About your stay at MELBA
Thank you for taking the time to explore our house. MELBA is a small, personal place that I built and shaped myself, and much of its atmosphere comes from this — a home made with care, lived in, and gently shared with guests.

Each studio has its own character, furnished with simple, thoughtful details and things I love. My hope is that you feel both the comfort of a private apartment and the warmth of staying with good friends — independent, quiet and still supported whenever you need something.

This page offers a calm overview of the house, the surroundings and the way we live here, so you can get a clear sense of what to expect and whether the rhythm of this place resonates with you.

About the house
MELBA consists of four self-contained studios, all facing south and each with its own terrace, loggia or balcony. The house is open throughout the year and built for comfort in every season, with underfloor heating in winter and bright, airy rooms during the warmer months.

Living on site and welcoming guests
I live in the lower part of the house, in a completely separate area with its own entrance. This allows me to personally welcome guests and be available when needed, while still ensuring full privacy. If guests prefer a quiet stay without contact, it is easy — our paths rarely cross unless you reach out.

A personal place

MELBA is not just a studio to rent — it is a house shaped with intention, symbolism and a quiet kind of energy. I built it step by step, paying attention to light, materials and small meaningful details. For many guests, it becomes a place to slow down, recharge and simply be.
It is less about doing, and more about enjoying the calm rhythm of the island and the atmosphere of the house.

What to expect

MELBA is designed as a retreat rather than a classic holiday rental. There is no TV, and the space invites you to read, rest and enjoy its simplicity. The house is smoke-free, pet-free and reserved for adults (18+), which keeps the atmosphere steady and quiet.

The kitchen concept

The studios follow a summer-kitchen idea: light, simple meals suit the character of the house, while long or heavy cooking is not the focus here. If you ever need an oven or want to prepare something a bit more elaborate, the downstairs kitchen can be used on request — especially outside the summer months.

About the loggias and outdoor spaces
All studios have a private outdoor area, each slightly different in its layout — from shaded south-facing loggias to east-side loggias with sliding windows, and on the west side either a large terrace with an outdoor shower or a combination of loggia and balcony. These variations give each studio its own quiet, comfortable character.

Comfort and protection
The loggias stay cool and shaded, offering natural protection from sun and wind. Many include ceiling fans for warmer days. On the east side, the sliding windows connect the outdoor space smoothly with the bedroom, bringing light and fresh air while keeping the area sheltered.

A particular atmosphere
Each outdoor space feels calm and private — a small extension of the studio where guests can sit, relax or enjoy the air without direct heat. They add an easy, quiet rhythm to daily life, which many guests appreciate.

Entrances and layout
MELBA has two separate entrances.
The main entrance is on the northern side, in the quiet street Od Punte 4. From here, guests reach the studios easily and directly.
The southern side faces Domovinski rat and leads into the lower courtyard, from where the path to the studios and to the harbor is short and straightforward.

Parking
Each side of the house has space for two cars, and we always make sure there is a parking spot available for our guests. It is helpful if you let me know in advance when you arrive by car, as the neighboring houses sometimes use the street as well, and I may move my own vehicle to make everything smooth and easy for you.

Mediterranean greenery
Around the house you’ll find many of the plants typical for this part of the Adriatic — lavender, rosemary, smilje (immortelle), oleander and other small native shrubs. They give a natural, calm frame to the terraces and loggias and create the familiar feeling of a Mediterranean home.

The garden area
In front of the lower studios there is a small garden with herbs and evergreen plants. It keeps the space green all year and adds a quiet, natural atmosphere to the courtyard and the paths leading to the apartments.

Fresh herbs for guests
Whenever possible, I like to bring guests a few fresh herbs from the garden — usually rosemary and sage, which grow almost all year. Sometimes I also offer a little of my dried herbs, prepared here in the house. It’s a simple detail, but many guests enjoy having these small touches during their stay.

A protected and private space
A lower courtyard separates the main building from a small utility house with a summer kitchen. This creates a calm, protected area between the street and the terraces, offering a sense of privacy and quiet even in the lively months.

The summer kitchen is not a shared space during the season. Outside the main summer months — or for guests who are particularly careful and respectful — I can occasionally make it available on request, for example if someone needs an oven or would like help preparing a meal.
For the warmer months, we offer a separate food and provisioning service, described below.

