Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera

One of the newest additions to the Falkensteiner hotel group, the Hotel & Spa Iadera doesn’t have the brand’s usual family focus. Instead, this is a sleek and modern playground for adults. It’s architecturally impressive; low-rise with lots of blue glass, designed like a wave to showcase the sea views. Inside, the curved spaces create a similar feel to that of a contemporary ocean liner, with huge light and airy spaces, clean lines, and a soothing, sophisticated vibe. The white marble lobby hints at the hotel’s subtle maritime theme, with splashes of blue seen in textiles and architectural details. Throughout the hotel, guests will find some notable design features, like a mosaic atrium bar area, quirky seating -- think hanging egg chairs, retro booths, and love swings -- and the decadent black-tiled spa, where day beds are suspended from the ceiling and Arabic lanterns provide mood lighting. Previous guests have little to complain about here -- minor grumbles seem to concern an unclear policy on the nudity at the so-called black spa and the number of dogs at the hotel (even in the restaurant). This is a couples’ hotel dedicated to relaxation, with particular appeal for spa lovers.

The resort has a natural setting that's surrounded by pine forests, with access to a small rocky beach through the property's gardens. It sits just past sister hotel, Falkensteiner Family Hotel Diadora, on gated Punta Skala north of Zadar. There’s not much within walking distance, but most guests stay on-site for the length of their say (or most of it, anyway). The center of Zadar is a 20-minute drive away. Its charming Old Town is home to sights like the Roman Forum, 12th-century Cathedral of St. Anastasia, and the unique Sea Organ. Zadar’s airport is also around a 20-minute drive from the hotel.

Rooms have the feel of a modern ocean liner, with modern blue, teal, and white nautical decor, oak floors and headboards, and flowing white drapes. All have balconies with views over the resort, mountains, or sea. Amenities include those expected of a modern upscale hotel: air-conditioning, TV, free Wi-Fi, and minibars, plus bathrobes, slippers, toiletries, and hairdryers. Unfortunately, you'll have to request electric kettles if you'd like in-room tea or coffee. Bathrooms are open-plan, divided from the room by more billowing drapes -- it's worth noting if you’re traveling with friends or have privacy issues. They're spacious, with twin sinks, plus tubs and separate walk-in showers. The WC sits behind cupboard-like shuttered doors. In the Junior Suites, the tubs are in the corner of the bedroom and the bathrooms have larger walk-in showers. These suites are bigger all around, with living areas and double-length balconies. Sizes range from 345 square feet (32 square meters) in the entry-level Superior Park View Rooms to 645 square feet (60 square meters) in the top-end Senior Suites Sea Side. 

Most of the Iadera’s features are large and light, but its best feature has a dark side. The Adriapura Spa is the highlight here. Covering an area of over 60,000 square feet, it offers wellness treatments by Anne Semonin. The spa is divided into a light "white spa" (swimwear required) and seductive dark-tiled "black spa" with decorative ceiling murals. Nudity is advised in the latter. There are plenty of relaxation areas to choose from, whether you prefer to keep your clothes on or off. Indoors, there’s a traditional hammam, dark room with hanging day beds, relaxation room with water beds, and an earth sauna with sea views. Outside, a secluded wellness garden has its own whirlpool. Spa treatments can also be arranged in the forest or by the sea. Away from the spa, two large indoor/outdoor pool runs parallel to the sea, and there’s an infinity pool as well. For fitness buffs, a modern fitness room has cardio equipment and a free weights area. 

Jadran is the light white-themed main restaurant, serving generous buffet breakfasts (included in the rates, and with sparkling wine if you like). In the evening, Mediterranean set menus and themed buffets are served alongside rare local wines. La Veranda is an Italian a la carte restaurant and there’s also the spa’s Bistro & Vital Bar, which has a healthy focus on salads and smoothies. Guests can also dine at Falskensteiner’s shared resort restaurants on the peninsula, including a beach hut and traditional Dalmatian tavern. Keep in mind that all-inclusive rates aren't available. 

Business facilities include six conference rooms and the spa has de-stressing treatment packages tailored for business travelers. Wi-Fi is free and reliable. There’s secure parking, but it comes with a daily fee. The hotel is pet friendly, though some previous guests have found the number of dogs to be, at times, overwhelming.