Day 4: Croatia - Opatija and Plitvice

Opatija, a charming coastal town in Croatia, was developed in the 19th century as a luxurious retreat for wealthy Austro-Hungarian nobility. Renowned for its elegant villas, mild climate, and therapeutic seawater, it remains a premier wellness destination today.

St. Jacob's church

St. Jacob's Church was built in the 14th century on the site of a Benedictine monastery. The church played a significant role in the town's history, and it's from this abbey that the town got its name.

"Opatija" is derived from the Croatian word for "abbey." 

Interestingly, St. Jacob is also St. James! The names St. James and St. Jacob refer to the same saint, but the difference arises from language and translation. In Croatian, the saint is called Sveti Jakov, which translates directly to St. Jacob in English. However, in many English-speaking contexts, this same saint is often referred to as St. James. St. James/St. Jacob is the patron saint of Opatija.

Madonna del Mare

In front of St. Jacob's Church stands the golden statue of Madonna del Mare, a symbol of devotion to the Virgin Mary. Originally placed along the waterfront promenade, it was replaced during the period when Opatija became part of Yugoslavia. Under the Communist regime, religious symbols were not approved, leading to the Madonna's removal in favor of the now-famous Maiden with the Seagull statue.

Lungomare coastal promenade

Maiden with the Seagull

Created by sculptor Zvonko Car in 1956, the statue depicts a young girl extending her arm to a seagull, gazing out towards the sea.

Yes, there's an intriguing legend tied to the Maiden with the Seagull statue in Opatija. According to local lore, the maiden was a young woman who awaited the return of her love, a sailor lost at sea. Day after day, she stood by the shore, watching and hoping for his return. The seagull in the statue represents the spirit of her lost love, who never returned but remained forever close to her in spirit.

It's so fun to travel in a group.

Clowning around with Rose, my new found friend from our travel group

Yes, Croatia has its very own Walk of Fame too!

The Croatian Walk of Fame celebrates the achievements of notable figures in sports, culture, science, and the arts who have significantly contributed to Croatia's global reputation. 

Much like the famous Hollywood version, this promenade features stars dedicated to icons such as Nikola Tesla, Janica Kostelić, and Goran Ivanišević. 

Lunch @ Restoran Feniks, Plitvice.

Suckling pig, or "pečenje prase," is a beloved Croatian dish, especially in the Plitvice region. Often served at festive gatherings, it's slow-roasted to perfection with crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. Typically paired with roasted potatoes, vegetables, and fresh bread, this hearty meal reflects the region's rustic culinary traditions.

PLITVICE  LAKES NATIONAL PARK

Plitvice Lakes National Park, located in central Croatia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning lakes, cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and scenic boardwalks that offer close-up views of the park’s natural wonders.

The boardwalks at Plitvice are especially notable for how they meander gracefully over crystal-clear turquoise waters, passing right by waterfalls and hugging the edges of the lakes. These wooden pathways, built above the lakes and streams, allow visitors to experience the park intimately while preserving its delicate ecosystem. The boardwalks create an immersive experience, bringing you so close to the lakes that you can feel the mist of nearby waterfalls and see fish swimming below.

The park’s boardwalks connect both the upper and lower lake areas, each with unique landscapes. In the upper section, the lakes are elevated and surrounded by dense forests, creating a serene and enclosed feel. The lower lakes area, on the other hand, is home to spectacular waterfalls, including the iconic Veliki Slap (Big Waterfall), which is the tallest waterfall in Croatia. Here, the boardwalks wind between lakes at various elevations, offering breathtaking views of cascading waters and steep limestone canyons.

Built in harmony with the surroundings, the boardwalks ensure minimal impact on the environment. This naturalistic approach enhances the visitor experience, allowing for stunning photo opportunities without harming the park’s fragile flora and fauna.

I have anxiety issues and found the walk along the boardwalks a bit nerve-wracking. Imagine narrow, rough-hewn logs with gaps, uneven surfaces, and fast-flowing water below, with people moving in both directions—often without handrails for support. Adding to the challenge, I was trying to keep my balance while carrying a large, heavy tote bag and wearing thick winter clothing in the chilly 35°F (1.5°C) weather. However, the breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning autumn foliage were an absolute reward, making every step worth the effort. While the walk felt challenging for me, it was likely a breeze for the rest of our group, who were much younger than I am. I guess, in the words of Bette Davis, getting old is not for sissies!

                           

Hats off to those who walked in their flip-flops, as seen in some YouTube videos!

Here’s a glimpse of the stunning emerald-green waters of Plitvice Lakes. The crystal-clear surface reveals every detail beneath, making it feel like you’re peering into another world. Nature’s perfection at its finest!

This is one of those bucket list moments that feels like stepping into a dream. I was spellbound—it's almost too cool to believe it's real.

