Bakar Viewpoint – A Hidden Coastal Gem with Panoramic Bay Views

📍 Location: perched above the charming town of Bakar, it offers panoramic vistas of the Adriatic, the Kvarner Bay, and the surrounding hills.

If you’re starting from the heart of Rijeka, take a deep breath and let the map fade — this is about the journey, not the fastest route. Begin by leaving the busy harbor and city life behind, heading inland. You won’t need a highway for this one: instead, follow the coastal bends and then veer onto the quieter inland roads that slowly climb into green hills. If you are coming from Dalmatia (Split, Zadar, Šibenik), drive north on the A1, exit near Novi Vinodolski or Crikvenica, and follow the old roads through villages and valleys. From Istria (Pula, Rovinj, Poreč), cross the Učka tunnel, then near Rijeka switch from the E65 to the scenic inland roads. If you’re coming from Zagreb or continental Croatia, take the A6 toward Rijeka, exit near Fužine or Oštrovica, and descend via the old mountain route.

Looking for a scenic spot near Rijeka where history, nature, and breathtaking sea views come together? The Bakar Viewpoint is a hidden gem that delivers all this and more. Perched above the charming town of Bakar, it offers panoramic vistas of the Adriatic, the Kvarner Bay, and the surrounding hills.

👁️ What You’ll See from the Bakar Viewpoint

🏘️ Historic Town of Bakar: Enjoy sweeping views of one of the oldest settlements on the Croatian coast. Its red rooftops, stone buildings, and narrow streets tell stories of a rich maritime and industrial past⛵

🌊 Bakar Bay (Bakarski zaljev): This deep natural bay, encircled by hills and cliffs, offers dramatic coastal scenery. Once a hub for shipbuilding and salt storage, today it’s a peaceful inlet dotted with fishing boats and small yachts 🚤

⛰️ Coastal Mountain Range: Behind the town, the mountains of the Kvarner hinterland rise steeply, changing colors throughout the day – from misty blue to golden hues at sunset 🌇

⚓ Maritime Life & Industry: Spot vessels in motion, seagulls overhead, and traces of the area’s industrial heritage blending with natural beauty – a unique mix of working coastline and untouched nature

⏰ Best Time to Visit

• ☀️ Summer: Between 5:00 PM and sunset for magical golden hour photography and warm reflections on the water.
• ❄️ Winter: Before 4:00 PM. Avoid visiting during rainy or windy weather as visibility may be limited.

💡 Why Visit?

Looking for a lesser-known viewpoint near Rijeka with rich history, stunning sea views, and no crowds? The Bakar Viewpoint offers all of this and more. Combining historic architecture, pristine nature, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s an authentic stop in the Kvarner region.

Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for golden-hour lighting over the bay and hills. Bring water and a camera – there are no tourist facilities here, which only adds to its charm. ✨