LIOQA Resort – A New Way of Holidaying on Ugljan

If you want to experience the beauty of the pre-season—sun, sea, and a level of luxury that remains within reach—head to the port of Gaženica in Zadar, board a ferry, and set off for the island of Ugljan. Known as the “green jewel of the Adriatic”, this island has long attracted those seeking peace, authenticity, and nature. In recent months, however, one particular place has been drawing public attention and reshaping perceptions of holidays on Croatian islands—LIOQA Resort.

Located on the western coast of the island, surrounded by olive groves, pine forests, and strikingly clear sea, the resort offers something still relatively rare on the Adriatic: luxury that is accessible. LIOQA is not based solely on aesthetics, but on experience and functionality—it is also open to outside visitors, without formal barriers, allowing guests to enjoy it even without staying in one of its villas.

The story of Ugljan has always been one of a slower pace of life. Here, days are not measured in hours but in sunsets, and mornings begin with the scent of pine and salt in the air. This is precisely the feeling more and more travellers are seeking today—a place where nature sets the rhythm, not the schedule. In this context, LIOQA Resort does not feel like an isolated development, but rather a natural extension of the island’s story—a place that respects its surroundings.

The concept of the resort is based on privacy and space—values that increasingly define modern luxury. More than twenty villas are integrated into the natural environment, each with its own pool, garden, and open sea views. The architecture blends contemporary design with Mediterranean character, while the interiors blur the line between indoor and outdoor living. Each villa features four, five, or six bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms.

What stands out are the fully equipped kitchens and living areas designed as high-tech, smart living spaces. Guests can stream music via Bluetooth, control shading through touch panels, and even adjust the temperature of the pool water. To ensure a truly personalised experience, all furnishings are of premium quality, featuring designer brands such as Gandia Blasco, Nardi, and Kave Home. The villas were designed by Jelena Banić, Boris Bacalja and Carlos Lamas, with a focus on the freedom sought by modern travellers—allowing guests to set their own pace, without the rigid structure of a traditional hotel model. Particularly in the pre-season, this type of accommodation becomes more accessible than expected for its level of quality, making it appealing even for shorter stays.

“What guests recognise here is not just the villa or the location, but the way the entire system functions. Today, luxury is no longer about appearance, but about the certainty that everything works flawlessly—from the first interaction to the stay itself. That is what we build LIOQA on, and why guests return,” explains Ivan Čapeta, General Manager of LIOQA Resort.

“We are seeing a continuous increase in interest from guests from Germany, Austria, and the Benelux countries, as well as from the region. We are especially pleased by the significant rise in visitors from Zagreb, confirming that LIOQA is increasingly recognised as a destination for high-quality short breaks. The ability to shift into a completely different rhythm in a short time—while maintaining a high level of service and privacy—has proven to be one of the key reasons guests choose us.”

Whether you are staying at the resort or visiting as an external guest, one of the key elements of the experience is gastronomy. VIVA Beach Club is conceived as an extension of the stay—a place where a relaxed atmosphere meets quality cuisine and a carefully curated offering.

The menu follows the rhythm of the day: from breakfasts combining buffet and à la carte options, to light lunches based on fresh local ingredients, and evening menus that merge Mediterranean flavours with modern interpretations. Special emphasis is placed on collaboration with local producers, further enhancing the authenticity of the experience. A major role in shaping the atmosphere is played by the beach club manager, Erdinç Seferoğlu, whose approach to hospitality is evident in every detail—from the welcome to the lasting impression guests take with them.

“Viva is not designed as a typical beach bar, but as a place where guests can spend the entire day—from morning coffee to an evening out. Through various concepts and events, we aim to offer an experience that goes beyond the classic restaurant format. During the day, we offer ‘all-you-can-eat’ breakfasts, Mediterranean-style lunches, as well as snacks such as pizza, burgers, and children’s meals.

We also serve homemade ice cream, fine desserts, and coffee for those looking to indulge. As the sun begins to set, Viva transforms into a nightlife destination—romantic five-course dinners with a jazz orchestra or themed evenings with a DJ are just some of our highlights for modern food lovers and those looking for a special night out on the island,” says Seferoğlu.

Yet the experience does not end within the resort. The island of Ugljan hides numerous secluded coves, cycling routes, and breathtaking viewpoints. Cycling through olive groves reveals old stone houses, quiet beaches, and places where time seems to stand still. From the viewpoints, there are sweeping views of the Zadar archipelago, while the sunsets here feel almost cinematic. You can explore the beauty of the Ugljan municipality on foot, strolling through small hamlets where stone houses and the spirit of past times welcome you—or by bicycle, which can be rented at the resort.

A must-see is Muline, a place with its own unique story, featuring an old olive mill and archaeological traces from the Roman era. As you cycle, you may also notice colourful benches designed by artist Božica Kliman (“Aunt Boška”) in collaboration with the tourist boards of Ugljan and Preko—perfect spots to rest while enjoying the sea view.

Lovers of cultural heritage can visit small, charming churches hidden among pine trees and olive groves, bearing witness to the island’s long history and spirituality. All of this makes Ugljan a perfect destination for exploration and for experiencing the Mediterranean as it once was—while also proving that a wonderful holiday or weekend escape does not require a distant destination, but rather a rich and distinctive island experience.

Photo: Nikola Zoko and promo