Villa Luce di Mare

Villa Luce di Mare is laid out over three floors. The main entrance leads into a central landing, where there is a small staircase leading down to the main living area, and another leading up to the bedrooms. On stepping over the threshold, one is immediately struck by the quality of the property. Contemporary in style, it charmingly blends local Croatian traditions from the artwork with more modern features.

The open-concept living room and dining area, a luminous space, hosts a large L-shaped sofa and a solid wood dining table for 8 people. Wide glass doors bring in the pool and sea views, and allow easy access onto the first shaded terrace. Behind the dining area is the immaculate kitchen with its breakfast bar, equipped with all the modern appliances you would expect.

Heading back up the hallway stairs, further up and continuing towards the sea-facing side of the house, you will find three bedrooms. Two are large sea-view doubles with king size beds – both open out onto a large terrace with panoramic views across the Adriatic. One of these bedrooms is ensuite, while the other shares the main bathroom on the upper floor with the third, smaller double bedroom.

Extending south from Luce di Mare all the way to the beach are the fabulous stone terraces, with the possibilities for al fresco living and dining numerous and enticing. Most action (or lazy inaction) takes place on these terraces in front of the house. Here, looking out over the Adriatic, you’ll find both sunny and shady spots with sun loungers dotted around, and one of the star attractions: a luminous wood-framed summer kitchen. Hosting a dining area, a barbecue, and a fridge, this spot is great at all times of the day, but really comes into its own as evening calls, drinks are served, and your chef is putting the final touches to another mouthwatering dinner.

The gate at the bottom of the garden opens out onto the pathway in front of the gorgeous Ivan Dolac beach.

How have we not yet talked about the pools? The 40-metre squared heatable pool will delight both keen swimmers and those who prefer more leisurely immersions. This latter group may also enjoy the children’s shallow pool with a glass of chilled wine in hand.

Finally, the lower ground floor is accessed via a staircase from the garden. It is home to a pair of comfy reclining chairs, a massage table, a large sauna, some gym equipment, a flat-screen TV, and even a wine cellar. Like we said, Villa Luce di Mare is a villa for those searching for it all, and find it right here.