The Villa Korta Katarina & Winery
The Villa Korta Katarina and Winery is unlike anything else in the Adriatic. Truly one-of-a-kind in every way, starting from its origin story, this magnificent villa offers exceptional hospitality in one of the most beautiful, yet lesser known jewels of Dalmatia.
The Villa Korta Katarina & Winery is an exclusive property designed with unparalleled attention to detail. A member of Relais & Chateaux, the prestigious global association of independent luxury hotels, the villa is a property of distinction in the highest regard. This is the destination for guests who love fine wine, gourmet food, spectacular scenery, and absolute elegance.
Americans Lee and Penny Anderson found their way to the Croatia on a humanitarian mission in 2001. When they arrived in Orebić, which sits on the west coast of the Peljesac peninsula, within the region of Dalmatia, roughly 2 hours north of Dubrovnik, their dream took root.
The couple developed a love for Croatia and the country’s welcoming culture, creative cuisine, and extraordinary wines. Years later, they purchased the “Rivijera” hotel, then spent the next decade on planning, design and construction, to ultimately unveil the Villa Korta Katarina & Winery in 2018, when it welcomed its first guests.
The team at Tasteful Croatian Journeys had the distinct honor and privilege of being among a select group to see the property prior to its public opening.
The majestic villa rises like an opalescent monument over the deep blue water of the Adriatic Sea. The steeply sloping hills latticed with vines undulating at its back harken to the winemaking history of the land.
The character of the villa is one of classical elegance, refinement, viticultural riches, and a celebration of the long and rich maritime history of Orebić. The carefully selected décor is curated with a palette of pastel blues, gentle grays, ivory and soft golds.
THE SUITES
Each of the 8 luxury suites boast endless vistas over the Adriatic Sea and neighboring islands such as Korčula. Individually styled, every room has a different story to tell, which is communicated through the elegant details and thoughtful touches of interior designer Marie Meko. The suites are remarkably balanced, at once opulent and plush while still feeling homey and inviting – a duality which Ms. Meko deftly employs throughout the property. Antique furnishings juxtapose custom finishes, marrying modernity with timeless elegance. In addition, each room offers cutting edge smart technology for the ultimate in convenience.
The property offers individual rooms, as well as the option for exclusive use of the villa. The elegant villa and surrounding property are a stunning venue for weddings, galas and gatherings. The vast outdoor terrace in front of the sea makes for the perfect spot for a special celebration.
THE WINE
The vineyards of the Korta Katarina winery have assiduously created seven private label wines. What began as a labor of love has become the production of a complete range of superb vintages and award-winning wines. Korta Katarina upholds respect for the winemaking traditions of the past while infusing their unique style to produce flavor profiles that cross the spectrum.
“The robust, earthy Plavac Mali is a Red to accompany a good meal, the delicate Pošip to refresh you after a day exploring the region. Your exploration through the Korta Katarina wine list will be just as enchanting as your journey through southern Croatia.”
Korta Katarina offers guided tours and tastings for those wishing to sample their superb wines, available to both guests of the villa and outside visitors. Learn more here.
THE CUISINE
The Villa Korta Katarina & Winery creates culinary experiences that introduce guests to the pleasures of Croatian cuisine. Head Chef Ante Valenteković, a native of Croatia, evokes his roots, reinventing traditional local dishes with the finest regional ingredients to accentuate the robust flavors the Pelješac Peninsula. Whether a fresh breakfast, a light lunch, or fine dining, the Villa Korta Katarina offers the perfect meal. Enjoy a glass of fine wine form the Korta Katarina vineyard, from full-bodied reds to light summery whites, and even a sparkling wine.
SPA & WELLNESS
Relax and Rejuvenate at the villa’s spa and fitness area. “Whether you need a quick work out, a therapeutic massage, a peaceful steam, or hair styling services, we have the lifestyle amenities on demand. Our facilities include an outdoor infinity edge swimming pool, outdoor jacuzzi with waterfall, indoor jacuzzi, massage room, sauna, steam room, gym and hair and make-up stylist room.”
