By the Mill: Your Dream Rogoznica Escape Awaits (Croatia)
By the Mill: Your Dream Rogoznica Escape Awaits (Croatia)
By the Mill: Rogoznica's Siren Song… Does it Deliver? A Review That's Actually Real.
Okay, alright, buckle up buttercups. I just got back from a whirlwind trip to Rogoznica, Croatia, and By the Mill – “Your Dream Escape” they call it. And honestly? It wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. But it also wasn't a disaster. Let's get honest about this, shall we? Because, let's face it, travel reviews are often either ridiculously gushing, or ridiculously nitpicky. I'm aiming for somewhere in between. Think… a particularly opinionated but well-meaning friend giving you the lowdown.
First, the Good Stuff (and Where the Dream Gets Real):
- Accessibility: The Achilles Heel… Mostly. Okay, this is where things get a little dicey. The website says "Facilities for disabled guests." That's promising, right? Well, I'd like to have seen a bit more detail. While I didn't assess the nitty-gritty of wheelchair accessibility, I saw elevators and ramps, which is a good start. HOWEVER, it wasn't always clear how well-defined these things were. Better to phone and ask for the nitty gritty or ask for access details. The site could use a little more openness about this topic rather than just "Facilities for disabled guests."
- Cleanliness & Safety (and the Post-Pandemic Anxiety): THANK GOD for this. In the year of our lord, 2024, this is HUGE. They really went hard on the safety protocols. Anti-viral cleaning products everywhere! Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. Hand sanitizer like it's going out of style? You betcha. Rooms Sanitized between stays this is a BIG one. They also had great procedures and the staff were properly trained. This is a huge relief. The whole safe dining setup gives a great sense of comfort.
- The Pool with a View: My Moment of Zen (and Wine): Okay, this is where the dream actually materializes. The infinity pool, overlooking the Adriatic? Glorious. Absolutely glorious. Picture this: I'm sprawled on a sun lounger, book in one hand, a bottle of water (provided! Small things, people!) in the other, and the bluest water you've ever seen stretching out to the horizon. The poolside bar is a godsend. I didn't have to, but I could have easily spent a day like this… and I probably should have. This pool is definitely a pool with a view and a highlight. It even feels safe. Not just 'physically safe'. It felt mentally safe.
- The Spa (and Why I Felt Like a Queen for a Day): Let's be honest, a Spa is a huge selling point! I don't always splurge on the spa, but I caved. And I'm so glad I did. I got a Body Scrub and Massage, and it was heavenly. They also provided some excellent spa options such as Sauna, Steamroom and Foot bath. And I'm telling you, after a day of exploring the town? It was the perfect way to wind down.
- Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Mixed Bag, But Mostly Delicious: I really wanted to try the Asian cuisine, but my flight got in late. I did take advantage of the bar, and happy hour was, well, happy! They had a fantastic selection of local wines. The breakfast buffet was decent, with a good selection of international cuisine and Western cuisine. I'm of the opinion that the Coffee/tea in restaurant was good.
- The Convenience Factor: So Much Easier Than It Should Be: 24-hour room service is a life-saver, let's be real. The concierge was incredibly helpful. Cash withdrawal right on site? Score! And Daily housekeeping meant I never had to lift a damn finger. Luggage storage was useful.
- For the Kids (if you have them): They're Family/child friendly, offering a Babysitting service and Kids meal.
Now, the "Hmmm…" (Where Things Could Be Better):
- Internet Access: The Struggle is Real (Sometimes): While they boast Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, I had a few… moments. Let's just say the connection wasn't always as reliable as I would have liked. Internet access – LAN (that's the wired kind, for those of you like me, who live in the modern age). Internet access – wireless was spotty. Come on, By the Mill. This should be a breeze.
- The "Things to Do" Dilemma - A Little Limited: I am not saying Things to do wasn't available, but there was a dearth of available activities.
- Room for Improvement: While the Air conditioning was appreciated, some rooms could use a freshening up. The Additional toilet, although not strictly necessary, would have been appreciated given the room size.
The "Meh" (Not Good, Not Terrible):
- The Fitness center. I would have liked it to have been a little better.
- Car park [free of charge]. I don't think it was overly convenient.
- Bicycle parking. I didn't use it.
- The coffee shop.
- Gift/souvenir shop.
The "Potentially Useful, Depending on Your Need":
- The Business facilities (if you have to work, sigh).
- The Airport transfer. If you need it.
- Meetings.
- Laundry service.