A private living area
The lower courtyard is part of my own living space, and this is where I spend most of my time. Because of this — and because the animals stay here — the gate is often closed during the summer months. It gives the house a calm rhythm and protects everyone’s privacy. If you need anything, the easiest way to reach me is by WhatsApp. When the door is open, you are always welcome to step in.

Use on request
Although this area is not a shared space, it can be used on request and after a short arrangement. The kitchens in the studios are designed as summer kitchens, and some guests occasionally wish to prepare something more elaborate or use an oven. If that is the case, just send me a message — baking, cooking or using the downstairs kitchen is absolutely possible when we coordinate a suitable moment.
Outside the high season, the courtyard is generally more open and easier to use.

Small shared moments
From time to time, especially in summer, I open the courtyard for a small and gentle gathering — sometimes a glass of wine, sometimes a simple moment to meet the other guests. I announce this at the courtyard entrance, and joining is always optional.

The Alpine Swift
MELBA features the Alpine Swift (Tachymarptis melba), a bird known for its long migrations and impressive agility. It travels across continents in a single rhythm of freedom and movement — a feeling that mirrors my own path from northern Munich, across the Alps, to the Dalmatian coast. For me, this bird holds a quiet symbolism: the ability to move between different worlds with ease, just as MELBA offers a gentle shift between the calm of island life and the energy of the city.

SolMelba
The name “SolMelba” brings together the island’s heritage and a personal touch. “Sol” comes from the Roman name Insula Solentii — the “Island of the Sun,” reflecting the bright, natural character of Šolta. “Melba” comes from my own initials, giving the place a warm, individual note. Together, the name carries both the spirit of the island and a part of my story.

About the surroundings

Close to everything
MELBA is in one of the most convenient locations in Maslinica. The harbor, the beach and the small supermarkets are all just a few minutes’ walk away. You don’t need a car to enjoy the village — almost everything can be reached on foot.

Full sea views
Many parts of the house offer a clear, open view of the sea, not just small glimpses. From the terraces, balconies and loggias you can see the bay, the islands and the changing colours of the water throughout the day. This is one of the things guests appreciate most.

Easy access and quiet surroundings
Although the house is close to the center, the area around it stays calm. The streets are safe and easy to walk, and short paths lead directly to swimming spots, restaurants and the marina. It’s a balance of being “in the village” while still having a quiet and relaxed atmosphere.

Our olive tree holds a special place in our hearts. On Šolta, many families have been growing olives for four generations, and these trees carry deep meaning for the island’s people. The most widespread variety, Oblica, is a true symbol of Dalmatia. Renowned for thriving with minimal water, its fruit is cherished for both oil production and table olives.

Another significant variety is Soltanka (literally, “a lady from Šolta,” also known as Levatinka). This beloved olive has become so successful that it has spread to other Dalmatian islands and even to the mainland.

Beyond their cultural and agricultural importance, olive trees bring a sense of peace and grounding to our home. Their resilience and steady growth remind us of life’s quiet strength—an invitation to pause, reflect, and connect with the serenity of this special place.

About our food options

Good, high-quality food is important to me. Here on the island, however, it can sometimes be difficult to find the kind of ingredients that feel simple, natural and reliable — especially if you arrive without a car. Over time, I began looking for a way to make this easier for guests while still keeping everything practical and well-organised for the house.

What this means for your stay
I now keep a small selection of carefully chosen products on hand — things I trust, use myself, and can arrange for you before arrival. It’s not a large service, but a quiet, thoughtful one: a few essentials, some fresh items when possible, and occasionally something local or homemade. The idea is simply to make your first days more comfortable, without the stress of shopping or searching.

How it works
This offering is intentionally limited and available on request. Before your arrival, I send a short list so you can choose what you need. More details about the different food categories are shown further down this page.

Two friendly cats live on the property and are part of the quiet daily rhythm of the house. They stay in the lower courtyard and do not enter the guest studios, so the apartments remain comfortable for guests with allergies.

A small request
We kindly ask that you do not feed the cats, as this helps them keep their natural routine and prevents them from visiting the terraces uninvited.
Please also note that we cannot accommodate additional pets, as the animals already living here need a calm and stable environment.
Thank you for helping us maintain a peaceful atmosphere for everyone.

Our dog — part of the calm rhythm here
Rea lives here with me and came originally from a local shelter. She has a gentle, calm nature and is simply part of the everyday life around the house. Her presence blends naturally into the rhythm of the place.

A quiet presence
You may see her from time to time in the courtyard or on her way to the beach. She moves softly and keeps to her own routine. If you prefer no contact, that is completely fine — she will continue on her way without expecting anything.

