The nice thing about this hotel is that there is quite a variety of rooms. If you’re an active type who will be out and about every day exploring Istria, then you might like to choose one of the rooms or suites in the main hotel. However, the villas and residences, built in typical Istrian architecture with shuttered windows and decorated in a modern, pared-back style are hard to resist and are ideal for families and groups, coming with dining rooms, bars and gardens with private pools.

Food is a highlight here at Meneghetti. Just a mile from the coast and immersed in vines, orchards and olive groves, it’s unsurprising that the menu features heavily from the locale, showcasing the region’s many delicacies, such as their own olive oil, seafood, fish, homemade pasta and freshly found Istrian truffles. You might also dine in unusual locations like under the 200-year-old oak tree. As the hotel has its own vineyard, wine has a strong focus here whether that’s in the cool winery or in discussion with the sommelier. Breakfast is also exceptional: platters of fruit to the table, followed by a delectable array of cooked orders such as eggs royale, French toast and chia pudding.

In our experience, it’s unusual to find a hotel this secluded with all the trappings of rural life yet so close to the coast. With just one mile to the beach, it’s possible to enjoy both country and coast at Meneghetti. It’s also rare to find a hotel that lets you explore so much of its local culture without having to tour the country. This is the perfect standalone break where you could stay easily for a week and never tire of the peaceful atmosphere, romantic towns, picturesque beaches and island escapades around the nearby Brijuni archipelago.

It’s also to be noted that although much is made of the tranquil atmosphere, the hotel is also very welcoming to families and the competent staff do whatever they can to make life as easy as possible for you.