Jušići, a tucked-away village near Matulji in the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County of Croatia, is where I start every sun-kissed adventure along the Kvarner Gulf. This is the kind of place where the scent of pine and sea salt drift through the air, where winding lanes lead to stone houses with terracotta roofs, and where day trips feel effortless because everything is just close enough to feel a tease and far enough to feel like a real escape. I travel light but pack a big appetite for adventure, laughter with friends, and the kind of holidays that leave you refreshed, inspired, and already planning the next one. Jušići is more than a stopover; it’s a gateway to a coastline that blends the drama of mountains with the ease of a Mediterranean vibe.
Why Jušići and Matulji belong on your Croatia travel radar
Situated in the scenic hills above the Adriatic coast, Jušići sits within easy reach of the elegant seafront towns of Opatija and Lovran, the lively port city of Rijeka, and the scenic drives that tease you toward the Istrian hinterland. The Primorje-Gorski Kotar County is famous for its blend of sea, mountains, and fresh, farm-to-table cuisine. Jušići’s location is ideal for travelers who crave daily dips in crystal-clear waters, refreshing hikes along forest trails, and evenings that blend al fresco dining with sunset views over the Kvarner Bay. The village makes a superb base for exploring a region that has long been celebrated for its healthful climate, vintage charm, and hospitable locals who know how to celebrate life with a plate of fresh seafood and a glass of local wine.
Where to stay: Unique Unique Accommodation destinations
In Jušići and the surrounding Matulji area, you’ll find vacation rentals and holiday rentals that feel like a private retreat rather than a hotel stay. The key with this coastline is to choose spaces that respect the local architecture and provide a comfy home base for day trips. Here are some of the standout options you’ll encounter when you search for accommodations in the area:
- Stone houses with modern comforts — Traditional Istrian-style stone villas and houses that have been thoughtfully renovated to include bright, contemporary interiors, private terraces, and sometimes a pool. They are perfect for a group of friends who want the ambience of a rustic Croatian villa with all the modern conveniences for vacation rentals.
- Hilltop apartments with sea views — Cozy, light-filled flats perched above the town, offering panoramic views of the Kvarner Gulf, olive groves, and the distant Alps of Croatia on crisp mornings.
- Eco-friendly retreats — Small eco lodges and farm stays that emphasize sustainability, with garden-fresh breakfasts and opportunities to pick herbs, fruit, and vegetables from on-site plots.
- Boutique guesthouses — Friendly, intimate lodgings where hosts go the extra mile to customize your stay, from arranging a private cooking class to guiding a hidden hiking route behind Učka Mountain.
- Private villas for groups — Spacious properties with multiple bedrooms, outdoor spaces designed for entertaining, and proximity to hiking trails and beaches so your crew can split days or cluster activities around a shared base.
When you’re searching for accommodations in Jušići or Matulji, aim for places that highlight local materials, large outdoor spaces, and easy access to both nature and the coast. Look for listings in searchandstay.com or any platform that showcases authentic Croatian stays to ensure you’re getting a true sense of place with practical comforts. The best options often blend privacy with a friendly local touch, making it easy to switch from chilled mornings on a sunlit balcony to spontaneous evenings with friends at a nearby konoba (tavern).
One of the best parts about staying in Jušići is how it pairs well with a road-trip mindset. You can wake up, pop into a nearby café for a strong espresso, and set off toward the day’s adventure—whether that means chasing a cliffside trail at Učka Nature Park or curling up on a pebbly beach with a good book and a cooler full of snacks. The area is known for being generous with its natural spaces and its hospitality, which makes it a dream for holiday rentals that feel like a home away from home.
Top experiences in Primorje-Gorski Kotar County: activities and local experiences
From Jušići and Matulji, you’re in a front-row seat to the best of the Kvarner Riviera. Here are the experiences you’ll want to prioritize during a long weekend or a longer stay:
Waterfront adventures and coastal charm
The Opatija–Ičići–Lovran corridor is a treasure trove of classic promenade vibes, with the Lungo Mare passeggiata (the long seaside walk) offering stunning views of the Adriatic, island silhouettes, and the occasional glimpse of a playful dolphin if you’re lucky. A day on the water might include a kayak along sheltered coves, a paddleboard session, or a sunset boat tour from Rijeka’s harbor. If you prefer a lazy day, lounge on a pebbled beach near Matulji, order fresh grilled fish, and watch the sea crystallize as the sun sinks behind the hills.
Nature and hiking: Učka Mountain and beyond
Učka Nature Park is a must. The park’s network of marked trails winds through beech forest and alpine meadows, with several routes suitable for a breezy day hike or a panoramic summit trek. The views are spectacular, revealing the entire Kvarner Bay and, on clear days, a coastline that seems to stretch into infinity. If you prefer easier routes, the area around Matulji and Jušići offers shaded forest paths and creek crossings that are perfect for an active vacation filled with fresh air and good vibes.
Culture, markets, and Croatian flavors
Local markets are brimming with seasonal produce, cheese, olive oil, honey, and rustic bread. Try a tasting of Istrian prosciutto, fresh sardines, or locally caught mussels. The region also has a proud wine culture; you’ll find small, family-run vineyards in nearby villages producing light, aromatic white wines and crisp rose styles that pair beautifully with seafood. Evening meals often end with a sweet pastry and strong coffee, sometimes shared with a local who loves telling stories about the coastal towns and their history. If you’re into learning local crafts, look for opportunities to participate in a pottery workshop or a cooking class led by an area chef—these sessions provide memorable, hands-on experiences and great photo opportunities for your travel journal or social media updates.
