Escape to Paradise: Stunning Ark Beach Apartments in Split, Croatia
Escape to Paradise? Maybe. A Messy, Honest Review of Ark Beach Apartments, Split, Croatia
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the Croatian beans on the Ark Beach Apartments in Split. Forget the polished brochures, you're getting the raw, unfiltered experience. Consider this a travel diary entry, not a stuffy hotel review.
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- Keywords: Split, Croatia, Ark Beach Apartments, Accessible, Wheelchair Accessible, Spa, Swimming Pool, Restaurants, Beachfront, Review, Travel, Dalmatia, Luxury, Family Friendly, Pet-Friendly (kind of!), Wi-Fi, Breakfast, Accessible Travel
- Description: A brutally honest and detailed review of Ark Beach Apartments in Split, Croatia. Discover the highs, the lows, the accessibility, the delicious food, and the quirks – all with a splash of humor and a whole lotta truth.
First Impressions: A Little Bit Paradise, A Little Bit… Construction?
Landing in Split, the Adriatic breeze kissed my face, promising paradise. The transfer from the airport (thanks, Ark Beach for the conveniently arranged service!) was smooth. And the approach? Oh, the approach! You get your first glimpse of the apartments nestled right on the edge of the beach. Insta-worthy, for sure. But… and this is a BIG but… there was some construction going on next door. Definitely not ideal for a chilled-out start. My inner peace, already fragile from airport security, took a minor nosedive.
Rooms: Comfort Meets… Quirks.
Okay, let's talk room. I opted for a "Sea View Deluxe (with a hint of construction noise)" because, well, the ocean! The room itself was a decent size – plenty of space to waltz around, which I often do. (Don't judge.)
- Available in all rooms: The basics were covered - Air conditioning (thank god, Croatia in summer is a scorcher), a coffee/tea maker (essential!), a hairdryer (phew!), and a safe box (because trust, better safe than sorry). The bedding was crisp, but the pillows were like, suspiciously flat. My neck was NOT happy.
- Internet: Free Wi-Fi was a LIFESAVER, especially since I was trying to get some work done and post those gorgeous Instagram photos. No issues there. Plus, LAN if you're old school. See, they got you covered.
- Accessibility: This one is a mixed bag. The description says "Facilities for disabled guests." But, to be frank, it would require a detailed investigation for the extent of these facilities. There was an elevator, that much was clear. But I can't personally vouch for its overall accessibility. So, double-check specific room details before you commit.
"Things to Do" & "Ways to Relax": Spa Days and Potential Regret?
This is where Ark Beach Apartments REALLY try to impress. They have a spa! and they're actually quite good.
- Spa/Sauna & Spa/Sauna: Yep, double the opportunity for relaxation! I indulged (because, you know, self-care) in a massage. Absolute bliss. The therapists were skilled, the essential oils smelled divine, and for an hour, I forgot about the construction noise.
- Pool with view: The outdoor pool? Gorgeous. Infinity edge, overlooking the beach. Pure bliss. Just be aware, it can (and likely will) get crowded. Finding a sun lounger was a contact sport.
- Fitness Center: I peeked. Looked well-equipped, but I'm not a gym rat, so I can't vouch for its quality. (Maybe I should have, after all those pastries…)
- Other stuff: They also offer body wraps, foot baths, and even a steam room! You'll get your zen on.
Food & Drink: A Buffet of… Variety.
My stomach is my guide on these matters. Let's talk eating.
- Breakfast [Buffet]: Morning routine. The breakfast buffet was… decent. Not mind-blowing, but enough to fuel your day. Loads of options, from the standard bacon and eggs to pastries and cold cuts. The coffee, however, was a bit weak for my liking.
- Restaurants: They had several restaurants on site. One was Asian cuisine, which I loved! Another one provided a good International cuisine. It was lovely.
- Bars: Poolside bar? Oh yeah! Perfect for aperol spritzes while watching the sunset. Happy Hour was a dangerous time.
- Room Service: I caved one night (hangover). It was decent, especially the pizza. And 24-hour service is a HUGE plus.
Cleanliness & Safety: COVID-Era Jitters
In the age of COVID, this is important.
- Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer: All present and accounted for.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: The staff were wearing masks and seemed to be following the rules.
- Room sanitization opt-out available: I didn’t opt out, but I appreciated the gesture.
Accessibility in the details:
- Facilities for disabled guests: I cannot personally confirm the extent of this offering because I have not required it. However, the presence of an elevator is a good sign for some.
- Wheelchair accessible I cannot personally confirm the extent of this offering.
Services & Conveniences: The Good, the Bad, and the… Convenience Store?
- Concierge: Helpful, but sometimes a bit slow.
- Daily housekeeping: My room was always spotless (I’m mildly messy, so I appreciate it).
- Cash withdrawal: They have a cash withdrawal service – convenient.
- Convenience store: Yep, for those late-night snack cravings.
- Pet-Friendly (kind of!): Pets allowed. But I did not bring a pet!
For the Kids: Babysitting to BOREDOM, maybe…
- Family/child-friendly: They definitely cater to families, with kids' facilities and a babysitting service.
- Kids meal: The restaurants had kids meals.
- Things you should know: I'm not a parent, so I'm not qualified, but the kids' facilities seemed good.
Getting Around: Smooth Operators
- Airport transfer: Yep, arranged for me. Easy peasy.
- Car Park [on-site]: Ample parking and free.
- Taxi service: Yes.
The Big Picture: Would I Go Back?
Alright, the million-dollar question. Yes, I would. Despite the slight imperfections and the occasional construction rumble (which, hopefully, is now resolved), Ark Beach Apartments offers a fantastic experience. The location on the beach is unbeatable. The spa is worth every kuna. The staff are friendly.
My Final Verdict: Expect a little bit of quirky charm. Expect some minor hiccups. But ultimately, Escape to Paradise: Ark Beach Apartments in Split is a solid choice for a memorable Croatian getaway. Just don't forget your earplugs if you're a light sleeper, or are extremely sensitive to construction noises! Enjoy!
J. Mansion Krabi: Thailand's Hidden Paradise Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's meticulously planned vacation itinerary. This is… ME in Croatia at Ark Beach Apartments in Split. And let me tell you, it's gonna be a bumpy, beautiful, and potentially disastrous ride. God, I hope I remember to pack underwear.
WEEK OF CHAOS: ARK BEACH APARTMENTS - SPLIT, CROATIA (aka The Place Where I Either Find Enlightenment or Completely Lose My Mind)
Day 1: Arrival & Existential Dread (aka “Did I REALLY do this?”)
- 10:00 AM (ish) - Arrival: Okay, so the flight was hell. Screaming toddler, a guy who smelled vaguely of old fish, and turbulence that made me question every single life choice I've ever made. I'm finally at Ark Beach Apartments, dragging my suitcase like a wounded soldier. First impressions? The view from the balcony? Stunning. Like, holy moly, Instagram-worthy stunning. The tiny, slightly-too-firm bed? Less stunning. More… functional.
- 11:00 AM - Apartment Shenanigans: Unpacked (mostly). Realized I forgot my phone charger adapter. Cue existential meltdown: “Am I doomed? Will I be digitally disconnected for an entire WEEK? What’s life without Instagram?!” Okay. Deep breaths. I’ll figure it out. Maybe.
- 12:00 PM - Grocery Store Gamble: Armed with a terribly translated Croatian grocery list (thanks, Google Translate!), I venture into the local supermarket. Let the cultural immersion begin! Found myself staring blankly at a wall of yoghurt. So many flavours! So much… dairy! Ended up with something that looked like strawberry, but tastes suspiciously like fish. My Croatian adventure is off to a roaring start, clearly.
- 1:00 PM - Lunch on the Balcony (and the Rise of Gratitude): Okay, the strawberry-fish yogurt is NOT a winner. Still, the view… the sun… the sea… I sit on this balcony, slowly sipping my wine, and I have to admit, despite the slightly horrifying yogurt and the impending phone charger doom, this is pretty damn good. Scratch that, this is amazing. I'm here. I'm breathing. I'm in Croatia. Suddenly, 100% less existential dread.
- 3:00 PM - Beach Reconnaissance: Walk down to the beach. Crowded. But… clear water. Seriously crystal-clear. I dip my toes in. COLD. But gorgeous. This whole "beach life" thing…I might actually like it.
