Resorts Magazine

A gulf that feels like a celebration of breathtaking islands and bays, where the vibrant green of lush landscapes blends effortlessly with the deep blue of the Adriatic Sea. Welcome to the Kvarner Gulf, a vast expanse of sea and islands, long cherished as a destination for relaxation, stretching between the Istrian Peninsula and northern Dalmatia. At the heart of this stunning gulf is Rijeka, once a historic port of the Kingdom of Hungary and now a lively, dynamic city. Life pulses along the Korzo, its bustling main street, and flows toward the harbor. Passing through the Civic Tower, you leave behind the city’s modern, Austro-Hungarian grandeur and step into its medieval heart. Here, you’ll find the Cathedral of the Assumption, a structure with roots in the Middle Ages. Over time, it has been reimagined and refined, with its 19th-century façade standing proudly as a hallmark of its layered history. One of Rijeka’s most impressive landmarks is the late 19th-century palace of the Hungarian governors, a grand structure that later became the seat of the Regency of the Kvarner in 1919, during Gabriele D’Annunzio’s short but eventful stay in the city. A short drive from Rijeka brings you to Opatija, a name that harks back to the 15th-century Benedictine abbey that once graced the area. This elegant seaside town, with its opulent villas, grand palaces, charming hotels, and blooming gardens, evokes the glamour of the Belle Époque. During that golden era, Opatija became a beloved retreat for Central Europe’s elite, earning its nickname as the “Pearl of the Kvarner.” Today, just as in its heyday, a stroll along Opatija’s waterfront promenade is an enchanting experience. Surrounded by lush greenery and steeped in history, this timeless Croatian destination remains as captivating as ever. Kvarner da Rijeka a Opatija CROATIA 94 R ESORTS M AGAZINE