Babin Kuk: where to stay in Dubrovnik for gardens
Where Zvonimira meets Uvala Lapad and the broad beach with its giant concrete slide at the water’s edge. You’ll also see the beginning of a narrow path on the right that leads westwards along the coast.
This is the start of a pleasant walk around the Babin Kuk peninsula, with pine trees framing crystal-clear waters, oleanders drooping from gardens, people fishing from the rocks, cats dozing in the sun and plenty of opportunities to swim from the rocks.
Although ladders have been conveniently placed to help you in and out, many of the rocky paths leading to the sea need a certain amount of surefootedness, particularly on the way down.
Sprawling across a knobbly promontory 5km west of the Old Town, Babin Kduk tourist settlement was built in the 1970s to attract well-heeled western tourists. Top American architect Edward Durell Stone was drafted in to handle design duties, creating a mixture of manicured gardens and untamed maquis.
The peninsula also boasts well-tended family beaches, seaside walks and a range of activities for kids. The #6 bus runs down to the Old Town every ten minutes, so you never feel cut off.
Where to stay in Babin Kuk:
- Best for style: Dubrovnik President Hotel. The President is the epitome of Adriatic cool. Made up of garden-covered terraces descending the hillside towards a small beach, it also faces the Elaphite Islands. Rooms come with blissful maritime views.
- Best for value: Tirena Hotel. The Tirena Sunny is a rather stylish example of what hotel architecture was like in the good old days. Expect broad stairwells, high-ceilinged rooms and lots of light and space.
- Best for spa: Argosy Hotel. Featuring indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a restaurant and a wellness centre, Valamar Argosy Hotel is located in Babin Kuk, 5.7 km from Dubrovnik Old Town. The hotel overlooks the Adriatic Sea and offers stylish rooms with free WiFi in all areas.
Find more accommodation options to stay in Babin Kuk