Villa Gatsby | 3-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool in Zadar

Petrcane’s crystalline waters lap at pebble shores just 40 metres from Villa Gatsby, a stone-built residence that merges traditional Dalmatian architecture with contemporary interiors. This luxury villa rental in Petrcane delivers the rare combination of village tranquillity and immediate beach access—no car needed to reach the Adriatic. Twelve kilometres north of Zadar’s bustling old town, Villa Gatsby operates as a private sanctuary for families and groups seeking unfiltered Croatian coastline without sacrificing modern comfort.

Inside Villa Gatsby

Villa Gatsby sleeps 6 guests across 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Upon entry, the ground floor reveals an open-plan living zone where the kitchen, dining area and lounge form a continuous white and grey space. Wooden flooring runs throughout, interrupted by soft furnishings in deep purple and silver tones. The fully equipped kitchen features a dishwasher, coffee machine and substantial counter space—not a galley kitchen that discourages cooking, but a functional hub for meal preparation. Guests find satellite television and high-speed Wi-Fi throughout, with air conditioning responding to Dalmatian summer heat.

The accommodation splits across three bedrooms. Two serve as double rooms with opal and gold accents against white linens and crisp furnishings; the third offers twin beds, equally refined in presentation. Wardrobe storage in each room prevents the chaos of unpacked suitcases. The single bathroom functions as a spa-like retreat, outfitted with fluffy towels, bath amenities and—critically for families—a washing machine integrated into the bathroom space. Wall decals, mirrors and framed artwork personalise each room without resorting to clutter.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The private pool commands the garden’s focal point, surrounded by sun loungers and parasols that create defined zones for swimming, sunbathing or simply retreating from direct sun. A spacious wooden terrace overlooks the Adriatic with an unobstructed southern exposure; this is where morning coffee tastes different, where afternoon light transforms the water into liquid gold. A substantial barbecue area allows guests to grill fresh fish purchased from Petrcane’s harbour markets. The standout feature: a mini Tiki bar with canopy and bar stools, offering shelter during sudden summer storms or intense midday heat. Private parking accommodates one vehicle; most guests abandon cars entirely, walking everywhere within the village.

Location: Petrcane and the Surrounding Area

Petrcane occupies a rare position in the Zadar region—substantial enough to function (fewer than 1,000 residents), yet small enough to feel untouched by mass tourism. This 900-year-old fishing village sits within a protective embrace formed by the Punta Radman and Punta Skala peninsulas, creating a natural harbour that still hosts working fishing boats and waterfront restaurants.

Beach Petrcane itself stretches along the promenade as an elongated bay with pebble composition and pine-shaded sections—the shade proving invaluable during July and August when temperatures exceed 30°C. The water clarity exceeds most Mediterranean destinations; visibility often extends 15+ metres beneath the surface. Small beach bars operate seasonally, serving cold beverages and light meals directly on the sand.

Zadar’s old town lies 12km south, accessible via a 15-minute drive. The Roman Forum anchors the medieval core, surrounded by narrow streets containing restaurants serving local specialities: grilled squid, Dalmatian prosciutto and the region’s distinctive white wines. The Marina Zoe waterfront promenade hosts evening passeggiata (traditional evening stroll) culture, where locals and visitors converge as daylight fades.

Two artistic installations define contemporary Zadar’s identity. The Monument to the Sun—a 22-metre solar disc created by artist Nikola Basic—absorbs daylight only to project coloured patterns across surrounding stonework after dark. Smaller planetary discs radiate additional luminescence, creating an otherworldly evening experience. The adjacent Sea Organ operates on hydraulic principles: stepped waterfront cuts direct wave action through underground pipes, generating musical tones reminiscent of harmonicas played by the Adriatic itself. Both installations sit on Zadar’s waterfront promenade, 10km from Villa Gatsby.

The island of Vir connects to the mainland via bridge, 8km northeast, offering a quieter alternative to Petrcane’s already-minimal crowds. Nin, a fortified medieval town 15km south, preserves ancient salt ponds and medieval walls. For destination inspiration, explore our Zadar travel guide or browse our villas in Grad Zadar. You can also discover more luxury villa rentals across Europe or review our full collection of properties in Croatia.

Seasonal timing matters significantly. May through early June delivers warm temperatures (24-27°C), calm seas and minimal crowds before July-August peak season. September maintains summer warmth while crowds thin considerably—the ideal shoulder season for those who dislike crowds but require reliable weather. June hosts local festivals celebrating the fishing heritage; restaurants feature daily catches at peak freshness. Winter (November-March) sees temperatures drop to 8-12°C with frequent rainfall, making it unsuitable for swimming but ideal for solitary coastal walks.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Families with young children find Villa Gatsby exceptionally practical. The private pool eliminates beach logistics (towels, equipment, crowd management); the proximity to pebble beaches means 30-second walks with toddlers. Cots and high chairs come standard. Parents appreciate the dishwasher, washing machine and fully stocked kitchen—necessities when catering for six people rather than dining out nightly.

