Valamar Argosy Hotel review: This coastal hotel offers all of the best bits of Dubrovnik

Valamar Argosy Hotel review

Most tourists flock to Dubrovnik to explore the charming streets of the Old Town, but travel just 15 minutes outside of the 13th-century walls and discover the crystal clear waters and incredible mountain views from Babin Kuk Peninsula. It's here you'll find Valamar Argosy Hotel, a coastal hotel looking out across the Adriatic Sea.

The hotel markets itself as "designed for adults", and while children are not completely banned, there are no special facilities for them. Instead, this is a destination to come to for complete relaxation, peppered between days soaking up the history of Dubrovnik's Old Town or exploring the nearby Croatian islands.

Surrounded by lush green gardens and just a stone's throw from a scattering of pebble beaches, Valamar Argosy is a four-storey hotel home to over 300 rooms. Though it was first built in 1976, it has since been renovated to incorporate modern amenities and touches.

The main lobby is at the heart of the hotel, overlooked by internal balconies with a vast floor-to-ceiling window looking out to views of the stunning scenery that surrounds it. There is a slightly corporate feel to the building typical of Yugoslav-era hotels, but contemporary furniture brings the bright and airy space into the 2020s.

Downstairs guests will find the library, a large and peaceful space perfect for relaxing, while a small bar area is located opposite the check-in desk. Beyond this, you'll find gardens lined with palms and pines, along with hammocks looking out to the tranquil sea views.

There are two swimming pools to choose from, including a picturesque aquamarine infinity pool which gives the illusion of trickling over into the deep Adriatic blues. There is also a smaller paddling pool, plus plenty of sun loungers up for grabs. Though our stay collided with the beginning of the summer season, there was never a battle for sun loungers - even when the heat of the day was at its peak. And speaking of the sun loungers, each one comes with its own face shade which is particularly handy when reading by the pool.

Check-in is a smooth and straightforward process with friendly, knowledgeable staff who are on hand to help with any questions you might have. Guests can go one step further by downloading the Valamar app which allows them to check in ahead of arrival. The app also allows guests to stay up-to-date with any goings on in the hotel. Alternatively, in the reception, you will find the Valamar Perfect Experience Creator desk, where experts can help plan local activities or excursions.

One thing you will notice about Valamar Argosy is its commitment to nature, with the hotel proudly advertising itself as a "green holiday" provider. The property makes use of on-site solar energy generators and has been awarded a Blue Flag and Travel Life Certification. You'll notice reminders throughout your time about saving water or the option to swap your towels every other day to help reduce unnecessary waste.

The Rooms

Rating: 4/5

Valamar Argosy is home to 308 rooms which can sleep anywhere from two to four people, including select pet-friendly rooms.

The only major difference between room categories is the view on offer, with superior rooms looking over the gardens or out towards the sea and Elafiti islets. Rooms are comfortable with all of the basics but can feel lacking in character apart from three photography prints of Dubrovnik's Old Town.

But, if you opt for a garden or sea view, the real star of the show is the balcony. There's nothing quite like pulling back the curtains each morning to catch a glimpse of the sparkling Adriatic waves.

In keeping with the rest of the hotel, the room features a natural colour palette with white walls and hues of blue lining the throw and curtains.

Our room featured a double bed made up of two singles pushed together, where we enjoyed an uninterrupted sleep each night. Though the hotel had plenty of guests checking in and out during our time, we found the rooms to be well sound-proofed. There is a mini fridge complete with mini bar items (along with a price list), plus ample storage space for belongings and a safe.

Bathrooms are modern, sleek and clean with a rain shower and complimentary shampoo, body wash and soap. Guest rooms also feature slippers and dressing gowns to enjoy during your stay - a small touch which adds an extra bit of comfort.

Spa and Wellness

Dining and Drinking

Rating: 4.5/5

Guests staying at Valamar Argosy Hotel have the option of bed and breakfast or going half board. While there are a number of restaurants in the local area that make opting just for bed and breakfast a viable option, the evening buffet dinner spread served at Mediteraneo buffet restaurant is not to be missed.

There's an array of Mediterranean dishes on offer, including salads, rice dishes, meats and cheeses, freshly grilled fish and meat and pasta, as well as local Croatian dishes and the usual favourites such as pizza. There is also a great selection of vegetarian dishes and some vegan options, all of which are labelled. For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert cart is stacked with cakes, pastries, fruit and a modest selection of ice cream.

Drinks aren't included in the half-board price, but there is a decent wine list and a selection of beer and cocktails.

Dinner is a fairly relaxed affair and we didn't feel the buffet got too busy, though this could differ at peak times of the year. Indoor and outdoor seating are available. If you can, sit outside on the terrace and look out across the infinity pool as the golden rays of sunset dip below the horizon.

Breakfast is also served in Mediteraneo buffet restaurant, with a huge array of hot and cold breakfast items to choose from. You can expect no less than 10 different types of cheese to choose from, along with meats, fruits, yoghurt and cereal, pastries, bread and vegetables. Omelettes can be made ready to order, or help yourself to the selection of pre-made hot dishes including scrambled eggs, poached eggs, bacon, sausages, pancakes and Mediterranean vegetables.

Two coffee machines serve the entire restaurant which means queues can be long and you can be left standing in line to get your coffee during busy periods. There's also a self-serve juice, tea and water station.

If you get peckish during the day, the Mezzino snack bar is a shaded poolside spot, overhung by chic bamboo lampshades, serving light bites, snacks and drinks.

The lobby bar is your spot for all-day drinks, with an outdoor seating area which becomes the hub for musical entertainment each evening.

Location

Rating: 5/5

Value For Money

Rating: 4.5/5

Double rooms for two people start from £125 per night. Find rooms and book direct on the Valamar website.

Or, compare deals and prices for a stay at Valamar Argosy Hotel with Booking.com or Hotels.com.

Final Verdict