Palace Hotel in Portorož celebrates 110 years

The Palace Hotel in was built during the time of the Austro-Hungarian Empire as a tourist facility of the highest grade and Portorož was known as the most important European seaside resort and health spa. Dubbed the “Austrian Riviera” during the era of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, it was the place to see and be seen for royals, aristocrats, politicians, artists and actors.

Upon its opening on 20 August 1910, the Palace Hotel was the largest and most beautiful hotel on the Adriatic Sea. The hotel’s design was conceived by the Austrian architect of Italian origin Johannes (Giovanni) Eustacchio, whose idea was to create a colossal building blending various architectural styles with the elements of the Vienna Secession. This architecture represents one of the trademarks of Kempinski Palace Portorož as it remains visible to this day and is carefully preserved, with some areas of the hotel proclaimed cultural monuments (the architecture and the facade) and man-made landscape monuments (the park).

Throughout the history, a number of intriguing stories were written here. To mention but a few: during the two wars, the hotel was used by German and Yugoslav soldiers, it housed the first Slovenian casino (1964—1972) and the Yugoslavian president Josip Broz Tito preferred to stay there. Archduke Franz Ferdinand danced in the Crystal Hall and the famous spy Cicero slept there. Also, it has been the must-visit place for many celebrities, among them also by Sophia Loren, who gave the name to the fine dining restaurant at the hotel.

During the 80s, the hotel experienced great difficulties and it finally closed down for good in 1990. After nearly two decades, on 18 October 2008, the Kempinski Palace Portorož again opened its doors, refurbished to its former glory. Guests can now enjoy in a unique blend design of modern and traditional part which combines glamorous Viennese elegance and modern, innovative design.

The 110-year anniversary is, due to the COVID-19 situation, celebrated a bit differently. From 20 August to 9 September, the hotel's lobby showcases an exhibition of the history of the Palace hotel, created together with Bressi Design. In addition, Restaurant Sophia serves the original 1912 menu and special menu, based on the original menu, served in the hotel in 191 and employees are dressed to match the era. To liven up the atmosphere, live music with chansons are played at Palace club and Restaurant Sophia and Dolce Vita cocktails a la 1910 served.

About Kempinski Palace Portorož: The luxury hotel Kempinski Palace Portorož, opened in 2008, is situated directly on the Adriatic coast of Slovenia, not far from the Medieval Pearl, the town of Piran, and less than two hours from Venice. The five-star superior hotel embodies a unique combination of traditional and contemporary design, offering 182 superb rooms and suites, a 1,500 sq m (16,145.9 sq ft) spa, an innovative food and beverage concept in all its restaurants and bars, six conference facilities with daylight, a unique, historic ballroom and a private park.

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