Volosko
An old fishing village of Volosko, known for its many superb restaurants, taverns and fisheries, is located right beside Opatija. After enjoying a swim at the lovely, recently refurbished Črnikovica beach, take a walk along the promenade to this tiny jewel of gastronomic delights and enjoy some freshly caught, delicious seafood.
Take a stroll along the narrow, typically Mediterranean alleys through the old heart of the town and let yourself be inspired. After all, Volosko is a birthplace of Dr Andrija Mohorović, a renowned scientist, as well as a continuous source of inspiration to artists.
An international painting contest called Mandrać takes place here during the summer. Many artists from all corners of the world come to Volosko to participate in the challenge. If you visit during this time, you will have an opportunity to witness beautiful contemporary art being created before your eyes.
Apart from visual art and exquisite gastronomy, a busy summer schedule of Volosko brims with cultural manifestations, music concerts, and fisherman feasts.
Ičići
Opatija’s second-closest neighbour is the tiny Ičići — a tourist destination boasting one of the most beautiful beaches in these parts. During the Middle Ages, Ičići was an important harbour, and the tradition carried over to the present day with a large ACI marina. Go for a swim in the crystal clear sea and enjoy a day of the beach equipped with all the amenities you could wish for.
Veprinac
The ancient town of Veprinac resides on the slopes of Učka mountain, just above Ičići and Opatija. Almost touching heaven, to quote the lovely words of a poet Josip Stanić.
Visit it by going for a hike on the mountain trail starting in Opatija and enjoy a glimpse of the history of this part of the world. An old chapel of St. Anna houses paintings dating to 15th century and a museum displays an interesting ethnologic collection showcasing the everyday items of former inhabitants. Most enchanting of all, though, is the view of Kvarner bay from this mountaintop promontory.
Lovran
The Lungomare promenade takes you through Ičići and even tinier Ika all the way to the beautiful Lovran, a town with a long and rich history. The town is dotted with luxuriously designed, centuries-old villas, adorned by lush Mediterranean vegetation.
During the summer, the enticing fragrance of its majesty the bay leaf permeates the Lovran air. But in the autumn, its reign is eclipsed by an even more enticing smell of freshly roasted chestnuts. Those are the famous Maruni of Lovran, a beloved local treat and an autumn delicacy. A festival in their honour — The Marunada is a great chance to find out what makes them so special.
Inhabitants of Lovran appreciate the nature’s gifts (and love to throw parties), so don’t be surprised if you find yourself in the middle of a lively crowd during yet another food festival, such as the one thrown in the honour of the wild asparagus, or a traditional fisherman feast. Then there is the famous regatta, a great chance to taste some delicious food while watching tiny sailboats race the seas with great skill.
Mošćenice
If you are interested in the history and cultural heritage of these parts, seize this opportunity to visit the picturesque medieval town of Mošćenice. Built 180 meters above the sea level it is another promontory with a spectacular view.
The historic heart of Mošćenice is a cultural heritage site. Explore its ethnographic museum and witness the almost forgotten method of olive pressing in the toš — a 300 years old press that became a symbol of Mošćenice.
Mošćenička Draga
An old fishing harbour of Mošćenička Draga nestles beneath Mošćenice, connected by a road as well as stairwell with no less than 753 stairs. Nobles from Opatija used to take coach trips to Draga. Today, it is a site of one of the most beautiful Kvarner beaches.
Kastav
Lovers of exploration, culture, and tradition should visit Kastav, a historic town located above Rijeka. The heart of Kastav was built 340 meters above sea level, dominating not only the town but the entire Kvarner Bay as well.
Kastav is a town with a unique atmosphere, and the spirit of times long gone can be felt with each step through its streets. During the summer, enjoy fine music at festivals such as Kastav Cultural Summer.