Multi-generational groups benefit from bedroom separation (privacy for teenagers, proximity for grandparents monitoring young children) and adequate bathroom space. The terrace accommodates group dinners without feeling cramped; the Tiki bar becomes a natural gathering point for evening aperitivos.

Couples seeking Croatian coastline without tourist-packed resort infrastructure discover precisely what they’re hunting: a functioning village where daily life continues, beaches remain uncrowded even in August, and restaurants serve neighbours rather than tour groups. The 40-metre distance from water allows morning swims before breakfast becomes routine.

Groups of friends appreciate the social infrastructure—the barbecue for group dinners, the pool for swimming competition, the proximity to waterfront bars—combined with village quietness that eliminates noise complaints.

Practical Information

Villa Gatsby accommodates 6 guests across 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Zadar Airport (Zemunik) lies 25km south, approximately 30-35 minutes by car via the coastal route. A supermarket operates in Petrcane’s village centre, 300 metres from the villa; fish and produce markets function daily near the harbour.

The rental includes Wi-Fi throughout, air conditioning in all rooms, satellite television, dishwasher, washing machine, iron and board, and pool access. Bed linens and towels arrive fresh; complimentary toiletries stock the bathroom. Pool heating operates seasonally (May-September). Cleaning services require advance arrangement.

Check-in typically operates 4pm; check-out at 10am. Flexible arrangements sometimes accommodate earlier or later transfers for confirmed bookings.

Frequently Asked Questions about Villa Gatsby

How many guests does Villa Gatsby sleep?

Villa Gatsby accommodates 6 guests maximum. The property contains two double bedrooms, one twin bedroom, and one full bathroom. The villa does not feature sofa beds or annexes; sleeping capacity maxes at 6 people. This capacity suits families of four-to-six or groups of friends numbering 5-6 individuals.

What is the nearest airport to Villa Gatsby in Croatia?

Zadar Airport (IATA code ZAD, officially Zadar Zemunik Airport) sits 25km south of Petrcane. Ground transfers require approximately 30-35 minutes by car via the coastal route. No direct shuttle service operates from the airport to Petrcane; rental car hire or private transfer services remain standard arrangements. The drive bypasses Zadar’s congested old town centre.

What is the best time of year to rent Villa Gatsby?

May through June and September through early October represent optimal periods. Summer temperatures reach 28-32°C with reliable sun and calm seas; May and June avoid the July-August peak season while maintaining excellent weather conditions. September retains summer warmth (25-28°C) with departing crowds and choppy seas calming considerably. These windows balance swimming comfort, beach conditions and village authenticity. July-August remains viable but experiences heightened tourist volumes and peak pricing.

Is Villa Gatsby suitable for families with children?

Yes. The private pool eliminates beach logistics and provides controlled swimming for young children. Cots and high chairs arrive pre-installed. The village beach at Petrcane features gentle pebble slopes, shallow entries and minimal currents—ideal for toddlers. Washing machines and dishwashers reduce parental workload during week-long stays. The quiet village environment and walkable infrastructure (restaurants, shops) within 200-500 metres eliminate driving requirements for families with small children. Minor children under 8 should be supervised during pool access; no lifeguard or safety fencing exists.

What is included in the rental price at Villa Gatsby?

Included: Wi-Fi and internet access, air conditioning throughout all rooms, satellite television, fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher and coffee machine, washing machine, iron and board, bed linens and towels, complimentary toiletries, and pool access. Excluded: food and beverages, pool heating (available seasonally at additional cost), additional cleaning beyond check-out, activities and equipment hire, parking (private space for one vehicle included). Utilities (water, electricity) typically embed within the nightly rate; exceptional usage may incur supplements.

What restaurants and shops are near Villa Gatsby?

Petrcane’s village centre, 250-400 metres away on foot, contains a supermarket (fresh produce, dairy, dry goods), bakery and butcher. Waterfront restaurants concentrate near the harbour, 300 metres distant, serving grilled fish, calamari and local wines. Specific establishments shift seasonally; restaurants operating October-April number fewer than summer months. Zadar’s old town, 12km south, contains substantially more restaurant and retail options—a 15-minute drive. Beach bars in Petrcane operate seasonally (May-September) directly on the sand.