Ellasandra & Anthony
Things To Do
Lungomare
You can spend hours strolling along the Lungomare. This 12-kilometer (7-mile) picturesque seaside walkway winds through Opatija, connecting a series of charming coastal towns from Volosko to Lovran. As you walk along the path, you will encounter multiple landmarks, including Anthony's family's former summer house and where his mother and uncle learned to swim. A short stroll north along the Lungomare will bring you to Volosko, a picturesque fishing village with an authentic feel, colorful houses, a lively harbor, and excellent seafood restaurants. Southward, you will eventually reach Lovran, which, though small, is incredibly endearing. The ancient town, known as Stari Grad, is a maze of winding stone streets, monuments, churches, and townhouses dating back centuries.
Private Boat Tour
For a truly special way to experience Opatija and its surroundings, we highly recommend a day-long boat tour. Setting off from Opatija or Volosko, these tours take you to hidden coves and secluded beaches that you will otherwise miss. When you look out to the horizon from Opatija, you'll spot the island of Krk to the left and Cres to the right—ask your skipper to take you here. The city of Krk is ancient and surrounded by walls. We also recommend the town of Vrbnik on Krk, a charming town built on a high cliff above the sea. It's one of the most tightly packed towns we’ve ever visited. In fact, it's home of the narrowest street in the world (just over 15 inches wide)! Below is one option for a private boat tour operator, but numerous operators offer personalized tours with experienced skippers who are experts on the top spots nearby.
Day Trips
Rovinj is the jewel of the Istria region in Croatia. While Dubrovnik often steals the spotlight, Rovinj is arguably more beautiful (and way less touristy). With its winding streets, picturesque harbor, and some of the finest seafood restaurants in Croatia, this town is an absolute must-visit. While in the area, don't miss Pula, the neighboring town. Both towns are lively without feeling overly crowded. The Pula Arena is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters—and it's still used today (but for less brutal events). In the heart of the Istria region, there are several beautiful villages perched on hill tops. If you're driving to Rovinj, definitely check these out. Groznjan is full of little art galleries—and it's where Anthony broke his leg as a child. Motovun, unofficially called "truffle town," is also lovely, though slightly more touristy. The wine, olive oil, and truffles throughout Istria are world renowned.
Sport
If you fancy a hike, Vojak is the highest peak on Mount Učka, a protected nature park, and offers a spectacular view of the Istria region. The area is also popular for mountain biking. For water activities, many visitors enjoy sailing in Kvarner Bay. The fishing village of Volosko, close to Opatija, offers windsurfing, and kayaks are easy to rent in downtown Opatija. Guided kayak tours are also available along the beaches of Preluk, Volosko and Ičići. If you like to explore what’s beneath the sea, scuba diving equipment is available in Opatija as well.