Opatija holidays

Holidays to Opatija serve up sophistication, with trendy bars, a sleek sandy beach and villas that hail from La Belle Epoque.

Upmarket Opatija

Once a popular seaside resort for the Austro-Hungarian upper class, Opatija's now one of the trendiest holiday spots in northern Croatia. It's saddled between the Istrian and Kvarner rivieras – think turquoise seas wherever you look. Take a stroll along the seafront and you'll see a line-up of pastel-coloured villas, fancy boutiques, spa hotels and ultra-cool bars.

Splash time at Slatina Beach

Slatina Beach is the name of the local stretch of shore. Its steps go right in to the sea, and man-made crescent-shaped coves keep the water calm enough for doggie paddlers. All that's against a backdrop of pines and coffee shops – perfect for when you fancy a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

History, but glam

The glitzy past shines out from every angle here – buildings from La Belle Epoque are now the area's hotels and museums. A chic example's Villa Angiolina, now the Croatian Museum of Tourism. Browse the exhibits, or bring a picnic and settle down in the landscaped gardens.