Escape the crowds at Croatia’s Aparthotel Kalamota, a luxurious family-run resort on the remote island of Koločep.
The low-down
A dreamy apartment-style hotel on the secluded, walkable island of Koločep in Croatia. It’s a hidden oasis and a dreamy retreat best suited to couples and families wanting to unwind.
What makes it special?
It’s all about soaking up Island life and switching off at ApartHotel Kalamota.
The hotel is a lesser-known luxury escape away from the chaos of Dubrovnik. It’s close enough to the city that you’ll have absolutely no problems getting to the island but far away enough to avoid the crowds completely.
The island of Koločep is largely untouched. There are no cars, and a single track connects the only two small villages that you can stroll from start to finish in less than an hour.
Kalamota’s building was refurnished by an architect whose parents grew up in Koločep.
Though now a modern hotel, it once stood as target practice for bombs, as it’s the largest building on the island – an interesting backstory that’s told throughout the hotel.
Rooms and amenities
ApartHotel Kalamota lives by the motto: quality over quantity. There are only 11 apartment-style rooms, and every room has a breathtaking view of the turquoise Adriatic Sea and the hills of the neighbouring islands.
The hotel prides itself on attention to detail, and that shows in the attentive and friendly service everyone who stays can enjoy. It’s family-run too, so you’ll get that home-from-home feeling – like you’re really being looked after. The concierge might just become your favourite new person.
The décor throughout Kalamota is incredibly modern and inspired by the island’s stones.
There’s a calming, neutral colour scheme throughout, with contemporary furniture and rustic finishes like the rope hanging from the ceiling. The work of local artist Dubravka Losic hangs from the walls and adds an artistic feel to the hotel.
Apartments have one to three bedrooms, so they’re perfect for families, and each is equipped with a kitchenette, dining area and large balcony complete with stunning views.
Provisions are basic, and we only found one shop on the island, so you might wish to stock up on things like milk, tea and coffee before arriving in Koločep.
Things to do
There really isn’t much to do here except relax and explore the island’s forests, vineyards and small beaches. It’s what the hotel’s designed for with its rooftop swimming pool, palm-tree-lined lounge areas and large day beds.
The concierge can arrange day trips and water activities if you fancy doing something more adventurous or have little ones to entertain.
Dining
Most guests choose to go half-board, which seems to be the best option. Dinner at the Kalamota is a local affair, with as much produce as possible sourced from neighbouring islands or even grown by the hotel staff themselves. That being the case, the menu changes daily, with a few options to choose from.
Dishes include plenty of fresh grilled seafood, colourful salads, homegrown vegetables and homemade desserts. The hotel doesn’t make a big song and dance of its food though it really could and should; it’s top restaurant quality.
For breakfast, a hot made-to-order menu and a small buffet are included, and you can sit outside on the terrace by the sea and enjoy being waited on.
Getting there
The easiest way to get to the island is from Dubrovnik. From the airport, get the bus to Dubrovnik’s Gruž port and a 30-minute ferry to Donje Čelo. From there you can arrange for a lift to the hotel by golf cart.
We wouldn’t advise getting there on foot with suitcases in tow as the path is uneven. You can also arrange an airport transfer direct from the hotel – ask the friendly concierge.
ApartHotel Kalamota – Where & How?
ApartHotel Kalamota is located at Gornje Celo, Koločep Island, Croatia. For bookings or to find out more, visit www.kalamota-beachhouse.com.
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