There’s something magical about the sea in winter. When the crowds disperse, Europe’s coastal gems reveal a quieter, more introspective charm. Let’s journey through nine extraordinary historic hotels that offer serene escapes, from the Croatian coast to the shores of the Baltic Sea. Each is unique, brimming with character, and ready to show you a different side of seaside living in the off-season.
Hotel Milenij – Opatia, Croatia
At Hotel Milenij, located in Opatija along Croatia’s Adriatic coast, winter is a season of tranquility. This refined retreat is perfect for relaxed seaside strolls along the Lungomare promenade. The hotel’s spa offers indulgent treatments, and the heated indoor pool is a cosy haven as you listen to the waves crash outside. Venture to nearby Volosko for a glimpse of local life, or enjoy Opatija’s winter festivals, where music and local cuisine take centre stage.
Aigialos Hotel, Santorini – Greece
If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Santorini without the crowds, Aigialos Hotel is your answer. Perched on the cliffs with those iconic views over the caldera, this hotel is a gem in the off-season. Think white-washed walls, blue-domed roofs, and the quiet charm of traditional Greek life. Here, you can take leisurely strolls through empty cobblestone streets, visit local tavernas where the locals eat, and feel like you have the island all to yourself. And yes, the sunsets are just as stunning, if not more so, when it’s just you and a glass of Santorini’s finest wine. In alternative, stay at Esperas Santorini Hotel, a hotel woven into the Santorini cliffs, or at Villa Santa Croce, a captivating villa at the summit of Santorini, with breathtaking vistas.
Hotel Villa Schuler, Taormina, Sicily – Italy
Set on Sicily’s eastern coast, Hotel Villa Schuler offers views of Mount Etna and the sparkling Ionian Sea. This is where you go to bask in the romance of Taormina without the summer crowds. Wander through lush gardens, enjoy a quiet moment on the terrace, and explore ancient Greek ruins at your own pace. In the off-season, Taormina’s charm is even more pronounced, and Villa Schuler feels like a private hideaway where time stands still.
Roch Castle, Pembrokeshire, Wales
For a truly unique experience, Roch Castle offers a stay like no other. Perched high on a hill with sweeping views over the Pembrokeshire coast, this medieval fortress has been transformed into a luxurious retreat. Off-season, the rugged Welsh coast feels particularly dramatic, and the castle’s cosy interiors are perfect for curling up by the fire. Go for a windswept beach walk, return for an afternoon tea, and bask in the timeless atmosphere that Roch Castle provides. This is the place to unplug, recharge, and reconnect with history.
Kyrimai Hotel, Mani – Greece
Tucked away on the Mani Peninsula, Kyrimai Hotel is a beautifully restored 19th-century former old-store and tower right on the water’s edge. With stone walls, rustic beams, and a view over the Aegean Sea, it feels like you’ve stepped back in time. Off-season, the Mani Peninsula is peaceful and atmospheric, with quiet coves and coastal villages waiting to be explored. Kyrimai is a perfect base for adventures, whether you’re hiking in the hills, exploring ancient ruins, or just relaxing with a book by the sea.
Renvyle House Hotel, Connemara – Ireland
For a cosy, windswept retreat, Renvyle House Hotel is a dream come true. Set along the Wild Atlantic Way, this historic hotel embraces the rugged beauty of its surroundings, offering an authentic slice of Ireland’s untamed coastline. Off-season, Connemara’s dramatic beauty shines through, with stormy skies and crashing waves creating a magical backdrop. Renvyle House has a warm, welcoming vibe with open fires, hearty Irish breakfasts, and easy access to some of Ireland’s most beautiful natural scenery. It’s the perfect place to hunker down and enjoy the raw beauty of the Atlantic coast.
Villa Astra, Lovran – Croatia
This boutique hotel in Lovran is a hidden gem along Croatia’s lesser-known coast. Villa Astra offers a more intimate experience, with just a handful of rooms and a focus on personal service. In the off-season, you can explore the nearby Učka Nature Park, take a dip in the Adriatic, or simply relax in the hotel’s beautiful garden overlooking the sea. Villa Astra captures the essence of Croatia’s coast—peaceful, scenic, and just a little bit magical.
Manowce Palace, Baltic Sea – Poland
On the shores of the Baltic Sea, Manowce Palace is a grand escape into a bygone era. This restored 18th-century palace offers a serene retreat with expansive views over the Szczecin Lagoon. The surrounding forests and waters create a peaceful environment perfect for long walks and quiet reflection. Manowce Palace is ideal for those looking to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in nature, with all the comforts of a luxury hotel.
Adriatik Hotel, Durrës – Albania
Adriatik Hotel brings a touch of grandeur to Albania’s coast, with a timeless charm that’s easy to fall in love with. This majestic building stands right on the beach, and in the off-season, you’ll have it practically to yourself. Take a long walk along the shore, explore Durrës’ Roman amphitheater, or unwind in the hotel’s spa. Adriatik Hotel offers a beautiful blend of old-world charm and modern comfort, creating a truly unique escape during the cooler months.