THE SEA
Directly in front of the Villa Korta Katarina & Winery, is a characteristic Croatian beach. Small ashen stones rolled into soft curves by the sea created the pebbled shoreline. The stunning view of the sea, and across the channel, the alluring island of Korcula hold captive your attention as you gaze upon this paradise.
Everything about Villa Korta Katarina & Winery is designed to leave an indelible impression. The villa invites you to take in the sights, sounds, scents, flavors, and textures of Orebić cradled in the embrace of Dalmatian hospitality.
THE LOCATION
From the Villa Korta Katarina Website
Orebić, a magical location… The welcoming seaside town Orebić, nestled between soaring mountains and the deep turquoise hues of the Adriatic Sea, is wonderful to explore and an ideal location from which to discover the region’s many hidden jewels. From hiking and biking to boating, fishing, and other aqua sports, there are countless adventures to be had. While it is easily accessed from Dubrovnik, the villa is also wonderfully removed from the frenetic tourist activity of the city. With panoramic views of the glistening Adriatic, nearby islands, and breathtaking natural beauty all around, the property is perfectly positioned for visitors who want to experience southern Croatia’s incredible gifts.
The Pelješac Peninsula, a rocky green finger protruding out into the turquoise sea, is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Soaring mountains, picture-postcard bays, and terracotta-roofed hamlets are the makings of fantasies. From the longest fortification walls in Europe to endless beaches, the sights on the peninsula will leave a lasting impression. And no trip to Pelješac would be complete without sipping a glass of wine or two, ideally while enjoying an oyster straight from the sea in this highly regarded gastronomic destination.
Just across the channel via 20 minute ferry ride from Villa Korta Katarina & Winery is the ancient walled city of Korčula—a town rich with history. Visit it to learn about legendary explorer Marco Polo’s connections with Korčula and Venice. From fifteenth-century monasteries and baroque facades to charming boutiques and chic eateries, let the cobblestone streets carry you back in time.”
Read about Villa Korta Katarina & Winery in Forbes here
Learn more about Korcula here
Interested in experiencing the Villa Korta Katarina and Winery? Tasteful Croatian Journeys designs custom itineraries exploring the finest of Dalmatia, Croatia and this magnificent region. Contact us for more information.
Casa Matiki – Experience a True Oasis in the Heart of Istria
For a truly authentic Croatian experience, listen to a local! Our Tasteful Croatian Journeys Concierge, Mirela Benic, shares her review of the endlessly charming Casa Matiki, a cozy retreat in the Istrian countryside that’s perfect for family travel.
Casa Matiki – a place where guests become friends
When you are traveling on a holiday with family, especially small children, there are always compromises when it comes to choosing a destination as the location, lodging, and activities must be something that satisfies all generations.
Well, in that case, Casa Matiki is a perfect choice; a perfect combination of comfortable accommodation surrounded by beautiful nature and plenty of activities both at the property and in its surrounding area.
Casa Matiki is an idyllic Istrian countryside farmhouse with typical Istrian stone houses surrounded by lush gardens. A mixture of olive oil trees and lavender, as well as other plants and flowers provide pleasant views from every corner of the property. Designed and reconstructed with care and attention to detail, Casa Matiki offers a truly unique and traditional experience combining the atmosphere and charm of an old Istrian farm with all the amenities necessary for a comfortable holiday.
It is situated in a small village in the peaceful surroundings of Central Istria, yet only 20 minutes from the colorful coastal towns, secluded beaches, and stunning hilltop villages of Istria.
The owner, Mrs. Sonja, is the embodiment of Croatian hospitality. A perfect host, Sonja dedicates herself to her guests from the first welcome and to the moment they depart. One of the highlights of a stay at Casa Matiki is the breakfast, prepared by Sonja and her team in the cozy atmosphere of the dining room where guests can enjoy the aromas and flavors of a fresh, healthy breakfast prepared with local ingredients – including eggs from Sonja’s own chickens!
