Places to Stay: Monte Mulini, Croatia

Croatia has been on the radar for some time now, with its island-hopping, The Garden Festival and non-Euro exchange rate. But while most of the attention focuses on Dubrovnik and islands such as Hvar, the less well-known peninsular of Istria, just across the Adriatic from Venice, is having a bit of a moment. The ultra-modern Monte Mulini was built here a few years back, overlooking a pretty cove, with all its 113 rooms facing seawards. Each has custom-made furniture and warm colours, with bathrooms featuring natural materials and ‘tropical rain’ showers and manages to combine high-tech functionality and intimacy beautifully.

Renowned head chef, Tomislav Gretic, and internationally acknowledged sommelier, Emil Perdec, have created a highly regarded fine-dining experience at Restaurant Mediterraneo; inspired by Greek, Spanish, Lebanese and North African cooking. There's also a Lobby Bar with a stunning 20-metre high glass wall and amazing views, and a Wine Vault which features 550 labels from Croatia and across the world.