5 Top-Rated Hotels in Rakalj, Istria

Don't expect too much

First of all Rakalj is a very very small village, so if you're looking for a good base to explore Istria - think twice. It takes literally an hour to get to the first reasonable town (Pula) and don't count to see anything particularly interesting on the way. Rakalj itself has absolutely nothing to offer apart from a quite shabby (and expensive) shop, surrounded with the locals drinking beer by the entrance 24/7. The beach nearby is nothing to write home about and if you're dreaming about nice walks in the neighbourhood - just forget it! (if you don't want to get bit by stray dogs). The villa itself is a big house, divided into 4 apartaments. It is important to mention that while 3 of them are being rented to the tourists - one is reserved for the owners who are basically present all the time. If you're looking for some privacy - this is not the place for you. Owners are constantly sitting on the terrace overlooking the whole property or are busy with 'house and garden maintenance' (some of which is very loud and annoying) practically by your window! The so-called 'garden' is really just a courtyard with a bunch of cars parked there (including two that belong to the owners) which is not the best view you could have on vacations while drinking coffee on the terrace. The apartaments are clean and well-equipped, but there is no kettle, so the water has to be boiled in the pot. It is very uncomfortable (especially when travelling with kids), but don't try to ask the owners about it. They got unreasonably stressed and offended when asked about the possibility to provide the missing kettle. It almost ended up with us leaving the apartament right away and unfortunately set the tone for the whole visit there. Staying in Villa Gabi has generally nothing to do with a hotel where you pay the money and can expect certain standard. It is more like visiting some distant (and not very nice) relatives, who can always storm in and scorn you for 'not behaving well in their house'.