What to do in Opatija

Istria’s Opatija – The ‘Pearl of the Adriatic Ocean’. For more than 150 years, the ‘healing’ town of Opatija in Istria, the so-called ‘pearl of the Adriatic Ocean’, has been a leading tourist destination. Here’s what to do in Opatija:

From Emperor Franz Joseph to the famous ballerina, Isadora Duncan, for centuries, many well-known individuals have been visiting Opatija, keen to exploit the town’s unique healing powers to cure all manner of ailments.

There are still several “wellness” centres here today, sat amongst finest of villas that for more than 100 years old have adorned this magnificent holiday resort.

One of the more famous villas is known as Villa Angiolina, which is so magnificent and historic that it is possible to take a tour of this inspiring house and its beautiful gardens. The 3.5 hectare gardens were developed in the mid-eighteen hundreds and plant species were brought in from all over the world. Within the gardens are the oldest buildings in Opatija, including the church of St Jakov.

In attracting people seeking health, wellness and solitude from around the world, sprightly walkers breathing in the fresh sea air and taking in their invigorating surroundings, is a common sight in Opatija.

There is no place quite as thrilling and exhilarating to walk in this “wellness” town is a spectacular promenade called the “Lungo Mare”. The promenade is 12 kilometres long and connects with several interesting outlying seaside villages.

Other things of interest to see in Opatija is the Maiden with Seagull, a sculpture on the seafront which has become a symbol of the town and the Fountain of Helios and Selena, which is to be found in the beautiful park opposite the Imperial hotel near to the Church of St Jakov.

With splendid hotels, villas, fountains and monuments from an opulent age, the whole town has a ‘past glories’ feel about it.  If you ever have the privilege of visiting Opatija in Istria then you will understand why noblemen, royalty and the world’s elite have been seduced by Opatija’s charms for many years.