For more than 110 years, Lungomare has stood proudly, endured waves, resisted time, listening to the secrets of all those who walk by every day, those who kissed for the first time, and those who laughed or shed a tear. A promenade that lured over kings and queens, counts and countesses, famous doctors, and writers. A promenade that always calls you, heals you, a promenade that we can't say no to!

The History of Lungomare Promenade

The history of Lungomare coincides with the opening of Grand Hotel Kvarner, as the construction of this beautiful promenade started in 1885 and was completed in 1911. Lungomare, officially named Promenade of Franjo Josip I., was built in multiple stages. The first stage, from Opatija to Volosko, was built from 1885 to 1889, and the last one, connecting Ičići, Ika, and Lovran, was completed in 1911. The Austro-Hungarian architecture is evident, and the combination of this style and the rocky coast gave beautiful results. Did you know that Opatija was nicknamed "Vienna on the Sea"? The rich history is visible throughout the promenade; it is enough to mention the numerous princesses, emperors, and kings who were able to enjoy strolling along the winding path.

Let's take a walk...

Very often, this promenade offered comfort and relaxation and witnessed some joyful or less joyful days. Maybe we should start by setting the tone first? Imagine the waves hitting the rocks, their drops falling on the laurel and mixing with the wind and the smell of the oak. You will also feel the undertone of Mediterranean herbs. A scent that we can always evoke. Lungomare is truly magical in every season, but if you had to choose one, it would be autumn. The rain in this part of Croatia is magical, special, and indescribably beautiful. Our walk begins in Lovran, a small town with a long and rich past. Small coves, hidden beaches, benches surrounded by oak and laurel, and behind them, villas that take your breath away. Walking along, you'll wonder who built them and who enjoyed them. First, we'd like to mention Villa Astra, built at the beginning of the 20th century by the skillful architect Attilo Maguolo. Then, surrounded by tall palm trees and a beautiful park, stands the gorgeous Villa Frappart. Perhaps our favorite villa by the Austrian architect Karl Seidl. Namely, this villa is considered to be the most beautiful noble residence on the whole Opatija Riviera. It was built for Ruault Michael-Frappart in 1900.

This is just one of the Lovran villas that will leave you in awe. After Lovran, we reach a small town called Ika, then Ičići. Coming from Ičići to Opatija, you will pass through Đavolja (devil's) cave, which got its name from eerie sounds that come from the rocks at the place where the promenade is at its highest altitude. After that adventure, we come to Villa Glax. Julius Glax, a doctor from Vienna, lived in this very villa, and even today, he is considered one of the most important residents of the abbey, as he is often called the founder of health tourism.

Along this pleasant walk, we reach Opatija. The cradle of Croatian tourism leaves no one indifferent. Whether you enjoy Austro-Hungarian architecture, beautiful gardens, or the promenade, Opatija will always have something to offer you.

Landmarks Along the Enchanting Seafront Path

It is also worth mentioning Villa Madonna, a.k.a. Villa Schalek. Although there are many interesting legends and stories related to this villa, the most interesting one for us is certainly one about the Austro-Hungarian emperor Franz Joseph I, who allegedly stayed there with the actress Katharina Schratt. Quite interesting, isn't it? In addition to these villas, you can see and get to know the Villa Ariston and the Palace, Mozart, Imperial, Kvarner, and Millennium hotels... All these hotels have a rich history, and we don't even have to talk about their majestic architecture.

The symbol of Opatija is certainly the Girl with a seagull, which can be found, you guessed it, on the promenade. Installed in 1956, this statue made by Zvonko Car replaced the statue of Madonna del Mare, which was placed to watch over the soul of Count Arthur Kesselstad, who disappeared in a storm in 1891. Although Lungomare hides a lot of beaches and small bays for you to take a swim, you shouldn't miss Angiolina, the first public swimming area in Opatija. Renovated in 2017, this amazing location that successfully combines classic and modern will completely win you over.

Walking along the promenade, in addition to beautiful villas, hotels, and monuments, you will notice beautiful plant species and trees. We must mention camellias, a flower that represents Opatija the best. In 1894, Ignio Scarpa brought the first camellia bush to Opatija as a gift to his beloved wife. He probably could not have imagined that one day this flower would be the symbol of this magical city. We end our magical walk in Volosko. This small fishing village used to be a busy maritime center. Today it is a peaceful oasis where you can enjoy a rich gastronomic offer. Did you know that the Hungarian count Gyula Andrassy, supposedly also a friend of the Austro-Hungarian Queen Elizabeth, known as Sissi, adored Volosko so much that he decided to spend his last days in his Villa Minach?