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On the morning of April 12, our Uber picked us up around 8:15 and dropped us at Vienna’s Hauptbahnhof. A few minutes later, our bus set off toward Croatia, passing through Slovenia’s rolling landscapes. After nearly eight hours on the road, we reached our base for the trip—Hotel Magal, nestled in the quiet coastal town of Njivice on Krk Island.
The next morning, April 13, our adventure officially began. We boarded the bus and headed toward Baška, a scenic town at the southern tip of Krk Island. The one-hour drive gave us a glimpse of the island’s rugged beauty—hills, stone walls, and sea views all the way. The weather was mild, perfect for walking. Our guide led us along Baška’s famous coastal promenade, which, in summer, is packed with tourists. But in April, the town was peaceful. Bars and restaurants were still closed for the season, which gave the place an almost nostalgic charm. As we walked, our guide shared stories about Baška’s history and its role in Croatian culture, including the famous Baška tablet—one of the earliest records of the Croatian language.
After a relaxing coffee with a view of the sea, we continued to the city of Krk. This part of the island was more lively—tourists strolled the cobbled streets, and many cafes and restaurants had already opened for the season. Our guide gave us a walking tour of the old town, focusing on the time when Krk was a fortified city. The old walls, stone towers, and Romanesque churches added a touch of medieval flair to the visit.
On April 14, we took a ferry to Cres, the largest island in Croatia. From the port, our bus drove for about an hour and twenty minutes to reach Mali Lošinj, a town known for its Austro-Hungarian past and healing sea air. The charm of the place lies in its mix of colorful buildings, coastal views, and elegant promenades. Our guide walked us through the town and shared how Emperor Franz Josef once frequented this place—so much so that he had a house built for his young mistress here. We followed a scenic 3-kilometer trail to that very spot, surrounded by pine forests and ocean breeze.
Rain started to fall in the afternoon, cutting our walk short. We boarded the bus and returned to our hotel, a little tired but full of impressions.
In just two days, we got to know Krk, Cres, and Mali Lošinj—each with its own character, history, and charm. From quiet promenades to imperial love stories, this short escape offered a taste of Croatian island life, far from the crowds and full of stories worth remembering.
- Hector Pascua
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