Hotel More

Cypress trees and pines surround the hotel, isolating it from the nearby road. Wall-to-wall windows brighten dark marble floors and sharp angles in the lobby, which features a small reception space, clustered seating, and a display case of custom jewelry. The common area gives way to rough-hewn rock walls deeper into the building. Most of the action is in the back, where terraces protrude from the cliff, providing diners and sunbathers with views of the bay.

Hotel More is located along Lapad bay, with a beautiful pine and cypress forest on one side and the sea on the other. It's not immediately accessible from Old Town, but the No. 6 bus stops nearby and most popular destinations are within a 10-minute drive down the shore of Dubrovnik's Babin Kuk peninsula. Ringed by ancient walls -- and partially damaged by an earthquake in the 17th century -- Dubrovnik's picturesque Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site packed with historic attractions in narrow limestone-paved streets. Dubrovnik Airport is a little more than 30 minutes southeast by car.

The 36 rooms and four suites of Hotel More have nautically themed decor that's begun to show its age. Bright blue carpets invoke the sea with rippling green patterns, and the rich wood furniture is reminiscent of a stately ship's cabins, but the overall palate is dated. Sitting areas have dark beige armchairs, and work desks come with sleek chrome lamps that seem slightly out of place. Many rooms have private balconies and either sea or garden views, and suites have outdoor hot tubs. The marble bathrooms have big, jetted shower/tub combos and thoughtful touches like lighted vanities and foot stools. 

During the building of the hotel in 2007, a cave was uncovered -- and subsequently turned into a one-of-a-kind bar with multiple levels and many rocky nooks to enjoy a cocktail or coffee. The hotel was quick to preserve both the natural beauty of the cave and the animal life living in the water, which remains protected by special lighting and a glass floor (all inspected and approved by the Speleological Institute). More typical hotel highlights include a small outdoor pool and hot tub overlooking the bay. There's also a concrete "beach" terrace at the water's edge, allowing for direct access to the sea. The third-floor spa has a full range of massages and treatments, as well as a sauna and hydrotherapy tub. The fitness room is tiny, cramming in a few cardio and weight training machines between a cave wall and mirror. Breakfast is free and includes hot options like eggs cooked to order. For breakfast and lunch, the hotel's Restaurant More -- the latter word meaning "sea" in Croatian -- serves regional and Mediterranean dishes like lobster and rocket salads, monkfish stews, and Dalmatian-style steaks paired with an extensive wine list. For business travelers, meeting spaces can be set up on the premises, and a conference hall is also available.