I was yearning for an unforgettable getaway filled with sunny coastlines, cultural delights, and natural beauty. In 2013 I visited Croatia for the first time. It was September in Kvarner Gulf where an enchanting fusion of idyllic weather, cultural festivities, and tranquil landscapes awaits.
The summer rushed into the peaceful early autumn. Kvarner Gulf was finally resting after the high-season. Masses of travellers seeking an authentic Adriatic experience were gone.
Let me show you why September is the perfect time to explore this hidden gem along the Croatian coastline.
Your Ideal Crowd-Free Escape
Stay relaxed as Croatia in September is certainly quieter. Despite discouragement, with possible rain and cooler temperatures, there’s still a point in visiting after peak season. Consider swimming and snorkeling.
I recently tried snorkeling for the first time and it’s a must-do activity. While the water may feel slightly colder, don’t let that deter you. Snorkeling encourages movement, providing captivating underwater views.
Opting for water activities over lounging on the beach all day will work up an appetite quickly.
Opatija and all the small villages around it, such as Volosko, boast numerous fantastic eateries offering a variety of culinary delights. However, it was the local cuisine that captivated me the most, featuring grilled fish, seafood drizzled with high-quality olive oil, and aromatic herbs.
The most typical fish dishes to spot in local restaurants are: brudet, grilled sea bream (Orada), sea bass (Brancin), black cuttlefish risotto (Crni Rižot) and octopus salad (Salata od Hobotnice).
Among the delicious desserts, my favourite were: Rožata, the custard pudding and Kremsnita which consist of layers of puff pastry filled with creamy vanilla or custard cream.
As usual, I stopped by the local grocery store in Rijeka, where I picked up some delightful local sweets such as Waltz Blok and Roladice.
No crowds following you
Arriving at Cres evoked indescribable emotions. It’s a wilderness accessed by ferry, followed by a 40-kilometer drive to reach the island’s first city, Cres.
The city exudes a sense of solitude and tranquility, surrounded by vast fields of parched earth and flora, juxtaposed against the deep, imposing waters. Despite its remote nature, the city comes alive at midday.
People seek refuge in quaint cafes, laundry sways in the breeze outside windows, and vibrant displays of fruits and vegetables entice passersby to indulge in the local offerings.
September is a great time for wildlife enthusiasts, as you may have the chance to observe migratory birds passing through the island or spot dolphins swimming in the surrounding waters.
Choosing September for this travel destination can make you safe some money. I was lucky to wake up in the morning and enjoy the extraordinary view from my windows for a reasonable price, which wouldn’t be a case during the high season. Staying in Opatija was a great choice as it’s a good starting point for various trips.
Less busy roads
It’s easier to drive wherever you want without getting furious in traffic jam stuck with other furious people willing to enjoy their holiday time. More parking places, more flexibility on the road, less stress, more fun. It’s not all about the cars, you will appreciate the space even as a pedestrian not getting heart attack trying to avoid masses of cars.
Wildlife watching
September is a great time for wildlife enthusiasts, as you may have the chance to observe migratory birds passing through the island or spot dolphins swimming in the surrounding waters.
Additionally, the quieter atmosphere of September allows for a more intimate and immersive wildlife-watching experience, where you can fully appreciate the sights and sounds of nature without the distractions of large crowds.
Some of the wild animals you may encounter include: Doplphins, sea turtles, birds such as herons, egrets and terns.
