Villa Caterina was constructed in the prosperous year 1906, as the Habsburg monarchy was building winter homes along the Opatija Riviera and tourism in Croatia first flowered. Its Venetian architect, Attilio Maguolo, was an Art Nouveau authority who became the most prolific builder in Lovran, a small village on the Adriatic coast. 

“We bought the ground floor apartment three years ago with the intention that guests could feel the atmosphere of that time,” says Kristina, the owner of Apartment Klara, situated inside Villa Caterina. Kristina handled the renovation of this 130m2 luxury apartment in Lovran. Starting with the original Art Deco doors and reflected in the choices throughout each room, it’s evident that she took great care. 

Travel back in history with this faithful preservation, while enjoying the modern perks of a thoughtful, design-focused owner.

This luxury apartment in Lovran is just 20m to the sea and close to the city center. It is situated in a villa that was designed by Attilio Maguolo, who built more than 80 buildings in Lovran in 20 years of work. Fully renovated in 2018, it has three bedrooms and two full bathrooms (one with bath and bidet, the other one with shower).

Modernizing the thriving times in which it was first built, this is a stunning update. High-quality Italian terrazzo-style tiles and Slavonic oak herringbone floors make up the updated flooring, while faucets by Zuchetti and Koss and a bath by Duravit exude modern luxury. 

Two spacious terraces look onto the Adriatic sea, including Kvarner gulf with the islands Cres and Krk. Filled with fruit trees and vegetables, the private garden invite guests to experience walks and sunrise meals, blessed by the year-round pleasant climate and the region’s unique mix of sea and forest air.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

This apartment is fully air-conditioned and heated, and equipped with flat screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and Netflix. There is a washing machine, and barbecue facilities. In the kitchen, enjoy Villeroy and Boch fine bone china porcelain, an Illy coffee machine, a dishwasher and crystal glasses. In the bedrooms, down pillows, bathrobes and slippers are provided. The bathrooms have complimentary soap and toiletries. A free parking space is included. 

AROUND

Lovran is situated on Adriatic coast in the Kvarner region. The Lovran area has a 100-year-old tradition of tourism, and is dotted with magnificent architecture, such as the many Austro-Hungarian villas and beautiful churches of the Gothic and Romantic persuasions.  

Then there’s the lush Mediterranean vegetation and the sea, perfect for swimming, wind surfing and fishing. The National Park Učka, containing the Mountain Učka and a piece of the Ćićarija mountain range, is known for its hiking and biking trails. 

Gastronomy is also a draw in Lovran – the freshness and flavors of the Mediterranean come to life here, with Adriatic-caught seafood and locally-grown chestnuts, asparagus and cherries. 

LOCATION

Lovran, Croatia. The nearest airport is Rijeka airport, 56km from the apartment. 

BEST TIME TO VISIT: High season starts in April and lasts until October.

Photos: Julie Healy and Igor Mulc