by croatiaweek
September 16, 2025
in
(Photo: Private album)
In the summer of 1969, Hana (then Hoštičkova) and Jiří Kozer set off from their hometown of Prague with Hana’s parents for what would become a life-changing holiday.
Travelling in an old Škoda, armed only with a modest tent and plenty of youthful enthusiasm, they had no idea that their journey would lead to a lifelong bond with the Croatian town of Orebić on the Pelješac peninsula.
The Škoda on its way to Orebić (Photo: Private album)
Their first stop was Rovinj, but unseasonably cold weather encouraged them to continue south.
(Photo: Private album
The road eventually brought them to Orebić and Mokalo, where they discovered everything they had been looking for: warm hospitality, delicious food, tranquillity, and—most of all—a beach they still describe as the most beautiful in the world, Vala in Mokalo.
(Photo: Private album)
(Photo: Private album)
Financial constraints kept them away for some years, but from the 1980s onwards, Orebić became their regular summer retreat.
They returned year after year, initially as enthusiastic campers, relishing the community spirit and friendships forged with fellow travellers from across Europe.
(Photo: Private album)
(Photo: Private album)
In more recent years, they have traded tents for the comfort of an apartment, staying with the Marušić family at Apartmani Branka-Mokalo.
(Photo: Private album)
(Photo: Private album)
(Photo: Private album)
Now in their later years, Hana and Jiří continue to make the journey from Prague, but their visits are even more special as they bring along their grandchild, creating new memories to add to the decades of cherished stories.
Kozers (Photo: Private album)
For them, Orebić has truly become a second home, and they already have next summer marked in their calendar.
Recognising their loyalty, the Orebić Tourist Board honoured the couple during their latest stay.
(Photo: Private album)
Kozeris and Marušićs (Photo: Private album)
Marko Galiot, Destination Management Head, presented them with a certificate of appreciation and a picture of Orebić, thanking them for their long-standing affection for the town and wishing them many more sunny and happy summers on the Adriatic.