Published on
February 18, 2026
Image generated with Ai
Minor Hotels is making significant strides in expanding its footprint across Europe with the announcement of two new luxury resorts along the Adriatic coast. These resorts, located in Slovenia and Croatia, will join Minor Hotels’ prestigious collection of properties, further solidifying the brand’s position in the high-end leisure travel market. The resorts, scheduled to reopen in March 2026 following substantial refurbishments, will officially relaunch in 2027 under the Anantara and Minor Reserve Collection brands. This strategic expansion marks Minor Hotels’ commitment to capturing the growing demand for upscale resorts beyond traditional gateway cities.
The Adriatic’s Rising Appeal: A Strategic Focus on Emerging Destinations
The decision to expand into Slovenia and Croatia is part of Minor Hotels’ broader strategy to tap into emerging tourism markets in Central and Southeastern Europe. These countries have experienced an uptick in global interest, driven by their picturesque landscapes, wellness traditions, and strong cultural heritage. Slovenia, with its focus on sustainable tourism, and Croatia, renowned for its Adriatic coastline, have become go-to destinations for discerning travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
By establishing a presence in these two countries, Minor Hotels is positioning itself to cater to the growing demand for luxury experiences in regions that offer an escape from the more traditional European hotspots. With an emphasis on wellness, premium leisure, and cultural immersion, the new resorts will provide unique offerings for tourists seeking elevated stays.
Slovenia’s First Minor Reserve Collection: Hotel Palace Portorož
In Slovenia, Minor Hotels will unveil its first property under the Minor Reserve Collection, the 183-key Hotel Palace Portorož. This property, situated in the charming seaside town of Portorož, will undergo a comprehensive renovation, blending modern luxury with the area’s deep-rooted wellness heritage. The hotel will offer a curated blend of contemporary amenities and traditional spa services, positioning it as a premier destination for wellness tourism.
The refurbishment, slated for completion by early 2027, will see the resort feature three restaurants, three bars, an expansive spa, and both indoor and outdoor pools. Guests will have direct access to the beach, making it an ideal retreat for both relaxation and rejuvenation. As part of the Minor Reserve Collection, Hotel Palace Portorož will emphasize local character while delivering the highest levels of service, providing an immersive experience that celebrates Slovenia’s wellness heritage.
Anantara’s Grand Entry into Croatia: Adriatic Istria Resort
In Croatia, Minor Hotels will introduce the Anantara brand with the opening of the Anantara Adriatic Istria Resort in Savudrija, a picturesque village on the Istrian Peninsula. This 186-key resort will be a standout addition to the region’s luxury offerings, boasting three restaurants, four bars, and a state-of-the-art MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) area. The resort will also feature expansive indoor and outdoor pools, a world-class spa, and wellness centre, ensuring guests have a holistic luxury experience during their stay.
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A unique highlight of the resort will be its proximity to the Golf Adriatic PGA National Croatia course, an 18-hole, par-72 championship course that runs alongside the coastline. This proximity will make the resort an appealing destination for golf enthusiasts, further strengthening the region’s appeal as a luxury destination for leisure travelers. Once the renovation is complete in early 2027, the resort will relaunch as the Anantara Adriatic Istria Resort, offering guests a blend of experiential luxury with cultural programming inspired by the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
Collaboration with MK Group: A Strong Regional Partnership
Both resorts will be owned by MK Group, a key player in the tourism, real estate, renewable energy, and agricultural sectors across the Balkans. The partnership with MK Group will leverage both companies’ strengths, combining Minor Hotels’ international brand appeal with MK Group’s extensive regional knowledge and expertise. This collaboration aims to elevate these properties into top-tier luxury destinations, providing world-class hospitality while embracing the local culture and heritage of Slovenia and Croatia.
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The agreement highlights Minor Hotels’ ongoing strategy of partnering with established regional owners to accelerate growth in high-potential emerging markets. By combining Minor Hotels’ global marketing and distribution network with MK Group’s local insight, the resorts are set to offer guests exceptional, unique experiences while enhancing the tourism profiles of both Slovenia and Croatia.
Perfectly Positioned with Regional Connectivity
Both resorts are strategically located with excellent access to key international airports, ensuring seamless travel connections for visitors. Trieste Airport in Italy, Portorož Airport in Slovenia, and Pula and Rijeka Airports in Croatia are all within easy reach, allowing for smooth access to the Adriatic region. The resorts are also conveniently situated near major tourist attractions, making them ideal bases for exploring the natural beauty and cultural riches of the Istrian Peninsula and Slovenia’s Adriatic coastline.
This connectivity is a key factor in positioning the new resorts as prime luxury destinations in the Adriatic. With easy access to regional and international airports, these properties will be easily accessible for both European and global travelers, contributing to their status as desirable holiday spots.
A Vision for the Future: Expanding Minor Hotels’ Luxury Portfolio
The launch of these two new resorts is a significant milestone in Minor Hotels’ European growth strategy. With a focus on luxury leisure, wellness tourism, and experiential travel, Minor Hotels continues to expand its global presence, offering guests access to some of the most sought-after destinations in Europe and beyond. This Adriatic expansion represents a natural progression for Minor Hotels as it continues to diversify its portfolio and respond to the rising demand for exclusive, wellness-focused travel experiences.
As demand for luxury accommodations in emerging markets increases, Minor Hotels is well-positioned to lead the way in offering unique, high-end travel experiences that appeal to discerning guests. With a strong development pipeline and a commitment to partnering with local expertise, Minor Hotels is set to shape the future of luxury tourism in Central and Southeastern Europe.
Conclusion
Minor Hotels’ new Adriatic resorts in Slovenia and Croatia represent an exciting chapter in the company’s European expansion. By offering luxurious, wellness-focused accommodations in two of Europe’s most promising destinations, Minor Hotels is poised to set new standards in the region’s hospitality industry. These resorts will provide exclusive experiences that combine local culture, modern luxury, and immersive wellness offerings, contributing to the continued growth of tourism along the Adriatic coast. As Minor Hotels continues to expand its luxury portfolio, these resorts will play a crucial role in solidifying the region as a premier global travel destination.