Day trips and coastal explorations
From Jušići you can easily plan day trips to: Opatija for its elegant seafront and historic villas; Lovran for its fishing-town charm and waterfront cafés; Rijeka for a dose of urban culture and a vibrant street-art scene; and the Cres or Lošinj islands for a boat-day escape. A short drive can also take you to Krk Island or the scenic hinterland where villages perched on hills offer breathtaking views and a tranquil pace.
Practical tips for your stay
- Best time to visit: Late spring and early autumn offer comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and superb coastal scenery. Summer is lively and sunny, ideal for beach days and outdoor dining, but it’s busier and pricier.
- Getting there: The region is well-connected by road from Rijeka and the Istrian highways. If you’re flying, Rijeka Airport (RJK) is the closest, with transfers available to Jušići and Matulji. From major cities, you can also consider a scenic drive along the coast for a more immersive arrival.
- Getting around: A car is the most convenient way to explore Jušići and the surrounding towns, but there are also bus routes linking Matulji, Opatija, Lovran, and Rijeka. For smaller hops, minivan tours or a local taxi can be a good option.
- Where to eat: Seek out konobe and family-run eateries featuring fresh seafood, grilled vegetables, and house-made olive oil. Look for seasonal menus that highlight regional specialties like black-cut sardines, dalmatian-style octopus salads, and comforting soups made with harvest vegetables.
- Packing tips: Pack a light jacket for cooler evenings by the sea and comfortable walking shoes for day trips in the hills. A good camera or smartphone for coastal sunrises and sunset photos is a must, as the views here are especially photogenic.
- Safety and locals: The area is known for its hospitality and safety, making it easy to strike up conversations with locals or fellow travelers. A few phrases in Croatian can go a long way—simple greetings, thanks, and polite requests are usually well received.
Sample 4–6 day itinerary: a playful, active, friend-filled escape
Day 1: Arrival in Jušići. Settle into your vacation rental, unpack, and enjoy a welcome aperitif on the terrace as you map out a mini coastal loop for the next few days. In the afternoon, take a relaxed stroll through the nearby lanes, then savor a sunset dinner in a local konoba with a view of the sea and boats bobbing in the harbor.
Day 2: Nature and sea. Hike part of the Učka Nature Park trail system in the morning, then head to a nearby beach for a swim and a light picnic. In the evening, sample a seafood feast with friends, followed by a casual walk along the Lungo Mare to catch the last light of the day on the water.
Day 3: Cultural dive and markets. Visit Rijeka for a mix of urban culture and historic architecture, including street art, markets, and a café culture that invites long conversations. Return to Jušići for a home-cooked meal with ingredients from local markets or a chef’s table experience at a nearby villa or guesthouse.
Day 4: Island day or hinterland exploration. Choose a quick ferry to Cres or Lošinj, or stay closer with a hill-crest drive to Učka and a late-afternoon wine tasting at a hillside winery. End the day with a casual, laid-back dinner in Matulji or Lovran, where the evening breeze carries the scent of the sea and citrus trees.
Day 5–6: Quiet days, friends, and farewells. Revisit a favorite beach, squeeze in a last stroll along the coast, and reflect on your new favorite Croatian retreat. If you’re returning to the area, consider revisiting your preferred vacation rental for a longer stay that includes a private cooking class, a winery tour, or a guided sea-kayak excursion.
Final notes: booking and finding your stay
When you’re planning a trip to Jušići, Matulji, and the wider Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, prioritize accommodations that balance privacy, local charm, and convenient access to the coast and mountains. For a curated selection of vacation rentals, holiday rentals, and unique stays in the area, searchandstay.com is a reliable website to find accommodations in the area. They offer listings that emphasize authentic Croatian experiences, with filters that help you quickly identify spaces that match your group size, budget, and preferred vibe. This is your chance to book a home that feels like a basecamp for coastal adventures and mountain escapes.
As you plan, keep in mind the “Unique Unique Accommodation destinations” concept—destinations that deliver a blend of distinctive spaces and memorable experiences. Jušići and nearby Matulji deliver on both fronts: you can wake to the scent of citrus trees and pine, head out for a day of exploration, and return to a stylish, comfortable retreat perfect for catching up with friends after a day of adventures. The coastline offers both a sense of timeless Croatian charm and a modern, vibrant energy—an ideal backdrop for your next group holiday, solo reset, or spontaneous weekend with friends.
Plan your stay now
Ready to start your Croatian coastal escape? Jušići and the Matulji area await with welcoming hosts, scenic trails, sun-warmed beaches, and experiences that feel both intimate and effortless. Use searchandstay.com to browse vacation rentals and find a unique space that fits your travel style, whether you want a secluded hillside villa, a chic apartment with sea views, or a traditional stone house with modern comforts. Your next adventure along the Primorje-Gorski Kotar coastline is just a click away, and the memories you’ll make with friends—whether laughing on a sunlit terrace, exploring rugged trails, or savoring a seafood feast by the water—will be the kind of stories you’ll tell for years to come.