Discover Istria, Croatia’s largest peninsula in the Adriatic Sea, and immerse yourself in a world of luxury. Think of Istria as a blend of the French Riviera and Italy's Tuscany, boasting picturesque vineyards, olive groves, medieval fortified cities, and exquisite truffles.
Begin your Istrian adventure with a 2.5-hour scenic drive from Venice airport through Trieste and Slovenia. Your first stop should be the charming San Canzian Village Hotel in Buje, a beautifully restored 28-room Small Luxury Hotel. Nestled amidst an orchard and garden, this tranquil property offers stunning views of Venice across the Adriatic Sea.
Istria’s Inland
Embark on a private tour of Istria's inland, where rolling hills and small towns await. Groznjan, with its medieval alleyways and quirky art studios, is a must-visit. Discover Rossi, a local winery and distillery, where you can savor their exquisite Malvazija wine aged under the sea. Or, why not join a private truffle hunt and indulge in a sumptuous truffle lunch in the village of Buzet, where a local family has been hunting truffles for three generations.
ROVINJ
Next, head to the charming Rovinj, a picturesque fishing village that exudes warm Mediterranean vibes. Take a stroll along its winding streets, making your way up to the Cathedral for stunning views or down to the harbor. For the ultimate luxury experience, stay at the 5-star Grand Hotel Park, which affords breathtaking views of the old town and is only a 15-minute walk away from the hotel through the Cyprus trees. With all rooms featuring sea views and a balcony that opens up to an herb garden boasting over 30,000 varieties, this hotel is a true gem. And, who knows, you might even bump into a celebrity like Mark Walhberg, who was spotted leaving the hotel during filming.
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & winery
Visit the Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery in Bale, a Relais & Chateaux property that is an elegant country estate surrounded by grapes and olive trees. With only 50 rooms, two outdoor pools, a spa, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a small beach located 2km from the hotel, this property is perfect for a peaceful and relaxing stay. Despite producing only 100k bottles a year, their wines have won numerous awards, making this the perfect spot for wine aficionados.
Opatija
Experience the glamour of Opatija, once the go-to destination for the Viennese elite during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, thanks to its stunning location and year-round mild climate. Take a leisurely stroll along the lungomare, a seaside promenade lined with grand villas and lush gardens, and immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of Opatija.
Stay at the Ikador Hotel, a boutique hotel located on the coast of the Opatija Riviera, and arrive in style on the hotel's Riva boat #IYKYK. This luxurious hotel boasts only 16 rooms and suites, all with sea views and contemporary designs. It's also the only hotel in the country to provide Hermes bathroom amenities, adding to the indulgent experience.
PLITVICE
Visit the Plitvice Lakes National Park, the oldest and largest national park in Croatia and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park's stunning natural beauty, with its harmonious blend of blues and greens, makes it one of the world's most magnificent national parks. Take a stroll along the well-laid wooden walkways and immerse yourself in a fairy tale world of unspoiled nature, deep woodlands, and breathtaking waterfalls.
Croatia is a true treasure trove, offering a plethora of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Istria, with its breathtaking scenery and luxurious experiences, including truffle hunts and wine tastings, is a must-visit destination that caters to everyone's tastes. Whether you're looking for stunning coastal towns or idyllic inland villages, Istria has it all.
After Istria, we headed down towards the Dalmation Coast. Until then, safe travels, make happy memories, use a travel advisor.