Undoubtedly, one of the most popular among the tourists of Croatian resorts is Opatija (Opatija), a city in the north of the Adriatic, on the shore of the Kvarner Bay. A popular resort this place became in the 19th century. And this is not surprising: a rare combination of a mild climate, the beauty of the surrounding city of nature, the historical and cultural riches of the region attracted so many to the resort. It's hard to believe that until the 19th century this area was quite deserted, despite favorable climatic conditions: from the cold winds it is protected by Mount Uchka.

Phone Numbers

8-10-385-51- telephone number

A bit of history

In the 16th century Benedictine monks settled here, from the word "abbey" the name of the city took place, and the abbey also put him Start. But the city became popular only after a prominent aristocrat from Rijeka Hijinio Scarpa appreciated the local climate and built his villa "Angelina". It was here, at the villa, drowning among olive and oleander trees, they loved to spend time Isadora Duncan, Gustav Mahler, Wilhelm II, AP Chekhov ...

It was Opatiya that Vladimir Nabokov made the city's prototype in the story "Spring in Fialto". Opatija became popular not only among tourists: various scientific congresses and symposiums were systematically held here. In general, by the end of the 19th century, almost every house in the city, each villa in its vicinity, could boast of at least one distinguished guest. Thanks to this, Opatija is now of interest not only to those who are looking for sea holidays, but also to fans of the history of culture and science.

Climate and geography

Opatija is located 70 km from Pula, in the vast bay of Kvarner Bay at the junction of Istria peninsula with the mainland, surrounded by low rocky mountains. He has a special microclimate, which has for the recovery and restoration of forces. Thanks to this, as well as the work of well-known doctors, health tourism is developing rapidly in Opatija.

The mountain landscape reliably protects the city from harsh sea winds and gives coolness on hot summer days. It's warmer here than in other areas, so exotic plants grow in parks and gardens, which you will not find in other Istrian cities - camellias, magnolias, palms, bamboos. Weak places of the resort are stony beaches, but this is compensated by the abundance of swimming pools with sea water.

Beaches

The beach in Opatija is rocky, equipped with concrete slabs and gatherings at sea, which is not uncommon for Croatia. On the shore there is a 12-kilometer promenade, Opatskiy Lungomar, which will not only allow you to walk in the sea air, but also enjoy magnificent panoramas, sit in one of the many cafes and restaurants, buy souvenirs, local products and products with the symbols of the city.

Hotels and restaurants of Opatija

The tourist infrastructure here is well developed . There are many hotels of different levels in the city, private apartments and villas, camping sites - accommodation for every taste is guaranteed . Of course, it is better to reserve a house in advance so that you can choose among more options . In total the city can accept up to 8000 tourists at the same time, about the same number of residents in the city . There will be no problems with food . There are any restaurants here, from fashionable ones, offering elegant surroundings and exquisite m nu, to folklore, where you can try traditional local dishes . You can try to catch luck at a local casino or visit a theater, an exhibition, a concert after a sightseeing and a delicious lunch - there are a lot of similar opportunities here .

Entertainment, excursions and attractions of Opatija

Opatija is rich with architectural sights . Several bright cathedrals, among which the most famous are the churches of St. James and the Annunciation, picturesque streets that are built up under the influence of many eras and styles, squares boulevards, the famous "Girl with a Seagull" - a modern sculpture that has become a symbol of the city - all in perfect harmony with the surrounding landscape and local vegetation . A special place among the sights is occupied by Villa Angelina (or Agnolina) and Villa Amalia, recently restored and available for inspection by tourists . Both villas retained the look, characteristic for their era and decoration elements, authentic in that they had a place from the very beginning . And now, in the midst of the 21st century, anyone who wants to have a chance to admire I was surrounded by the observation platform from which the great ballerina Isadora Duncan admired them . It can be assumed that she was wrapped up in her favorite two-meter white scarf .

Opatija often hosts concerts of classical music, folklore festivals, film festivals and sports. In the evenings live music comes from everywhere. The pedestrian promenade extends along the entire Opatija Riviera for 25 kilometers. All discos are in enclosed spaces, so that lovers of going to bed early to insomnia in Opatija are not threatened. Every twenty meters there are cafes, restaurants, casinos and nightclubs.

Active rest

Rest in Opatija has a healing slope . The reasons for that much . Firstly, the mild climate and excellent ecological situation contribute to the elimination of toxins from the body . Secondly, the city is rich in thalasso and spa centers, where you can get a variety of procedures . Obviously the sports orientation of Opatija . The city is rich in various swimming pools and tennis courts with different coverings types that attracts here to rest not only lovers of sport, but also eminent professionals . Among other things, there are conditions for mountaineering, windsurfing, walks on yachts . Fans of car racing know perfectly well that a well-known race track passes at 15 km from Opatija . Photo Opatija (14)