Workshop Location: Crikvenica Riviera
Where the Azure Sea Meets Golden History
Nestled in the heart of the Kvarner Bay, Crikvenica is more than just a sun-soaked retreat; it is a gateway to Croatia’s storied past and breathtaking natural wonders. Known as the “Old Lady” of Croatian tourism, this charming riviera was founded by Nikola IV Frankopan in 1412, taking its name from the monastery church – crikva – that still anchors its cultural identity.
A Glimpse into the Vinodol Valley
Just a few steps from the coast lies the Vinodol Valley, the “Valley of Wine”. Its motto “One step from the sea, two from the snow” (jedan korak do mora, dva do sniga) highlights the region’s unique geographical position.
This emerald hinterland is the cradle of the region’s history:
- Medieval Might: Explore the silent stone sentinels of the Frankopan and Zrinski dynasties, including the castles of Drivenik, Grižane, and Bribir.
- The Vinodol Law Code: Walk through the birthplace of the 1288 Vinodol Codex, one of the oldest legal documents in Europe.
- The Eyes of Vinodol: Hike to spectacular viewpoints like the “Eyes of Vinodol“ for panoramic vistas that stretch from the fertile valley to the shimmering Adriatic.
Additionally, visitors can admire Kuća Klović in Grižane, a museum dedicated to the “Michelangelo of Miniature“. Juraj Julije Klović (1498–1578), celebrated as is one of the most significant Renaissance artists born on Croatian soil. Born in Grižane, he rose to international fame in Italy, serving popes and powerful cardinals like Alessandro Farnese.
Your Hub for Adventure
Crikvenica’s prime location makes it the perfect “base camp” for exploring the best of Croatia and beyond. Most of these iconic destinations are reachable within a comfortable day trip:
| Destination | Why Visit? | Travel Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Krk | Cross the Krk Bridge to explore the medieval town of Krk and Biserujka cave. | Car / Boat |
| Cres & Lošinj | Experience the “wild” side of the islands and search for resident dolphins. | Boat / Ferry |
| Rab | Known as the “Island of Happiness,” famous for its four bell towers and sandy beaches. | Boat Excursion |
| Plitvice Lakes | Witness the thunderous waterfalls and turquoise lakes of Croatia’s most famous National Park. | Bus / Car |
| Postojna Caves | Journey into Slovenia to see one of the world’s most spectacular karst cave systems. | Bus / Car |
Whether you are sipping indigenous Žlahtina white wine in the valley or diving into the crystal-clear waters of the Riviera, Crikvenica offers a mosaic of experiences where history is always just a heartbeat away.
Before or after the workshop, explore the Vinodol Valley’s history and Crikvenica’s role as a hub for day trips to islands like Krk, Cres, Lošinj, Rab, and further afield to Plitvice Lakes and Postojna Caves.
How to reach us?
By air: Rijeka Airport (RJK) is the closest hub, served by numerous European airlines during the summer. From there, a taxi or Bolt ride to Crikvenica takes approximately 20–25 minutes. Alternative arrivals include Pula Airport (PUY) (105-minute drive) and Zagreb Airport (ZAG) (2-hour drive).
Zagreb offers the most frequent bus connections; a reliable Pleso Prijevoz shuttle runs every 30 minutes to the Zagreb Central Bus Station, where buses to Crikvenica typically depart from platforms 402–405.
By car: Hotel Miramare has its own parking space.