Welcome to Kvarner
Sheltered by soaring mountains, the Kvarner Gulf has long been loved by visitors attracted by the mild climate and cobalt waters, and those in search of more than just beach appeal. In the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the wealthy built holiday homes here, bestowing places like Rijeka and Opatija with a rich legacy of stately Habsburg-era architecture. From both of these neighbouring towns you can easily connect to hiking trails inside the protected forests of Učka Nature Park and Risnjak National Park.
Top experiences in Kvarner
Travel guides
Starting at $33.79
Kvarner activities
Trsat Castle and Opatija Day Trip from Zagreb
The Trsat Castle represents a strategically embossed lookout on a hill 138 meters above sea level dominating Rijeka. It was mentioned as a parochial centre for the first time in 1288. At this same site there was a Liburnian observation post from prehistoric times, used for monitoring the roads leading from the hinterland to the coast. This location served well to the Romans to establish their defence system, the so-called Liburnian limes, whose starting point was the Tarsatica fortress town – which was situated at the site of today's Old City of Rijeka. It was the Frankopan dynasty based in Krk who fortified and enlarged the castle as it gave them a vantage point to protect their holdings. Trsat belonged to the Frankopans from the 13th through the 15th century and it then fell under Hapsburg rule. After the castle was damaged by an earthquake in 1750, Austrian field-marshal Laval Nugent bought the ruins and restored it. Opatija-the cradle of Croatian tourism and of particular elegance, located in the Kvarner bay, in the foothills of the mountain Učka (1.401 m). Opatija, with its tradition and appearance, stands out from other tourist towns because of her very colorful history and is also known under different names, such as "Old dame", "Pearl of the Adriatic" or "Queen of Tourism". Opatija is a great choice either during the summer or winter time. Beautiful nature, parks, old villas, promenades and beaches attract, for over 170 years, tourists from all over the world. It is known for fancy hotels, well-tended parks and unique promenade called "Lungomare".
Ucka Mountain Hiking Tour
The tour starts with a transfer to Poklon, saddle between two hills from where the hiking trail starts. The trail goes on the top of Učka mountain which is biggest mountain in Istria with altitude of 1401m. From the top it goes all the way down to sea level in Lovran. The path is covered by oak and chestnut forests that give pleasant freshness in hot summers. The very summit of Ucka (Vojak) is worth climbing for stunning panorama. The panorama of Kvarner bay includes sea and coastal towns, as well as the mountains in the background: Obruc, Snjeznik and Risnjak on the Western side; the whole Istra peninsula will lie in front of you. Sometimes, if visibility is good, you have a view towards to Venice and the Alps on the North side. The hike continues down following the trail through the forest with magnificent panorama on Kvarner Bay and islands. After 3-3.5 hour of hiking we will reach Lovran where the bus will be waiting for you and transfer you back.
Istria: Blue Cave and Fish picnic on Cres Island from Rabac
Departure from Rabac port at 09:30. Sail around the Kvarner bay; visit the island of Cres and the the town of Cres - choose weather you want to spend your time swimming in its crystal clear sea or explore local sights of the town. Cres is rich in history and culture, with it's city walls, stone gates and reinnasance churches and palaces. After 1.5 hours of exploring Cres you will start your journy towards the Blue Cave. During the panoramic ride to the Blue Cave you will be served lunch (reccommended menu - fish, also available: meat and vegetarian menu). After lunch the boat will anchor in front of the Blue cave and you will have an organised swimming into the Cave. This spectacular nature masterpiece will leave you breathless.After one hour of exploring the Cave, depart back towards Rabac. Return is scheduled for 17:30.