8 Best Hotels in Southern Dalmatia, Croatia

Located in a quiet neighborhood a short walk up the hill from the center of Cavtat, family-run Castelletto, with its bougainvillea-strewn terraces, cheerful rooms, and laid-back vibe, is a perfect place to unwind and soak up a bit of local life. Breakfast is served poolside on the terrace, and there is a small bar on-site for nightcaps. Ask about airport transfers at the time of booking. The public bus to Dubrovnik stops just across the road; if you're coming from Dubrovnik, ask the driver to let you off one stop before Cavtat center to avoid the walk back uphill.

Located in a quiet bay a 10-minute walk from Korčula Town, with a large private dock perfect for sunbathing and impromptu barbecues, these homey well-equipped rooms are run by Paulina and Antonio, the most helpful couple you could hope to meet on holiday. The only thing you'll have to worry about is securing one of their four rooms; after that, they'll take care of everything. They have bikes to rent, can organize private wine- and olive oil-tasting tours or island-hopping and snorkeling excursions, and can even make reservations for you at their favorite restaurants. It is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the island away from the Korčula Town crowds.

These eclectic apartments are the best budget choice in the Old Town, just steps away from the Cathedral and the Old Port, with high ceilings, well-stocked kitchenettes, colorful furniture, and books and relics collected from all around the world. They will transport you back to old Dubrovnik, 1960s London, or wherever else the brilliant Marc Van Bloemen and his family feel like taking you with their fascinating stories. The apartments make a comfortable and affordable base to self-cater and explore the Old Town for a few days, and it doesn't hurt that the excellent Gianni café is right downstairs. Try to request Apartment #1 for stunning views of the city walls.

Set on a pebbly beach a 10-minute walk from the center of Orebić, this resort is a perfect base for the whole family. The kids can run wild at the pool and on the beach while the adults enjoy pleasant facilities such as a generous buffet, lounge bar, all-inclusive options, and evening entertainment. The rooms are simple but smartly decorated and spacious; most have sea views.

Situated in the middle of the island near the peaceful village of Brna, this resort 32 km (20 miles) southwest of Korčula Town is a perfect base for mountain biking to pristine beaches and viewpoints, visiting wineries in nearby Smokvica, or just lying on a lounger and gazing at the sea. With breezy modern rooms, two lovely restaurants, a small pool, and a wide stretch of beach, this is an ideal place to get away from it all. The half-board package is an excellent value, especially since there are not many restaurants nearby and the buffet is substantial.

One of the most welcoming, peaceful, and relaxing hotels in the region, Hotel Božica on Šipan makes a great base for exploring the Elafiti Islands and beyond. Rooms are cozy and warmly decorated and there's a lovely infinity pool and a private beach. Bikes and kayaks are also available to rent. BOWA restaurant is nearby, as is the port and sleepy village of Suđurađ, where you'll find a couple of cafés.

Located in the village of Pomena, just a 15-minute walk from the lakes, the Odisej's main appeal is its proximity to the national park. The rooms are basic but comfortable and there are excellent sports facilities nearby, including a scuba-diving school and a small marina, plus bicycles, kayaks, and canoes to rent. Their waterfront terrace is a great place to sit and watch the quiet life of Mljet go by.

A prime location right beside the city walls makes up for the basic facilities at this family-run hotel. Consider it your home base for all things Mali Ston; the same family also operates Ston's famous salt pans, and you can buy souvenir bags in the restaurant. The whole place could use a refresh, but the staff is friendly and helpful and it makes a welcoming and practical base.