Kaštela, the string of seven small coastal towns wedged between Split and Trogir, has long played second fiddle to its flashy Dalmatian neighbours. That may be about to change. Prague-based Odien Group has signed a contract with Accor to bring Sofitel to Croatia for the first time, with the deal formally sealed at the Renaissance Vitturi Castle in Kaštel Lukšić.
Sofitel Kaštela will rise on the site of the former Zeničko resort in Kaštel Stari, with doors expected to open in 2029. The property will run to 137 rooms and apartments, including junior suites and higher-category rooms with private balconies or terraces facing the sea. Plans call for several restaurants and bars, a spa centre, indoor and outdoor pools, a beach club, and meeting and event spaces. Odien Hotels, the group's hotel arm, will manage the property.
The Sofitel is only half the story. Odien, which has been active in Croatia since 2015 when it took over the Le Méridien Lav Split resort in Podstrana, has bought the historic Štafileo Castle in Kaštel Štafilić and plans to convert it into a small luxury heritage hotel inside a Renaissance building. Together, the two projects sketch out a deliberate pairing: a big international luxury flag alongside an intimate, history-soaked stay. The group says it will pour more than 100 million euros into Kaštela over the next five years through its hotels and real estate divisions.
Officials are framing the investment as more than a hotel opening. Mayor Denis Ivanović has pointed to the potential for new jobs, a stronger local economy and a longer tourist season, provided development moves in step with the local community. For Odien owner Mike Saran, the aim is to build a destination with a real international identity, leaning on Kaštela's architecture, Mediterranean character and handy position between two of Dalmatia's most visited towns.
Why should travellers care? Right now, if you want genuine five-star luxury on the central Dalmatian coast, your options cluster around Split itself and a handful of resort enclaves. By 2029, you'll be able to base yourself in a quieter stretch of coast with castle towns, waterfront promenades and UNESCO-listed Trogir a short drive away — with a Sofitel spa and beach club to come home to. For anyone who finds Split in high summer a bit much, Kaštela is positioning itself as the calmer, more authentic alternative, now with serious accommodation to match.