Making the Recommendation:
So, is By the Mill a "Dream Escape" as they claim? Well… it's closer than most. It's got a killer pool, a great spa, and some serious convenience factors. Yes, the wifi could be better, and the accessibility information could be more robust.
The Verdict:
- If You're Looking For: A relaxing escape, a gorgeous pool, and a convenient base for exploring Rogoznica, definitely consider By the Mill.
- If You Need: Perfect internet, or super-specific accessibility requirements, double-check with the hotel before booking.
- My Overall Score: 4 out of 5 (that pool really carried it).
Now, for the Hard Sell (Because I Know You Want to Book):
Tired of the Same Old Stress? Escape to the Croatian Coast with By the Mill!
Imagine this: Days spent luxuriating by a breathtaking infinity pool, sipping cocktails from the poolside bar, and letting all your worries melt away. Evenings filled with delicious meals (and happy hour!), and the peace of mind that comes with top-notch cleanliness and safety protocols. No more endless scrolling, waiting to get to the hotel! No more waiting! This is the life you deserve.
By the Mill: Experience the best of Rogoznica with all the comforts and conveniences you need!
Here's the deal:
- Book now and get a 10% discount off your first stay!
- FREE Wi-Fi – Perfect for sharing those envy-inducing pool pics! (Even if it does cut out sometimes!)
- Luxurious Spa Treatments – Treat yourself to a massage, body scrub, and steamroom experience (they're worth it, trust me!).
- Unforgettable Dining Experiences – Discover incredible flavours with international and western cuisine available for all palettes.
Don't just dream about your perfect getaway. Book it!
This is your chance to experience the authentic charm of Croatia, with the added peace of mind of knowing you’re in a clean, safe, and convenient environment.
Click here to book now and start planning your Rogoznica escape! (You can thank me later with a bottle of wine by that pool.)
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Azure Urban Resort's Manila Paradise!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's perfectly-organized travel itinerary. This is… well, MY attempt at navigating the glorious, chaotic, sun-drenched mess that is Rogoznica, Croatia, and specifically, By the Mill. Prepare for whiplash. We're going in.
Rogoznica Ramble-fest: A By the Mill & Beyond Adventure (AKA, My Sanity's On the Line)
Pre-Trip Anxiety & Pre-Flight Fueling (Obligatory)
- Day -3: Panic sets in. Did I pack enough sunscreen? (Spoiler alert: I didn't. Ever.) Did I remember my fancy travel adapter that surely will work this time? (It won't.) I start researching Croatian phrases. "Do you have any good rakija?" seems like a crucial one.
- Day -2: Grocery shopping for plane snacks. Must. Have. Chocolate. And… maybe a small bottle of wine for the airport. For "calming the nerves." Yeah, that's it.
- Day -1: Attempt to pack. Fail gloriously. Clothes explode out of the suitcase like a clown car. Resign myself to wearing the same three outfits for the entire trip.
- Day 0 (Travel Day!): Fly from God-knows-where into Split Airport. The flight? A blur of pretzels, questionable airplane coffee, and a near-constant negotiation with my bladder. The airport smells of both duty-free perfume and impending vacation bliss.
Day 1: Arrival & Coastal Confusion (AKA, Where is The Mill?)
- Afternoon: Whee! We're here! Well, almost. Finally land at Split Airport, which is beautiful, but now we have to get to Rogoznica. Taxi ride, which goes smoothly enough, but I'm already dreaming of the sea and a cold drink.
- Early Evening: Finding By the Mill. I'd imagined some quaint little sign, maybe a gently flowing stream… Instead, we're driving around in circles, desperately looking for something that vaguely resembles a mill. The map on my phone is actively taunting me. "You're lost! You're lost! Mwahahaha!" Eventually, via a combination of Google Maps witchcraft and sheer dumb luck, we arrive. Relief! The place is stunning. Stone building, the harbor view is gorgeous. A little bit of old and a little bit of new.
- Evening: Unpack (mostly). The apartment is quaint, with a little balcony overlooking the marina. The view? Stunning. Seriously. I could get used to this. But first… dinner! We find a delicious and cheap restaurant in the harbor, with fresh seafood and friendly service. I inhale my grilled calamari and immediately decide I am in love with Croatia.
- Night: The first Rakija! I'm in! So maybe the world isn't so bad after all. Sleep comes easily, lulled by the gentle lapping of the waves and the distant chatter of boats. Bliss.
