Hike the panoramic trails of Učka Nature Park, with sweeping views of Kvarner Bay
Trek Istria’s truffle country, weaving through vineyard paths, oak woods, and the medieval beauty of Motovun
Summit the highest peak of Risnjak National Park
Opatija Riviera based: old-world coastal charm and comfortable seaside accommodation with close-by swimming opportunities
Food on trails: savour mountain-style picnics featuring regional delicacies and indulge in local wine tasting
Ideal duration for a long-weekend trip
Welcome to Croatia! Make your way to your accommodation on the Opatija Riviera and settle in at your own pace. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Perhaps take a walk along Opatija’s scenic Lungomare promenade or explore the town’s elegant seaside parks. Rest up for the days of hiking and discovery that lie ahead.
After a hearty breakfast, set off for the slopes of Učka Nature Park. Today’s loop trail climbs steadily through shady chestnut groves and pine forest. As the trail gains elevation, clearings open to reveal sweeping views of Kvarner Bay and its scattered islands glinting in the distance. Along the way, you’ll crest a series of peaceful highpoints, eventually reaching the highest section of the hike, just under 900 meters, with a striking perspective on Učka’s rugged ridgeline. After pausing for a scenic picnic and photo break, begin your descent through forest paths and return to the coast. Back at the coastline, enjoy a relaxed evening with the day’s peaks now silhouetted above the sea.
Fuel up at breakfast, then journey inland to the rolling hills of Central Istria. Today you’ll walk a network of trails around Motovun – a medieval, fortified town perched on a hilltop. Get set for exploring historic trails, lush vineyards and oak wood forests, while soaking in the panoramas of Motovun’s stone walls at every turn. Around the halfway point, stop at a local winery to enjoy a relaxed wine tasting paired with local snacks. After hiking back up to Motovun’s gates and exploring its quaint cobbled streets, return to Opatija. Take the evening to relax and dine at your leisure.
Embark on a full-day mountain adventure in Risnjak National Park. After breakfast, transfer about an hour inland to begin your hike through pristine beech and fir forests on the way to the park’s highest peak. Follow a trail that gradually ascends through the wilderness, with the chance to spot wildlife tracks or hear birds of prey overhead. As you near the summit ridge, the terrain becomes steeper and rockier, with an optional final scramble to reach the top. At 1,528 m above sea level, the summit offers breathtaking 360° views. Expanses of forested ridges, a glimpse of Kvarner Bay and its islands, and even the distant Julian Alps on clear days. Descend at a relaxed pace, stopping for a picnic lunch along the way. Return to the trailhead and transfer back to Opatija for your final evening at leisure.
Your adventure concludes this morning after breakfast, as you check out and bid farewell to the Opatija Riviera. Your host can assist with onward travel plans, whether you’re extending your stay or catching a transfer to the airport. You’ll depart with wonderful memories of crystal-clear vistas, new friendships, and the unique blend of mountain and coastal experiences you’ve gathered over the past days. Doviđenja! (Until we meet again!)
Best months to go: beginning of April till mid- November.
You choose your own Private group and your preferred dates.
Inclusions are noted in the “What’s Included” section.
| Group Size | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 8 participants | 490,00 € per person |
| 6-7 participants | 535,00 € per person |
| 4-5 participants | 625,00 € per person |
| 2-3 participants | 790,00 € per person |
Payment details: Deposit 100 € per person will be required to secure the booking and is non-refundable. Balance payment has to be made before the start of the tour.
Groups 9+ participants are available on request.
By clicking “Book Now” you will inform us about your preferred travel dates & number of participants and we will get back to you within 24h to confirm your booking.
By clicking “Self-Guided” you will inform us about your preferred travel dates & number of participants and we will send the Self-Guided tour price & advise all the details.
Like the resilient Balkan herb rue, this trip finds a balance between effort and reward.
Expect moderate hikes that energize the body and soul, steady climbs through the woods, rewarding summit views, and manageable daily distances. No special technical experience is required, just a reasonable fitness level and sure footing. The longest hike is around 18 km with about 950 m elevation gain, tackled at a comfortable pace with plenty of breaks. If you’re used to day hikes or enjoy long walks at home, you’ll find these trails very doable. Our guides are there to support you, and the focus is on enjoying the journey.
