Standing in this hotel on the terrace in front of the main entrance, there is a kind of “film-set” feel.
It is rather special. Something that the hotel calls “our garden” unfolds down through terraces and steps in what is more like a beautiful small park – with something blue and glinting beyond. That would be the Croatian Adriatic Sea.
The location is superb. Via the original stone staircase through the “garden” brings visitors to the waterfront and then just a few minutes stroll to the right and the whole of Rab old town beckons.
Many aspects of the hotel are five star including the dining options from a great brunch idea to the gorgeous, rustic style a la carte Vino Veritas restaurant in the gardens, never mind the fantastic outdoor pool and spa.
The hotel dates back to the early 1900’S and the additions and enhancements since then have been sympathetic to the original proposition: to be the best hotel in Rab Town the island’s capital. Nothing has changed. British Royals were here in 1936 and appeared to have enjoyed their brief stay during a longer Adriatic voyage.
The reason that the “Imperial” has few rooms with a balcony is that part of the property has heritage status and balcony additions were not allowed. If you seek a room with a balcony, book early - very early.
The feeling of space at the “Imperial” as locals call it cannot be overstated. Whether sipping a coffee in front of the hotel entrance looking through the gardens, or relaxing in the Zen corner of the gardens, reading a book on the pool terrace, or having a drink at the pool bar, the place rarely feels crowded. June, September and early October are just wonderful here.
The island of Rab shares one aspect with the island of Korcula in the Dubrovnik region: you really need to want to get there as this is not a 20-minute transfer from the arrival airport. And yet, it is a truly beautiful journey.
In our opinion, a stay at the “Imperial” here fits perfectly with a twin centre with Opatija on the mainland with a direct 90-minute catamaran trip from Rijeka port (20 minutes from Opatjia) or with a self-drive adventure including the island of Krk (ferry between Rab and Krk) and perhaps including the town of Zadar in the Dalmatia region to the south.
This hotel has a special selection of rooms and service called “V Level”. This gives various benefits and personalised service including reserved areas in the Nobilis restaurant, at the pool, enhanced dedicated check-in with complimentary refreshments, reserved parking service, rooms with king size beds and luxury toiletries. The hotel is designed for adults and is recommended for guests over 14 years of age. It is perfect for couples and friends
In recent years, the new breakfast and brunch offer has been very well received. This is a champagne breakfast and brunch in the Nobilis Restaurant that works from 7am until 1pm including sparkling wine and a more brunch style buffet selection from later in the morning.
Dine Around gives guests 10% discounts at restaurants at various other Valamar properties.
Great addition is the Valfresco Counter with a selection of freshly made sandwiches and salads for guests who are short of time.
The hotel is perfect for visitors who want to explore the island by water taxi, organised excursion, or on hired bikes on the well-marked trails or for those who want a distinct island base for relaxation with just a day or two out exploring and there is a good selection of half and full day boat trips.
This is a perfect place to combine with a stay in the neighbouring island of Krk or on the famous Opatija Rivera on the mainland (daily catamaran service from Rijeka – 20 minutes from Opatija – direct arrival on the pier at Rab Town).
The island of Rab really is one of Croatia’s best kept secrets. It is in the lesser known and stunning Kvarner Region of Croatia. And it is a secret that we at Sunvil are very proud to have discovered.
Accommodation
- There are 136 stylishly furnished rooms across four floors including special V level rooms
- Because of the space in the hotel public areas and gardens, it has a boutique hotel feel
- Classic rooms are perfectly fine for two adults sharing and who are happy with a more compact room yet with all amenities
- V level rooms offer a little more space and upgraded facilities
Amenities/Features
- Lounge bar-library
- Lovely outside terrace overlooking garden-park
- Hotel borders on the Komrcar town park and then town stone beach
- Close to water taxi stops for beaches and coves
- Free use of Valamar Padova sandy beach including free shuttle bus transfers (under 5 minutes)
- Nobilis restaurant for rich buffet breakfast and brunch until 1 pm
- Gin Bar and pool bar with Aperitivo time (one hour)
- Outdoor pool with sunbeds, parasols and pool towels
- Indoor pool at the full-service spa
- Vino Veritas a la carte evening restaurant in gardens
- Live music several times a week mid-June to mid-September
- Free Wifi throughout hotel
- Lift
- V Level rooms with enhanced services
- New gym and personal trainer available
- Zen garden area for personal meditation
- Dine Around discounts at sister hotels
- Parking (charge may apply, pre-booking advised)
Board Basis: Bed & Breakfast
Classic Double Room
Classic double room is the smallest room type with air conditioning, bathroom (shower, hairdryer), telephone, satellite TV, mini-bar, safe. With inland view.
Superior Room with balcony
Superior double room is a little more spacious with air conditioning, bathroom (bathroom (shower, hairdryer), telephone, satellite TV, mini-bar, safe. With balcony and seaside view.
Premium Room with balcony
Premium double room is a little more spacious with small additional seating area, with air conditioning, bathroom (shower, hairdryer), telephone, satellite TV, mini-bar, safe. With balcony and inland view.
V Level Superior Room with balcony
Superior double is a little more spacious, king size bed, with air conditioning, bathroom (shower, hairdryer, luxury toiletries), telephone, satellite TV, mini-bar, safe, Nespresso coffee machine, tea and coffee, complimentary water, robes and slippers, beach bag with towels and flip flops. With balcony and seaside view.