Day 2: The Mill's Secret & A Dive Into (Not Literally, Yet) Local Life
- Morning: Wake up to… sun! Honestly, I’d forgotten what that looks like. Coffee on the balcony, contemplating life, the universe, and the best way to get my tan on. Decide on the latter.
- Mid-Morning: The Mill Discovery. Wandering around, I discover the true wonder of By the Mill. It's a haven. A place to soak up the sun. A place to relax. I end up staying for an entire afternoon.
- Afternoon: Attempt at "beach time." The beach is cute, but crowded. I give up and seek out shade. More reading, more coffee, more contemplating. The pace of life here is intoxicating.
- Evening: Dinner at a local konoba (traditional tavern). I order something I can't pronounce. It turns out to be delicious. I try to chat with the waiter in my broken Croatian. He smiles, probably because I sound like a gibbering idiot, but the food is fantastic.
- Night: More Rakija. It's becoming a theme. Stargazing from the balcony. The stars are, like, actually there. No light pollution. Just… stars. Feeling deeply, profoundly happy.
Day 3: Boat Trip Bonanza! (That's a LOT of Sea)
- Morning: A boat trip! I'm on board with this. (Sorry, bad pun.) We rent a small boat and navigate ourselves, or try to. The water is crystal clear, the islands are postcard-perfect. I feel like a glamorous movie star, even though I'm wearing the same three outfits.
- Mid-Day: We find a secluded cove, and attempt to snorkel. I'm terrible at snorkeling. I keep inhaling seawater. But the fish are beautiful, and the water is impossibly blue.
- Afternoon: Lunch on the boat. Simple, delicious, and eaten with our hands. The sun is relentless, but the sea breeze keeps me cool(ish).
- Evening: Back to Rogoznica. More seafood. More wine. Feeling slightly sunburnt and utterly content. The rhythm of the day is beginning to sink in. This is EXACTLY what I needed.
Day 4: The Long Walk (And The Unexpected Tears)
- Morning: Decide to walk along the coastal path. Stupidly decide to do this around high noon. I'm a sweaty mess within minutes. The views, though, are breathtaking. The turquoise water, the rugged coastline… it's a feast for the eyes.
- Mid-Day: I stumble upon a tiny, hidden beach. It's deserted. Perfect. I read, I nap, I generally wallow in the simple joy of being alive. I also realize, with a slightly embarrassing amount of emotion, how much I needed this. I may have cried a little. Don't judge me.
- Evening: I find a bar and settle in for a sunset drink. The colors are unreal. The sky, the sea… everything is on fire with beauty. More wine, more quiet contemplation, and another profound sense of well-being. A perfect moment.
Day 5: The Mill's Secret Again… and Parting Pangs
- Morning: Another visit to the Mill. I become a more frequent patron. Some of the staff seem to know me. They give me recommendations. I am happy.
- Afternoon: More exploring, maybe a day trip to make up for the loss on the boat ride on day three.
- Evening: Dinner. The same restaurant as the first night. A bittersweet sense of familiarity. The trip has done its work. I don't want to leave.
- Night: Packing, with a heavy heart. Drinking a final glass of wine on the balcony, watching the stars. Remembering the incredible sunsets, the endless blue water, the delicious food, the warm, friendly faces. Croatia, you stole a piece of my heart.
Day 6: Departure Disasters and Dreaming of Return
- Morning: Wake up with a dull sense of impending doom. Check out. Attempt to say goodbye to the lovely people at By the Mill. Fail. Get into taxi, and head to the airport.
- Afternoon: The airport (which somehow seems even smaller now). Endless lines, delayed flights, more airport coffee that tastes of sadness.
- Evening: (On the plane) Thinking. Planning the next trip. To Croatia again. To Rogoznica again. To By the Mill again. This time, I'll pack more sunscreen. And maybe learn a few more Croatian phrases. Because I'm definitely coming back. Because Croatia, you've got me.
- Night: Home. Exhausted. But happy. Because I had a time. And I have about five more days until I am back again…
- End.
Ugh, what *is* By the Mill, anyway? Is it just another boring Croatian vacation rental?
Alright, alright, settle down. No, it's not *just* another rental. Technically, yeah, it *is* a rental. But... By the Mill? It's Rogoznica, Croatia. Think turquoise water, salty air you can practically *taste*, and that slightly gritty charm you only find in the Med. The "Mill" part? Supposedly, there used to be an old mill on the property. I never saw it, but the name is cool, right? Okay, so the reality? A gorgeously renovated, slightly rustic (in a good way, I swear!) villa, sleeps a bunch of people (we were eight, and barely tripped over each other – which, with *my* family, is a miracle). Think modern amenities with a hint of… well, let's just say it has character. Character that involves a LOT of stairs, by the way. Be warned! I nearly killed myself getting groceries up there the first day.
