Maistra Select Island Hotel Istra

This hotel, situated on a private island accessible by a complimentary and regular ferry service, offers a unique and memorable escape, making it a standout feature. Guests consistently praise the hotel's stunning natural surroundings, the overall cleanliness, and the generally friendly staff. It is an ideal destination for families seeking a peaceful yet activity-rich holiday, with dedicated facilities for children, and for couples looking for a romantic and tranquil retreat amidst beautiful scenery. Sightseers and explorers will also appreciate the convenient access to the charming town of Rovinj. To enhance your stay, consider bringing sea shoes for comfortable access to the island's many beaches and be prepared for potentially crowded dining areas during peak hours.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts an impressive array of facilities designed for relaxation and activity. Guests highly commend the spa and wellness center, which features a spacious indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room, providing ample opportunities for rejuvenation. Multiple outdoor pools, including options for children and a saltwater pool, are available, complemented by an abundance of sunbeds and loungers spread across the island, ensuring space for everyone. A fitness center or gym is also on-site, though some equipment may be dated. For families, a well-equipped playroom and kids club are popular. The hotel offers various water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and tennis, some of which are available for an additional charge. Wi-Fi is generally reliable throughout the property, and several bars, including the Captain's Club and pool bar, provide refreshment options.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout its rooms and common areas, with daily housekeeping ensuring a tidy environment. While some rooms are described as recently renovated, many guests note that the accommodations can be dated, small, or basic, particularly the bathrooms. These often feature older fixtures, cracked tiles, rusty taps, or mold, and some showers are prone to leaking. Air conditioning performance receives mixed reviews, with some guests experiencing issues with control or noise, and others noting it may be limited outside of peak season. Bed comfort varies, with some finding beds comfortable while others describe mattresses as too firm. In-room amenities typically include a kettle, though tea and coffee sachets are often not replenished. Noise levels can be an issue, with reports of corridor noise or sounds from entertainment.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a comprehensive buffet experience for both breakfast and dinner, with a wide variety of food options that generally receive positive feedback for quality and quantity. Guests appreciate the inclusion of wine, beer, and soft drinks during dinner. However, the dining experience can be significantly impacted by crowdedness, with many guests describing it as a "scrum" or "cattle market" due to the large number of patrons and difficulty finding tables, especially during peak hours. Some food items are occasionally noted as lukewarm or repetitive, and vegetarian options can be limited. Beyond the main buffet, the island features other dining establishments, such as an Italian restaurant and a fine dining option, which offer good quality but are not included in the half-board package.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location on a private island is a major highlight, offering a tranquil and car-free environment. A complimentary ferry service provides convenient and punctual transportation to the charming town of Rovinj, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. This allows guests easy access to the town's attractions, shopping, and diverse dining scene. The island itself is beautiful, featuring extensive walking paths and connected by a causeway to the smaller island of Maskin, which offers additional secluded spots and, in some areas, nudist beaches. For guests arriving by car, parking is available on the mainland, accompanied by a seamless shuttle service to the ferry departure point.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight their attentive and polite demeanor, noting that staff members are generally hard-working and eager to assist. The check-in and check-out processes are described as quick and efficient, contributing to a smooth arrival and departure experience. Specific services that stand out include the efficient luggage transfer from the ferry to the hotel, the high standard of daily room cleaning, and the quality of spa services, particularly massages. The kids club staff are also commended for their enthusiasm and care. Overall, the dedication of the staff significantly enhances the guest experience.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of certain policies and features that may impact their stay. The beach towel policy stipulates that while the first towel is complimentary, subsequent changes incur a fee. Similarly, while a kettle is provided in rooms, tea and coffee sachets are often not replenished or come at an extra cost. The air conditioning policy can be restrictive, with some guests reporting limited control or the system being turned off outside of peak season. The hotel operates a wristband system for room access, dining, and ferry use. Some reviews mention that the hotel frequently hosts conference guests, which can contribute to the crowdedness in dining areas. Guests often note that drinks purchased at the hotel bars on the island are perceived as expensive. There is also a general lack of an on-site shop for basic necessities like water or snacks. Some guests have reported the presence of mosquitoes and noisy seagulls.