Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, Administrative county in western Croatia
Primorje-Gorski Kotar is an administrative county in western Croatia that combines the Kvarner Bay area, the northern Adriatic coast, and mountainous inland terrain. The landscape shifts between coastal towns, fishing villages, and forested highlands with alpine character.
The region gained importance as a strategic maritime location on the Adriatic, becoming a crucial bridge connecting Central Europe to Mediterranean trade networks. This historical role continues to influence its economic and cultural character today.
The region blends Mediterranean and Central European traditions that shape how locals live and celebrate together. You can see this mix in the food, languages spoken in daily life, and the way communities gather in town squares.
Rijeka serves as the main hub for transportation with highway connections and the country's largest international seaport. Access to different areas within the region varies seasonally, as mountain passes can become challenging during winter weather.
The region contains four major islands - Krk, Cres, Lošinj, and Rab - each with distinct geological features and natural environments. What makes them remarkable is how different they feel: Krk is more developed and urban, Cres and Lošinj feature dense forests, while Rab offers sandy beaches rarely found elsewhere along this coast.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
