Boutique Hotel Kazbek

Boutique Hotel Kazbek occupies a restored 16th-century summer residence at Lapadska obala 25 on the Gruž Bay waterfront, on the Lapad shore of Dubrovnik in Croatia's Dubrovnik-Neretva region. It lies around 2 km from the Gruž ferry port and a short bus or taxi ride from both the Old Town and the Lapad beaches. The building is one of the former summer houses that Ragusan nobles built along this stretch of coast, and the stone facade and garden setting give the hotel a distinctly historic, intimate atmosphere. With only about 13 rooms, offered as Double Rooms and Suites at roughly €200 to €450 per night, it is among the city's smallest luxury addresses and is rated highly by guests. Facilities include a heated pool, a sauna, parking, wifi and air conditioning, together with restaurants and bars that open onto the water. Dining here is a feature in its own right, with seafood and Dalmatian dishes served on the terrace by the bay, and breakfast is served in the same setting. The service character is personal and quiet, suited to couples and travellers looking for a refined retreat rather than a large resort with entertainment programmes. Because Gruž Bay is a working harbour, the views combine moored boats and the green slopes opposite, and sunsets over the water are a regular draw. The small scale means rooms fill quickly in summer, and advance booking is advisable. Visitors who want the Old Town should expect to use local buses or taxis, though the Lapad promenade and its beaches are closer. Winter stays are calm and rates fall, though the pool is best enjoyed in warmer months.