Villa Cyrillo

Crikvenica is one of the oldest summer resorts in Croatia with a famous health resort. Kotor is considered to be the old Crikvenica on top of a nearby hill. The public beach is sandy and has had a Blue Flag since 1998. You will find many watersports as well as bars and restaurants. Balustrada Beach is pebbly and stretches from the public sandy beach to the centre of the town. Crikvenica is very attractive with many historic buildings, including the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary built in 1412. Crikvenica is great for shopping with a large mall that opened in 2013, the Duga Mall shopping centre. The colourful local market is great for local fruit and vegetables.
 
Rijeka is the third biggest town in Croatia with a very busy port and an atmospheric blend of Italianate Habsburg grandeur. Rijeka’s busy promenade, Korzo, has some lively markets and is a really buzzy place to be. The fish market building is decorated with sculptures of sea creatures. You will find so many varieties of fish inside. Just next to the fish market you can buy fruit and vegetables at the central market. There are so many restaurants to choose from serving delicious Croatian dishes. Trsat Castle has a wonderful panorama and is very attractive.
 
It is very easy to take a boat trip to the island of Krk or Rab as well as the small island of Kosljun. Krk is Croatia’s largest island and home to Rijeka airport. The main resorts on the island are Malinska, Omisalj, Vrbnik, Punat, Baska and Krk Town. Kosljun is home to a Franciscan Monastery.
 
The Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s most popular tourist attractions with UNESCO World Heritage status. It is located roughly between Zagreb and Zadar on the coast. The beauty of the National Park lies in its sixteen lakes, inter-connected by a series of stunning waterfalls and set in deep woodland populated by bears, wolves, deer and rare birds. You will see some truly stunning scenes, so don’t forget your camera!
 
Istria is not very far from the villa. It is definitely worth exploring this stunning peninsula and visiting the fabulous towns of Pula, Rovinj, Porec and Umag.

Read more about Kvarner

Sheltered by majestic mountains, the Kvarner Gulf region of Croatia is a coastal gem calling out to be explored. With its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and a seamless blend of Mediterranean and Central European influences, Kvarner has emerged as a must-visit destination for travellers seeking an authentic Croatian experience.

The region offers a stunning array of landscapes, ranging from rugged mountains to tranquil coastal areas. The Velebit Mountains, which stretch along the eastern part of the region, are not just an incredible backdrop but also an absolute haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking and mountain biking trails criss-cross the mountain range, offering spectacular vistas of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding islands.

The coastline of Kvarner is equally breathtaking, with numerous hidden coves, pebble beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The islands in the Kvarner Gulf, including Krk, Cres, and Lošinj, offer fantastic opportunities for beach-combing, swimming, and water sports. You can also embark on boat trips to explore the secluded beaches and hidden caves that dot the coastline.

Kvarner boasts a rich history that has shaped the region into what it is today, and one of the most notable historical sites in the region is the town of Krk on the island of the same name. Krk's Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets and picturesque squares, surrounded by medieval city walls and fortifications. A highlight of Krk is the Frankopan Castle, a well-preserved fortress with a rich history dating back to 1191.

On the mainland, the elegant resort town of Opatija, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a prime example of Kvarner's cultural appeal. It was a favoured destination for European aristocracy during the 19th century, with its historic grand hotels and lush parks. A stroll along the beautiful seaside promenade that trails along the coastline will give you great views over to the neighbouring islands. It’s a delightful town to explore and soak in the atmosphere of a bygone era.

The Lopar peninsula on the island of Rab is a perfect spot for a family trip - the beautiful Paradise Beach (Rajska Plaža) features fine, golden sands and very shallow, crystal-clear waters that make it an ideal beach for young children. That and the beach entertainment - think fairground rides, boats, and beach volleyball - will keep little ones entertained all day.

The region is well-connected by road, making it easy to explore the coastal towns and venture into the mountains. Rijeka, the largest city in Kvarner, serves as a transport hub, with good rail and bus connections. Additionally, there are multiple airports in and around the region, including Rijeka Airport, which facilitates international travel.

Kvarner is truly a treasure trove of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural charm. The Mediterranean climate offers a year round destination, popular with beachgoers in the warm, sunny summer months, and providing pleasant weather for hiking and sightseeing in the spring, autumn and mild winters. This coastal region offers a range of activities and experiences for travellers of all interests - whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or simply seeking a peaceful seaside retreat, Kvarner has something special to offer.