What is the Love Path, who were the Paulines, when was the first bathing establishment in Crikvenica opened and why is this region so miraculously healing?
Find out in the following text…
Due to its location stretching from the Istrian mountain of Učka, over the mountain landscapes of Risnjak, all the way to the stunning coast lined with beautiful beaches, Kvarner is a true oasis of diversity. Mountain trails intertwine with the turquoise sea and the nature captivates with its vast expanses, as well as the cuisine with its rich combination of Mediterranean and continental flavours. The coast dotted with islands and historical towns and a hinterland intersected by steep paths and viewpoints unfold before you like a ball of wool, showing you the way to a magical labyrinth of adventures.
If you ask travellers what attracts them to Crikvenica, they will mention the clean and beautiful sea, traffic accessibility and a healthy climate that benefits the respiratory system. And indeed, when you descend from the highway towards the Crikvenica Riviera, you will be amazed by the beauty of the pebble and sandy beaches that shine like pearls on the turquoise canvas of the sea, as well as by the air imbued with the aromatic combination of salt and Mediterranean herbs. And when you start exploring the local fabric of life, you will fall in love with the cheerful spirit of the locals, the flavours of local cuisine and colourful events, right after outdoor activities ranging from the depths of the sea to the mountain tops.
When the healthy microclimate and proximity to the centre of Europe coincided with the marketing shrewdness of local intellectuals and the recommendations of doctors of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy about the benefits of bathing, tourism in Crikvenica began to flourish. The first public bathing establishment was opened in 1888, and the first hotel, “Erzherzogin Klotilde” (Archduchess Klotilde), was built in 1891, while a comprehensive Crikvenica guide was published in Graz in German. In 1906, Crikvenica was declared a climatic health resort, attracting Europe's aristocracy at the time, who would come to bathe and rest. Guidelines for treatments, bathing and sunbathing were written, hotels and villas were built, health parks were created, and the legacy of that period is still visible today in the elegant, Belle Époque-style façades and the famous thalassotherapy centre near Mediteran Hotel by Aminess.
Interesting fact:
Nikola IV Frankopan had the Pauline monastery built in 1412, not knowing that this building would, over the centuries, turn into a centre of spirituality, culture and science of the entire region. It was built as a monastery for the Paulines, whom the people called the “White Friars”, but it also had features of a fortress. The Paulines stayed there for 400 years, leaving a deep cultural imprint on Crikvenica, so the closing of the monastery in 1786 was a great loss for the town. In 1895, the monastery was purchased by Archduke Joseph and converted into a military convalescent hospital, and in 1897, it was turned into a home for poor children from the entire Monarchy.
The Crikvenica Riviera is indeed attractive with its sunny beaches, but it will offer you much more than that. There are two diving centres on the coast that organise courses and joint diving, and in the vicinity of our hotel there is also a water sports centre with exciting parasailing. There are also various coastal and mountain trails that are excellent for hiking or cycling. Put on your hiking boots and explore the Love Path, known as one of the most beautiful trails under the forest canopy, with viewpoints and the mysterious Badanj Fort. If you like to exercise in the open air, there are open-air gyms next to the beaches, and you will also be rightfully tempted by boat excursions to the neighbouring islands of Krk and Rab. Accept the challenge and enjoy it to the fullest!
The beaches of Crikvenica are some of the most unique on the Adriatic coast. Some are pebbly, so you can enjoy natural acupressure, while the others are sandy, providing a velvety feel to your feet. They offer numerous amenities, from deck chairs and parasols to chess pieces, exercise areas and playgrounds for kids. Also, let's not forget about the restaurants and bars. In short, everything you need for a life without a single care in the world.
You can start with a blue fish marinade, and if it's asparagus season, continue with a soup made from this wild plant. After that, you can opt for black risotto or boiled fish, and then brodet or buzara stew and golden polenta. And if you prefer meat, we recommend a schnitzel or pork tenderloin. For dessert, pancakes, strudel or the traditional “Frankopan Cake” with coffee spiced with cumin and brandy. Crikvenica cuisine is a journey through the history of this region, which was created by fishermen and workers, but also by dukes and friars. All of this beautifully intertwines on the plate, introducing you to the world of simple, but irresistible flavours.
This one-of-a-kind Donkey Farm experience is a must-see during your vacation in the Kvarner region. The farm is home to gentle and kind donkeys that your children will love riding and playing with. You'll enjoy feeding and grooming these friendly animals in direct interaction, and even drive a small carriage pulled by a donkey around the yard.
From 1 hour
5.0 Exceptional
A must-see local farm with stunning views of surrounding areas. Explore how local, natural cosmetic products are made through a guided tour through the beautiful fields, followed by an educational talk at the distillery.
1 hour, 15 minutes
Explore the stunning coastline at your own pace with our kayak rentals!
1 hour
Experience the magic of the sunset on the Adriatic Sea with our unforgettable Sunset Tour. Join us for an evening paddle along the stunning coastline of Crikvenica, where you will have a front-row seat to the changing colours of the sky and sea as the sun sets over the horizon. The real highlight comes at the end when the cocktails are served on kayaks!
1 hour, 30 minutes
Explore beautiful cape Kačjak! Start your morning adventure like no other with our guided exploring tour! Leave the hustle and bustle behind as we paddle our way to hidden beaches far away from crowded tourist spots. Combine kayaking and hiking to reach beautiful viewpoint of Eyes of Riviera Crikvenica.
2 hours, 30 minutes
Experience the magic of the Adriatic with Nautica's top-tier boat rentals.
9 hours
We look forward to providing an unforgettable experience and sharing our love for the sea with you! Contact us and experience the magic of the Adriatic!
8 hours
Beautiful ambiance with excellent wines and warm hospitality from the host.
Experience unlimited paintball action where your skills and strategy determine the game length. Choose from a variety of packages and enjoy an adrenaline-fueled adventure with friends and family.
Varies
Experience timeless adrenaline climbing with our Small Trail (1m height) and Large Trail (4-5m height), perfect for both children and adults.
Discover Novi Vinodolski to Vrbnik: guided tour, wine tasting at Winecellar Nada, free time to explore, then swim at Risika beach before heading back.
6 hours
Embark on a scenic boat journey from Novi Vinodolski to Vrbnik, where you'll explore the charming old city, savor local wines, and soak up the sun on Vrbnik beach before returning.
4 hours, 15 minutes
Explore Croatia from above and enjoy the freedom of flying! Join us on a flight with a private aircraft and fly with us on pre-planned routes that take you to best locations Croatia has to offer.
30 minutes
Guided 3 hours sea kayaking adventure around Krk bridge and St Marko islet.
3 hours
Discover the underwater world of rivers and lakes. Marvel at different exotic species of turtles, snakes and lizards. See a vast range of freshwater life.
40 minutes
Discover the underwater world of the warm tropical seas. Marvel at the collection of shellfish and sea snails from tropical regions of the world. See a vast range of colorful, tropical sea life.
Marvel at magnificent rock formations such as calcareous sinters, stalagmites, and stalactites See bone fragments of a cave bear and discover species of wildlife unique to the cave Feel the refreshing coolness down in the cave's depths
Discover the underwater world of the Croatian Adriatic Sea Marvel at the largest collection of Adriatic shellfish in Croatia See a vast range of sea life
Tasting of autochthonous domestic specialties: prosciutto and cheese with wine tasting.
2 hours
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