Croatia’s biggest tourism investment—€139 million 5-star resort being built

Valamar is developing the Pical 5-star resort in Poreč on Croatia’s coast, set to open in early 2026, with a planned investment of €139 million.

According to Valamar’s CEO, Željko Kukurin, this is the largest single investment in Croatian tourism to date.

He stated that the Pical 5-star hotel will offer top-quality, year-round tourism, create over 700 new jobs, and generally enhance the quality of life for Poreč residents.

It is estimated that the Pical resort will bring direct financial benefits to the City of Poreč’s budget, amounting to around €3 million each year, along with numerous other advantages, Lider.hr reported.

“Investment in the Pical area will develop public tourism infrastructure, including walking trails, cycling paths, a beach, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, as well as a variety of other amenities accessible to tourists and locals alike. Construction is progressing as planned, and upon completion, the Pical area will become the most attractive tourism zone in Croatia,” Kukurin said.

At the presentation, it was revealed that the Pical 5-star hotel will feature 514 accommodation units and facilities catering to luxury, family, and active holidays, as well as business tourism.

(Photo: Valamar/Press)

Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy eight themed restaurants with menus designed by Michelin chefs and ten bars offering a selection of drinks and signature cocktails inspired by local flavours.

The Balance Spa Centre, covering 1,300 square metres, will provide relaxation and rejuvenation at the highest level. The hotel will also feature modern family-oriented amenities, including children’s playgrounds, kids’ clubs, and an educational play area covering more than 1,200 square metres.

(Photo: Valamar/Press)

“For years, Valamar has been investing in projects that continuously enhance quality of life within the community, from funding educational institutions and sports programmes to supporting key initiatives. I am confident that developing the Pical area, with its sustainable tourism model, will further enrich the local community,” Kukurin added.

The Pical resort will offer opportunities for active recreation, with investments that include beach and public infrastructure improvements such as the new Poreč Bike Centre, jogging and cycling paths, an indoor swimming pool for swimmers, and a centre for water sports. All recreational and sports facilities, including the Pical beach and promenades, will be accessible to the general public and local residents.

With a capacity of approximately 1,200 participants, the new conference centre at the Pical resort will be the largest in Istria, enabling year-round business and social events and thereby strengthening conference tourism in the region. This expansion of offerings allows for an extended tourist season and opens the door to international visitors with higher spending potential,” Kukurin said.