Villa Tonka

The steep climb back to the villa in the heat is something to be ready for, though taxis from town are easy to find and cost around £6 (€6.5). Villa Tonka sits high above Makarska, with a magnificent view of the harbor and promenade, and wonderful sunsets. We stayed for a week in mid-August, during high season, in the first-floor apartment. It had a kitchen area with a microwave and fridge/freezer, a large, homely living room, three large bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a private outdoor seating area and lawn that got sun all day. Everything was impeccably clean and well maintained. The shared pool was perfect for our family, easy to reach from the apartment, and often quiet for much of the day. Our host Marija was attentive and helpful throughout, with useful local tips on beaches, restaurants, day trips, and even taxi fares. If you don’t have plans set, ask her for help. We found it a comfortable home away from home, a secluded and private retreat from the busy town. We highly recommend it.

The hosts keep the whole property meticulously maintained, just as any guest would hope. The room was impeccable, and the private pool is a lovely place to watch the sunset. The view over Makarska is utterly amazing, especially from the second floor. You’ll need a scooter, around €22/day, or a car to avoid the long uphill road to the villa. There’s free private parking at the villa.

The terrace view is stunning, and the owner made us feel welcome right away. The apartment is beautiful and has all the comforts we needed.

That terrace view made the climb up the hill worthwhile, though in the July heat it was a bit of a workout. We managed it once a day. We stayed in the first-floor apartment at Villa Tonka for the last two weeks of July, with four adults and three children. There was plenty of room, and the pool was a good size too. Marija was such a thoughtful host. My daughter and husband both had birthdays during our stay, and she left a cake in the fridge for us. We were delighted, and it tasted delicious. One room had no air conditioning, so it got very warm at night. Even so, we'd definitely recommend Villa Tonka.