- 5:00 PM - Sunset… and a Bottle of Wine: Back on the balcony. More wine. Watching the sunset. This is the life. Honestly. This is the goddamn life. I feel like I've finally found my peace.
Day 2: Diocletian's Palace & Mild Panic (aka "Lost Tourist Alert!")
- 9:00 AM - Coffee & Chaos Prep: Coffee on the balcony, trying to plan the day. I mean, Diocletian's Palace! Historical! Cultural! I'm a smart tourist. Except… I still don't have a phone charger adapter. Okay, calm. We can manage.
- 10:00 AM - Exploring The Palace: The Palace is, well, it's a palace. Massive. Old. And kinda confusing, tbh. Spent a solid hour wandering around, getting hopelessly lost, mumbling curses at the unforgiving Croatian sun, and feeling like I'd accidentally stumbled into a low-budget historical reenactment.
- 11:00 AM - A Taste of Paradise: Found a tiny little pastry shop. OMG. The pastries! Flaky! Buttery! Sweet! Heaven on a plate. Almost forgot my existential dilemma about the phone charger. Almost.
- 12:00 PM - The Market Meander: Dipped into the market. My inner foodie goes wild! Fresh-baked bread, olives the size of my thumb, and a stall selling what I think is truffle oil. A small taste of heaven, and a good feeling. I bought a hat. Very tourist-y. But it protects me from sun.
- 1:00 PM - Lunch in Diocletian's Palace: Found a restaurant in palace walls. Expensive. Delicious. Tourist trap? Probably. But who cares? I'm eating good food in an ancient palace!
- 3:00 PM - The Search Continues: The Phone Charger Quest: Scoured every electronics store in town. No luck. Utter despair. I'm a digital nomad, with the NOMAD part being the only one left, the digital bit has deserted me.
- 4:00 PM - Break Down: Had a little cry on a bench. Partly about the charger, partly about everything. Life is hard. But the sun is still shining. So there's that.
- 6:00 PM - Dinner with an Unexpected Friend: Randomly ended up in conversation with a friendly local, a woman with a laugh that shook the air. She recommended a seafood restaurant. We shared wine. We talked about life. We laughed. I felt… connected. Like a human! This is why I travel! This is amazing.
- 8:00 PM - Back to The Palace, A Magical Night: Walk through the palace again, this time, a different atmosphere. The lights of the stores, the voices, the music. I feel alive for the first time in a while.
Day 3: Island Escape & Mild Seasickness (aka “I swear I’m not usually this clumsy”)
- 9:00 AM - Ferry Follies: Okay, so getting to the ferry was an adventure. I got on the wrong bus. Twice. Almost missed the boat. But I made it! Feeling triumphant.
- 10:00 AM - Hvar, Here I Come!: Landed on Hvar and the world immediately became all lavender fields and turquoise water. It's absurdly beautiful. I mean, ridiculous.
- 11:00 AM - Hvar's Secrets: I rented a bike and decided to cycle. I fell. I tripped. I cried, a little. But I got back up.
- 1:00 PM - Stari Grad's Beauty: Drove to Stari Grad, another little town. I sat at a restaurant. Then, I ordered. Then, I ate. Delicious.
- 3:00 PM - Boat Trip's Disaster: I boarded the boat. And I was not prepared. Seasickness. Ugh. It was a battle between me and the sea. I won. Technically.
- 5:00 PM - Hvar's Sunset: I watched the sunset. It was beautiful.
Day 4: Beach Day Extravaganza & Sunburn Shenanigans (aka “I may have underestimated the sun")
- 10:00 AM - Beach time Spent a day on the beach. Swam in the sea. Got a delicious meal.
- 3:00 PM - Sunburn Alert I was burnt. Really badly.
- 6:00 PM - Sunburn Relief Soaked in a cold bath, and a bit of aloe vera helped. I am much better now.
Day 5: Split’s Urban Vibes & Unexpected Encounters (aka “Embracing the Mess”)
- 9:00 AM - Morning walk around Split: I decide to explore the city. I feel reborn.
- 11:00 AM - Culture and History: I end up at a museum. Beautiful!
