After 130 years, Umag reconnects Moela with Old Town with new coastal promenade

(Photo: Grad Umag)

The City of Umag has reached a historic milestone with the completion of a new coastal promenade section that, for the first time in 130 years, reconnects the Moela neighbourhood with the town’s historic old centre by the sea.

The project restores a direct pedestrian link that was severed almost a century and a half ago following the construction of the Arrigoni factory, opening access to one of Umag’s most scenic coastal areas and offering uninterrupted sea views that are among the city’s most striking.

Completed in early January 2026, the latest section forms part of the strategically significant Umag Promenade project, one of the most ambitious and extensive coastal walkway developments on the Adriatic.

Designed as a harmonious blend of nature, recreation and sustainability, the promenade continues to transform Umag’s shoreline into a modern, accessible and visually distinctive public space.

The newly completed section stretches 400 metres, running from Africa Beach in Moela to the Ex-Podravka Beach area.

Works included the construction of the promenade itself, a protective stone breakwater, and the development of sunbathing terraces that enhance both safety and leisure use along the coast.

(Photo: Grad Umag)

Strong emphasis was placed on environmental sustainability and functionality. Energy-efficient LED public lighting has been installed along the entire route, while designated rest areas feature benches, tables with interactive games, waste bins and informational panels.

Landscaping works will further preserve and enhance the natural coastal environment, and additional facilities for recreation, sport and leisure are planned along the promenade.

Construction was carried out by Grafist d.o.o. from Koper, with professional supervision provided by V.B. Projekt d.o.o.

Mayor Vili Bassanese described the completion of this section as a moment of exceptional importance for the local community.

“After a full 130 years, residents of Umag can once again walk along the coast from Moela all the way to the historic old town. We are extremely proud to be continuing the development of the Umag Promenade, which brings lasting value to our city and to everyone who lives in or visits Umag. Each completed section is a victory that ensures free and uninterrupted movement along the coast. Our goal is to provide safe, accessible and open coastal access for all generations, not just as a vision, but as a responsibility of every well-organised and forward-thinking society,” Bassanese said.

(Photo: Grad Umag)

The Umag Promenade is one of the city’s most important infrastructure projects and plays a central role in enhancing both quality of life for residents and the city’s appeal as a destination. Once completed in full, the promenade will form a continuous coastal route connecting Park Umag campsite with the Kanegra tourist settlement.

This long-term vision will create a unique recreational and tourism corridor of major significance not only for Umag, but for the wider Istrian region, positioning the city as a model of sustainable coastal development aligned with European urban standards.