Spectacular Stays: Villa Korta Katarina & Winery

Time seems to stand still at Villa Korta Katarina &amp; Winery, Croatia’s lavish new wine estate by the sea. We chatted with American philanthropist Lee Anderson about the genesis of Korta Katarina and how his efforts in providing aid to&nbsp;Bosnia-Herzegovina and Croatia led to the inception of Orebić’s most extravagant property.

The mere mention of <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/croatia">Croatia</a> often conjures quintessential images of Dubrovnik, with its ancient walled villages, fiery-red rooftops and sun-drenched beaches peppered along the sparkling Adriatic coast. Although the glitz and glamour of this fairy-tale city is something to write home about, it often overshadows its under-the-radar neighbour. Just a two-hour drive away from UNESCO-listed Dubrovnik lies Orebić — a romantic old port town nestled in the heart of Croatia’s pristine wine territory — and possibly one of the country’s best-kept secrets.But not for long.Sitting pretty on the southern tip of the Pelješac peninsula, Orebić is charmed with a golden strip of sandy beaches, an unparalleled wine scene and hidden coves dotting the heavenly blue of the Adriatic. With no shortage of freshly shucked oysters and centuries-old paths to ride through, Orebić is finally generating buzz as one of the most promising jewels of the Mediterranean.

<h3>A Slice of Heaven on the Adriatic</h3>

The region’s rich, welcoming culture and untapped gastronomic delights were enough to capture the hearts of American philanthropists Lee and Penny Anderson, who began visiting the country twenty years ago on humanitarian missions after the Yugoslav Wars. A dear friend of the Anderson’s was working for a charitable organization, sending missionaries to Croatia to rebuild schools destroyed during the wars. Eventually, he invited the pair to come over and see the work they were doing first-hand.“We coordinated a visit with the opening of one of the schools. It was really gratifying to see these young people getting their schools back,” Mr. Anderson said. “We continued to go after that to support the&nbsp;St.&nbsp;David’s Relief&nbsp;Foundation. Penny and I already had an interest in wine, and it seems almost everyone in Croatia makes their own wine.”Thanks to their infatuation with the region — and over a few glasses of wine with the Executive Director of St. David’s Relief Foundation, Mr. Anderson grew keen on investing in one of the area’s pristine wineries.

<h3>A Labour of Love</h3>Six months later, the Anderson’s were offered a jaw-dropping property that was taken back by the government.“A four-story hotel — and it’s empty, and they’re willing to sell it to you — if you promise you’ll rebuild it,'” he was told.

Mr. Anderson said yes.And with that, the Andersons purchased the well-known Rivijera hotel, a sumptuous seaside villa nestled on the shores of the shimmering Adriatic.“We suddenly had this little piece of heaven — a building we have sitting on top of a hill overlooking the Adriatic — with the promise to put it back into service,” Mr. Anderson said.After an intense labour of love and almost a decades-worth of planning, one of Croatia’s most exclusive properties was on the horizon. <a href="https://www.kortakatarina.com/">Korta Katarina</a>, member of Relais &amp; Châteaux, finally opened its doors in 2018. &nbsp;

This secluded property is so much more than your average hotel. Consisting of a winery, vineyard, the villa and even a 201-foot luxury yacht, at Korta Katerina, every room has a story to tell. These stories are illustrated through the refined antiques and elegant attention to detail found around every corner. Through its serene splashes of pastel blues, milky whites and sandy ivory coating every inch of its interior. And best of all, through its <a href="https://www.kortakatarinawinery.com/">sustainably farmed vineyards</a> and lavish collection of KK award-winning vintages — a favourite among the locals.

“Years went on; we started our winery — we made wine in the building. Eventually, we decided to move it adjacent to the building, but co-join it with the villa,” Mr. Anderson said. “We make a limited production of 60,000 bottles per year — most of it sold in Croatia, though we do export to some areas in the US.”

