Croatia’s original tourism hotspot continues to pull in the visitors. Sitting on the Istrian peninsula, Opatija faces the Kvarner Gulf and is protected by the embrace of the Učka mountain behind, where asparagus grows wild. Lungomare promenade weaves along the coast and begs to be explored at leisure. The seven miles of walkway will take you to Volosko - a dreamy fishing village next to Opatija. Look out for Opatija’s treasured Maiden with a Seagull monument as you stroll. There are plenty of opportunities to catch some shade along the way - duck into the blossoms and splashes of tumbling fountains in Angiolina Park, for example. Or, settle back on a beach, to watch as locals splash in the shallow water, desperately attempting to keep their ball airborne. Slatina beach offers clear swimming waters in the town itself, or Volosko’s pebbled Črnikovica beach may be a little quieter. Fishing boats sway in the pretty harbour, and you can try thick tuna steaks, creamy Istrian truffle-flavoured dishes and seafood risottos served up in seafront restaurants.