Historic Villas in Čikat Bay

Čikat Bay, a short distance from the centre of Mali Lošinj on the island of Lošinj, is the district where the island's era as a health resort left its clearest mark. In the late 19th century, the Austrian authorities declared Lošinj a climatic health resort, and doctors recommended its mild air and sea for convalescence. Pine forests, which had been planted on the bare coastal slopes, gave the shoreline shade and a resinous scent, and wealthy families from across the Austro-Hungarian monarchy built holiday villas here. By the early 20th century Čikat had become a recognised spa area with a promenade, bathing places and elegant guesthouses.

The villas range in style from Art Nouveau to Venetian revival, and many have balconies, loggias and decorative stonework facing the water. Several have been carefully restored, and some now form part of the Boutique Hotel Alhambra, in which Villa Hortensia is the best-known building. Other names on the shoreline include Captain's Villa Rouge, dated to 1895, along with Villa Mirasol, Villa Hygeia and Villa Sea Princess Nika, each with its own details of maritime decoration or ornate Secessionist work. Most of these are now private accommodation or hotels, so they are best admired from the outside, from the waterfront path.

The pleasure of the area is in walking. A paved promenade runs along the bay beneath the pines, with small coves, rocks and platforms for swimming, and the water is exceptionally clear. The Footpath of Vitality, another route nearby, follows the coast and shows how seriously the island took its reputation for health. Cyclists and joggers share the paths, and cafés and small restaurants provide places to rest. Čikat is also one of the quieter parts of Mali Lošinj, so it offers shade and peace even in July and August.

To understand the wider story, combine the villas with visits to the Fritzi Palace, which houses the Museum of Lošinj in the town, and the Apoxyomenos Museum, which displays the ancient Greek bronze athlete found in the sea off Lošinj. The Port of Mali Lošinj and its narrow streets are a short walk away.

The bay suits architecture and history enthusiasts, couples looking for a quiet seaside stroll, and families who want pine shade and easy swimming. It is a walk of about half an hour from the town centre, and the route is flat and suitable for most visitors.