Spring and Autumn in Istria
SPRING IN ISTRIA
Year after year Istria continues to hold the reputation of a top global destination, after receiving acclaims from the leading tourist guides, such as National Geographic Traveler and Lonely Planet. Due to its mild climate and spring temperatures of around 20 °C, its colourful hillside villages, medieval settlements rich in culture and history, and typical small Istrian towns offering memorable panoramas from Učka to the Adriatic Sea, vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, intact nature all around, and also plenty of sports activities to choose from, springtime in Istria definitely has its special charms. Discover Istria from the Ćićarija plateau in the north, Cape Kamenjak in the south, Lim bay, Poreč,
Novigrad and Rovinj in the west, all the way to Rakalj and Rabac in the east. Set off along one of the wine routes, hiking or cycling trails or, alternatively, embark a flat-bottom boat batana and circle around the Brijuni Archipelago, and at the end of the day enjoy the sunset in the town of Fažana. The richness of Istrian the flora extends far beyond just the olive trees and grapevines. Wild herbs growing in the meadows, forests, and hillsides are often medicinal. Some of these are delightful in taste and are often used in cooking. Wild asparagus is one of the heralds of spring and has a distinguished place in Istrian cuisine. The symbol of vitality and health, the wild asparagus is found in groves and meadows
along the wider coastal strip of Istria. Freshly picked, they are excellent in a frittata, but they are also used in preparation of delicacies that will satisfy even the most sophisticated gourmets. From March to May the smell of asparagus and warmth of Istrian hospitality dominate the restaurants of the northwest Istria, marking the event of Istrian Asparagus Days.
Wine testing in renowned wine cellars, home-made brandies and honey, the best olive oils in the world, prosciutto and cheeses, along with various spring attractions will make you fall passionately and head over heels in love with all the cultural, historical and natural wonders of Istria.
Wine testing in renowned wine cellars, home-made brandies and honey, the best olive oils in the world, prosciutto and cheeses, along with various spring attractions will make you fall passionately and head over heels in love with all the cultural, historical and natural wonders of Istria.
AUTUMN IN ISTRIA
It is in September and October when Istria can truly offer its best.
Relaxed atmosphere spreads over the peninsula and the water in the outdoor pools of Villa Sara and Villa Star is still warm and lovely for swimming. Istrian coastline is 537 km long, with numerous bays, peninsulas and islands, bathing in the crystal clear sea. The summer being over, its beaches become secluded romantic spots for all those looking for peace and relaxation. It is in autumn when the green Istrian interior shows all its rich diversity: vineyards come to life, malvazija, teran and muškat are being harvested, and truffle harvesters
Relaxed atmosphere spreads over the peninsula and the water in the outdoor pools of Villa Sara and Villa Star is still warm and lovely for swimming. Istrian coastline is 537 km long, with numerous bays, peninsulas and islands, bathing in the crystal clear sea. The summer being over, its beaches become secluded romantic spots for all those looking for peace and relaxation. It is in autumn when the green Istrian interior shows all its rich diversity: vineyards come to life, malvazija, teran and muškat are being harvested, and truffle harvesters
and their trained dogs go in search of the Istrian “gold nugget”. Autumn is the season of a magnificent gastronomy event that takes place during seven weekends in the heart of Istria in Livade village, in the Mirna River valley just below Motovun. Truffle Days start at the end of September, and the Motovun Forest welcomes many local and foreign guests. The programme includes a fair, exhibition, workshop, and tasting of specialties made with white and black truffles. Medieval fort towns situated on hilltops, surrounding fields, plains and vales, vineyards and olive groves basking in the sun
and all the colours of autumn, these are some of the wonders you get to discover as you set off towards the Istrian interior. Trek, run or hike through this gorgeous landscape and take in all the magnificent views. There are many activities to enjoy: from hunting, canoeing down the Mirna River valley, hiking and cycling along the beautiful route of the former Parenzana railway, to discovering excellent wines and authentic Istrian dishes.
