Crystal clear sea and indented coastline on one side, and the slopes of the mighty Velebit on the other, border the Vinodol Valley, a piece of the Adriatic coast rich in history, top-quality wines, authentic gastronomy and impressive viewpoints. The best place to start a visit is in a vineyard.
Wines, prosciutto, shrimps...
The very name of this region testifies to the centuries-old connection of the inhabitants with the vine, and today the vineyards of the Pavlomir Wine House tell the most beautiful story. The start of summer has been heralded by the Sparkling Breakfast in the Vineyard for four years now. It is not just a story about wine. Along with sparkling wine, the focus is on prosciutto and shrimp, ham and sausage, desserts and the iconic Grobnik cheese.
A vineyard experience will enrich the exploration of the coast around Novi Vinodolski. The town developed from the Novigrad fortress, which was built in the 13th century by the princes of Krk, later known as the Frankopans. The historical heritage of Vinodol is still visible today in the old town center, stone streets and historic buildings, and this area has a special place in Croatian history because of the Vinodol Code from 1288.
Protecting women's rights since 1288
This is one of the most important medieval legal monuments in Europe. Written in the Glagolitic script, it regulated relations between the population and feudal lords, and also contained provisions that protected women's rights. The year of the Code's creation was marked by the Pavlomir winery with the sparkling wine 1288, which is produced using the classical method from Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and the local variety Žlahtina.
Gastronomy is also an important part of the identity of this region, and the shrimps from the foot of Velebit plays a major role in this. Thanks to the unique combination of sea currents and numerous freshwater springs, the local shrimp is of exceptional quality, with firm meat and a recognizable sweetness. This is precisely why shrimp is not only a top-quality food, but also part of the identity of this region.
Fisherman's House
Its quality is best felt in simple dishes that do not hide the natural flavors of the sea: boiled, buzara or fresh with just a few drops of homemade olive oil. Along with the shrimp, the region smells of grilled fish, and the beauty of fishing can be experienced, in addition to restaurants, at the Fisherman's House interpretation center on the waterfront in Klenovica.
The nearby island of San Marino is described as one of the most romantic part of Kvarner. You can swim to it in the summer, and many couples have chosen it for their wedding or engagement, attracted by the unique ambience and special sense of peace that reigns here.
Spectacular view from Velebit
There are also numerous viewpoints on the coast with spectacular views of the Vinodol Valley, the sea and the islands. They are part of the Eyes of Vinodol project, and among the most visited are Sviba, from which you can see both the green hills and the blue sea, and Kuk. It is a favorite spot for lovers of photography, hiking and outdoor activities, where the connection between the coastal and rural parts of Vinodol is best felt.
Near the Kuk viewpoint, in a village with about 20 inhabitants including six children, is the Tilia tasting room. It is named after the Latin word for linden tree and is located in a former elementary school. It offers guests the opportunity to experience the authentic flavors of the region, where the influences of the sea, karst and mountainous hinterland have intertwined for centuries.
Gastronomy, wine and the sea
Tilia offers different types of honey, homemade cheeses, prosciutto and sausages, and is famous for its Grobnik cheese with homemade raisins and honey. Throughout the region, history meets gastronomy, wine meets tradition, and the sea meets mountains. That is why it attracts travelers who are looking for authentic experiences, local stories and experiences that go beyond a classic seaside vacation. The events that will mark the summer in this destination are listed on the website of the Novi Vinodolski Tourist Board.
Photos: Nikola Zoko and TZ Novi Vinodolski