- 1:00 PM - Lunch I grab a bite while I enjoy the city.
- 3:00 PM - Meeting People: I met a local. We shared stories and laughs, and I learned new things.
- 6:00 PM - Dinner I enjoyed the sunset again.
Day 6: Relaxation and Reflection (aka "Seriously considering never leaving")
- 10:00 AM - Relaxing Morning I just relax, chill, have breakfast on my balcony.
- 12:00 PM - Last Swim: I went for a swim.
- 2:00 PM - Local Food Went for a late lunch. I just ate and enjoyed the food.
- 5:00 PM - Final Sunset I spent the last day to enjoy the sunset. It was beautiful.
Day 7: Goodbye, Croatia! (aka “I’m already planning my return”)
- 8:00 AM - Packing… and a tear: Packing is hard. Leaving is harder. I'm going to miss this.
- 9:00 AM - Last Breakfast: One last strawberry-fish yogurt (okay, I'm strangely addicted). One last gaze at that incredible view.
- 10:00 AM - Airport Shuffle: Taxi to the airport. The flight… well, hopefully, it's less fish-smelling than the last one.
- 11:00 AM - Croatia Feels: I wish to come back
So, is it ACTUALLY paradise? Or just… nice?
Okay, let's be real. Paradise *defined* is probably pushing it. I mean, no unicorns, no bottomless Aperol Spritz (though, with a little effort, that's achievable), and my suitcase *still* needs unpacking. But… damn, it’s close. The Ark Beach Apartments? They're *stunning*, alright. I'm talking postcard-worthy views, that sea so blue it’ll punch you in the face (in a good way), and that salty air that just makes you wanna… well, *escape*.
My first morning? Woke up, flung open the balcony doors, and BAM. Sunlight. Waves. A seagull that *really* wanted my croissant. (He didn’t get it, the little bandit.) It was pretty close to paradise. Until I realized I hadn’t packed any toothpaste. True story.
My first morning? Woke up, flung open the balcony doors, and BAM. Sunlight. Waves. A seagull that *really* wanted my croissant. (He didn’t get it, the little bandit.) It was pretty close to paradise. Until I realized I hadn’t packed any toothpaste. True story.
What's the *actual* location like? Is it walkable to anything interesting?
Location, location, location. It's key, right? Ark Beach Apartments? Nailed it. They're right there, practically ON the beach. Like, step out of your apartment and *sploosh* – the Adriatic Sea. Now, walkable? Yeah, but be prepared for some uphill battles. (Split is hilly, people.) The Old Town is a solid 20-30 minute walk, depending on how many gelato stops you make. And, trust me, you will make gelato stops.
I got lost...multiple times. Let’s just say Google Maps and I had a *complicated* relationship. But even getting lost was… well, it was a *journey*. I stumbled upon this tiny little konoba (traditional Croatian restaurant) tucked away on a side street. Best calamari I’ve ever had. So yeah, walkable, but embrace the potential for accidental adventures. And maybe, just maybe, learn a few basic Croatian phrases. "Hvala" (thank you) and "Pivo" (beer) will get you far.
I got lost...multiple times. Let’s just say Google Maps and I had a *complicated* relationship. But even getting lost was… well, it was a *journey*. I stumbled upon this tiny little konoba (traditional Croatian restaurant) tucked away on a side street. Best calamari I’ve ever had. So yeah, walkable, but embrace the potential for accidental adventures. And maybe, just maybe, learn a few basic Croatian phrases. "Hvala" (thank you) and "Pivo" (beer) will get you far.
Are the apartments actually *clean*? I'm a germaphobe (kinda).
Okay, germaphobes, listen up. Clean? Mostly, yes. Like, the kind of clean where you don't immediately want to douse everything in Lysol. The apartments are generally well-maintained and tidy. I’m pretty particular and I felt comfortable. The bathrooms look modern. The kitchens are well equipped.
But… and there's always a but, isn't there? This ain't a five-star hotel. There's a certain… lived-in-ness. Nothing major, but maybe a stray hair in the bathroom (ahem, *mine*), or a slightly smudged window. If you're expecting surgical-room cleanliness, you might need to bring a hazmat suit. But honestly? I could comfortably relax. The important things, like the bedding, were spottless.
