Things got somewhat crazy at the end of last year with renovations at home going full-steam-ahead, not to forget the various year-end festivities. Hence the second part of our Croatian Trip, which now seems like a distant memory, is only happening now! Today I thought I would share a bit more about our time in Dubrovnik with you.
Sun Gardens Dubrovnik
If you read my first post featuring Travel from Cape Town to Croatia, you will know that Dubrovnik, was first on our itinerary. The city is one of the most popular tourist’s destinations in the Mediterranean Sea.
We decided to spend the first five nights of our holiday, at Sun Gardens Dubrovnik. The hotel, ideally located outside the hustle and bustle of the city centre, is a mere 20-minute drive to many of the main attractions.
On our drive from the airport to the resort, we were utterly amazed at how frenetic the city was, even in mid-season, with cruise liners still streaming in.
The Residences
We did not stay in the main hotel but opted for one of the Residences. The luxury Sun Gardens Residences, offer apartment style accommodation. With the option of either one, two or three bedrooms, single or split-level units. Outdoor terraces and balconies, provide the perfect spot to take in the beautiful panoramic views.
Our Residence had two bedrooms and bathrooms. The interior was modern and tastefully decorated with a hint of Mediterranean flair. Units are well equipped for basic self-catering needs but please note that there is only a microwave and hob, no oven.
Although hotel living is great, I do like having the option of catering in, which this type of accommodation affords you. You have the luxury of a five-star hotel suite, with more space and as well as access to hotel amenities.
Eat & Drink
Sun Gardens offers an array of dining options which include buffets, fine dining, poolside venues, bars and boutique eateries, which cater to both local and international palates.
A word of warning though, eating out at the hotel is pricey! If you stick to pizza and pasta, it is relatively affordable, but seafood and meat dishes were super expensive! Wine and drinks, on the whole, were also on the expensive side. When visiting a country for the first time, wine selection can be hit and miss. We did manage to find a few goodies. I do, however, think we have been so spoilt with our fantastic wine in South African, making it hard not to compare both the quality and affordability when travelling.
Our favourite dining experience was at La Pasta, a modern restaurant specialising in fresh and simple Italian cuisine. My favourite was a fabulous Prawn Linguine, and I have it on good authority that the pizzas were incredibly delicious.
There are a variety of bars to choose from in the resort. During the day we frequented the poolside bars, where you can order everything from coffee and smoothies to creative cocktails. The Maraska Bar and Lounge was the perfect spot for sundowners, as it offers the most amazing views.
For self-catering, there is the Rosetta Grocery Store located above the Residences, which stocked most items we needed.
Fun In The Sun
We were fortunate with the weather, which can be a bit hit and miss in September. We only had one day of rain, which meant days were spent either lazing around the pool or on the beach. There are three pools to choose from one of which, the Marina Pool, is adults only.
The Hotel’s pebble beach is also a great spot to relax and soak up some sun. As it was nearing the end of the season, the water was not warm but still swimmable, especially if you are from Cape Town and accustomed to the icy water.
Fitness & Leisure
Sports Centre
We were determined to maintain some level of fitness when we were away, which was great because Sun Gardens has a fantastic Sports Centre. They offer a variety of activities which include tennis, squash, wall-climbing, sand volleyball and basketball, as well as group fitness classes.
Most mornings we would head out for a short run around the resort. In fact, we did a few laps because otherwise, the run would not have been long enough. Then we would hit their fully-equipped gym, for a workout. The Sports Centre Bar also made a delicious Macchiato!
For children aged 7 to 15 years, the Sports Academy at Sun Gardens Dubrovnik offers experienced coaching in various sports.
Spa Centre
Sun Gardens also has a wonderful Spa Centre, the ideal place to relax, rejuvenate and indulge. The award-winning spa is one of the first in Croatia, to offer treatments using products made with natural ingredients.
Guests can relax in the traditional coal sauna or salt sauna, cleanse and tone up with a Turkish hammam. Other spa facilities include an aromatherapy steam room, a Thalassotherapy Spa Bath, with its 252 power jets, as well as an 18-metre lagoon, with a waterfall and underwater vitality jet loungers.
Getting Around
We made us of the Hotel’s Shuttle Service when we ventured out on day trips. There are local taxi services available as well, but we found the shuttle service we used cheaper and very reliable. Uber is not something that is widely accepted or used in Croatia. My advice would be to stick to local taxi services or get your hotel to book transport for you. Be sure to get a rate upfront because some taxis will take a chance and overcharge tourists.
Take me Back
Our holiday in Croatia has been one of my favourite overseas trips thus far! It is a magical place, and I would love to plan a return trip in the not too distant future.
Please check back soon for more about travel to Croatia and more on our stay on Brac Island. If there is anything you would like to know in more detail, about our Travel from Cape Town to Croatia, please leave a comment below or email [email protected].
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Great photos! We stayed at this Club Carlson property when we were in Dubrovnik and loved it as well. It was so relaxing and peaceful.
Croatia is an awesome destination, thanks for sharing.
Awesome post, I’m planning on visiting Croatia in October (also Hungary). Your article has given me some really useful ideas and handy information. Thanks so much Fiona.
Hi Chris, I hope you have a fantastic trip! I loved Croatia and would love to go back soon.