Lošinj 140 – a story that lasts

On March 28, a conference on sustainable tourism "Lošinj 140 - a story that lasts; from a climatic health resort to the first green destination in the Mediterranean" was held.

And how it all began. Exactly 140 years ago, Dr. Conrad Clar arrived in Mali Lošinj with his son Walter, who was recovering from a serious illness. He was the first tourist in Mali Lošinj, and with his arrival tourism began. At that time, Dr. Clar was studying the climate of certain parts of the eastern Adriatic and found an island suitable for a climatic health resort and winter rehabilitation center. After three weeks on the island, his son recovered enough that they were able to return home.

Over time, Lošinj developed into a recognizable destination for health, sustainability and an authentic Mediterranean spirit. The first hotel in 1887 in Mali Lošinj was called Vindobona, and in Veli Lošinj it was called "K naddužkovotkinji Renata". In addition to hotels and guesthouses, guests in Mali and Veli Lošinj also had a considerable number of private rooms at their disposal. Intensive hotel construction continued in the following years. The highest frequency of tourists was in the winter months, just like on the French and Italian Rivieras, while summer tourism began to develop more and more after 1905, when bathing resorts, hotels and guesthouses were already built on Čikat. A children's convalescent home, a health resort, and a modern inhalatorium were built and equipped. In September 1892, Veli and Mali Lošinj were declared winter climatic health resorts and convalescent homes.

For the 140th anniversary of tourism on the island of vitality, the Tourist Board of the City of Mali Lošinj, in cooperation with numerous destination partners, is organizing various events that will take place during 2025.

The anniversary celebration will take place on May 3rd at the Mali Lošinj town square, where the Tallest Nut Brittle Structur (Lošinj krokant), a famous Lošinj dessert, will be made. It will be an attempt to break the Guinness World Record.

You can watch this unique event live via our three webcams.

At 10 am, Lošinj pastry chef Petar Goleš (Moby Dick gelateria) will begin making the traditional crocant dessert, and from 7 to 8 pm, don't miss the Guinness World Record and the spectacular traditional saber-breaking ceremony, which according to legend brings good luck. This sweet creation, over 3 meters high, embodies a rich history. The traditional Lošinj crocant, made of sugar and almonds, is a symbol of wealth and prosperity and is prepared for the most important island celebrations. The event will be complemented by a concert by Parni valjak.

Don't miss this unique blend of tradition and spectacle!

14 LAYERS OF CROCKANT FOR 140 YEARS OF TOURISM – GUINNESS WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT FOR THE LARGEST CROCKANT