Rab, Croatia
Imperial Heritage Hotel, Valamar Collection
Interwar island landmark
Rab, Croatia
Renovated
2018
Price
$$
Rated for
Heritage Design ClassicOutside the door
The house
ValamarInterwar island landmark
The island's 1927 grande dame channels interwar Adriatic holidaymaking, updated with breezy garden terraces and relaxed lounges.
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
an elegant historical property, nearly a century old, updated and transformed into a striking contemporary hotel whose rooms complement, even as they contrast with, the hotel’s original architecture.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Komrcar Park sits right outside, and shaded paths lead directly into Rab's walled Old Town.
1 of 4
The rooms
Renovated rooms take a minimalist, contemporary approach, contrasting cleanly with the hotel's historic yellow shell.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The freshwater outdoor pool sits beside the historic facade, fitted with waterfalls and water massages.
The spa
The indoor whirlpool rests beneath a stone-vaulted alcove, and treatments draw on locally sourced Mediterranean herbs and oils.
At the table
Veritas serves traditional Dalmatian dishes on an open-air garden terrace, and the Gin Bar pours regional spirits.
How it began
King Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson stayed here during their 1936 Adriatic cruise, putting Rab on the European holiday map.
The app
Like this one? There are so many more.
Swipe any city’s hotels and heart the ones you love. The app gets your taste.
Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.