Senj is one of the prettiest historic towns in all of Croatia and is famously the only territory in the country that was never taken. Crowned by its impressive and iconic Nehaj Fortress, framed by the Velebit mountain range, with a wide and glittering bay on the Adriatic, and boasting a well-preserved old town, Senj has truly striking good looks. Those who book a vacation rental in Senj, therefore, will quickly discover that it is a perfect location for a dreamy seaside getaway.
Historical Riches
Inhabited since prehistoric times, Senj as a settlement dates back some 3,000 years. Mentioned in Ancient Greek documents, the town later became a major Roman stronghold in Dalmatia and remained so until the fall of the empire. In the 7th century AD, it was settled by the Avars and the Croats. In the 15th century, it had an early printing press at work, all while the town held off Ottoman and Venetian armies and came to shelter refugees from the surrounding occupied territories. Nehaj Fortress was completed in the 16th century and the wars with the Ottomans continued into the 17th century.
In the 18th century and right through the modern period, Senj saw the construction of roads and railways that better connected it to the rest of the world, modernisation through banking, the shifting of kingdoms and empires to which it belonged, and resistance during WWII, despite significant bombing by the Luftwaffe. So, this town never fell in its history and lived through and created very important historical events of its own. Today, its charming centre retains a largely medieval appearance and, despite the bombings of WWII, is still home to a range of architectural gems from Nehaj to its rustic cathedral and beyond.
A Perfect Seaside Retreat
Of course, while all of this history is important and adds to the character and charms of the town, Senj is also a dreamy seaside resort with lots to offer those who worship the sun, want to spend lazy days working on their tan and in the water, and who love everything about being by the sea. One of the sunniest places in all of Croatia and with exceptionally mild winters, due to Senj’s specific climate and location, it is has been known for having a bathing season that starts in the area while inland locations just 20km away are still covered in snow.
Not only this but Senj boasts a whopping 78 beaches along 76 kilometres of coastline. Some of the favourites among this incredible list of options include Škver, Banja, Điga, and Prva Draga. The town’s summer carnival that is held early each August also adds to the lively summer vibes but you’ll find that there is always plenty to do – from swimming to sailing, diving to surfing, strolling along the beaches to proper hikes, beach parties to picnics and more.
Relax And Unwind
While all of this is possible and much more besides, those who come to stay at one of our villas in Senj can mostly expect to sit back and relax. Hang out by the pool at your rental, stroll through the picturesque streets of the town, shop in little boutiques, admire the unspoiled natural beauty all around, eat well in the restaurants, sip some great local wine while you take in the sun setting over the water, and fall utterly in love with this truly magical corner of the world on your next holiday in Croatia!
