Riviera Labin

Just as the Rovinj Riviera situated on the west coast of Istria is the epitome of romance and Venetian heritage, the Labin Riviera epitomizes culture and cultural change in picturesque surroundings on the east coast of Istria. Once dominated by mining, the region has been blossoming into a popular tourist destination since the 1960s. There are plenty of features to discover, ranging from the patrician mansions and baroque palaces sitting as thrones above the Kvarner town of Labin, to the Riviera's medieval-themed town with its pretty, colorful houses. And not to forget, its campanile from the 17th century. Those entering the towering belfry and who climb to the top, will be rewarded with, if weather permits, a wonderful view of the coast and the Kvarner Bay. The narrow streets and alleys are lively in summer, especially when the large arts festival occurs. At this time, the whole town turns into theater stages and provides backdrops for concerts ranging from classical to jazz. Apart from the festival, galleries and studios exhibit throughout the year modern Croatian art. Labin has mastered the transformation from being a place of business and mining center to a center of arts successfully.

From the narrow, fortified Labin there is an approximately three-kilometer trail leading through shady-cool forests to Rabac: the actual tourist area of the Labin Riviera. Anyone with even just a little time should take this walk and discover not only pretty, little waterfalls and lakes, but also the small tucked-away Dubrova Sculpture Park which displays interesting contemporary art works under the open sky. The coastal town of Rabac, idyllic and protected by a deep bay, is an ideal counterpart to the higher situated Labin. The "Pearl of Kvarner" enchants guests with its attractive location, as well as with its beautiful, well-kept beaches, romantic bays and elegant summer houses from the 19th and early 20th century. This tourist destination on the Adriatic is well-known and popular not only as a beach resort, but also for its ideal sailing conditions. It is no wonder, then, that two major regattas are held here: The Labin Republic takes place in May and the Regatta of Rabac in September every year. Even non-sailors should not miss the spectacle- especially not the evening feast of the Labin Republic, which is celebrated in the harbor with amusing entertainment and delicious food typical of the region.

The wonderful, picturesque pebbled beaches around the former fishing village are more then sufficient for relaxation, but are also popular as they offer numerous opportunities for active vacationers. Whether tennis or scuba diving, sailing or swimming - the days go by quickly on the enchanting coast of Istria. After an exciting day, many visitors go to one of the many fine restaurants serving typical regional fish dishes. Those relaxing with a good meal and a fine glass of wine, watching the swaying boats in the harbor and the lights of the emerging galleries and studios will contemplate and understand what it was about Rabac that fascinated the famous British travel writer Richard Francis Burton- and since then has been a destination for many thousands of visitors every year anew who are lured to the harbor of Rabac.