Hotel Lapad

Formerly a family-owned castle known as Piccola Venezia housing a chapel, this property first opened as a hotel in 1914 named Weisses Schloss. The name was later changed to White Castle, and then again to Hotel Lapad at the end of World War I. Today, this lovely, historic upscale property still has original features such as cathedral windows and stone stair rails. The lobby is a bright, simple place with checkerboard floors. The restaurant benefits from lots of light pouring in through panoramic windows, while outside, white stone walls make a beautiful backdrop for the pool area. There’s a bar with a covered outdoor patio and live music is performed at the hotel on some evenings ranging from original music from Dalmatia to jazz and Latin music. 

This modern property attracts both leisure and business travelers, though for sightseers, the location is a bit far from the main tourist attractions of Dubrovnik (about 10 minutes away by car or bus). The clientele here skew a little older, though younger couples shouldn't feel out of place. Kids are welcome but not particularly catered to. 

Boats dock just across the street from Hotel Lapad in Gruz Bay. There isn’t much of a shoulder for walking on here, but the bay views are beautiful and the waters are bustling with cruise ships and sailboats. There are some grocery stores and restaurants within walking distance, and there is a bus stop near the hotel (the number 6 bus comes frequently and heads to Old Town), but this property is not within walking distance of the main tourist attractions. It’s less than a 10-minute car or bus ride to Dubrovnik Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with preserved churches and fountains dating back to the 13th century. The Dubrovnik-Cilipi Airport is around a half hour drive away.

Rooms at Hotel Lapad have posh decor including chic bedding, lighted headboards, and funky lamps. Bathrooms are especially sleek with basin sinks and modern shower/tub combos with rain showerheads, though doors allow for light from the bathrooms to seep into the sleeping area. All rooms have minibars, flat-screen TVs, coffee/tea making facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Rooms with sea-view balconies are available, but balconies are tiny. Note that none of the rooms in the newer Superior wing have balconies. The Family Room comprises two adjoining Classic Rooms, one with a double bed and one with two singles, but as these are in the Classic wing balcony preferences can't be guaranteed (some Classic Rooms have balconies, some don't). Rooms receive lots of natural light and provide work desks. 

This hotel provides a breakfast buffet that’s included in most room rates, and a restaurant is on-site, but food earns mixed reviews. There are indoor and outdoor bar areas, and live music is provided on some evenings. The hotel has a small, heated, outdoor pool, and there is also an outdoor garden area. Private meeting spaces are available. Airport transfers and parking are available for a fee. Wi-Fi is available for free throughout.