Imperial Valamar Collection Hotel

The Imperial Valamar Collection Hotel in Rab Town, Croatia, a Michelin Key Selected property, consistently receives high praise for its blend of historic charm and modern luxury. It stands out as a top choice for travelers seeking a refined experience on the picturesque island of Rab.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus among guests is overwhelmingly positive, with the hotel achieving an "Excellent" 4.7 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor based on 190 reviews, and an "Exceptional" 9.2 out of 10 on Priceline based on 84 reviews. Reviewers frequently highlight the hotel's "modern elegance" and "exceptional hospitality."

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of the Imperial Valamar Collection Hotel. Its prime location next to the tropical Komrčar town park and within a short distance (5 minutes) of the historic Old Town of Rab is a major draw. The combination of a beautifully restored heritage building with modern amenities is also highly appreciated. Other key highlights include the hotel's impressive indoor and outdoor pools, a well-appointed spa center, and diverse dining options. The complimentary beach shuttle service to various nearby beaches, including Val Padova Sandy Beach and Carolina beach, is a significant convenience for guests.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Imperial Valamar Collection Hotel are described as beautifully appointed, comfortable, and designed to ensure restful slumber. They are air-conditioned and come with modern amenities such as flat-screen cable TVs, free toiletries, and hairdryers. Many rooms offer attractive views of either the park or the sea, with some sea-facing rooms featuring balconies for an enhanced experience. Family rooms are noted for their generous size and sometimes include two bathrooms, adding to the comfort for larger groups. While generally well-maintained and spotless, a few guests have noted that some bathrooms can be small, and occasionally, older sections might show worn carpet. The hotel offers a range of room types, including Classic, Premium, Superior, and V Level, catering to different preferences and needs.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at the hotel is a consistent source of positive feedback. The premium Nobilis restaurant offers a half-board service with a rich and varied buffet for both breakfast and dinner, which guests frequently praise for its excellent quality and wide selection. The culinary offerings are considered a significant strength, with provisions for gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, as well as live cooking stations during breakfast. In addition to Nobilis, the hotel features the Veritas à la carte restaurant and wine bar, offering local specialties in a rustic ambiance, and a Gin Bar with a selection of refreshing cocktails. Some guests have noted that while the dinner buffet is good, the selection of main courses could sometimes be limited, or hot food items might occasionally be lukewarm.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Imperial Valamar Collection Hotel are consistently highlighted as "extremely nice, pleasant, kind, and helpful". Guests frequently mention the "exceptional hospitality" and professionalism of the team. Specific individuals, such as Monika from reception and Marko, have been singled out for their outstanding assistance and friendly service.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel boasts a superb location, nestled beside the exotic Komrčar town park and just a five-minute walk from the heart of Rab's historic Old Town. This central position allows for easy access to cultural attractions, charming streets, and a variety of entertainment options. The setting amidst lush Mediterranean greenery contributes to a peaceful and quiet environment. For beach access, the hotel provides a free shuttle service to popular nearby beaches like Val Padova Sandy Beach (1 km away) and the pebbly/rocky Carolina beach on the Suha Punta peninsula. Transfers from Rijeka Airport (approximately 70-90 km away) are available upon request and for a surcharge during the summer season. Free private parking is also available on-site.

7. Value & Pricing

As a Michelin Key Selected property, the Imperial Valamar Collection Hotel positions itself as a premium offering. While specific pricing varies by season and room type, indications from booking sites suggest nightly rates for standard rooms starting around $165-$174, with superior rooms around $183 (prices often include fees but not local taxes). Guests often find the hotel to offer competitive rates for the quality of accommodation, amenities, and service provided. The extensive facilities, including multiple pools, a full-service spa, diverse dining, and complimentary beach shuttles, contribute significantly to its perceived value.

8. Common Complaints

While overall satisfaction is very high, some minor recurring criticisms include observations that certain bathrooms in some rooms can be on the smaller side. A few guests have also mentioned instances of worn carpet in older sections of the hotel. Regarding dining, while generally excellent, a small number of guests have noted that the dinner buffet could sometimes offer a limited selection of main courses or that hot food items might not always be consistently warm. There were also isolated comments about room views not always matching descriptions, suggesting careful consideration when booking specific room types.

Sources

1. thomascook.com
2. priceline.com
3. booking.com
4. trivago.com
5. michelin.com
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7. booking.com
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12. booking.com