NINON Design Boutique Hotel

NINON Design Boutique Hotel, a design retreat on the Dalmatian coast

NINON Design Boutique Hotel is a design boutique property located in Brsečine, a quiet village nestled in the limestone hills of the Dalmatian coast, with views over the Elaphiti Islands. The hotel opened its doors in summer 2018 and was dreamed up by Croatian architects Nina and Željko Katalinić, who live in Vienna. It describes itself as an adults-only property aimed at those who value simplicity, design, hospitality and good food, and presents itself as a place tucked away from the rest of the world, about 20 minutes from Dubrovnik.

Nine rooms and a philosophy of intelligent luxury

The property has only nine rooms, a small scale that, according to its approach, allows each guest to be treated individually. The company describes its offering as "intelligent luxury", based on authentic, simple experiences rather than ostentation. Its philosophy, summed up in the phrase "No shoes, No News", invites guests to kick off their shoes, ditch the high heels and enjoy the sunset and the views with a good book. The space is designed to encourage interaction and new friendships, while still offering quiet corners for those seeking privacy.

Background and career path of the owners

The creation of the hotel stems from its founders' professional careers in architecture, which led them to travel all over the world. That experience made them want to share their home surroundings, Brsečine, located 18 km from Dubrovnik. According to their own presentation, they applied their architectural experience and local knowledge to create an atmosphere that fits into the landscape as if it had always been among the cypress trees.

Family management and team

Day-to-day management is handled by the couple Aleksandar and Katarina, presented as the heart and soul of the hotel. Katarina, the family's daughter, brought the project to life; she holds a master's degree in business and works as a life coach, as well as having a great passion for cooking. Aleksandar, with a background in business and sales, is also a musician and, according to the hotel's description, makes great gin and tonics and may be found playing guitar and singing near the bar. The company stresses that for them it is not just a business, but a personal project. The family's son, Ivan Katalinić, is an artist and works in Vienna, New York and Milan; some of his works can be seen at the hotel.

Services and spaces

The website organises its offering around rooms and location, culinary, groups and retreats, gallery, and contact and booking. The hotel offers boutique accommodation, with food and cocktail service, and has a bar. The company says it helps its guests arrange travel and other needs during their stay. It also accepts bookings for groups and retreats. The site includes a booking system with selection of arrival and departure dates and an optional access key to change or cancel reservations.

Surroundings and experience

The hotel presents itself as a place to disconnect from routine and rest in harmony with nature. It highlights the views over the Elaphiti Islands and the chance to enjoy sunsets, as well as a relaxed atmosphere that encourages rest and reconnecting with oneself. The website features guest reviews praising the food, the team, the location and the welcome they received, and includes visual content about the sunset light, the island views and the cuisine.

Location and contact

Ulica Podubrava 1, 20233 Brsečine, Croatia · Phone: +385 99 8888 525 · Email: info@myninon.com