Villa Kreo

This villa is situated in picture-perfect Šišan, a heritage village with Roman legacy. There are Roman villas dotted all around the area, which is also close to Liznjan and Medulin. Šišan is known for its traditional June fair and for its fishermen, who demonstrate how to weave nets and repair old-style boats. Ližnjan is a coastal village with a special church, which has a glass floor with a beautiful painting underneath.

Istria has a strong Italian influence, being just two hours from Venice. It also has plenty of relics and architecture left over from the Roman era, especially in Pula. It's easy to hop across the border to Italy and spend a day exploring and indulging in Italian food. Istria's heart-shaped coastline is gorgeous, with endless beaches on offer.

Medulin is a popular choice for holidaymakers, thanks to its natural beauty, superb beaches and excellent food. There are great hiking trails and a fabulous mountain biking route around the Medulin Riviera. In terms of beaches, Bijeca is a great option in the nearby area - the shallow, emerald green sea is absolutely beautiful. Bijeca has sandy areas rare in Istria and watersports on offer including water-skiing, windsurfing and diving. Kayaks can also be rented here.

There is also an excellent treetop adventure centre called Adrenaline Park Medulin. Great for the whole family, this high ropes course is a thrilling zoom through beautiful scenery. Guests can also try paintballing, rock climbing and amazing zip lines that are the grand finale of the adventure course.

The villa is close to Pula, the Istrian capital, which is brimming over with history, culture and Roman mythology. There's a famous colosseum here that was built in the 1st century AD. The Pula Arena now hosts concerts, theatre and events, but in the days of the Romans it was home to gladiator fights. In the summer months, there are reenactments of these. There are many carnivals in Pula, so check online for these during your visit! Another sight to see is the Temple of Augustus, built to honour the emperor of the same name. Beautiful and located in the main square, the temple is free to visit.

Anyone visiting Istria should take a day trip to Brijuni National Park, an archipelago of 14 small islands that can be reached by boat from Pula. The islands are famous for their natural beauty and indigenous flora and fauna. Enjoy a scenic boat ride with views of the southwestern peninsula before you reach the islands. There are dinosaur footprints in four areas on the largest island, Viliki Brijuni, and many other archaeological wonders.

Istria is well known for its tasty cuisine and fresh ingredients, like wild asparagus and chestnuts. Medulin's specialities include risotto, aromatic truffle dishes and Istrian prosciutto. Vineyard tours are also plentiful throughout Istria. Many vineyards offer tours with the opportunity to try a glass of local Refošk or Malvazija. Admire the views of rolling hills and rows of grapes as you enjoy your wine.

Read more about Pula

Pula, located on the southern tip of Croatia's Istrian Peninsula, is a city with a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene. Exploring the city's old town, you'll find charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and picturesque squares. A stroll through the heart of the city allows visitors to immerse themselves in its unique blend of architectural styles, from Baroque palaces to Venetian facades.

Pula is a city steeped in history, with its roots dating back to Roman times. The most iconic symbol of the city is the Pula Arena, a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheater. Built during the 1st century AD, it is one of the six largest surviving Roman arenas in the world and one of Croatia’s most famous sights. Visitors can explore the galleries, stand on the arena floor, and even attend various events, including concerts and festivals held within its ancient walls.

The Istrian Peninsula is known for its stunning coastline, and Pula boasts numerous pristine beaches and coves. One of the most popular spots is Kamenjak, a protected natural park featuring rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. Nature enthusiasts can hike or cycle through the park's trails and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic Sea. The coastal location is also ideal for water-based activities. Scuba diving enthusiasts can explore underwater caves and shipwrecks, while sailing and windsurfing are popular options for those seeking an adrenaline rush.

Just a short drive from Pula, the seaside town of Medulin offers a lovely promenade along the coast. You can take a leisurely walk, rent bicycles, or enjoy an ice cream by the sea. The shallow waters here make it a great spot for kids to play and swim.

For more family-friendly beaches, Verudela, Valkane, and Ambrela are all excellent options, offering playground facilities and water sports for older kids. Verudula beach is the home of Pula Aquarium which features a variety of Adriatic Sea creatures, including fish, seahorses, and various sea plants. The aquarium also has a touch tank, where children can get hands-on with the marine life!

Just a short boat ride from Pula is a collection of islands that make up Brijuni National Park. The park offers a unique combination of untouched nature, diverse flora and fauna, and historical sites. Visitors can explore the enchanting landscapes, visit the safari park, and explore the ruins of Roman villas and ancient churches. The park has golf carts available for touring, making it easily accessible for families with young children.

No visit to Pula is complete without indulging in the flavours of Istrian cuisine. The region is renowned for its truffles, olive oil, and world-class wines. Local restaurants offer a wide array of dishes that incorporate these prized ingredients. Be sure to try traditional Istrian dishes such as fuži (pasta) with truffles, maneštra (a hearty bean soup), and fresh seafood prepared in various ways.

Istria is also famous for its winemaking, and Pula is an excellent starting point for exploring local vineyards. Istrian wines, particularly Malvazija and Teran, are known for their unique character and are often paired with Istrian delicacies, creating a delightful culinary experience.

Whether you're exploring the ancient Roman heritage, relaxing on pristine beaches, or indulging in Istrian cuisine, Pula offers a unique and unforgettable Croatian adventure.