Opatija At the foot of the mountain, underneath natural preserve Ucka is located the city Opatija. It covers an area of 54 square kilometers or 1.51 % of the territory of Primorsko-Goranski canton. Opatija was formed in 12. Century. The city consists of 10 settlements: Dobreć, Ičići, Gorenje Selo, Ika, Veprinac, Vela, Poljane, Pobri, Oprič and Opatija. The city was founded to ecclesial possession beside a small church of St. Jakov, the guardian of the city, and at that time it had 250 residents and 35 houses. On 25. July Opatija celebrates the day of the city. The census of the population in 2011 showed that city has 11659 inhabitants of which 88.4 % are Croats. The 77.41 % are Catholics, 2.80 % are Orthodox and 1.32 % are Muslims. City Opatija has a flag, a solemn Flag and emblem that has been adopted on 23. November 1995. Opatija is the inevitable  cultural center in the country all year round. Tourism in Opatija is known since ancient times. As it originaly has been deve...loped for the rich only, it was reserved usually for the guests from Germany or Austria. In 1884 the first hotel on the Adriatic coast, Hotel Kvarner in Opatija has been built. It radiates the elegance of the past. In 1889 Opatija receives the status of an elite summer and winter sports resort. Tourism in Opatija has a valuable heritage of welcoming the tourists from Europe and the world for 160 years. It has two parks which are protected monuments of landscape architecture. One of them is the most beautiful park on the Adriatic coast and stretches along the promenade Lungo Mare. It contains exotic plants, lawns, bay leaf pine, Japanese camellia, bamboo and banana. The second one is located in the vicinity of the Hotel "Opatija" with hiking trails and mostly younger trees. From Opatija to Lovran extends wonderful garden area. Throughout the year many  entertainment and cultural events, such as festivals concerts, exhibitions take place in Opatija. It is a leader in  the organization of seminars, conferences .... The climate is Mediterranean with mild winters and average temperature between 7 degrees C in the winter and bearable 21.9 C in summer. Sea temperature increases to 26 C. The temperatures are a little lower than in central Dalmatia, there is a tad more rain and cloudy days, the annual solar radiation is around 2000 hours. Underneath more than a thousand meters high mountain massif Ucka is situated thirty kilometers long Opatija Riviera which is although a part of Istria also a part of the Kvarner Bay. Opatija is the oldest and most popular city in the Kvarn Bay. The city with its almost twelve thousand inhabitants is situated on the east coast of Istra. Opatija is known among the foreign guests as "Adriatic Nice" or the "Pearl of the Adriatic" or "The Croatian gem of the Mediterranean Sea". The nobility of the austro-hungarian monarchy has built here stately mansions in 19. Century due to the mild winter and warm climate. Opatija offers a twelve kilometers long beach promenade called Lungomare. The location of the promenade is unique. It extends from a beautiful place of Volosko which is a village of fishermen, to Lovran, a town located south of the city Opatija. The promenade invites you to an adventure and long walks. Nice ambiance makes relaxing and pleasant walk. The mild climate of the Region supports the growth of lush subtropical vegetation. All who enjoy hiking and enjoy their walks will love the city and the surrounding area. Surrounded by pine and palm trees, you will want to remain for ever in Opatija.  The largest  tourist development began in 1873 with the establishment of the rail links between Vienna and the city of Rijeka. Viennese nobility noticed a nice small fisherman's village Opatija and decided to make the pearl of the Mediterranean or Adriatic Pearl of it. Hikers and walkers can enjoy the diversity of the beautiful countryside, hiking under palm trees surrounded by  laurel and pine forests. Except for the young, Opatija and neighboring beaches are also suitable for casual holiday , therefore ideal for older people , both for younger guests, too.  Select whether you want to stay on the rocky or sandy beach. The coast is ideal for people who want to spend their holiday with their children. High quality of the water and its cleanliness were rewarded with the prestigious Blue flag, the further proof of the quality which Opatija offers to its guests. If you are in the center of Opatija area you shouldn't miss a trip to the famous mountain range, Ucka because there you will have the best view of Opatija and Kvarner islands. In addition, if the weather is nice, without clouds or mist your view will also reach the Italian coast. Hiking and biking trails offer you an active holiday and the mountains will continue to be a major challenge for the experienced hikers or athletes. The rich cultural and historical heritage, beautiful promenades and beaches, clear blue sea and quality are the most important sights of the city Opatija. Your satisfaction and a great holiday is guaranteed.