Some of you have probably heard about Opatija – a small but charming town on the Adriatic coast which has also been, for more than a century, a health resort for the Central European elite. Our small, lovely group of Swedish guests who visited Opatija in the first days of February were much taken by the beauty of the nature as well as by the architecture that transports you back to the end of 19th and the beginning of 20th century period. It is important to say that most of the houses, villas and buildings of a historical importance are very well kept and attractive. We have written about Opatija on several occasions and this time the trigger is the March Challenge called „Healthy life is becoming a habit“.

The town of Opatija, with its numerous hotels and spa centres, is focusing on offering its guests an oasis of health and wellness at the end of winter and just before the spring starts knocking on the door. At least, in our part of the world!

Many locals are taking part in this Challenge, and it is expected that the total turnout will be around 50,000 participants. The organizers will put together sport lovers who will undertake walks up the mountain Učka (which sits above the town) or, for more recreational activists, there will be walks along the seaside.

The important part of the Challenge is the invitation to visit the many spa and wellness zones that are open for regular guests – including local people but especially the international guests who come here all year round.

Interest in winter health holiday offer is clearly growing in Croatia. Today with more and more crowded summer tourism on the Adriatic coast, people are turning towards the many other opportunities that this region offers at different times of the year. The potential lies in the many sunny hours the region enjoys also during winter, fresh and still pleasant winds blowing over the sea that creates that special healthy mixture – an aerosol that helps those with respiratory problems and allergies breathe more easily and helping them to feel more relaxed.

It is invigorating, alluring and smart to take a break from freezing cold winters and come down here for your dose of peace, pure health and good mood. We are not far away and, apparently, getting closer with more and better flight connections planned in the very near future. There are many more ideas that could be put into action, such as winter sport training or recovery from various stressful life events or just exploring the taste of local goodies…