Our Destinations - Istria

EXPLORE ISTRIA

The natural splendor of Istria, as well as its stunning coastline and continental temperature, make it ideal for a classy vacation. Seas of emerald blue and isolated pebble beaches coexist peacefully with historic cities and natural wonders. Further north, charming hilltop towns rich in culture and hospitality welcome travelers with home-cooked meals, providing rustic getaways suitable for rest and relaxation.

The Istrian region's combination of coast and mountains offers a wide range of recreational opportunities. Hiking, cycling, and pony trekking are popular activities that take place along winding country roads, rolling hills, and coastal paths. Underwater, historic wrecks, coral reefs, and caverns are home to schools of colorful fish, while beautiful rocky beaches adorn the craggy coastline.

Waterskiing, windsurfing, and tennis are all available to explore, or you may breathe in the fresh, clear country air by visiting the nearby islands and national parks.

The prominent summer holiday villages on the Istrian shore, built in old stone, are a wonderful blend of tiny cobblestone lanes and Venetian-style buildings. Along with historic town walls, Baroque churches, and fortifications, picturesque squares reveal a medieval urban structure. Explore ancient Roman influences and medieval settlements in Istria's main resorts as well as tiny historic hamlets dotted throughout the rolling hills. Byzantine mosaics and sculptures are well-known and on exhibit, while local activities are popular throughout the region.

The seaside resorts are lined with numerous restaurants, pizzerias, café-bars, and galleries. Its serene, relaxed ambience is ideal for late-night coffee drinking and informal meals. Evening entertainment varies amongst the main coastal districts, ranging from musical events to painting, sculpture, and dancing. The region is known for concerts, cinema, and culture.

There are a few cocktail bars and livelier nightclubs, but the quiet, convivial environment is more conducive to the traditional Croatian way of life.

Croatia's past is reflected in its cuisine, which has strong Italian and Austrian influences. Freshly grilled fish, soups, and stews can be found by the coast, while pastas, wild boar, and truffles can be found further inland. The generosity of the Istrians has evolved into a tradition that is widely shared among guests on a villa vacation. Rural estates serve food cooked in the traditional style of historic recipes, washed down with locally produced beer and delicious wines, which you may enjoy on the premises or in the privacy of your own private villa. A simple 'vino' sign indicates that you are travelling through an area with several farms and tasting rooms.

THINGS TO DO IN ISTRIA

In the fortified, medieval village of Motuvan, sample truffles, or "black gold," in one of the beautiful eateries.

Dine at a nearby farm restaurant, where you'll be greeted with a home-cooked dinner.

Explore the old Roman and medieval town of Porec's tiny cobblestone alleyways and climb the bell tower of the 6th century basilica for panoramic views.

Visit the beautiful coastal villages of Porec, Pula, or Rovinj, or take a day trip to Venice on a swift ferry.

Pula's majestic Roman amphitheatre transports you back in time, in stark contrast to the bustling working town that surrounds it.

Take a tour of the Brijuni Islands by boat.

At one of the vineyard vaults, try several Istrian wines.