A small note
Rea is part of the atmosphere here, but she stays close to me and respects the flow of the house. For many guests she becomes just a gentle detail in the background — present, friendly, and never demanding attention.

May I introduce myself
After many years in Munich, I was able to realise a long-held dream: building my own home here on Šolta. The path was not always simple, but every step made the result more meaningful. Creating this place has been one of the most important experiences of my life.

Opening the house to guests is something I value deeply. I enjoy welcoming people from different places and sharing a space that I shaped with care and intention. Each encounter adds warmth to the house, and I am grateful for the quiet connections that grow here — sometimes in small moments, sometimes in longer conversations, always in a gentle and natural way.

Od Punte 4 - 21430 Maslinica - Island of Šolta

Practical notes

An EV-charging station is available in the harbor, and the house is open all year with underfloor heating in winter — making MELBA a steady, gentle place in every season.

A few small house rules help everything run smoothly. You’ll receive them before arrival, and you’ll find a clear information card inside your studio — something guests have always appreciated.

A thoughtful start to your stay

To make your arrival easier and more comfortable, I offer a small fridge-stocking convenience service.

Good, simple food matters to me.

On the island, however, good-quality basics can sometimes be hard to find — especially without a car or when arriving later in the day. For this reason, I offer a small, carefully selected food selection that can be requested in advance.

How it works

Before arrival, guests receive a short order list with detailed information about the available items. The selection varies depending on season and availability.

All requested products are purchased in advance and placed in the apartment before arrival. Prices are lightly rounded to reflect sourcing and handling. A small service fee applies. This service is offered to enhance guest comfort, not for profit.

Gentle note: All items provided are purchased products. No food preparation or meal service takes place on the property.

The selection is intentionally small and thoughtful, and divided into a few clear categories.

MELBA Essentials

Quality everyday basics to help you settle in easily. These are reliable staple products, chosen from selected shops and suppliers, simply so you have a few good basics on hand from the start.

MELBA Comfort (extended option | November–April)

An extended option, mainly offered from November to April. t includes a slightly wider selection of items that support light cooking and easy, warming meals — such as soups or other ready-made dishes.

This option is especially appreciated by winter guests who enjoy a relaxed stay with fewer errands and more comfort.

Local island products

A very small selection of products made on Šolta, such as local olive oil or occasional island liqueurs — available in limited quantities and especially helpful for guests without a car.

We have carefully selected Veronika Delikatese as one of our main pre‑order suppliers. Veronika is a small dairy (Mini mljekara Veronika) located in Croatia’s Zagorje region, in the town of Desinić.

What makes Veronika special is their commitment to 100% domestic, healthy, and natural products — they process local milk without over‑industrializing it, preserving its authentic flavor and quality.

We source products from Veronika Delikatese to offer them as part of our pre‑order selection, ensuring that our guests enjoy items from a trusted, small-scale producer who deeply cares about tradition, sustainability, and honest production.

Longer-Lasting Basics

This selection focuses on easy, reliable basics with a longer shelf life — simply to make everyday cooking and breakfasts uncomplicated.

Items in this category store well and are suitable for flexible use during your stay.

Examples may include dry goods and staples such as flour or baking mixes, oats, nuts, pasta, olive oil, honey, butter, hard or semi-hard cheese, and occasionally cured products like ham or sausage.

The exact selection remains small and may vary.

Fresh Items (Limited & Changing)

Fresh items depend on season, market days, and availability, and therefore change frequently.

This category usually includes everyday fresh basics such as yoghurt, bread, eggs, fresh cheese, fruit, or vegetables.

Availability can vary from week to week, and sometimes even within the same week.

An updated order list with current options is shared before arrival, so you can see what is available at that moment.

Island Herbs – fresh or dried depending on the season

Herbs in the Studio
Whenever possible, I like to bring a few fresh herbs to the studio. During my walks with the dog through relatively untouched nature, I often gather rosemary, sage, savory, or mountain mint. In the studio, you’ll find these fresh herbs along with little cards explaining their uses and giving ideas for how to enjoy them.
If I don’t have any fresh herbs at the moment, I’m very sorry — dried herbs are always available.

