Palazzo del Mare - Essenza

We really liked our first building, which had a direct view of the sea, and the hotel's design was lovely. Mia at reception was especially nice, as was the rest of the staff. Breakfast was good too. We don't eat red meat, but there were enough vegetarian and chicken choices for us. We'd love to come back on our next visit.

I booked this mainly for the views, and the room we got didn't match what was advertised. Our balcony looks toward several houses, and you only get a partial sea view if you turn to the side. I'm only one night into a three-night stay and already hate it. The place looks modern, but it hasn't been thought through well and feels falsely advertised. At £120 a night in the off season, this disappointment feels like daylight robbery. I would not recommend it. The road beside the hotel is busy, and with no soundproofing, traffic noise comes through around the clock. The ceiling fan doesn't work, and the AC doesn't seem to reach the temperature you set. Some dim light settings are broken, leaving us with harsh bright lighting. The switches' backlights never turn off either, so the room won't get fully dark. There's no shower shelf, so shampoo and soap have to go on the floor. Breakfast is served in a cramped little area by reception, with no view to enjoy. The hotel has three buildings, so I guess which room you get is a gamble.

We stayed as a couple for two nights in October, when it was quiet, and had a great time. The room was roomy, beautifully designed, and finished to a high standard. The hotel is new and comfortable. Staff were warm and helpful, and breakfast was fine. It's about a ten-minute drive to Kotor. There's a nice beach with sunbeds across the road, and a pool that's open in summer. We also took a boat trip that started and ended at the pier beside the hotel, which was lovely. The price felt very reasonable for what you get. Clean, peaceful, and welcoming, we'd recommend it.

Mia and the rest of the staff deserve a big thank you. They looked after my guests wonderfully, kept in touch with us, and helped with everything from minor matters to bigger issues. The hotel is also top level for its view, breakfast, and cleanliness.