Opatija Sights and Landmarks Guide, Croatia
Opatija 2- Croatia
Also known by the name the Niece of the Adriatic, Opatija is an important harbor and touristy resort lying at the foot of Mount Ucka, at the eastern coast of Istria and close to Rijeca. But even if there are only 16 km between them they are tow very different locations, Opatia is smaller but nevertheless more attractive, clean, with plenty of facilities, nice beaches, various accommodation opportunities and plenty of shops whereas Rijeca is just big industrial city presenting less interest from the touristy point of view.
In comparison to other resorts in the country, Opatija is among the best resorts. There are many things that make Opatija attractive starting with its position which is very favorable because it is protected against harsh winds by Mount Ucka and the bora is moderate; its climate is quite mild in both winter and summer. The extreme temperatures are of 4 degrees C in winter and they do not normally exceed 24 in summer. Tourists can get plenty of sunshine as there is a reduced number of rainy days, but the air holds enough moisture for the vegetation to grow and the coastal strip is covered with lush vegetation.
Its beginnings were humble and it started as a small fishing village. Its fortune stared to change in the mid 19th century when an important Italian merchant built a villa called Villa Angiolina built in a lavish style with a wonderful park around it where he invited his guests. The word spread and soon people from the country and from the neighboring countries came to spend their vacation here. In 1857 the railroad between Vienna and Trieste and then the one connecting Pivka to Rijeca made it possible for the Austrians and Italians to visit Opatija. In 1873 a railroad connecting Opatija to Ljubljana was built facilitating the influx of tourists. A lot of other luxurious villas were built in the same style with gardens bearing exotic plants and the first hotel was built in 1884 called Kvarner and it was a hotel for the elite. A few others followed like the Imperial and Palace-Bellevue. A few years later in 1889 the resort was declared the first climatic resort in the area. This elitist start made Opatija remain and develop as classy resort attracting the rich and famous. Lots of kings, princesses and personalities have considered coming and spending some time in this lavish resort.
Having such an elite list of visitors Opatia has focused on tourism and the port has been shaped so it can welcome both big and small vessels. The marina located near hotel Admiral is opened throughout the year.
Everything is beautiful and well maintained in Opatija, it couldn't be any other way. The beaches, the parks and the sports grounds are perfect. Entertainment is at its best Opatija offering lots of recreational facilities, great events like the Carnival held at the beginning of February, the music festival in March or the Yachting competition in November.
Nightlife in Opatija is moderate and stylish, you can't party the night away as the resort turns quiet after 11 pm so people are fresh in the morning and throughout the day to enjoy what Opatija has to offer during the daylight. This makes it a perfect resort for families with children, it is quite a safe resort and you can both have fun and relax in the same time without being desturbed or disturbing others.
Walking along Lungomare iunder the stars is a pleasant and safe activity, you won't see many drunk people around casting a shadow over your walk.
Botom line, the best words to describe Opatija are classy, diverse, safe, clean and beautiful.
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Opatija, the best place to go in Croatia
review by lindamura posted more then 30 days ago
Located on the east coast of the Istrian peninsula, 150 km from Zagreb, below the mountain and Nature Park Učka and on the Kvarner bay coast, Opatija is a very popular resort for the locals as well as for Italians, Germans, Austrians and other neighbors. It is easy to get here no matter where...
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