Villa Elizur

Villa Elizur is nestled in the hamlet of Zagore, with the centre of Bresec located at 6km distance on the eastern coast of the Istrian peninsula.

Bresec is a pretty medieval town brimming with local flavour, with a striking 2km long pebble beach. A hike up to the 15th-century church of St. Magdalena, which is famous for its frescos, will reward visitors with stunning views of the surrounding area and the town’s charming harbour.
 
At Brestova, a few kilometres from Zagore, visitors can take a ferry (20-minute crossing) to the port of Porozina, to explore the neighbouring island of Cres, in beautiful Kvarner Bay. Cres is known for its wild, rugged and windswept terrain, with the north being dense in oak and chestnut forests and the charming villages on the west coast including the medieval village of Lubenice. Lubenice is perched on a cliffy edge clad in local stone, hosting open-air classical concerts in the summer months. There is a medieval fortress and remnants of the medieval city walls.

Taking a trip further up the coast, visitors can soak up the old-school glamour of the stylish Riviera town of Opatija. Opatija is known for its long promenade (‘lungomare’) stretching to neighbouring Lovran, awash with belle-epoque villas and elegant architecture dating to the Austro-Hungarian era. Icici is nestled at the base of the Ucka Mountains.

Ucka Nature Park is one of Croatia’s finest expanses of natural beauty. With 160km² of mountains and green open spaces, it is a ruggedly remote spot that is ideal for hikers; on clear days, Vojak (1401m), its highest peak, offers sublime views of the Italian Alps and the Bay of Trieste.

Close by, Moscenicka Draga is a small, coastal town known for its fine beach and serene surroundings. Set on the banks of Kvarner Bay, the town boasts a two-kilometre long pebble beach, known locally as ‘Sipar,’ believed by many to be the most stunning in the region. Full of hidden coves and cliffs, it offers the ultimate private and natural surroundings.
 
Further south, a visit to Pula, the capital of Istria is worth a day-trip. Awash with history and fresh, affordable cuisine, Pula offers stretches of glittering Adriatic coastland and the most complete Roman colosseum in the world. With a relaxed seaside atmosphere, elegant Italian architecture and with bustling markets, it is rich with local flavour.

Read more about Opatija

Opatija is a picturesque coastal resort nestled on the northeastern shores of the Adriatic Sea. A charming destination, perfect for those seeking relaxation, elegance, and natural beauty. Opatija's history is rich, its culture diverse, and its scenery breathtaking.

Opatija is a treasure trove of architectural and cultural heritage. Strolling through its streets, you'll encounter a mix of architectural styles, from the grandeur of Austro-Hungarian to the charm of Belle Époque. The town's historical past is brought to life in its iconic landmarks, such as Villa Angiolina, an elegant 19th-century villa that now houses the Croatian Museum of Tourism, and the
Church of St. James, a stunning neo-Romanesque structure.

In the 19th century Opatija gained prominence as a desirable retreat for European aristocracy. Opatija's mild climate and stunning natural surroundings made it a popular destination for the elite. The town was transformed into a sought-after spa and resort destination, and it became a fashionable resort for Europeans, known for its beautiful gardens, grand villas, and splendid promenade.

Opatija's appeal lies not only in its historical charm but also in its stunning natural surroundings. The town is surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea. The mild Mediterranean climate, characterised by warm summers and mild winters, is a key draw for visitors year-round. The town is also blessed with beautifully maintained parks and gardens, such as the Angiolina Park, which showcases a variety of plant species and sculptures, as well as the St.
James Park with its exotic plants and panoramic views of Kvarner Bay.

The 12-kilometer-long coastal promenade - the “Lungomare” - offers stunning vistas of the sea and surrounding islands, making it a favourite spot for leisurely walks. The Lungomare also connects Opatija to neighbouring towns Lovran and Ičići, allowing visitors to explore the beauty of the coastline at their own pace.

Opatija has a noteworthy coffee culture. You can savour your coffee or tea at one of the many cafés along the Lungomare, enjoying the beautiful views and the gentle sound of the sea. It's a cherished part of the Opatija experience.

Opatija hosts a wide range of cultural events throughout the year. From concerts and art exhibitions to festivals celebrating local traditions and international music, the town offers a vibrant cultural scene that caters to a variety of tastes. The Opatija Summer Stage, a popular open-air venue, hosts numerous events during the summer season, including classical concerts and theatre performances.
Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy sailing, diving, and snorkelling in the region’s crystal-clear waters. For hikers and nature lovers, the Učka Nature Park is just a short drive away, and offers rewarding hiking trails that lead to panoramic vistas.

While Opatija itself is a captivating destination, it also serves as an excellent base for day trips to other picturesque places in the region. You can explore nearby towns like Rijeka, Croatia's largest port city, or the historic hilltop town of Mošćenice. Additionally, the islands of Krk and Cres are easily accessible from Opatija and offer stunning landscapes, charming villages, and pristine beaches.

From its elegant architecture to its lush parks and gardens, from its cultural events to its diverse cuisine, Opatija offers a multifaceted experience for travellers. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the sea, cultural enrichment, or outdoor adventures, Opatija has it all. So, if you're looking for a charming and refined coastal getaway on the Adriatic, Opatija may be your perfect destination.