Nearly half a century of loyalty to one place is a rare and moving story in today's dynamic world of travel. Just such a story is being written by Edoardo Caltran and Franca Miotti, an Italian married couple from Thiene, whose love for the island of Lošinj began an incredible 45 years ago and continues with undiminished intensity to this day. Their connection to this Kvarner gem goes beyond a typical tourist visit; it is a story of friendship, respect for nature, and a testament to the transformation of a destination that has managed to preserve its soul while growing and developing.

It all began back in the eighties of the last century, a time when the Adriatic was different, and the search for the ideal summer resort was a real adventure. Edoardo, along with his brothers, set out to explore the Croatian coast, looking for the perfect corner for a holiday. After passing through Istria and the neighboring island of Cres, fate brought them to Lošinj. It was a moment of recognition. The island won them over with its unique combination of untouched nature, crystal-clear sea, and, most importantly, the warmth and hospitality of the local population. They found what they were looking for: a peaceful oasis that would become their sanctuary and second home in the decades that followed.

From a tent to a family friendship

The first encounters with Lošinj were marked by the simplicity and freedom of camping. Life under the open sky, surrounded by the scents of pine trees and the sea, was the perfect way to fully merge with the island. However, as the years went by, their bond with Lošinj grew deeper, and the desire for a more comfortable stay became more pronounced. A turning point occurred in 1998 when they met Mario Jureković, the owner of a private accommodation who opened the doors of his home to them. That meeting grew into much more than a business relationship. Mario became a true friend to them, a reliable host, and a guide through all the island's secrets. Edoardo and Franca speak warmly of his exceptional helpfulness and willingness to assist at any moment, emphasizing that he is a key part of their Lošinj experience. Over the years, staying with him has become synonymous with returning home. It is precisely this tradition of quality family hospitality that makes private accommodation on Lošinj so special and sought after.

The rhythm of their visits to the island testifies to their deep affection. They don't just come during the summer months, when they enjoy the sun and sea from June to September. Lošinj attracts them in the off-season as well. They are frequent guests during the winter months, especially on weekends in December, when the island shows its quieter, more introspective side, offering a different kind of beauty and serenity.

Explorers of the hidden archipelago

As passionate seafarers, Edoardo and Franca own their own boat with which they tirelessly explore every corner of the Lošinj archipelago. For them, sailing is not just recreation, but a way of life and the best way to discover the true essence of the island. Their routes take them far from the crowds, to hidden coves where absolute peace reigns. Over the years, they have discovered numerous turquoise lagoons and secluded beaches, and they are particularly fond of the calm sea that surrounds the islets of Orjule, their small, private paradise. With their boat, they also often visit nearby islands such as the sandy Susak, the floral Ilovik, or the pristine Unije, each with its own unique story and character. It is this possibility of discovering new beauties every day that makes a stay on the island of Lošinj an unforgettable experience for all who seek adventure and an escape from everyday life.

Witnesses to positive changes

Over 45 years, the Caltran-Miotti couple has had the opportunity to follow and witness the impressive development of Lošinj firsthand. They speak with unconcealed delight about the transformation the destination has undergone, pointing out that the island has become aesthetically more refined, more organized, and richer in content, without losing its original charm. They are particularly impressed by the network of landscaped promenades, the popular lungomare paths that stretch for tens of kilometers along the coast, connecting picturesque coves and towns. The promenades leading to the center of Mali Lošinj, as well as the urban center itself, are, in their opinion, an example of thoughtful and sustainable development. As experienced travelers, they emphasize the importance of feeling that you get real value for your money, and Lošinj, in their words, succeeds in this. The island has managed to upgrade its offer, from cultural content to service industries, while maintaining a high level of quality. For example, they also visited the Museum of Apoxyomenos, a unique space dedicated to just one statue, and described it as a magnificent and unique experience, even in comparison to the numerous museums they have seen throughout Italy. Such cultural progress further enriches the experience of every guest who decides to find their accommodation in Mali Lošinj.

Gastronomic journeys through the island's flavors

For Edoardo and Franca, the love for Lošinj is inseparable from the love for good food. As true gourmets, over the decades they have tried the offerings of almost all the restaurants on the island, following the development of the local gastronomic scene. Their culinary journeys have revealed the richness of flavors that Lošinj offers – from fresh fish and seafood to island lamb and wild herbs. Recently, the restaurant Rosemary has taken a special place in their hearts, which, as they say, won them over with its extraordinary wine list and impeccable service. But their memories go back even further; they fondly recall restaurants like Baracuda and Bocca vera, which delighted them in the past with their specific offerings and individualized approach to guests. This ability of the island to constantly evolve and offer new gastronomic surprises is one of the reasons why they always return to it.

In the end, the story of the Caltran family is a story of a deep and unbreakable bond. For them, Lošinj is not just a destination, but a place that has shaped their lives, given them countless happy moments, and become synonymous with rest for the body and soul. Because of all this, they have become the most faithful ambassadors of the island. With great enthusiasm and pleasure, they recommend it to their friends and acquaintances in Italy. Many of them, spurred on by their enthusiastic stories, have visited Lošinj themselves and, just like Edoardo and Franca, have become its regular guests. Their loyalty is the best proof of the magical attraction of this island of vitality.