Dinner @ Lyra Hotel Plitvice

Pastrva na krumpiru s blitvom (Trout on Potatoes with Chard)—a popular and traditional dish in regions like Plitvice, celebrated for its fresh and rustic flavors.

The day ended with this delicious dinner at the hotel. 🍴

To give you a sense of the experience, here's a video by my favourite YouTuber, Rok Goes Around. Enjoy!

Day 3: Croatia - Rovinj and Pula

Dobro jutro!

It took me three days, but I’ve finally remembered it—though "buongiorno" will always be just fine, too. Good morning, everyone!

"Dobro jutro" means "Good morning" in Croatian, a Slavic language spoken primarily in Croatia. Most Croats are multilingual, with a strong command of English and often Italian, particularly in coastal regions like Istria and Rijeka. Italian has historical roots in Croatia due to centuries of Venetian influence, and it remains an official regional language in some areas, taught in schools and used in governance. English proficiency is widespread, especially among younger Croats and in tourist hubs such as Dubrovnik and Zagreb. This is largely because English is a mandatory subject in schools, contributing to Croatia's high ranking in global second-language proficiency.

ROVINJ 

Rovinj (pronounced as Roween) feels like a perfect blend of Venice and Cinque Terre! The Italian influence is evident throughout the town, thanks to its rich history as part of the Venetian Republic. From its charming streets to the beautiful architecture, it’s a place that effortlessly captures the essence of Italy’s coastal beauty.

Venice meets Cinque Terre

Balbi's Arch (Balbijev luk)

This is the most iconic and well-preserved town gate in Rovinj, marking the entrance to the old town. Built in the late 17th century, it features notable decorations, including a Venetian lion at the top, symbolizing Rovinj's historical ties to the Venetian Republic. This arch serves as a key landmark for visitors exploring the town.

Rovinj’s main square Trg Marsala Tita

Boy with a Fish

 "Boy with a Fish," is a popular symbol in Rovinj, representing the town’s deep connection to the sea and its fishing heritage. Installed in the early 20th century, the fountain showcases Rovinj’s maritime culture, as fishing was historically a mainstay of the local economy.

This bronze relief on the fountain depicts water carriers, honoring a vital profession from the town's past. Before modern plumbing, these workers hauled fresh water through Rovinj's hilly, narrow streets to supply homes and businesses. This sculpture serves as a tribute to their hard work and keeps the memory of this essential role alive in the town's history.

Rovinj was originally an island. In 1763, the channel separating it from the mainland was filled in, transforming it into a peninsula that is now part of the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia.

I love the colorful buildings in Rovinj. The mix of pinks, yellows, and oranges gives the place such a lively, welcoming vibe. It really captures the town's Mediterranean allure and makes the streets feel so warm and full of character.

Archways and stone tunnels echo the past and evoke a sense of intrigue and adventure.

Clothes are often hung out to dry, adding a unique character to the town. It gives the sense that the place is truly lived in, not just a destination for tourists, and creates a warm, authentic atmosphere that reflects the everyday life of its residents.

Lunch @ La Vela gostionica

The people are what make a place special and memorable, and Rovinians (or Rovinjané?) are warm, welcoming, and full of character, adding a distinctive appeal to Rovinj’s enchantment.

Parting ways with this picturesque town was no easy task—it’s a place that lingers in your heart long after you’ve left.

PULA

Our next stop was Pula, a city steeped in ancient history and Roman heritage. Just a short drive away, Pula offers a striking contrast with its impressive amphitheater, stunning coastal views, and vibrant atmosphere.

Arena di Pula

While visiting Rome, we unfortunately missed the opportunity to explore the interior of the Colosseum due to the long queues and massive crowds. However, we were thrilled to finally experience the Pula Amphitheater, which was practically empty during our visit. Both are magnificent Roman-era structures, but it was a delight to marvel at the Pula Arena’s grandeur in such a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere.

The Pula Amphitheater, commonly known as the Pula Arena, is one of the six largest surviving Roman arenas in the world and the only remaining one to have all four side towers fully intact. Constructed between 27 BCE and 68 CE during the reign of Emperor Augustus and later expanded under Emperor Vespasian, it could accommodate up to 20,000 spectators.

The amphitheater was primarily used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, similar to the Colosseum in Rome. Today, it serves as a venue for various cultural events, such as concerts, film screenings, and the annual Pula Film Festival.

The Hypogeum

The hypogeum, or underground network, was used to house wild animals and gladiators before their battles. This intricate maze of passages allowed for the efficient movement of animals and fighters to the arena floor, adding to the spectacle of the gladiatorial games.

Today, the hypogeum of the amphitheater has been repurposed as a museum. Part of this space is also dedicated to various exhibits, showcasing items such as ancient tools used in the production of olive oil and wine, along with distinctive amfora (amphorae) that were once essential for storage and transport.

As I wrap up my reflections on Pula, I leave you with a  mosaic of its mesmerizing vistas as the sun takes its final bow.