Opatija. Imagine beautiful eclectic mix of Nice, Cannes, somehow Lago di Garda, somewhat Lago di Como, a bit of Austria, pinch of Florence, all in one, naturally stirred together and benefited by smells of the sea and pine trees, glorious Adriatic panorama and mild climate. This place was discovered and developed by Austrians, and during elegant Habsburg era Austrian elite made it fashion to come here for winter months escaping chilly weather. The same like British were building their winter residences in French Riviera, Austrian did in Croatian coast. Well, the scale is much smaller, but it is the same charming and appealing.
Picturesque 17 km long seawall promenade called Lungomare goes from town of Lovran through fisherman village Ika to Opatija, ending in its oldest part Volosko, and every turn of narrow curvy pass following the capriccio of coastline, is a discovery.
Beaches are rocky, but you can’t help falling in love with those charming little coves where water is crystal clean and transparent, and ladders provide easy access to the sea here and there. And yes, you can swim anywhere you like. Not exactly your posh beach club type of things, but if you can survive absence of sunbed and umbrella, and if you have your beach towel with you, Adriatic sea is all yours, with every little pebble visible on the bottom of the sea through emerald coloured waters.
Coastline is dotted by elegant villas, some dated to Habsburg era, some modern, and few steps from the seawall you will find eclectic blend of cultures, organically mixed together and easily enjoyable. Classic parks and bell époque hotels and sanatoriums of Opatija, narrow streets of Lovran, Italian-looking marina of Volosko with fisherman boats and little cafes by the water… And all this is walking distance connected by Lungomare promenade, or vintage car ride, or fancy Riva boat voyage if you wish. I was truly charmed and spelled. Sure you will be too.
And now we are coming to the point where to stay in Oparija riviera. The answer is easy as long as we find availability because hotel is tiny (by number of rooms but not by what it offers in regards of services and facilities). Ikador. Another little gem found during my escapades, the one to offer with total confidence my clients will love it through and through. Why I’m so sure? The answer is easy: everyone working for Ikador is happy with what they do, you will fill it. The same as you will fill understated luxury in each and every detail, doesn’t matter where you are: in your comfortable room, at Riva lounge by the sea, in the restaurant, planning your day with concierge… There is always someone to take care of you, day or night, and it is friendly care which is way more than just a good service.
Feel free to contact me for reservation and to plan your Croatian itinerary. I’ve done it, I know how. 🙂 [email protected]
