Villa Alopa

Sveti Lovrec has just 60 people living there. It is so quiet but full of history with charming, attractive buildings. There are three churches, the church of St Lawrence built in the 8th century, the parish church of St Martin’s Basilica with its amazing frescoes and the church of St Blaise built in 1460, again with the most incredible frescoes.
 
The villa is 15km south of the wonderful hilltop town of Labin. Labin has two parts, the rambling, cobbled streets and quaintly restored, pastel houses of the Old Town and the new town at the bottom of the hill which contains most of the shops. The Fortress Fortica on top of the town boasts an amazing, panoramic view of the rocky Cres Island and the special resort of Rabac below. Labin has a wealth of picturesque coffee shops, fine seafood restaurants and a rich cultural life including summer jazz and classical concerts.
 
Trget is a small fisherman’s village in the bay of Rasa, close to the villa. It is very pretty with a charming harbour. You can enjoy fresh anchovies, seafood salads, tagliatelle with scampi and delicious, grilled scampi at the village tavern.
 
Just below Labin, Rabac has a pretty, white pebble beach and delightful waterfront promenade. Girandella Beach is a sheltered cove and proudly waves a Blue Flag. There are many cafes and restaurants as well as fun watersports. The inflatable iceberg sea playground is fabulous. Boat trips sail from the harbour to the island of rocky island of Cres.
 
When staying at Villa Alopa you will also want to visit Pula with its magnificent Roman amphitheatre which rivals Rome’s Colisseum and the romantic, historic Rovinj. You will need your camera to photograph the pretty Old Town and the buzzy Farmer’s Market. The 192 steps of the Church of St Euphemia’s bell tower are worth it to admire the fantastic views.

Read more about Istria

Nestled along Croatia’s enchanting Adriatic coastline, Istria welcomes visitors with open arms and a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be unraveled. Whether you're seeking adventure in nature, indulgence in culinary delights, a glimpse into history and culture, or simply a warm and inviting atmosphere, the peninsula of Istria has it all.

Istria's diverse and unspoiled landscapes will be the first thing to capture your attention! The region is renowned for its lush green hills, rolling vineyards, and enchanting coastline: the stunning scenery is a playground for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and beachgoers alike.

Offering a remarkable 445 kilometres of pristine coastline, including tranquil coves and sandy beaches, visitors can find plenty of secluded spots to soak up the sun. The clear, azure waters of the Adriatic are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving, making it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy an active day of water sports.

Venture inland and you'll discover picturesque villages set amidst rolling hills and verdant forests. Istria is home to over 30 nature reserves - an absolute haven for hikers and cyclists, with an abundance of well-marked trails to explore. The Učka Nature Park, in particular, stands out as a hiking and nature lover's paradise, offering waterfalls, historic villages, and breathtaking panoramic views of Istria's outstanding scenery.

Istria's rich history is woven into the fabric of its towns and cities. An ever popular choice for tourists is the impressive port city of Pula, full of quaint town squares and local restaurants, and home to one of the most well-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. This ancient arena, known as the Pula Arena, is a testament to Istria's Roman heritage and hosts numerous events, including concerts and film festivals.

The medieval towns of Rovinj and Motovun enchant visitors with their cobbled streets and historic charm. The Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning example of early Christian art and architecture.

Istria's culinary scene is a treat for the taste buds: the region is famous for its truffles, particularly the elusive white truffle, and you can savour dishes infused with this prized delicacy in charming local restaurants across the region. Wine and olive oil lovers will find joy in Istria's vineyards and olive groves, offering tastings and insights into traditional production methods. Fresh seafood, often served with a Mediterranean twist, is a staple that you can enjoy at quaint waterfront eateries along the coastline.

One of the most enduring memories visitors take away from Istria is the warmth of its people. The locals are known for their friendly, welcoming nature and their willingness to share their traditions and stories with tourists. You'll find yourself immersed in the local way of life, whether you're exploring ancient towns or enjoying a meal in a family-run tavern.

Istria is easily accessible, with Pula Airport serving as a major gateway. Once you arrive, navigating the region is a breeze with well-maintained roads connecting major towns and villages. Language barriers are minimal, thanks to the widespread use of English, Italian, and German, alongside the local Croatian language.

Istria’s unique blend of pristine landscapes, rich traditions, and warm-hearted locals creates an experience that will linger in your memories long after you've returned home.

Download our Istria Travel Guide >>