Situated along the jaw-dropping Adriatic coastline, the charming town of Novi Vinodolski stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Croatian tourism. This year, the town celebrates a remarkable milestone—145 years of welcoming people from all around the world. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, Novi Vinodolski has firmly established itself as a captivating destination that continues to captivate the hearts of visitors. And with this huge celebration – a party for everyone, the town will unveil all its gems and take you on a journey of music, education, and festivities.

The Birth of a Coastal Haven

Novi Vinodolski wrote its name as a historical, political, and cultural center 735 years ago, when the oldest Croatian legal monument, Vinodol Law, was written in the area of today's Town Hall. This significant event firmly established Novi Vinodolski as a center of great historical importance. However, the town's association with tourism took root much earlier, as evidenced by the construction of the Mrzljak family's private swimming pool near the Bribir waterfront in 1878. This early venture into tourism marked the beginning of an enduring tradition that continues to flourish today.

The foundations for Novi Vinodolski's tourism industry were laid down even earlier, in 1746, with the construction of the Novi-Vinodol-Bakar road, which linked the town to Rijeka. Subsequently, the Novi-Jasenak-Ogulin road was established, connecting the continental region of Croatia to the beautiful Adriatic coastline. These infrastructure developments paved the way for the flourishing tourism we witness today.

This year, Novi Vinodolski proudly celebrates its 145th anniversary as a tourism destination. It is a testament to the town's enduring appeal and ability to captivate visitors throughout the years. Additionally, it marks a special milestone for various other towns' gems. The extension of the Lišanj Hotel 40 years ago, the International Summer Carnival commemorating its 30th year, and 25 years of winemaking in Pavlomir all contribute to the rich tapestry of Novi Vinodolski's past.

These anniversaries not only speak to the town's long-standing tradition but also highlight the significance of Novi Vinodolski on the map of Croatia and beyond.

A Big Celebration of 145 Years of Tourism

Is there a better way to honor 145 years of tourism than with a grand celebration? The Tourist Board of the Town of Novi Vinodolski has embraced the role of organizing this event, ensuring that both locals and visitors can enjoy plenty of activities and events throughout May and June. The festivities kick off on the 20th of May with a delightful recreational walk in the picturesque hinterland of Novi, specifically in the enchanting location of Breza. As the celebration unfolds, various captivating workshops and exhibitions will take place, showcasing the region's unique offerings.

Melodies and Memories, Concerts, Education and Festivities

The celebration program will provide education for caterers, including workshops led by chef Damir Tomljanović on ''Trends in Gastronomy,'' Mrs. Spomenka Marković on "Raw Vegan" cuisine, confectioner Lorena Otavijević on "Modern Pastries," and Kvarner sommelier Lucija Matijević on the "Importance of Wine Knowledge and Culture." Additionally, there will be various workshops and exhibitions, such as "Medicinal Plants and Balms" and an exhibition celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Hotel Lišnjan extension.

Music enthusiasts can rejoice as an array of vibrant melodies and captivating concerts will accompany the celebration. The Kaplan choir will perform in the city center, and Tea Bašić will perform with the piano accompaniment of Mateo Žmak on the breathtaking setting of Prva Dražica beach. 

An exciting highlight includes the Miss Primorsko-Goraska County contest, where beauty and grace take center stage. The winner will compete for Miss Croatia. How amazing is that?

The festivities culminate in a Sparkling Breakfast hosted at the esteemed Pavlomir winery, a renowned establishment that has received awards for its exceptional wines. The Sparkling Breakfast in Kvarner is a unique gathering that brings together sparkling wine producers and various product makers, commemorating 25 years of winemaking excellence. This exceptional event features an exciting program designed to indulge your senses. A special workshop dedicated to the exquisite pairing of sparkling wine and chocolate will take center stage, revealing the delightful harmony of combining these two indulgent treats. Moreover, this gathering provides a perfect opportunity for winemakers to present their latest creation, the En Primeur wine, offering a sneak peek into their innovative craftsmanship. If you're interested in joining this unique experience, secure your spot for the program, scheduled to start on the 24th of June at 10:00 am. The ticket price is €20 per person. And on the 28th of June, the Pavlomir winery has prepared a special treat for everyone - a concert by Klapa Intrade to celebrate 25 years of winemaking. "Klapa" represents a traditional a cappella singing style, and Intrade is widely recognized as one of Croatia's most renowned groups in this genre. Perfect ending for the 145 years of tourism party, don't you think?

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For more information about the 145 years of tourism celebration program, check out the Tourist Board of the Town of Novi Vinodolski website. See you there!