I

t pays to get to know Croatia’s Adriatic coast. Among the dividends is Boutique Hotel Alhambra, a carefully restored concern on the southwest shore of the narrow Cres-Lošinj archipelago, hugging the curves of Čikat cove, a pristine and clement-weathered harbor in limestone and dolomite, softened by characteristic stands of pine and palm. You can tell right away that this was once a grand old villa — however thoroughly renovated, its architectural personality still comes through in the Austro-Hungarian façade, picturesque in every detail, from the arched loggias to the elegant quoin corners to the terra-cotta roofing.

Indoors, public spaces run the gamut of styles. The lounge bar features eccentric parquet flooring and curvilinear seating somewhere between retro-futuristic and mid-century cool, while the main restaurant personalizes the view with gorgeous glass frontage and a spacious terrace, perfect for a leisurely bottle of local wine. The heated indoor saltwater pool is the star of the show at the spa, augmented by a waterfall and a captivating geometric wall treatment, though the saunas and specialty treatments give it a run for its money.

The 36 rooms and 15 suites hit all the right notes, chiefly visual: furnished balconies permit enviable Mediterranean views over intricate, wrought-iron rails, and Dean Skira’s concept lighting maintains an open brightness throughout. Bathrooms include deep soaking tubs, vessel sinks, and natural amenities against a backdrop of checkered stone and mosaic. King beds feature oversize headboards and cream-and-tan linens, accented with Adriatic blue and tawny orange. Alhambra rounds out the experience with wi-fi, satellite TVs, and docking stations, though they won’t be the clincher: that honor goes to the private beach and bar.

How to get there: Boutique Hotel Alhambra is a 20-minute drive from Lošinj Airport. Ferry service is also available to Cres Island from Brestova on the mainland or from Valbiska on Krk Island.