . . one of the best pasta dishes I had on our three week stay in Croatia. They provide an outstanding complimentary breakfast, excellent croissants and rolls, fresh fruit and meats, and eggs made to order. The rooms are spacious and warm—and I would guess (but am not sure) recently renovated. While the rooms are not inexpensive . . . they certainly deliver for the value: Well air conditioned, good pillows and coverings, beach towels, abundant closet space, and overall good amenities. Just a quality room, and I was lucky enough to get the one with the balcony, which afforded an even better view of the days and nights. The staff is excellent—very friendly and attentive, with a kind smile and laugh. Always at the ready with another cup of coffee or to send another glass of wine or beer your way. The make a terrific Negroni, which they barrel age themselves, and also an outstanding gin and tonic (so my fellow travelers declared). It was the perfect place to stay and wind down on the final three days of our trip to Croatia—beautiful and tranquil. This is really a hidden gem . . . and I wouldn’t hesitate to stay here should I come this way again. Once last word of advice . . . it only has nine rooms, I believe. So make your reservations early. We made ours in February or so, which was vital as we booked five rooms in all.