You’ll spend 4 nights on the Opatija Riviera, based in a charming coastal accommodation. This means you can unpack and make yourself at home, without the need to move during your stay. Rooms are twin-share (double or twin beds) with private bathrooms and modern amenities.
The accommodation offers a warm welcome and is ideally located to enjoy the seaside atmosphere in the evenings. After each day’s activities, you can relax in comfort, perhaps take a dip in the Adriatic if the weather’s right, or sip a drink on the terrace as the sun sets over the bay.
Example accommodation: Hotel Villa Schubert, Villa Klarić B&B, Hotel Park Lovran
Accommodation availability is checked upon request, and the exact property will be confirmed at the time of booking.
A hearty breakfast is included each morning (except arrival day). Wake up to a spread of local and international favorites: fresh breads and pastries, cheeses and cured meats, fruit, yogurt, eggs, and more. Of course, coffee and tea are served to get you ready for the day’s hike.
We provide 3× mountain-style picnic lunches on your hiking days (Days 2, 3, 4). These packed lunches are filled with energy-rich goodies so you can refuel on the move. Expect pastries, fresh fruit, veggies, maybe a local cheese or sausage, and sweet treats. We love showcasing local products. Water is always available, and we encourage the use of reusable bottles (the tap water in Croatia is excellent).
On Day 3, enjoy wine and truffle tasting in the Motovun area, sampling the region’s prized truffles and the local wines that winemakers here are so proud of.
Dinners are not included, giving you the flexibility to explore. The Opatija Riviera area has a variety of restaurants and konobas (traditional taverns) to suit all tastes. Whether you crave fresh seafood by the water, Italian-inspired pastas and pizzas, or Croatian grilled delicacies, you’ll find it here. We are happy to suggest favorites or even make reservations. One popular option is strolling along Opatija’s promenade and dining al fresco with a sea view. Don’t forget to sample a scoop of locally-made gelato for dessert!
We believe food is a big part of travel, and we strive to make it enjoyable for everyone. Please inform us of any dietary requirements or allergies when booking. We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other special diets on request. Lactose intolerant? Prefer plant-based meals? No problem!. The included meals can be adjusted given advance notice. During free meal times, your guide can point out suitable dining options (for example, which places have vegetarian selections or understand celiac needs). Our goal is that you savor Croatian cuisine worry-free.
The tour begins on the Opatija Riviera (Western Croatia). Usually, travelers fly into Zagreb, Rijeka or other regional airports and transfer from there. Opatija is roughly 180 km from Zagreb airport (about 2h drive), and just 40 km from Rijeka airport.
The tour ends after breakfast on Day 5 in Opatija. From there, we can help coordinate your transfer to onward travel or to an airport.
All necessary ground transfers during the trip are included. Throughout the tour, private transport is provided to reach the hiking trailheads (generally 30–60 min drives each day).
Flight Options: There are several airports you can fly into for this trip:
Note: If you arrive via Trieste or Ljubljana, plan to cross the border (Schengen internal) – no visa issues for EU/US visitors aside from possible passport checks.
Opatija is also reachable overland by bus from or by car from elsewhere in Croatia or a nearby country. Feel free to ask us for advice on the best route from your hometown. We’re here to help!
A: You’ll be accompanied by a friendly local, an experienced tourism professional and an avid outdoor enthusiast. They ensure every detail runs smoothly, share insider knowledge about the region, and help turn your adventure into a seamless, memorable experience.
A: Your local host keeps a close eye on weather conditions. If rain or wind makes any activity unsafe, they’ll offer alternative activities or reshuffle the itinerary.
A: Absolutely. If you’d prefer to relax at the accommodation or wait at a set meeting point, just let your host know. They’ll help adjust the plans to suit your needs.
A: Definitely! Many guests travel alone and quickly meet like-minded adventurers along the way. A single-traveler supplement applies, so please see the “Not Included” section above for details.
A: Absolutely, just get in touch, and we’ll be happy to help with any pre- or post-tour services or recommendations.
A: We follow Leave-No-Trace principles, respect local wildlife and habitats.
A: No, insurance is not included in the price of our tours. We highly recommend arranging travel insurance when you book your trip, as your coverage for cancellation due to illness, accident, or other insured events will begin immediately. This ensures you’re protected if you need to cancel before departure for a valid reason.
A: No problem at all, just request a call, and we’ll set up a video call at a convenient time to make sure you are fully prepared.