At Casa Matiki guests can enjoy comfortable accommodation in nicely decorated apartments. Three bright and spacious studio apartments are located in the main building and include en suite bathrooms, kitchenettes, and balconies. The apartments Pergola and Lavanda are located in a separate building, built in the typical Istrian style with spacious outdoor terraces.
Our experience at Casa Matiki
For a weekend getaway in July, I decided to visit Istria together with my daughters, a friend, and her children, and we chose to stay at Casa Matiki. After driving along the east coast of Istria, only an hour from my home in Rijeka, admiring the beautiful vistas over the Kvarner bay and the island of Cres, we arrived to our destination.
At the entrance we had an unusual yet interesting welcome from Obama and Tiffany, the owner’s faithful four-legged pets as well as from the chickens that were running around the property. How does that sound for a welcome? Can you imagine the children’s excitement to be spending the weekend in nature, surrounded with domestic animals, free to play outdoors!
In front of the main building we found a charming wooded welcome sign with the names of all of the guests that were visiting the property. Our suite had 2 bedrooms, a spacious living room with a kitchen, bathroom and a terrace in the front. The details of the cozy interior left us feeling very much at home.
The children were immediately amazed by the life sized outdoor chess board and excited to be surrounded by nature and domestic animals. We all couldn’t wait to jump in the swimming pool and just relax on the sundeck. This was not just any pool – it was a true oasis. It is located on the top of the property, reached by passing a small farm with chickens, surrounded by olive trees and vines, as well as a small garden (where we later found Sonja picking the vegetables and fruit that were used for breakfast in the morning). The pool was very clean with sunchairs and shades, as well as several hidden corners with benches where guests can relax. The children’s favorite was a wooden lookout near the pool with swings; a perfect spot for hide and seek.
Another fun and memorable experience for our children was a visit to the donkey farm which is only 200meters from the property and also owned by Sonja. The children were thrilled with the idea of being able to hand feed the donkeys with old bread!
In the evenings, we all sat down together on our terrace, enjoying playing card games with children under the starry sky.
On the next day, we decided to explore the surroundings. It happened to be that in the nearby town of Kanfanar there was a local festival with klapa singing and an exhibition of traditional Istrian cattle called Istarski Boškarin. The atmosphere was perfect; mingling with the locals, listening to sounds of traditional Croatain songs performed by Klapa, and admiring the unusual exhibition of Boškarin, some of which were impressive with their size exceeding 1.000 kg.
On the third day, we wanted to have a day on the beach, so we headed off to Rovinj; Istria’s most popular destination. We spent the day relaxing on a beach in front of the Golden Cape forest (Zlatni rt), enjoying a swim in the warm Adriatic and admiring the views of the old town of Rovinj.
We found a perfect spot on a nice pebbly beach with straw loungers which we rented, located under thick pine trees that stretch all the way to the sea, providing perfect shade. Nearby we found a cozy beach bar where we relaxed sipping a cup of excellent Croatian coffee while the kids were enjoying their ice creams! As our children love an adventure, we rented stand up paddle boards and enjoyed paddling around the beautiful Lone Bay with vistas to the Old Town of Rovinj.
For the perfect ending to our short weekend break in Istria, we had the most delicious lunch at Konoba Tugurio, located just outside the Old Town of Rovinj. On every occasion that I visit Rovinj, I keep returning to this wonderful restaurant, with welcoming and friendly staff and delicious homemade meals in the most pleasant atmosphere of a garden terrace under the trees. We tasted Peka, one of Croatia’s most famous specialties, prepared with lamb meat, potatoes, and vegetables. This traditional meal is prepared using a special process of slow cooking “under the bell” (under a dome shaped lid) – a must try when visiting Croatia!
And so it was the end to our relaxing Istrian weekend getaway – but the memories I will keep forever. It was a weekend rich in new experiences, which left our bellies full and smiles on our children’s faces.
Until our next visit to Istria…
Read more about Rovinj here.
Contact us to create your own dream family holiday in Istria!