ArchitectureThe converted Villa Stepančić creates a flowing transition from the inside to the outside area. The usual boundaries disappear when the sliding glass walls are opened. Elements of the house have largely been preserved, such as the stone wall at the entrance, a 100-year-old water cistern and the large oak tree in the garden. However, the house has been expanded and new minimalist furniture has moved in. Istrian limestone was used as the building material, the wooden floors in the sleeping area are made of Slavonian oak. The terrace is also paved with limestone.

FoodThe guests of the villa take care of themselves during their stay, the large and very well equipped kitchen serves them. As a greeting, the guests receive two bottles of the host family&

EnvironmentThanks to its traditional, thick stone walls and modern insulation techniques, the villa is superbly insulated so that the house stays cool in summer and warm in winter. This not only saves energy, but also creates temperatures in the villa that make you feel good. The villa has been designed to maximize natural light through the use of ceiling lights on the top floor, creating a light and airy feel throughout the home. Solar panels were installed to heat water, while in the dry summer months a traditional cistern is used to collect rainwater and provide irrigation. Depending on the season, guests can harvest local organic products such as figs, olives, peaches, chestnuts and much more from their own garden. All organic waste is composted and finds its way into the garden to fertilize the fruit trees. The wood for the fireplace is also felled just 100 meters from the house. The rental income is used, among other things, to plant new trees on one part of the estate that needs restoration following open-pit bauxite extraction.