Popular among Slavic and German-speaking Europeans, Losinj is under the radar for much of the world. Which makes it all the more healing and appealing.

Since the 19th century, it has been known as an island of vitality thanks to the research of botanist Ambroz Haracic. Considering sunshine, humidity, temperature and latitude, he determined that Losinj had the healthiest climate in the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

As soon as Emperor Franz Josef heard about this, he took a trip. Losinj’s first heyday was as a retreat for people with respiratory problems. Even now, the air feels ridiculously easy to breathe. Forest air and sea air—like well-being filling your lungs. (Unless you have allergies, in which case you might consider avoiding the spring blossoming season.)