Lovran

Opatija Riviera - Croatia

Peering out over a sweeping bay from the lower slopes of Gorica Hill, Lovran is the oldest settlement along the Opatijan Riviera. It is smaller and more laid back than its big sister, Opatija. Here you'll find Italianate green-shuttered houses, as well as the lovely old St George's Church. Meticulously cared for, the parks, gardens and woods of Lovran make delightful retreats for a lazy stroll. Established in the 12th century and named after an old Benedictine 'opatija' - abbey - the town has been welcoming the rich and famous, the artistic and aristocratic, since the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Today, Opatija is a cosmopolitan resort with bars, restaurants, nightclubs and casinos.