When you think of vacations, beaches and excellent cuisine, you inevitably land on lovely Croatia . The country on the Adriatic boasts 1,200 islands, including Hvar, Korčula, Brač, Vis, Mljet and Krk, each of them their very own flair, and each an ideal starting point for island hopping. While Hvar is primarily known as a luxury haven with beautiful bays, Brač is home to the famous Golden Horn (Zlatni Rat). This is a stretch of beach that has become famous around the world as an Instagram and postcard motif. Korčula awaits with a gorgeous medieval town center, which is somewhat reminiscent of Dubrovnik. Film fans will enjoy the secret beaches of Vis, which also served as a set for the film Mamma Mia 2. Those in search of tranquility should head to Mljet, which has a national park and is has natural beauty in abundance.

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But the Adriatic coast is more than just turquoise waters, picturesque bays and amazing scenery – including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Plitvice Lakes, the Kornati Islands or the Skradinski Buk waterfalls. The charming coastal towns are also well worth a visit. Just think of the enchanting alleyways of Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic" and filming location for "Game of Thrones". It's easy to forget about everyday life as you stroll through the UNESCO-protected old town, admire the city walls and let your mind drift.

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Split's Diocletian's Palace is also worth a visit. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the lively old town is perfect for night owls. Split is also the ideal starting point for island-hopping tours. Trogir, with its Venetian influence, is only around 30 kilometers further west, but is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it has one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe. Rovinj, on the other hand, is popular for its colorful cottages. All of these destinations are charming in their own way. But in Dubrovnik in particular, the idea of vacationing in luxury villas is deeply rooted in local history.

Escape from the everyday

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As early as the 15th century, wealthy and aristocratic Croatian families would retreat to their villas in the countryside on hot summer days. After all, life in a densely built-up city of stone could be quite oppressive at times. Just as people did in other flourishing urban areas, the locals built beautiful villas for their summer retreat, creating cozy sanctuaries for spending quality time with their families, often surrounded by expansive estates. These villas were accordingly dignified and luxurious.

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With many of the original villas intact, you can still experience this privileged, aristocratic lifestyle in and around Dubrovnik. Instead of just staying in the old town and taking day trips to the islands, why not combine a stay in the old town with some time in a luxe estate surrounded by unspoiled nature? Or a stay on one of Dubrovnik's nearby islands? Excursions to the old town, the vineyards of Pelješac or the islands of Korčula and Mljet await – or you could simply kick back at your villa enjoying the tranquility of island life.

Luxury villas in Croatia

One of the most successful providers of luxury villas in Croatia is LUVA. The company has two subsidiaries: If you've fallen in love with Croatia and wish for a more permanent experience, LUVA Real Estate has got you covered. From lovely penthouses by the sea to condos and timeshares, they have anything you might be looking for. Then there's LUVA Villas, a specialist in luxury rentals in central Croatia, Dalmatia, Dubrovnik, Istria and Kvarner. Naturally, each of the villas has its own personal character. What they all have in common, however, is a fantastic location, modern facilities and a sense of exclusivity. Some highlights from their catalogue:

Villa Orti

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Located close to the old town of Dubrovnik with a sea view and spacious pool, the Villa Orti is perfect for family vacations, couples, or larger groups. It consists of 6 master bedrooms and an apartment, so it can easily accommodate a total of 16 people. The modern and minimalist furnishings will also make the hearts of design aficionados beat faster. Lots of white, natural tones and the occasional splash of blue dominate the interior.

Villa Ghetaldi 1516

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The luxurious Villa Ghetaldi 1516 is an absolute gem with beautiful terraces offering spectacular sea views and an outdoor pool for cooling off. Situated on the Adriatic coast and close to Dubrovnik, this villa is an ideal retreat. Luxurious comfort and a picturesque landscape come together in perfect harmony. Villa Ghetaldi 1516 can accommodate 16 people in 7 bedrooms.

Villa Diocletian's Palace

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This luxury villa is bound to leave a lasting impression. The pool is spectacular – and you can even see the sea from it! A sauna, pool tables, a small movie theater and breakfast service are also included. Up to 14 people can enjoy an unforgettable stay here. Diocletian's Palace enjoy. It is located on the island of Brač.

Villa Ella

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Located near Dubrovnik in the small village of Suđurađ on the island of Šipan, the Villa Ella a particularly picturesque hideaway. Surrounded by greenery, with an exceptional amount of privacy and a spacious pool, you will never want to leave. It can easily accommodate ten people. There are but a few places with such breathtaking sea views and calming natural surroundings.

Villa Heraclea

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Located on the island of Hvar, the Villa Heraclea boasts numerous thoughtful details. A wonderful terrace, for example, overlooking all of Hvar, or a well-maintained garden. One of the many highlights is the courtyard with ancient trees and an unusual pool. Villa Heraclea can accomodate up to 10 people in five bedrooms.

Villa Marbella

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Located on the island of Čiovo right outside the picturesque town of Trogir, the Villa Marbella can welcome up to ten guests. Situated directly on a beautiful beach, the spacious pool and jacuzzi – with a sea view – invite you to relax in style. From the terraces, you can enjoy the same magnificent views as from the spacious suites. And to top it all off, there is also a sauna.

Villa Opus

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This luxurious villa is nestled on a coastal cliff on the beautiful island of Korčula. The panoramic view is absolutely unbeatable, as is the private heated pool, sauna, outdoor barbecue and bright, comfy rooms. The Villa Opus has four bedrooms, and its prime location places it near numerous sights, beautiful beaches, olive groves and vineyards. The villa also includes bicycles for hire and a jetty.

Villa Olivetta

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Only 90 minutes away from the city of Split, the Villa Olivetta is a spacious mansion of 550 square meters that can easily accomodate up to 10 guests. Boasting a seafront location, jacuzzi and outdoor pool, a private chef, massages and excursions are available on request, as is breakfast service. The tasteful furnishings project aristocratic flair and a touch of nostalgia.

Read more: Croatia: Land of a thousand islands