Opatija, the pearl of the Kvarner Gulf, is currently pulsating to the rhythm of health and well-being, reaffirming its centuries-old status as a destination that revitalizes both spirit and body. As part of the commendable project “Opatija – Oasis of Health and Wellness”, which extends throughout most of the year, residents and visitors have a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of wellness through a series of meticulously designed activities. Until the end of May 2025, this elegant lady of Croatian tourism offers programs aimed at promoting an active lifestyle, inner balance, and overall improvement in the quality of life. If you are looking for an ideal place for rest and regeneration, consider a stay in Opatija.
Harmony of Spirit and Body: Workshop “Sugar and Salt for Beauty and Health”
One of the gems in Opatija's May wellness offerings is an educational and interactive workshop titled “Sugar and Salt for Beauty and Health”. This interesting event is scheduled for Sunday, May 25, 2025, starting at 10 AM, and will be held in the inspiring ambiance of the Kulturni dom Zora hall. The workshop is designed as a combination of an informative lecture and practical application of knowledge, offering participants deeper insight into the synergy of natural ingredients and their beneficial effects on the body.
Participants will have the opportunity to explore the often-neglected but extremely important link between chronic stress and the appearance of cellulite. Expert guidance will explain how stress hormones, such as cortisol, can affect fat metabolism, circulation, and water retention, directly contributing to the formation of unwanted deposits on the skin. However, the workshop will not stop at theory; the focus will be on practical solutions. Attendees will be introduced to the basics of aromatherapy, the ancient art of using powerful plant essences to achieve physical and emotional balance. They will learn how to properly select and use various essential and carrier oils, which are the foundation of natural cosmetics and a holistic approach to care.
A particularly interesting part of the workshop will be the practical preparation of body care and relaxation products. In this context, the universally known sugar and salt take on a completely new, therapeutic role. They will be used as basic components for making natural scrubs that gently remove dead skin cells, stimulate circulation, and leave the skin soft and radiant. Also, participants will learn how to prepare relaxing baths enriched with magnesium, a mineral crucial for muscle relaxation and tension reduction, and fragrant essential oils that will turn the entire experience into a true mini spa ritual.
Each participant will take home from the workshop not only newly acquired knowledge but also personally made preparations, as well as a detailed script with recipes and tips. This will enable them to easily integrate the learned techniques and rituals into their daily routine, creating their own wellness oasis at home. The workshop, lasting an hour and a half, will be led by experienced aromatherapist Meri Popović, who will surely inspire all attendees towards positive changes with her knowledge and approach.
Participation in this valuable workshop is free, but due to a limited number of places, registration is mandatory. Interested individuals are kindly asked to secure their spot no later than 24 hours before the workshop begins. Registrations are accepted through the Tourist Information Centre of the city of Opatija, available at the following contacts:
- Phone: +385 51 271 310
- E-mail: tic@visitOpatija.com
Do not miss this extraordinary opportunity to learn how to improve your health and beauty using simple, natural methods, and how to effectively combat daily stress.
Activate Your Body and Mind: Active Saturday Walks with Nordic Walking
For all lovers of outdoor movement and those who want to discover the benefits of one of the most effective recreational activities, Opatija offers a program of active walks, with an emphasis on Nordic walking. Until the end of May, every Saturday, including May 24, 2025, and May 31, 2025, everyone interested, regardless of age and physical fitness, can join this healthy initiative.
The gathering of participants is scheduled in front of the famous Villa Angiolina, one of Opatija's symbols, precisely at 10 AM. The walks will be conducted under the expert guidance of licensed instructors from the Klub za sportsku rekreaciju (KŠR) Gorovo, ensuring proper technique and maximum benefit from the activity. A great advantage of this program is that no prior registration is required; it is enough to show up on time and with a good attitude.
Nordic walking, an activity originating from Scandinavia, is an increasingly popular form of recreation worldwide, and for good reason. By using specialized poles, this type of walking activates almost 90% of the body's muscles, including the muscles of the arms, shoulders, back, and abdomen, which are significantly less engaged in ordinary walking. This results in greater calorie consumption compared to classic walking at the same pace, making it an excellent ally in maintaining body weight and improving cardiovascular health.
Furthermore, Nordic walking is gentle on the joints, as the poles help absorb part of the load, reducing pressure on the knees, hips, and ankles. This makes it ideal for people of all age groups, including those with certain joint problems or excess weight. Regular practice of Nordic walking contributes to better posture, strengthening muscle tone, increasing endurance, and reducing stress levels. Spending time in the fresh sea air, which Opatija offers in abundance, further enhances the positive effects of this activity on the respiratory system and general mood.
Walks along Opatija's paths, whether along the famous Lungomare overlooking the crystal-clear sea or through the fragrant parks that are the city's trademark, provide not only physical activity but also a true delight for all senses. This is an opportunity to connect with nature, breathe in the healing air, and do something beneficial for your health in good company.
Opatija – A Year-Round Oasis of Health and Wellness
The aforementioned programs are just a part of the broader project “Opatija – Oasis of Health and Wellness”, which the Tourist Board of the city of Opatija proudly implements from March until mid-December. This ambitious project aims to position Opatija not only as an attractive tourist destination but also as a leading center for health tourism and wellness in the region, building on its rich tradition of spa tourism dating back to the 19th century.
The project includes a wide range of free recreational and anti-stress programs, designed to encourage citizens and visitors to adopt healthier lifestyle habits, achieve spiritual and physical balance, and generally improve their quality of life. Through numerous workshops, outdoor exercises, guided meditations, and educational lectures, participants have the opportunity to learn how to cope with stress, improve physical fitness, and adopt principles of proper nutrition.
An important segment of the project is cooperation with local tourism stakeholders. Opatija's hoteliers and wellness centers are actively involved, creating special wellness packages and arrangements tailored to the needs of the modern guest seeking a holiday with added value. Their offerings often include innovative treatments, the use of local, indigenous products such as medicinal herbs from Učka or sea salt, and personalized detoxification and relaxation programs. In addition, the gastronomic offer in many Opatija restaurants increasingly follows the concept of healthy living, offering light, nutritionally rich meals prepared from fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The mild Mediterranean climate, clean sea air enriched with aerosols, lush vegetation, and beautiful promenades like Lungomare, which stretches 12 kilometers along the coast, make Opatija naturally predisposed to the development of health and wellness tourism. These natural resources, combined with modern infrastructure and a rich offer, create ideal conditions for recovery, recreation, and achieving inner peace. The project “Opatija – Oasis of Health and Wellness” only further emphasizes and utilizes these advantages, making this city a true sanctuary for all those who strive for a healthier and more fulfilling life. If you are planning a visit, be sure to explore accommodation options in Opatija to fully experience all it has to offer.
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Creation time: 21 May, 2025