Herbs We Collect on the Island – names & uses

Sage
Salvia officinalis • calming and digestive • nice in omelettes, mild summer soups, or a warm evening tea

Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis • energising and aromatic • great with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a simple cold rosemary tea

Mountain Savory (Bergbohnenkraut)
Satureja montana • warming and digestive • perfect for light vegetable dishes, summer soups, or small herb pestos

Mountain Mint (Nepitella)
Clinopodium nepeta • fresh and slightly floral • lovely for herbal teas, zucchini dishes, or gentle summer cooking

Local Island Specialties – small batches from Šolta

Local Olive Oil
Levantinka (Šoltanka) • Oblica
High-quality olive oil in small batches, with delicate floral notes and smooth, balanced flavors.

Local Liqueurs
traditional island liqueurs • seasonal small batches

A small selection is kept on hand, especially for guests without a car.

Local Producers

Agroturizam Kaštelanac — olive oil & liqueurs / Olynthia Natura — premium island olive oil, liqueurs & marmalade / Zlatna Šoltanka group — certified high-premium Šolta olive oil / OPG Jakupčević — olive oil & seasonal produce / OPG Vicko Burica — small family olive oil producer / Marinac Winery — local wines / Kalebić Wines — local wines / OPG Balić — local wines

cooperative projects

Sandra is a local guide and storyteller with deep roots on the island. Her tours focus on the island’s history, traditions, daily life and cultural heritage, offering an authentic insight beyond what visitors usually see.

She offers a variety of tours, from short historical walks to longer experiences that allow guests to discover the island as a whole. Together with her husband, who runs a licensed taxi service, all tours can also be comfortably arranged by private car, making them available year-round.

Depending on interest and season, tours can be combined with olive oil and wine tastings or a visit to a traditional, family-run konoba.

All experiences are individually arranged on request. Guests of Melba receive a small exclusive discount - outside the main season.

Outside the busy summer months, the island reveals its true colours. Everything becomes quieter, the days stretch gently, and there is time to notice the small details hidden in nature — the wind in the pines, the shift of light, the silence between sounds.

In this quieter rhythm, MELBA becomes a place where even tired minds and heavy hearts can settle for a while.
The studios feel like small shelters — warm, simple, and designed for rest.

A place to breathe, to recover, and to let the world feel a little less demanding.

A network of walking and hiking paths begins directly at the house and leads through a varied Mediterranean landscape. The routes range from short, easy walks to longer hikes of around 2–4 hours, offering different levels of difficulty. They pass through endless olive groves, alongside old dry-stone walls (gomilas), through small wooded sections and across open terrain with wide panoramic views of the sea, the mainland and as far as Split.

Outside the high summer season, the conditions are particularly pleasant. In spring and autumn, mild temperatures and many sunny days create ideal circumstances for extended walks and hikes in nature. Both gentle paths and more demanding routes are available, all characterized by tranquility, open views and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

Walks to neighboring villages are also possible and can be combined with circular routes through the countryside.

“You think this is just another day in your life…

It’s not just another day — it is the one day that is given to you today.

It´s given to you.
It is a gift.
It’s the only gift you have right now.

And the only appropriate response is Gratefulness”

— from Gratitude Revealed

Gaia

Many of us move through life slightly separated from the nature around us. We see it, but we don’t always feel connected.

Here, the reconnection begins with stillness.

When you slow down and simply pay attention, something subtle changes. You stop observing from a distance and start being present with what is around you.

And then a very quiet kind of communication appears —
not in words, but in tones, textures, small shifts of colour and shape.

Nature talks in a language you only understand when you are calm enough to listen.

Just pause.
Let things settle.
And see what begins to whisper…

When the island slows

With quieter days and fewer people, there is room to walk, pause, and notice more.
The studios become calm, sheltered places — warm, comfortable, and deeply connected to the outside.

A quiet support

If you wish, we prepare simple meals that fit the season and your rhythm —

so you can focus on your walks, your rest, and the steady presence of nature around you.

A quiet practice with nature

When we slow down enough to meet nature with real presence, something in us begins to shift — not loudly, but gently. A softer breath. A steadier step. A feeling that the body remembers a rhythm it once knew.

Here, even the simplest things can become part of that process:

Picking a few herbs on your walk, drying them in the afternoon sun, preparing a small tea in the evening.

Nothing complicated, nothing symbolic

— just small gestures that bring you closer to nature around you.

No grand transformation is required. Sometimes the smallest movement inside — a softened breath, a clearer thought, a settled feeling — becomes the beginning of something steady and true.

These are not moments you chase; they appear gently, when the noise fades.

And often, they stay with you long after you return home.