HIDDEN GUEST: Lifeclass Mind Hotel Slovenija

Mind Hotel Slovenija is one of the town’s tourism trump cards, one that visually and logistically represents the centre of Portorož. At the same time it is also the flagship of Slovenia’s first international hotel chain, Lifeclass, in the largest and most important Slovenian coastal resort. The calm location by the Bay of Piran and the pleasant Mediterranean climate have defined Portorož as a health resort since the 13th century. This is united through Lifeclass hotels that have been operating under the Lifeclass brand name since 2006, and which spatially dominate the centre of Portorož.

Taking into account all of the classic requirements of international congress guests, from hotel facilities to the congress facilities in Portorož, the locations falls short in terms of flight accessibility. This remains Portorož’s biggest downfall, and consequently the town remains predominantly a regional congress player. An ideal Mediterranean location for congress guests who can access the destination via the excellent motorway network, or are capable and open to making the somewhat more strenuous transit through neighbouring airports.

The whole hotel complex, which in addition to the main Hotel Slovenija and Grand Hotel Portorož also includes the Neptun, Mirna, Apollo and Riviera hotels, was designed in a modern style by the architect Edo Mihevc. The number of smaller hotels and regionally coloured architectural language still characterises the typical panorama of Portorož today. During the period of design, a typical seafront promenade was created, characterised by the entire Portorož Riviera seafront. Mind Hotel Slovenija and Grand Hotel Portorož are the central buildings of the complex, which are complemented by hotel annexes. The prevailing warm colours and the use of local building materials, alongside the terraces and other architectural elements, generate a mixed response, but it is necessary to recognise how the very attractive tourist centre of the most cosmopolitan tourist destination in Slovenia was created.

Renovation of Hotel Slovenija has also significantly improved the range and quality of the complex’s food and beverage outlets. In particular, the quality of the food in the Istrian Bistro & Tapas bar has been greatly improved and, in doing so, has brought a new culinary approach to the town. It serves contemporary and local cuisine that is presented in a relaxed manner and in accordance with trends. Diners can watch the chefs at work in the bistro area, have a drink in the wine bar, or enjoy the views from the outdoor terrace.

The innovative concept of the tapas bar also continues in the hotel breakfast, which is also conceptual, and, we have to admit, the breakfast and its entire concept was impressive. The best parts were the local culinary specialities and the exceptional wine list as well as the imaginative marketing. Healthy and creative cuisine labelled as ‘Brain Food’ is also part of the concept, which is somewhat reminiscent of a similar concept adopted by the Radisson hotel chain. We were also impressed by the staff, whose friendliness and professionalism meet the expected standards of a five-star hotel.

The decor of rooms in Hotel Slovenija reflect local themes and the tradition of salt production. The gentle pastel colours are attractive and contribute to a pleasant atmosphere in guest rooms. The most stand-out features in the rooms are the modern panoramic bathrooms and the range of L’Occitane toiletries. The bedding is also exceptionally high quality and sleep is an overall pleasure.

The hotel’s greatest advantage is its connection to the hotel’s congress centre, which is greatly appreciated by event organisers. Congress guests, who can choose where to stay from the range of Lifeclass hotels in the town, have the Portus Convention Centre at their disposal. The centre remains within the compact medium rates and offers space for 450 participants. Seven multi-purpose halls offer various spatial options and users of the centre will not be disappointed. Standard equipment is almost perfect both in terms of functionality and technical equipment.

The superb Lifeclass Spa & Wellness centre, which includes the Wai Thai Massage Centre, Thalasso Centre, Ayurveda Centre and Pilates Holistic Centre, as well as the LifeFit – Fitness and Group Exercise Centre.

Portorož lacks a bit of character and it emits a rather mixed message in terms of what makes a primary tourist attraction. Consequently, a lot, whilst at the same time nothing, appears to be going on. The level of additional offers is poor and sometimes shabby, or else just entirely lacking.

Probably the most comprehensive hotel, conference and wellness offer on the coast that caters to a wide range of tastes.

Through the renovation of Hotel Slovenija, Portorož has acquired its third five-star hotel. This state-of-the-art hotel is the most modern of the six hotels in the Lifeclass chain and part of this modern winter thermal resort, which is also of great added value for congress guests. A lot of events organisers decide to hold events in the hotel due to its wealth of additional facilities and services. The hotel’s exclusive Meduza beach is a particular stand-out feature which, on numerous occasions, has proven to be an excellent venue to hold events. The renovation work has also brought Portorož one of the most attractive special venues – the Portus Lifeclass Congress Centre – which can cater for medium-sized events for up to 520 participants and is well-placed in the town’s range of congress facilities. The diverse range of hotels is a key part of Portorož’s congress story. Impressed!