Villa Elaphy

Embraced in a leafy rim of laurel and cypress trees, this Villa is a splendid small-group retreat in the quaint seaside village of Trsteno. In the Renaissance, the aristocrats of Dubrovnik built their summer estates here, drawn by the serenity of the cliff-side village which gazes at the lovely Elaphite Islands. Just below the Villa, you will find the lush Arboretum Trsteno, the region's oldest botanical garden, a prime Renaissance estate, and the Game of Thrones stand in for the heavenly gardens of the King's Landing.

In the same spirit, the Villa sets a perfect stage for leisurely retreats. The property can accommodate up to 12 guests in six double rooms. Five are in the main villa and one in the side annex, perfect for staff or guests who seek more privacy. The expansive stone-paved terrace which fronts the house can easily host a festive dinner or a poolside cocktail reception. As well, the fragrant garden with a pavilion is ideal for an intimate ceremony, as well as simple contemplation or yoga practice. With indoor and outdoor dining, outdoor barbecue, 5x11m open-air pool, a verdant garden, four parking spots and a location close to many of the region's most alluring sights, Villa La Villa Dubrovnik is a superb choice for both family vacations and small, private celebrations.

The cascading property the Villa comprises 1400m. It spans three levels: roadside, with four parking spots; the level below holds the main villa, its annex, front terrace with outdoor dining table and pool; the lowest level is the garden with a small pavilion. The main villa has 300m of interior space. Its layout was inspired by the surrounding Renaissance estates: each of the two floors is centered on an expansive central space.

The arched French windows throughout the house boast stunning panoramas of the islet-dotted horizon, and bring in loads of daylight. The contemporary lines of the tailored furniture and fittings are accentuated by carefully selected historic details and vibrant wall colors. The central room of the ground floor is the grand dining room with a table for 12. The deep purple of its walls is splashed with bright paintings by renowned Croatian modern artists. The antique glass chandelier and the subtle 18-th century embroidery wall piece add a dash of opulence. Branching off from the dining room, find the three guests bedrooms. All three feature double beds and clean, modern design. One bedroom, in the quiet and shade of the back of the house, has its own bath with a shower. The other two rooms share a bath with a Jacuzzi, and one of the two has direct access to the front terrace. Also on the ground floor is the square-shaped kitchen with a central isle. Its modern design includes all the equipment and appliances needed to prepare a light lunch or an elaborate, chef-curated dinner. Its extension, the outdoor barbecue, is located next to the villa annex. Think: grilled fresh fish, grilled veggies - the staples of the Mediterranean cuisine.

With no partitions, the entire space is flooded by natural light, adding an airy, zen-like quality. To the side of the house, the villa annex holds the sixth accommodation unit. Its 40m are comprised of a bedroom with two twin beds which can be converted to a double and bathroom. Staying at the  Villa is splendid isolation, perfect for soaking up the sun by the pool and enjoying the views from the balconies. But when you are ready to explore, there's a multitude of experiences at your doorstep. The highlight of the region, Dubrovnik Old Town, is a mere 15-minute ride by boat or car. The wine country of Peljesac, the oysters of Ston, the Elaphiti Islands and the charming Korcula Island, are also at an easy reach. And all you need to do to enjoy to the fullest is ring your private concierge, available to you 24/7!