When Lee and Penny Anderson first set foot in Croatia in the early 2000s, it wasn’t as tourists but as humanitarians. Through the St. David’s Relief Foundation, they came to support post-war recovery efforts in Bosnia and Croatia, rebuilding schools, helping displaced families, and offering hope in communities scarred by conflict. What began as a mission of service quickly became something deeper. They were struck by the warmth of the people, the rugged beauty of Dalmatia, and the centuries-old winemaking traditions that seemed woven into everyday life. Drawn to the bold reds of the Dingač and Postup wine regions, the Andersons saw an opportunity to honor local heritage while sharing Croatia’s wines with the world. In 2006, they founded Korta Katarina Winery, named for the Croatian word ‘korta’ (a gathering place or garden) and a cherished family name, Katharine. The winery became the cornerstone of what would grow into the Korta Katarina Collection.

That vision expanded with the restoration of the historic Rivijera Hotel in Orebić, which they transformed into Villa Korta Katarina. After years of meticulous work, the Villa opened in December 2019 as a luxurious seaside retreat. It quickly earned international acclaim, joining Relais & Châteaux in 2020 and later receiving a MICHELIN Key in 2025. More than just a property, the Villa embodies Dalmatian elegance, offering guests panoramic views, curated wine tastings, and a soulful connection to the Adriatic coast.

During the Villa’s renovation, Lee and Penny made their home away from home at the nearby Hotel Indijan, just minutes away. Their time there deepened their bond with Orebić and its community. In early 2024, they acquired the property, and after a year and several months of careful restoration, it reopened as Hotel Katarina. Today, Hotel Katarina stands proudly alongside Villa Korta Katarina as part of the Relais & Châteaux family, making Orebić one of the rare destinations to host two properties within this prestigious collection.

Together with Yacht Katharine, the winery, villa, and hotel form the Korta Katarina Collection, a testament to Lee and Penny’s enduring love for Croatia and their vision to create experiences that blend refinement, authenticity, and heartfelt service.