The largest Croatian peninsula, Istria, is on many people's must-visit list for a summer vacation. With crystal clear sea, medieval towns perched on hilltops, untouched nature, and a lush landscape rarely seen elsewhere, Istria offers numerous locations and opportunities for an exciting active holiday. In this blog, we bring you five suggestions for enjoying the beauty and adrenaline-packed experiences during your stay in Istria.
1. Brijuni National Park
Brijuni National Park is an ideal option for a family outing. Brijuni is a beautiful archipelago west of the Istrian coast, located opposite Fažana. It is also a national park, consisting of 14 islands, the most famous of which are Veliki and Mali Brijun. The park is known for its exceptional beauty, cultural-historical landmarks, and diverse flora and fauna. The archipelago is reached by boat from Fažana, with a 15-minute ride. Upon arrival at the park, the tour continues with a tourist guide, but visitors can also explore the park on foot, by renting a bike, electric car, or scooter, or taking a tourist train. A safari park, dinosaurs, archaeological sites, swimming, diving, tennis, and golf... Brijuni offers it all. Tickets can be purchased on the park's official website, and accommodation can be secured in one of our luxury villas in Istria.
2. Seven Waterfalls Trail
The Seven Waterfalls Trail is a popular hiking route starting in the village of Sveti Ivan near Buzet, at the very north of Istria. The trail is about 15 km long and is rightly called the most beautiful walking path in Istria. The trail passes through the beautiful natural landscape of the Mirna River valley, and during the hike, you will see all seven waterfalls and the famous Kotle, an old village with stone houses and picturesque water hollows forming 'kettles'. The trail also has some more challenging sections secured with ropes. The entire route can be completed in approximately 4-5 hours at a moderate pace.
3. Parenzana Trail
Parenzana is a cycling and walking trail that follows the route of the former railway connecting Trieste and Poreč. The trail passes through picturesque vineyards, olive groves, and beautiful Istrian towns such as Motovun, Livade, Grožnjan, Buje, and Plovanija. Besides cycling, the trail is also popular among walkers due to its stunning landscape, viewpoints, bridges, and tunnels. Parenzana is about 123 km long and is one of the most famous recreational paths in Istria, offering incredible views and cultural-historical landmarks along the route.
4. Kayaking and Windsurfing at Cape Kamenjak
Cape Kamenjak is probably the most beautiful cape in Croatia, located south of Pula and Medulin. It can be reached by car or bike, and you can also explore it on foot. Entry to this protected area is charged for vehicles, while it is free for pedestrians and cyclists. This southernmost point of the Istrian peninsula attracts visitors with its crystal-clear sea, numerous coves, and beautiful beaches. This area is ideal for kayaking and windsurfing thanks to favorable winds, and it also delights sports enthusiasts with activities like cycling, diving, hiking, and climbing. The rich underwater world, rocky coast, pebble beaches, Safari Bar, educational Dinosaur Trail, and coves Velika and Mala Kolumbarica, as well as Portić, are just some of the attractions everyone wants to see.
5. Zipline over Pazin Cave
The Pazin Cave zipline offers an exciting adventure over the impressive canyon of Pazin Cave and the Pazinčica River. Pazin Cave has inspired many artists and writers, including Jules Verne, who set part of his novel "Mathias Sandorf" in the cave, and there is a legend about its creation. The zipline ride provides a spectacular view of this natural phenomenon and allows visitors to feel the adrenaline as they fly over the deep canyon. In addition to the zipline, speleology enthusiasts and those interested in the underground world can enter the cave. Pazin Cave is located near Pazin, the main town of Istria County. Above the cave is the beautiful Castle. The cave can be visited year-round, and reservations are required.
