Autograph Collection Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, makes its debut in Croatia with the arrival of The Isolano, Cres, Autograph Collection, on 13th March 2025. Situated within a lush pine grove overlooking the Adriatic Sea, The Isolano offers an unchartered coastal retreat for discerning travellers aged 12 and above. The boutique hotel features 49 meticulously crafted guestrooms and suites, a restaurant with sea views, two outdoor heated pools, expansive wellness offerings and direct beach access.
“The opening of The Isolano, Cres, Autograph Collection expands the horizons of this distinctive brand into Croatia for the first time, opening up new and authentic experiences, cultures and landscapes for our guests to discover,” said Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President, Premium, Select & Midscale Brand Management, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International. “Each Autograph Collection hotel has its own unique character and provides guests with rich, immersive experiences in the most desirable destinations. This new hotel offers our guests an untouched coastal escape from the strain of urban life, striking the perfect balance between nature and contemporary living.”
Inspired by the Adriatic coastline, interior designer Kristina Zanic has imagined a sophisticated yet relaxed design reflecting the essence of Mediterranean living. True to the brand’s ethos, a dedication to quality craftsmanship and distinctive design is reflected in the locally sourced stone from Brac Island used within the hotel’s striking geometric architecture. Harmoniously integrated with the surrounding Mediterranean vegetation, the hotel exudes an ambiance of modern elegance infused with natural charm. Colour palettes of the public spaces and guestrooms feature shades of white, grey, sand, navy and cognac, mirroring the natural beauty and serenity of the coastline. Local fabrics and artworks are also used within the interior design, including artwork by local painter Solis in the lobby and locally sourced wool for the menus at Restaurant Moise, strengthening the connection to the island’s culture and heritage.
Each of the hotel’s guestrooms, including four suites, feature private balconies with panoramic sea views, wooden benches crafted by local artisans, and technology-driven amenities such as smart TVs, automated controls for lighting and temperature, and Mobile Key check-in via the Marriott Bonvoy app. For wellness seekers, five infinity guestrooms also offer exclusive direct access to one of the two outdoor heated swimming pools.
The hotel’s dining experiences pay homage to the vibrant culinary heritage of the Adriatic. On arrival, guests are welcomed with a refreshing drink made from locally sourced sage while at the bar skilled mixologists handcraft signature cocktails featuring rakija brandy, prepared with local Croatian and Cres ingredients such as aromatic herbs, woods, honey and floral infusions. Chef Aleksandar Kerekes, renowned for his commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and innovative culinary creations, brings his expertise from Michelin-starred restaurants in Martín Berasategui in Lasarte Oria and El Celler de Can Roca in Girona to craft an authentic dining experience for guests that highlights the flavours of the region. Inspired by the philosophy of nature, Restaurant Moise honours local traditions by taking a sustainable approach, recognising the importance of local ingredients and Cres’ culinary heritage and nature. The fine-dining restaurant showcases the richness of the island, from the land to the sea, including fresh seafood paired with local Croatian wines, to be savoured while watching the sunset from the terrace.
Guests can relax into island life at one of the hotel’s two outdoor pools or seek tranquillity in the extensive wellness area featuring a luxurious spa alongside state-of-the-art gym facilities at NOHrD Fitness. Harnessing the healing power of nature, the spa incorporates local ingredients with curative benefits, such as honey and endemic plant species, into the wellness experience for guests. Revitalising treatments range from wild honey and sea salt scrub and nourishing olive oil body treatments, as well as transformative experiences that engage all the senses through music and scent. The spa experience is concluded with a local herbal tea and a selection of healthy nuts to leave guests feeling fully restored.
With no two Autograph Collection hotels the same, each property offers a unique signature experience crafted through passion and expert skill, leaving a lasting imprint on guests. At The Isolano, guests can take part in an island-inspired mixology workshop in the lobby bar and create their own Isolano botanical blend. Guests are guided through a tasting to discover the aromatic herbs and local ingredients unique to the island. Whether alcoholic or non-alcoholic, each blend is a celebration of the region’s flavours. After learning the secrets behind crafting the perfect Isolano blend, guests will receive a curated gift box containing a selection of the island’s signature botanicals to remember their time on the island.
Cres Island is in the northern Adriatic Sea of Croatia, home to pristine landscapes, nature reserves, historic towns and secluded beaches. The hotel is located just a 10-minute walk from Cres Town rich with medieval charm and heritage landmarks including the Church of St. Mary as well as authentic tavernas serving local delicacies. The nearest airport is Rijeka Airport on the island of Krk, accessible by a 20-minute ferry ride, or a one-and-a-half-hour drive by car.
To book or for further information visit www.marriott.com
