Sitting pretty on the Porec coast
Why choose between a gorgeous seaside retreat, a bumper family getaway, and a foodie’s paradise when you could have all three – and more – in pretty-as-a-picture Porec? Pical Hotel is just one of three that make up the Pical Resort 5* Valamar Collection; a swish, all-singing, all-dancing resort that ticks all our holiday boxes.
And it starts with the location. You’ll find this place plonked on a seriously swoon-worthy stretch of coastline with sea views for days, and not one, not two, but three beaches that melt into Adriatic waters. If you can tear yourself away from the view – and the chocka-block facilities line-up – Porec Old Town, with its buckets of charm, is just a 10-minute cab ride away.
But how about those facilities then? Let’s talk pools. There’s a dreamy sea-view infinity number that eyes the old town – complete with beach bar for ice-cold cocktails and artisanal ice cream – and then there’s the main pool scene that’s home to spots for everyone from tots and toddlers to true athletes. Lanes anyone? And with rows of smart sun loungers lined up alongside, the sunbed babes can get their vitamin D fix, too.
Pical Resort goes big on family fun – huge in fact. From the tricked-out kids’ club to hands-on adventures – think science workshops, treasure hunts, and nature walks – and even a whopper soft play area, your little ones may never want to leave. And it’s not just the tiny tots that have a programme of activities, either, but the teens, too. Expect sports tournaments, guided cycles, and social activities like movie nights and even Croatian language classes.
Food is famously make or break, and on this occasion, we think Pical resort is sitting pretty in the make column. Hit the buffet and you’ll be treated to the likes of fresh seafood, Istrian specialties, Mediterranean flavours, and a wine list with expert pairings. Elsewhere you’ll find a fine-dining restaurant headed by a Michelin-starred chef, a lively beach restaurant, an à la carte grill spot that turns out crowd-pleasing favourites, and a snack bar perched practically on the shoreline.
And did we mention the smattering of watering holes across the resort? From the swanky café-bar in the lobby that doubles as a patisserie, to the sophisticated piano bar, you’ll be spoiled for choice. As far as we’re concerned though, the best seat in the house for a sundowner is at the rooftop bar, where you’ll find signature cocktails and a sweeping view that’s worth shouting about.
What Pical Resort 5* Valamar Collection - Pical Hotel has to offer
Life's a beach
Food, glorious food
Keeping the kids happy