Today, Korta Katarina hosts gastronomy wine tastings paired with an upscale introduction to Croatian cuisine. Guests also have the option to sample some of Orebić’s most palatable delicacies with trips to local oyster farms — the perfect combination of salty seawater and freshwater makes this an idyllic experience. And after exuberant days of soaking up the sunshine, guests can revel in the little touches of luxury and personalization that the Andersons put into every aspect of the villa, including the bedtime stories found on each room’s pillow come day’s end.Korta Katarina’s prime location ensures there’s no shortage of activity for all levels. Cruise to Korčula by speedboat to embark on a bike ride through&nbsp;Pošip vineyard, the region’s finest white variety. Walk the longest walls in Europe&nbsp;in the 14thC town of Ston. Kayak, kitesurf and scuba dive along the coast of the turquoise Adriatic. No matter what the day calls for, the area is ripe with adventure for even the most intrepid of travellers.<h3>A Villa That Gives Back</h3>Although Korta Katarina’s roots run deep in offering guests unparalleled luxury — the first of its kind in Orebić — its philosophy still remains ingrained in engaging with the local community.“All of our employees are from Orebić — the villa is a real source of pride for the people of the village, many of them are employed there — even during COVID, we never made layoffs, and we paid them the whole time,” Mr. Anderson said. “The greatest reward is the people we work with. We’re very proud of what we’ve done.

<h3>The Future of Korta Katarina</h3>So, just how bright is the future of tourism for Orebić? With lots of talk about the Pelješac Bridge finally connecting southeast Croatia to the rest of the country, there’s sure to be a rise in visitors wishing to cast anchor and unearth the secrets of this dreamlike town. According to Mr. Anderson, this is marvellous news for Korta Katarina, as completion of the bridge will cut down the amount of travel time to get to Orebić by a third. It would appear as if venturing off-the-beaten-path in Orebić — and savouring the exuberance of Korta Katarina — is a voyage that’s slowly creeping out of the shadow of its glitzy neighbour Dubrovnik, becoming a destination unto itself.&nbsp;If enjoying fine wine and gourmet cuisine over panoramas of the sparkling Adriatic sound enticing, a stay at Korta Katarina is a must. Get in touch with <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/meet-the-designers/erin-reed">Erin</a> or <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/meet-the-designers/laura-benn">Laura</a> to see how they can craft your idyllic getaway to <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/croatia-bespoke">Croatia</a>. &nbsp;

Discover Villa Korta Katarina & Winery in Orebić, Croatia—a Relais & Châteaux retreat offering Adriatic views, luxury suites, award-winning wines, and refined Dalmatian hospitality.

Villa Korta Katarina & Winery | Luxury Stay on Croatia’s Adriatic Coast

Croatia

The jagged strip of land stretching from the Gulf of Trieste to Dubrovnik, and further south past the coast of modern-day Montenegro, presents one of the most splendid scenes in the Mediterranean. As thousands of islands confuse the coastline, the towns hide some of the finest buildings the Venetians ever built and its inland areas shelter a Europe unchanged since the Ancient Greeks first came along. Prepare to get in deep and up close with spectacular coastal roads, turquoise waters and endless islands.

Introduction

Explore the jewel of the Adriatic

Cycle the Dalmatian Coast and island-hop by sea on small group or private bespoke trips through Croatia, with private boat access and boutique hotels.

Croatia Bike & Walking Tours | Butterfield & Robinson

Travelling through Croatia is a passage to a time when things were simpler and slower. A time when laundry billowed in gentle summer breezes, children played within time-worn walled cities and scampered across polished stone alleyways. From the south coast to the north coast, visit primeval fortresses, pastel-coloured seaside villages and sparkling bays. Feast on freshly caught fish, prsut, home-cured ham, wild olives and garden-plucked juicy tomatoes. Try the seriously good local wines, swim in the crystal clear Adriatic, and chat with the villagers over rich coffee.

Cultural Immersion

Breathtaking Landscapes

Authentic Food

Croatia is a sun-soaked postcard from the past—ancient fortresses, seaside villages and Adriatic views that beg for a swim (or a second glass of wine). Savour pršut and wild olives, dive into sapphire waters and linger over coffee with locals who treat storytelling like an art. Life moves slower here—and that’s exactly how we like it.

