Kvarner, with the islands of Cres, Krk, Lošinj, and Rab, is the region that is known for its diverse climate and vegetation connects the littoral, inland, islands, and mountains. For centuries, Kvarner has united architecture and culture of diverse traditions. Kvarner is formed by the riviera of Rijeka and the littoral of Vinodol, along with the littoral of Velebit all the way to Karlobag. The gulf of Kvarner is protected by mount Učka from the north-west, a large mountain chain streching to another, Velebit, which is located on the south-east.