Maistra Select Island Hotel Katarina

"Pros -spacious suite with lots of floor space -pool and beach nice and relaxing -beach chairs and umbrella free for hotel guests (non hotel guests may use beach) -boat shuttle easy to use but sometimes a tad late -lovely patio/balcony with hanging/drying contraption for water stuff -extensive options for breakfast across many cultures and preferences -American drip coffee (in addition to typical espresso machine options) -American style pancakes or French toast, but no maple syrup -made to order eggs and omelettes in addition to ready to eat, scrambled eggs and fried eggs -many outdoor seating areas, including dining areas -draft beer available at walk up beach bar and ice cream Cons -spartan furnishings and minimal basic decor in rooms (potential to be so much nicer) -only one outlet in living area and one in bathroom -small shower -no tissues in room -lovely outside ambience doesn’t match inside spartan atmosphere -limited (no) vegetarian option one night for dinner, beans always had meat in them -dinner buffet more like cafeteria quality food, some main dishes above average but most were average FYI -credit cards only on the entire island -pebble beach, having aqua socks helpful"

"The location is beautiful with 360 degree views. Lovely trees make it a shady and breezy place to stay which is good in the heat. Lots of families but also lots of space to find peaceful spots. Rooms are a little dated. Shower over bathtub and no kettle. Comfortable beds and clean though. Breakfast choices are extensive. Lots of fresh fruit, cheeses, eggs etc. It was my birthday whilst there and they realised from my passport and left a complementary bottle of Prosecco on ice in our room which was a lovely surprise. Good value and recommended"

"We had the most wonderful time here. This is a charming hotel with plenty of character due to it not being a large modern resort. We had a family room which was large and split into 2. Our 14 year old and 11 year old enjoyed having their own space. The room had a fridge meaning you could get bits from ‘Tommy’s’ and keep them chilled. Bar prices were reflective of the area as well as food prices. Pizzas start at around 10 euros and giant prawns on skewers with salad around 18 euros. We loved the little coves around the island and soon found a favourite spot to snorkel and swim. Plenty of sunbeds around and umbrellas as well as trees to get shade. The pool was our last swim of the day before dinner and was really clean with a pool bar for drinks if we wanted. The buffet for breakfast and dinner was varied and had something for all including my daughter and husband who are picky eaters! The hotel is clean and functional and it is easy to get the boat over to Rovinj to explore the cobbled streets and absorb the atmosphere. The staff were really friendly and helpful. On my daughters birthday we couldn’t do what we had planned as it was typically the only poor weather day there ;) but at dinner they arranged a cake, a balloon flower and a letter from the hotel manager to be presented to her which was very thoughtful and well received. If you’re looking for a resort with bells whistles constant entertainment etc then this may not be the place for you. If you want somewhere with a chilled vibe, amazing sea and a bit of charm then go. We loved it."