Croatian cuisine – in clear line of sight from neighbouring Hungary
The locality dates to Roman times, as witnessed by the impressive Muzej Apoksiomena (Museum of Apoxyomenos) with its bronze statue from 2BC but only discovered in 1999 by an excavation crew in waters near Vele Orjule Island. And it was there where our press trip consortium met Dalibor Cvitković, the director of the local tourist board, who gave us a brief introduction not only to the museum but to the regional tourism and hospitality in general.
Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, at least 200 sunshine-filled days bless this tranquil oasis every year. Visitors from far and wide, but mainly from Central Europe, come to this prestigious locality for recuperating vacations all year round.
In addition to excelling locally produced cuisine, welcoming local people, engaging historical landmarks and highly atmospheric coastline scenery, Lošinj Island has 280 kilometres of hiking and cycling trails as well as sailing opportunities. The more central rugged terrain has forested areas of mainly evergreen vegetation such as myrtle, oaks and laurels. But most notably, the abundant pine trees along the shorelines act as sun shields and wind breakers. There are a remarkable 200-plus species of fragrant, medicinal plants that grow in wild abundance alongside fruit, vegetables and herbs in excelling weather and soil conditions. There are goats, game and lamb too. In addition to what’s available from this unique tract of land, the surrounding Adriatic Sea is filled with many different kinds of fish, crabs, octopuses and shellfish. Then, of course, there are the distinct locally produced wines, all of which contribute mightily to this fortifying “2025 Taste of Vitality” gastronomy event we are about to enjoy.
The Taste of Vitality refers to locally produced food which is rich in nutrients, supports well-being and boosts energy levels for one’s self. All comes with prescribed balanced diets supported by natural vitamins and minerals that are essential to living healthily and maintaining much vitality. The emphasis of the local people and their expertise is to present the island cuisine and offer fresh, organic textures that will do wonders for your physical health and mental well-being in general.
Our Lošinj Island press trip and tour went from 28th to 30th April. Various journalists, mainly from the former Yugoslavia, were in attendance, alongside individuals from Italy, Austria, Slovakia and England. The main purpose was to see Mali Lošinj, the island’s main feature, to visit various selected restaurants that have won the prestigious #Taste Of Vitality” awards, and to sample their produce in a relaxed and comforting way. The “Taste of Vitality” promotion label has been awarded to 60 delicacies relating to Lošinj restaurants. Photos of certified Taste of Vitality dishes are on the website of the Tourist Board.
All distinguished food and wines came from this region. Many of the regional restaurants with their cheerful artmospheres, vineyards and cellars are small family-run businesses and frequently have their own individualistic ways towards the catering and hospitality trades.“The Taste of Vitality” project was led by Dalibor Cvitković at the Mali Lošinj Tourist Board. All came in cooperation with the Abisal – Gastronaut Club, which is led by Professor Karin Mimica, who was also the project manageress and consummate host to the press trip committee. The nutritional proceeding within this event was brought on by Diana Gluhak Spajić, an author of the internationally award-winning “Healthy Meal Standard” news portal.
This was a splendid event. The hospitality was outstanding, everyone was professional and welcoming. The food and drinks were first class. I was very impressed by the commitment and dedication shown by the chefs and hospitality staff when it came to producing the best local Croatian fayre in the finest way possible. Nothing that we press attendees consumed ever related to supermarkets or any other forms of preservatives or mass-production commodities. Everything came from this immediate area and it really did show with the final results. The committees and organisers behind this press trip were also very willing, and not only would I like to return anytime soon I wish all those at this event all the best for the future. Lošinj Island and its immediate area have much to offer everyone.
To get there from Budapest is relatively easy. Make your way from the Hungarian capital to the M7 motorway, which then passes by Lake Balaton. Cross the open border into Croatia and head directly to Zagreb along the E65 road. From there proceed further southwards towards Rijeka. Turn off a short while beforehand and make your way in the Krk Island direction. When approaching, drive over the bridge onto the island and proceed to the ferry that departs at Valbiska. When accomplished, head to the Merag port-side, which will lead further into the less familiar Cres Island.
The main road from Cres Island is connected to Lošinj Island by a small bridge. From there head southwards to end stop Mali Lošinj and enjoy! At time of writing, this 600-kilometre journey took me about ten hours to achieve.
