Villa Mirjana

Central Istria Riviera, known as Green Istria, embraces a multitude of small places with a long history and fortresses on hills with picturesque bell towers. Central Istria, as the administrative center of Pazin, “the heart of Istria,” will take you through its labyrinth of narrow streets and paths (suitable for cyclists) through the fascinating landscape of cultural and natural resources: medieval castles on the hills, forest of truffles, vineyards where tasty Malvasia and Teran ”grow” and olive groves which olive oil is known since antiquity.

Almost every hill in Central Istria has hidden fortress remains on its top. The photogenic Motovun can compete with the beauty, history and fascinating historical sites of Oprtalj – a unique bell tower of the church of St. George in the form of square towers and many stone churches from different periods.

Grožnjan pictures the mythical medieval towns, bringing a touch of art with its 18 galleries and art studios, the summer International Film School. The surrounding fields and hills “oversee” Buje which were called “the watchman of Istria” because of the position. Sv. Petar you Šumi, Guran and Kanfanar give the impression that they come from some long-past times.

Kastelir Labinci is kept a collection of ethnological treasures of Vittorio Rossoni which will reveal that the old Istrians were engaged in farming and cattle breeding. This is not surprising since Central Istria is a famous gastronomic destination. Numerous native delicacies confirm this: truffles, smoked ham, pasta, omelettes, soup, the awarded Istrian wine – Malvasia and Teran and Muscat and of course unavoidable olive oil which is known since antiquity for the high quality.

You can taste the delicious local specialities on the numerous events so do not miss the fair of Istrian white truffles in Livade, The Soup Fest in Gračišće or search for a family-farms in Jadruhi, Ročko Polje and other places where the labyrinth of Istrian wine and olive oil roads will bring you to.

Wine and olive oil roads have in the recent times dominated cyclists who have more than 2000 km of trails to enjoy in rides on their way, downhill competitions and numerous mountain-bike races, while discovering the magic Motovun forests and medieval town Dvigrad abandoned in the 17th century.

The path will lead you to the cave Baredine where you will be at 132m depth and can cool from the summer heat.”Night Birds” can enjoy at the Motovun Film Festival, where the artworks of the Seventh art are displayed 24 hours a day and in the observatory in Višnjan which was founded by a group of amateurs and turned it into one of the twelve most productive observatories in the world.

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.

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