Villa Zata

Located in the Istrian village of Vabriga, Villa Zata offers guests a peaceful location around ten kilometres from the vibrant centre of the seaside town of Poreč. With a fascinating history dating back to Roman times, the Poreč of today is a bustling town with picturesque cobblestone streets, impressive historical landmarks and a lively atmosphere!

Spend a sunny afternoon wandering through the old town, perched on a tiny peninsula and surrounded by stunning views of the turquoise Adriatic Sea. Here, history lovers will be captivated by a visit to the Euphrasian Basilica, the town’s most significant cultural monument and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Zuccato Palace is a Gothic palace with a beautifully preserved façade, which today houses a small gallery. The palace is located on Decumanus Street, a famous street that provides an authentic glimpse into Istria’s colourful past thanks to its many historic sites. Today, Decumanus Street is also a popular shopping area, with plenty of independent boutiques and gift shops that sit alongside cute local cafes and traditional restaurants.

Only a fifteen-minute drive away, the Baredine Cave offers something a little different for adventure-seeking visitors! Take a subterranean tour of this unique cave system some sixty metres below the ground, where you will witness stalactites, stalagmites and mesmerising underground lakes. Don’t forget to wear comfortable footwear and warm clothing before descending underground, where friendly and experienced guides will provide fascinating tours of the cave and an in-depth look at the history of this unique part of Istria.

After a morning spent exploring the region’s ancient caves, make your way to the sun-drenched Istrian coast to while away the afternoon. Roughly twenty-five minutes away by car, Zelena Laguna Beach is one of Poreč’s most beautiful beaches, with warm, crystal-clear waters and secluded shores. Nearby Delfin Beach offers an array of water sports facilities for visitors to enjoy, including sea kayaks and jet ski rentals. The beach is surrounded by fragrant pine trees, which provide shade and seclusion. Meanwhile, the spectacular beaches on the island of St. Nicholas are only a ten-minute ferry journey from Poreč’s seafront promenade.

Hiking and biking enthusiasts will be delighted by Vrsar, a quaint fishing village that is home to several scenic trails along the coast. Forty minutes away from Tar by car, Rovinj is a seaside town with a labyrinth of narrow streets and colourful architecture to discover. Here, you can explore the enchanting old town before making your way to the hilltop Church of St. Euphemia, where you can take in panoramic views of the ocean and the cluster of tiny islands surrounding Rovinj. Later on, relax by the shimmering waters of Lone Bay Beach or enjoy a variety of water sports on Mulini Beach before making your way home to Villa Zata in time for a sunset swim and dinner on the terrace.

Read more about Porec

Poreč is a charming town situated on the western coast of the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia, known for its rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere. Poreč’s blend of historical sites, vibrant culture, and natural beauty make it it an enticing location for tourists of all ages.

The main street of Poreč, the Decumanus, is lined with quaint shops, cozy cafes, and traditional Istrian restaurants, offering a delightful blend of the town’s rich past alongside modern-day living. The town's historic centre is a labyrinth of cobbled streets and narrow alleys that reveal hidden treasures at every turn, inviting visitors to explore the heart of Poreč on foot.

A short stroll from the Decumanus is one of the most iconic landmarks in Poreč, the Euphrasian Basilica. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning complex dating back to the 6th century, showcases remarkable Byzantine architecture and breathtaking mosaics that recount religious stories. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the mosaics and soak in the ambiance of a structure that has withstood the test of time.

Beyond the historical streets, Poreč is famous for its breathtaking beaches. The pristine Adriatic coastline beckons sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Zelena Laguna, Plava Laguna, and Brulo Beach are just a few of the coastal areas worth exploring. You can bask in the Mediterranean sun, take a dip in the clear blue waters or, if you’re feeling adventurous, then snorkelling, jet skiing, or paddle-boarding are all exciting options offered along this glorious stretch of coastline.

For those who want to go a little deeper and explore the underwater world, Poreč offers fantastic diving opportunities! The waters surrounding the town are teeming with marine life and colourful coral reefs. Dive centres are readily available for both beginners and experienced divers, ensuring that everyone can explore the magic beneath the surface of the Adriatic Sea.

Hop on a boat trip and venture to the nearby Brijuni Islands, where nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike will have plenty of exciting activities on offer. This collection of islands is one of Croatia’s eight national parks, and is famous for its diverse nature and rich history. With attractions such as a safari park with exotic animals, and the island’s famous dinosaur footprints, it’s a wonderful place to explore as a family.

For travellers interested in exploring beyond the town, Poreč is ideally located for day trips to other Istrian destinations. Just a short drive away, you'll find Rovinj, a picturesque coastal town with a vibrant artistic community that is brimming with creativity. Motovun, a hilltop village town known for its absolutely stunning views, is also an easy day trip. These nearby destinations add to the allure of Poreč as a base for exploring the diverse beauty of the Istrian Peninsula.

Poreč and the surrounding area offers a wide array of dining options for you to indulge in the local dishes. From seafood to truffle-infused pasta and regional wines, the plethora of independent restaurants provide an authentic culinary journey through the Istrian cuisine, renowned for its delicious flavours and fresh ingredients.

From the ancient Euphrasian Basilica to the bustling Poreč Market, this town has something for every traveler. So, whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or simply relaxing on the beach, Poreč has it all. Its year-round appeal ensures that visitors can enjoy its beauty and charm in any season.