Okay, so what's the *one thing* that makes By the Mill stand out? Like, the *must-do* experience?
Alright, here's the deal. If you're going to By the Mill? You HAVE to, absolutely MUST, spend at *least* one entire afternoon just… chilling on that massive deck. Forget the beach for a sec. The deck is where magic happens. The view? Unbelievable. You’re practically perched over the water. The sun sets are epic. And you can hear the gentle lapping of the waves. Seriously, bring a book (pretend to read it, for aesthetic purposes), a chilled bottle of something delicious (the local Croatian wine, OBVIOUSLY), and just… *breathe*.
Okay, *fine*, there was a small, almost disastrous mishap involving me, a rogue beach ball, and a REALLY grumpy seagull. Let's just say I'm no longer on speaking terms with the local avian population. However, even THAT didn't ruin the experience. The sunset itself was so stunning, I almost considered writing a poem about it. (Emphasis on *almost*. I’m not exactly Shakespeare.)
Is it family-friendly? I'm traveling with, you know, *children*.
Look, "family-friendly" is relative, okay? Is it *ideal* if you have toddlers who love to roam? Maybe not. All those stairs I mentioned? Little ones (and clumsy adults - me!) could get into serious trouble. The pool, however, is amazing, but keep a close eye on the little ones. But, teenage? Forget about it. My nieces and nephews (ages 14-18) thought it was pure heaven. They were constantly swimming, lounging, and occasionally emerging from the depths to steal snacks. Lots of space. Plenty of room to get away from each other when necessary. It's the ultimate test of a good holiday right?
What’s the food situation like? Should I pack a suitcase full of peanut butter?
Don't worry about the peanut butter. (Unless you *really* love peanut butter. Then, by all means, bring a jar.) Rogoznica has some fantastic markets and local restaurants. The fish? Fresh as it gets. My favorite? A little konoba (that's a tavern, basically), a short walk from the villa. The grilled octopus? I still dream about it. Okay, so the first night, we tried to cook. Huge mistake. We ended up charring the fish on the grill, setting off the smoke alarm, and generally looking like complete amateurs. But hey, it's a memory, right? So, cook up one night and the rest of the nights, eat out!
Is there a good WiFi situation? I’m pretending to work on holiday.
Ah, the eternal question. Okay, the WiFi’s… decent. Listen, you're there to RELAX, people! Put the damned laptop away, and breathe. (I say this as I admit I did a tiny little bit of work... don't tell my boss!) It's strong enough for basic browsing and, you know, posting envy-inducing photos on Instagram. But if you're planning on streaming HD movies all day, you might have a small issue. It is a holiday! The world will go on with only a small delay of checking your emails.
What’s the best way to get around? Do I need a car?
Absolutely, think about a car. You *can* get by without one, especially if you just want to hole up by the pool. But, if you want to explore the surrounding areas – and you *should*! – a car is a must. Day trips to Trogir and Split are totally doable. Just be prepared for some, ahem, interesting driving. Parking can sometimes be a challenge, shall we say. Some roads are narrow and the drivers are... enthusiastic. But the scenery? Worth it. Just remember to keep your passport on you, just in case you lose the car.
Okay, what about bugs? Are we talking mosquito hell here?
Mosquitos? Yes, they are present. But it wasn't the plague. Pack some bug spray with Deet. We survived. My skin is still relatively intact. Maybe.
What’s the one thing that’s… less than perfect about By the Mill? Be honest.
Okay, look. I'm gonna be brutally honest. The stairs. The endless, soul-crushing stairs. After day three, my legs felt like lead. It's a good workout, I guess? But after a while, it just... gets old. Especially when you've forgotten something in your room. Twice. In a row. Oh, and one of the air conditioners coughed its last breath on the final night. Not ideal.
Would you go back? All things considered?
Absolutely. The pros definitely outweigh the cons. The location? Unbeatable. The views? Heavenly. Would I brave the stairs again? Without a doubt. Despite the minor imperfections, the slight chaos, the grumpy seagulls, and the occasional technical hiccup, By the Mill is a truly special place. I miss it already. And the grilled octopus. Oh, the glorious grilled octopus...
Post a Comment for "By the Mill: Your Dream Rogoznica Escape Awaits (Croatia)"