Sleek design hotel with baroque exterior right next to the river in Ljubljana

Vander Urbani Resort / Ljubljiana / Slovenia

Off-beat destinations are so enticing. Yes, of course it is fabulous to visit the classics, but there is something about going to places that every Tom, Dick and Harry have already been to a gazillion times and even bought a time share at. One of these places is the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana. One of the smallest capitals of Europe with a very atypical middle European vibe, like a Salzburg twin with a castle high up on a hill in the middle of town, surrounded by baroque-looking houses. And it is here you’ll find this design hotel, the Vander Urbani Resort.

This 20-key hotel is located right next to the Lubljianica River in the old part of town. It is a block of baroque buildings that have been made into a design hotel (also being a member of the Design Hotels community). While the exterior has a historic look the interior is a contemporary affair, all in concrete, glass, steel and mirrors.

Our room was on the top floor with views of the river. The color of the walls was a silvery grey and the look was very minimalist with a large mirror covered room divider, also being the headboard of the bed.

Things that stand out at this hotel is firstly the location, but also the roof top pool. We were staying her in the middle of the Winter so didn’t really use it but I always appreciate when my urban hotels offer an opportunity to cool off when staying during the warmer months.

The first thing that caught my eye when entering was these beautiful tiled floors.

The exterior is classic baroque but the inside is the complete opposite with contemporary elements.

Our room was on the top floor and had slanted ceilings and great views of the river.

The walls of our room were painted in this unique silver grey.

The design scheme is similar to downstairs, with the same kind of alluring 70s richness.

…but first checking out the roof top pool. We were staying here in Winter so no dip for us unfortunately.

Breakfast at the hotel is served á la carte style

The Ljubljanica River runs through the central part of town, and the hotel is located right next to it.

Our room was located at the top floor, where the window is open.

We took a hike to the castle where you have great views of the city and the mountains surrounding Ljubljana.

And post hike, we stopped by *Fetiche Patisserie* to load up with some carbs.

RG inside info

This place is perfect if you…

…are planning to spend a weekend in the Slovenian capital and you are looking for a design hotel, located right by river, with loads of bars and restaurants right at your door step. If you like contemporary, paired back design, you will like the Vander Urbani.

My favorite thing about this place…

…is the roof top pool. Ok we stayed here in Winter so didn’t get to use it during peak season, but all urban hotels with a roof top pool gets a top remark in my book.

What not to miss when staying here…

…is to take the short but steep hike up to the Ljubljana Castle, high up on a hill watching over the city. The view from up there is spectacular, where you can catch the mountain range that is lining the outskirts of the city. If you need to boost your energy levels afterwards there is a great cafe, Fetiche Patisserie, right at the bottom of the hill. They serve some mean cakes and baked goods.

If you like this hotel you might also like:

Hotel Ottilia / Copenhagen, Denmark

Bootshaus / Amberg, Germany

ION City Hotel / Reykjavik, Iceland