Time moves gently along the Dalmatian Coast

Experience the Dalmatian Coast

Bike Hvar, kayak Rovinj's sea caves and hike Croatia's Dalmatian Coast on a tailor-made itinerary. Three stunning destinations, privately guided and built

Croatia Private Tours: Hvar Cycling, Rovinj Sea Caves & Dalmatian Hiking

The Dalmatian Coast is meant to be experienced by sea. While others hop from hotel to hotel, we unpack once—aboard the region’s top luxury yacht, no less. Hop aboard the ideal vessel for cruising up to sun-drenched islands, hushed inlets and secluded beaches. Daily off-ship adventures, by bike and foot, see us exploring scenic coastal roads, diving deep into historic towns with local experts and clinking glasses with our wine-making friends.Please note: our September 2024 departure runs from Split to Dubrovnik

Experience By Sea

Local Connections

Forget hotel hopping—the Dalmatian Coast deserves better.(Luxury yacht, anyone?) Cruise effortlessly between sun-drenched islands, sneaky coves, and beaches so secluded even locals forget they're there. Cycle postcard-perfect roads, stroll historic towns with our favourite insiders, and sip vino with winemakers who put a Croatian spin on la dolce vita.

Island hopping by luxury yacht

The itinerary below is a sample and is subject to slight changes in routes, accommodations and activities. Please download the itinerary for your selected departure for precise details.

Preview the itinerary

Set Sail on the Adriatic

Bespoke travel lets you take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Can't find your dates?

Go Bespoke!

The Dalmatian Coast is meant to be experienced by sea. While others hop from hotel to hotel, we unpack once—aboard the region’s top luxury yacht, no less. With only six cabins, the M/Y Dalmatino is the ideal vessel for cruising up to sun-drenched islands, hushed inlets and secluded beaches. Daily off-ship adventures, by bike and foot, see us exploring scenic coastal roads, diving deep into historic towns with local experts and clinking glasses with our wine-making friends.

Dalmatian Coast Multi-Active | Butterfield & Robinson

Over 1,000 islands, islets and reefs protect the mainland of Croatia and Montenegro, providing an idyllic setting for exploration, relaxation and adventure—from tiny villages in secluded coves to the Adriatic towns of Hvar, Korcula and Split. Let us introduce you to the secret life of Dalmatia: A life of sun, song, private beaches, quiet bike rides and walks and superb wine and cuisine.

Insider Access

Cruise from Croatia to Montenegro, soaking up Dalmatia’s coastal cool—a delicious mash-up of Roman ruins, Venetian swagger, and Balkan bravado. Pedal, paddle, and hike past medieval fortresses and dreamy islands, pausing for feasts of prsut, olives, and ham cured longer than local grudges. Expect postcard views, generous locals, and an addictive joie de vivre. Balkan soul-searching never tasted this good.

A land journey along the Adriatic

Your Accommodations 

Spend 6 nights biking Hvar, Dubrovnik and Montenegro's Bay of Kotor in a small group. Three of the Adriatic's most celebrated destinations, guided by experts.

Croatia to Montenegro Multi-Active Tour: Hvar, Dubrovnik & Bay of Kotor

Discover a different side of the Adriatic as you navigate Croatia's cherished hidden islands by superyacht. We'll lead you to the most picturesque spots in the Kornati Islands and along Lake Vrna, renowned biodiversity hotspots. Delve into Šibenik's ancient charm and absorb a thousand years of history from its old-town marvels. Indulge in the Dalmatian high-life while savouring crisp wines and fresh seafood as the sun sets on board. Gain insight into Croatian traditions while conquering coastal landscapes by bike and on foot; unwinding each day on your floating hotel.

Off the Beaten Path

Nature's Wonders

Luxurious Stays

Island-hopping by superyacht? Yes, please. Uncover the Adriatic’s best-kept secrets by day, including Kornati’s turquoise coves, Lake Vrna’s wild wonders, and Šibenik’s timeless old town, and toast to perfect sunsets onboard your floating hotel by night. In between, pedal coastal trails, trek breathtaking landscapes, and soak up Croatian traditions between bites of ultra-fresh seafood and sips of crisp Dalmatian wine.