But… and there's always a but, isn't there? This ain't a five-star hotel. There's a certain… lived-in-ness. Nothing major, but maybe a stray hair in the bathroom (ahem, *mine*), or a slightly smudged window. If you're expecting surgical-room cleanliness, you might need to bring a hazmat suit. But honestly? I could comfortably relax. The important things, like the bedding, were spottless.
What about A/C and Wi-Fi? Crucial for sanity, you know…
A/C? Essential. Especially in July. Thankfully, yes, the apartments have A/C. And it works! Saved my sanity more than once. Wi-Fi? Also yes. But… the connection wasn't always the speed of light. More of a gentle, meandering stream of bits and bytes.
I tried to work on my laptop one afternoon, and it just sputtered. Then I did a little research and I found it was not as stable as other places I had stayed, but it was ok. I ended up just heading down to the beach with a book. It was so much more enjoyable.
I tried to work on my laptop one afternoon, and it just sputtered. Then I did a little research and I found it was not as stable as other places I had stayed, but it was ok. I ended up just heading down to the beach with a book. It was so much more enjoyable.
What about the noise? Is it loud at night?
Noise? Ah, the symphony of the sea. Okay, so it's not *always* a symphony. Sometimes, it’s the seagull anthem at 5 AM. Sometimes it is some music from a nearby bars. Depends on your tolerance. The beach itself can get a bit lively during the day, but most of the time the apartment itself is quiet.
I'm a light sleeper. But I was able to sleep ok. At least most of the time. It was, after all, much better than the guy snoring through three walls in my last hostel.
I'm a light sleeper. But I was able to sleep ok. At least most of the time. It was, after all, much better than the guy snoring through three walls in my last hostel.
Are the balconies as amazing as they look in the pictures? (Because let's be honest, that's why we're here.)
OMG, the balconies. They're the money-shot, right? The reason we're drooling over these apartments. The pictures? They don’t lie. The balconies are *that* good. Big. Private. And the view? Unobstructed, glorious, soul-soothing… you get the idea. I spent more time on that balcony than I did, honestly, inside the apartment.
I had breakfast with the sunrise, watched the boats coming in, and sipped wine while watching the sunset. There was one evening I swear, I was so moved that I actually cried. Like, full-on happy tears. It sounds cheesy, I know. But the combination of the view, the wine, the sheer *beauty*… it got me. It really did.
I had breakfast with the sunrise, watched the boats coming in, and sipped wine while watching the sunset. There was one evening I swear, I was so moved that I actually cried. Like, full-on happy tears. It sounds cheesy, I know. But the combination of the view, the wine, the sheer *beauty*… it got me. It really did.
The Kitchens. What are they like? Can I actually cook something?
The kitchens. They're...adequate. Don't expect a gourmet chef's paradise. But they have the basics: a fridge, a hob/stove, a microwave, some utensils, and the all-important coffee maker.
I tried to make pasta one night. Epic fail. The sauce was… well, let's just say it involved a lot of olive oil and a desperate attempt to salvage the situation with garlic. Don't expect a gourmet chef's paradise, but it works. I ended up trying to find a good restaurant.
I tried to make pasta one night. Epic fail. The sauce was… well, let's just say it involved a lot of olive oil and a desperate attempt to salvage the situation with garlic. Don't expect a gourmet chef's paradise, but it works. I ended up trying to find a good restaurant.
How's the beach *actually*? Is it crowded?
The beach is RIGHT THERE. Like, a stone’s throw away. Access is super easy. It is a beach, so expect sand. And expect people. During peak season, it gets busy. Really busy. You'll be fighting for a spot to lay your towel.
I recommend finding a quiet spot. Either early morning or late afternoon. It is beautiful. Just be prepared. I also recommend bringing some beach shoes. The pebbles and rocks can be rough on your feet.
I recommend finding a quiet spot. Either early morning or late afternoon. It is beautiful. Just be prepared. I also recommend bringing some beach shoes. The pebbles and rocks can be rough on your feet.
Anything else I should know BEFORE I book? Any hidden fees or surprises?
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Ark Beach Apartments Split Croatia
Ark Beach Apartments Split Croatia
