Le Méridien Lav has opened its doors in the Mediterranean port of Split following a $150 million renovation.The resort, previously known as Hotel Lav and regaled as the ‘best address in Split,’ is the first Le Méridien hotel in Croatia, as well as the latest addition to Le Méridien’s growing portfolio since Starwood acquired the brand in November 2005.

Le Méridien brand’s dynamic growth around the world is centered around its ongoing pursuit to bring culture to life for its guests, providing them with a new way of seeing things. International travelers will embrace Le Méridien Lav not only for its flair and cosmopolitan flavor, but also for its prime location on the sea in the largest city in Dalmatia. One of the busiest ports and most popular leisure destinations of the Mediterranean, Split is the main artery for those exploring Croatia’s romantic coastline and picturesque islands in the Adriatic Sea.

“As Le Méridien grows its global footprint, we continue to focus on destinations that bring to life the brand’s passions for art, architecture, design, cuisine and fashion. At the heart of our approach is delivering these cultural experiences in ways that give our guests—those who are curious and eager to learn something new—a new perspective,” said Eva Ziegler, senior vice president of Le Méridien. “Split’s vast cultural offerings, both historic and contemporary, offer visitors the opportunity to not only discover a new destination but a new horizon. It is a location ideally suited for Le Méridien’s brand positioning.”

“We are truly excited to be opening this magnificent Le Méridien resort in the city of Split, the cultural hub of Croatia known for its rich blend of art and architecture,” said Roeland Vos, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe Africa and Middle East. “The debut of Le Méridien Lav is a further sign of Starwood’s commitment to developing brands in fabulous destinations that appeal to our guests.”

In addition to its busy seaport, offering ferries to Croatia’s many beautiful islands including Hvar and Korcula, Split also has a modern transportation network for those wishing to visit outlying areas of the city. Visitors can spend a day visiting Split’s romantic beach and world-class shopping or venture just 30 minutes outside the city to Trogir, a village showcasing cultural treasures from medieval times.

“Croatia is fast building a reputation as an international tourism hot-spot, with its natural beauty and unique cultural heritage,” said resort co-owner Ivica Kurtovic.

Le Méridien Lav adds a high European service standard and a unique experience to Split’s growing hotel and commercial landscape. A creative hub for guests seeking more than just an ordinary hotel room, the hotel offers 364 spacious guestrooms in a stylish, yet comfortable design, decorated with fabrics and colors inspired by the hotel’s natural surroundings. Additionally, the resort’s 17 suites and its 394 square-foot Presidential suite all offer breathtaking views of Split and its neighbouring islands. The hotel also boasts approximately 9,500 square feet of meeting space.

“With its array of resort attractions, prestigious accommodation and stunning vistas, Le Méridien Lav is the perfect locale for visitors from across the world to come and experience Croatia,” said the other resort co-owner, Jim Bosnjak. “As an Australian of Croatian heritage, I am proud to have helped play a role in the revitalization of Split’s local economy with the rebuilding of this iconic hotel.”
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