Istria: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
In Istria, visitors can explore the picturesque coastal villages, marvel at Roman relics in Pula, and wander through the medieval streets of Motovun. Truffles and top-quality olive oil enrich the culinary experience. Excursions to the Brijuni Islands offer nature and historical discoveries. Water sports and bike paths along the coast attract active vacationers.
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Istria - 5 most beautiful natural sights
Brijuni National Park
The picturesque Brijuni National Park combines untouched nature, rich history, archaeological sites, and a variety of activities for the whole family. Lush Mediterranean vegetation of forests and meadows, as well as beautiful beaches, are the main attractions of the islands. They are home to a rich wildlife with fallow deer, peacocks, mouflons, and exotic birds. History enthusiasts delve into a rich past on Brijuni. The islands were once the summer residence of the former Yugoslav President Tito, and you can visit ancient ruins from that time. In the Archaeological Museum, you can learn more about the fascinating history that dates back to antiquity.
Cape Kamenjak
Discover the coast and its beautiful bays at Cape Kamenjak in Istria via hiking trails. Many of the pebble and rocky bays with various sports opportunities and restaurants can also be reached by car. Other hidden beaches are exclusively accessible on foot through the pine forests. Velika Kolombarica, with its excellent rocks, is popular among cliff divers. The smaller, quieter Mala Kolombarica offers a beautiful pebble beach. A true dream beach with shade-providing trees, sports, and gastronomic offerings is Uvala Pinizule. Sand on the seabed awaits you in Uvala Skoljic, which is easily accessible by bike.
Limski Fjord
The history of the Lim Fjord dates back to the Roman era, where the Limes separated the region of Porec from Pula. Thanks to the high oxygen and low salt content, you will find numerous fish and shellfish farms along the shores. You can taste their mussels and oysters in the local restaurants. In addition to the beauty of the Lim Fjord, other attractions such as the 105-meter-long Romuald's Cave await visitors. Around 1000 AD, the later canonized hermit Romuald lived here. In nearby Kanfanar and the former trading town of Dvigrad, you can discover medieval remains and find perfect subjects for the family photo album.
Motovun Forest
Throughout the entire Mediterranean region, there are only three forests similar to that of Motovun. In the past, the mighty oaks, ashes, and elms were used for building ships and wine barrels. Since it was designated as a forest reserve in 1963, it has been left to itself. The rare brown frog lives in this forest. Coveted truffles grow in the Motovun forest. The mushrooms, once called stinking potatoes, are now a delicacy. In many restaurants around the forest, you can enjoy delicious truffle dishes. Numerous hiking trails of varying lengths lead through the natural paradise. Look forward to a forest bath in Istria!
Učka Nature Park
Around 200 kilometers of hiking trails open up the 160 km² Ucka Nature Park. Many of them start in Poklon. From here, you can climb the Vojak or the Veli Planik. In Brgudac, a tour starts to the refreshing springs of Korita. You walk through dense oak and beech forests. If you want to learn more about the unique flora and fauna in the Ucka Nature Park, plan a hike on the educational trails. The Plas educational trail, which starts at the Poklon pass, provides information about the regional plant life with display boards. The Slap educational trail in Lovranska Draga leads through idyllic vineyards.
Istria - Climate
The following graph shows the average weather conditions for the country. Historical weather conditions may vary by region.