Guest User
November 12, 2022
I found this hotel's location to be an ideal place for a contemplative solo holiday – it's just a pity that they have no single rooms, so I had to pay almost double what most other people would have paid. It was also just as well that I wasn't looking for company, as very few Brits there, the majority of people being German, I think. All the hotel's staff are so hard working, keeping the place very clean, and the tables in the dining rooms cleared, and any problems quickly resolved. The food was nice enough, but I have to say that the dining experience was not that great, with queues for drinks, soups, and main courses causing regular frustration. There were always 2 soups on offer, but one queue. Once at the head of the queue, most people would choose the clear soup, and faff about adding rice, peas, sweetcorn and herbs to their bowls. Everyone would be waiting in line, even if they wanted the thick soup, as they didn't want to be accused of jumping the queue. It would have been better to have clear signage above the soups, and 2 separate queues. At the end of 2 weeks of this, I was glad to get back to my microwave meals for one! The 2 adjoining islands are very peaceful, and it's easy to find a suitable spot on the rocks or one of the small beaches for sunbathing and swimming. Snorkeling is also pretty good, as quite a few different fish to see. Sometimes the jellyfish were a bit of a nuisance; apparently they can sting but are not harmful. I swam through swarms of them – they are only a few inches in diameter – but never felt any stings. There is plenty to do during the day – tennis courts, bicycle hire, kayak and paddle board hire, in and outdoor pools, sauna, massage, etc., but evenings were pretty dull. The last evening entertainment was on 4th October. There were also no excursions available from either Tui or the hotel, due to it being end of season. The hourly boat to Rovinj is great, always on time, and a lovely trip, sometimes with dolphins visible. Rovinj itself is pretty as a postcard, and lots of places to eat and artisan shops to browse. (Be warned though that these too were starting to close around 15th October.) I recommend climbing the bell tower at the Church of St. Euphemia, although not for the faint hearted or those with mobility issues. There are about 190 rickety old wooden steps to negotiate, but well worth it for the great views when you get to the top. Golden Cape Forest Park is also well worth a visit and just a pleasant 15-20 minute walk from where the boat drops you at the Delfin pier. Bikes can be hired in Rovinj if you prefer to cycle to the park. There is a bus station in Rovinj for those wanting to travel further afield, such as Porec or Pula. Oh, and the weather was great! Had expected at least some rain in October, but nearly every day was sunny and about 22'C – what's not to love?!