Croatia's Secret Archipelagos

Immerse yourself in Croatia's secret archipelagos 

Experience Designer

Adriatic Islands Multi-Active | Butterfield & Robinson

Journey to the breathtaking realms of Slovenia and Croatia, where fairytale landscapes stretch into the&nbsp;glistening Adriatic coast. Your adventure begins in Slovenia, where you’ll pedal through enchanting valleys and quaint alpine villages, winding your way toward the serene waters of Lake Bled. Cycle along alpine roads to reach the Julian Alps, where towering mountain peaks frame emerald lakes and lush forests. Venture to Croatia’s dazzling coast, where you’ll explore Rovinj, a coastal gem celebrated as one of the most beautiful towns in the region. Dive into the rich history of Pula, wandering amidst ancient Roman ruins that have stood the test of time. Along the way, delight in extraordinary culinary experiences—from authentic Slovenian feasts savoured at our friend’s farm to meals crafted by renowned chefs and a hands-on cooking class that brings local flavours to life.&nbsp;

Land of Striking Contrasts

Unique Gastronomy

From alpine peaks to Adriatic chic, this ride blends storybook Slovenia with Croatia’s coastal swagger. Pedal through emerald valleys, sip by Lake Bled, and wind your way to Rovinj’s seaside charm. Toss in Roman ruins, a hands-on cooking class, and feasts at our friend’s farm, and you’ve got a two-country spin with a seriously delicious twist.

From mountain peaks to the shimmering coast

Experience Designers

Spend 6 nights cycling Slovenia to Croatia's Adriatic in a small group. Mountain vineyard roads, river gorge trails and Rovinj's terracotta harbour at the end.

Slovenia to Adriatic Coast Bike Tour: Vineyards, River Gorges & Rovinj

Set sail through Croatia’s Adriatic Islands on board your private yacht. Experience the breathtaking and diverse landscapes of our favourite hidden islands as your captain and crew guide you through the northern coast. You’ll venture off-ship to explore Krka’s cascading waterfalls, cruise through the mysterious Kornati Islands and immerse yourself in Zadar’s ancient architecture, all on your own time.

Great Rides

Set sail aboard your private yacht through Croatia’s Adriatic Islands, charting our course on your time (with a little help from the crew, naturally). Off-ship, you'll explore Krka’s cascading waterfalls, navigate the ethereal Kornati archipelago, and drift into Zadar’s storied streets. Travel at your pace—because the best adventures never follow someone else’s timetable.

exploring hidden islands by private yacht

Spend 7 nights exploring Croatia's 1,200-island archipelago by private yacht in a small group. Hidden anchorages, cliff-jumping coves and fresh Adriatic

Adriatic Islands Self-Guided Biking Tour: Private Yacht & 1,200 Islands

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Dalmatian Coast on board your private yacht. On this self-guided adventure, your captain will guide you from one picturesque island to the next. Anchor in Vis and hop on your bikes to pedal along stunning coastal roads, then swim in the island’s blue bays. Indulge in some of Croatia's finest wines, and wander through Korcula’s ancient streets with your local guide. Dine in Hvar, savouring local specialties with a bevanda in hand. At night, return to your yacht and gently unwind while you watch the sunset on board.Pricing per person based on 4 travellers: $9,995 USD.

Floating Hotel

Set sail on your private yacht along the Dalmatian Coast, hopping from gorgeous islands to ridiculously photogenic beaches. Pedal Vis’s coastal roads, float lazily in sapphire bays, and sip Croatia’s best vino. Stroll Korcula’s ancient streets, feast in chic Hvar (bevanda highly recommended), then watch sunsets aboard your floating home. Don’t bother pinching yourself—this isn't a dream, it just feels like one.Pricing per person based on 4 travellers: $9,995 USD.

Sailing Croatia’s Archipelago

$23,255 based on 2 travellers. $9,995 based o based on 2 travellers. $11,195 based on 4 travellers.

Spend 7 nights sailing Croatia's Dalmatian archipelago in a small group self-guided trip. A private yacht, 1,200 islands to choose from and anchorages no

Dalmatian Coast Self-Guided Biking Tour: Private Yacht & 1,200 Islands

From the Alps of Slovenia to the coast of Croatia and a quick dip into Italy in between, this&nbsp;north-­south journey immerses you in the region’s excellent biking and walking terrain, love of locally sourced food and appreciation for well­-crafted wine. Local hosts and family-run properties give us a behind-the-curtain look at the culture, customs and history that shaped this region, while visits to vineyards, home-prepared meals and cobalt-blue lakes electrify our senses.