Palace Elisabeth Hvar Hotel

Palace Elisabeth Hvar Hotel, a distinguished Michelin Key Two-Keys property, consistently receives high praise for its exceptional blend of historic elegance and modern luxury, set against the stunning backdrop of Hvar's harbor. Guests frequently highlight its prime location, impeccable service, and beautifully restored interiors as key factors contributing to an unforgettable stay.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Palace Elisabeth Hvar Hotel is overwhelmingly positive, with many guests describing it as "exceptional," "wonderful," and "first-class". It holds a "wonderful" rating with a location score of 10.0 and cleanliness of 9.5 on Booking.com. The hotel is recognized by the Michelin Guide with two keys, signifying an "exceptional stay" and reflecting its commitment to quality, authenticity, and guest experience. Reviewers frequently express a desire to return.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of the Palace Elisabeth Hvar Hotel:

• Location: The unbeatable harborfront location, steps from the main square and port, is a standout feature, offering breathtaking views of Hvar Bay and the Paklinski Islands.
• Service: The seamless and exceptional service from friendly, helpful, and professional staff is a recurring theme in guest feedback.
• Design: The hotel masterfully blends its 13th-century palace origins with Venetian and Austrian architectural details and understated modern design, creating elegant and immaculate interiors.
• Amenities: Highlights include a full-service spa with an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room, a 24-hour gym, and free in-room WiFi.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Palace Elisabeth are described as elegantly appointed, immaculate, and comfortable. They feature contemporary classic design and are air-conditioned, with many offering spectacular views of the harbor, city, or garden. Available room types range from Premium Rooms to spacious Suites like the Deluxe Suite with Sea View or the Elisabeth Suite with Balcony and Sea View, all equipped with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee makers, and free WiFi. Guests appreciate the attention to detail, including the night-time turndown service.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience is highly regarded, particularly the breakfast and the San Marco restaurant.

• Breakfast: Guests frequently describe breakfast as "sensational" and "exceptional," with a wide array of interesting choices, including chef specialties like truffled egg, served on a sunny terrace.
• San Marco Restaurant: This restaurant offers exclusive dining with gourmet Mediterranean cuisine, fresh fish, and seafood, enjoyed amidst breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and Hvar town. There's also the Arsenal Bar terrace for cocktails and jazz music overlooking the Hvar Marina.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff receive consistent praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism, with many guests noting their welcoming attitude and exceptional attention to detail. Staff members often go above and beyond, such as meeting guests at the port and assisting with luggage. Specific mentions include positive feedback for Katja at reception, who made a visit extra special.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel's location is considered perfect and unbeatable. Situated in the old part of Hvar, it overlooks the main harbor/port and is just steps away from St. Stephen's Cathedral, Hvar Theater, and the lively main square (Pjaca). This central position makes it incredibly easy to access from the ferry, with staff often meeting guests directly at the port. The surrounding area is vibrant with bars, cafes, and restaurants, and the port provides easy access to catamarans for other islands like Korčula and Vis.

7. Value & Pricing

While considered a luxury property, some sources suggest that Palace Elisabeth offers remarkable value for money given its lavish amenities and world-class service, especially when compared to the average hotel price in Hvar. Booking directly through the hotel's website may offer exclusive deals, seasonal promotions, and flexible booking conditions. Room prices can start from around $388.

8. Common Complaints

While overall reviews are highly positive, some recurring criticisms or issues include:

• Spa/Pool Area Critters: One guest reported issues with pigeons, flies, and yellow jackets in the pool/spa area, finding it distracting and unpleasant.
• Room Smell: A few guests have reported issues with unpleasant smells, specifically a strong odor of "rotting material" from the shower drain, which the hotel reportedly attributed to the wind.
• Inconsistent Staff Experience: While most praise the staff, isolated incidents of perceived unfriendliness, lack of professionalism, or "coldness and rude replies" have been mentioned by a few guests.
• Booking Discrepancies: One guest noted an issue with a booked two-bed room not being available upon arrival.
• Spa Limitations: During certain periods, there have been limited spa treatments and some facilities, like the steam room, were out of action.

Sources

1. theprivatetraveller.com
2. suncanihvar.com
3. booking.com
4. booking.com
5. michelin.com
6. expedia.com
7. virtuoso.com
8. kayak.com
9. agoda.com
10. easyjet.com
11. suncanihvar.com
12. momondo.com