Istrian Walking Adventure: Green Trails & Coastal Paths
Personalized quotation
Luggage transfer
24h telephone assistance
Hotel accommodations
Surprise yourself by touring the Adriatic Sea's largest peninsula, the coast of Istria, and begin on its 242 km between Croatia, Italy and Slovenia while enjoying the spectacular landscapes, small coastal and fishing villages, and the fortified towns from the Middle Ages anchored on top of the hills.
Visit the charming villages that in the past were places of great civilizations and cultures. Get to know the quiet 'Adriatic Tuscany', which is currently an intercultural zone due to the multiculturalism of its inhabitants: Italians, Slavs and Croats, and yes, pirates!
Experience true rural tourism amid olive groves and vineyards of fairytale villages, such as the artists' village of Groznjan, Motovun or Buje, known as the Istrian Watchtower, whose Venetian architecture and influence, due to its proximity to Italy and Slovenia, is present in its palaces, cobblestoned streets, baroque churches and ancient walls.
- Tour some of the smallest cities in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
- Try a typical Malvasia wine, a Muscatel or a Terrano in one of the villages of "Croatian Tuscany".
- Visit The Pazin Grotto, in Ucka's mountain system, inspired by Jules Verne for his novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth.
- Join expert hunters and their dogs in the 'truffle hunt' during autumn, and taste Livade's exquisite white truffles.
- Explora Lovran, one of the oldest coastal settlements and its church with medieval frescoes and glagolitic inscriptions.
- Try the traditional Grilled Cripnja, meat or fish with potatoes cooked in a grilled cast-iron pot.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Buje
This romantic medieval town, 10 km inland from the Adriatic Sea, is also known as the "Sentinel of Istria" for its strategic hilltop location, from where you can see the important historical and commercial routes of Pula-Trieste and Umag– Buzet.
The city went from being a Roman and Venetian settlement to a medieval city, from which its Venetian Renaissance architecture survives which you can recognize in its narrow streets and in the old town protected by stone fortifications.
Visit in the central square and the baroque Church of Our Lady of Mercy, built on the foundations of an ancient Roman temple in the 16th century. Enjoy the regional cuisine and quiet surroundings of Buje, away from the coastal resorts of Istria but with easy access to the beach.
The city went from being a Roman and Venetian settlement to a medieval city, from which its Venetian Renaissance architecture survives which you can recognize in its narrow streets and in the old town protected by stone fortifications.
Visit in the central square and the baroque Church of Our Lady of Mercy, built on the foundations of an ancient Roman temple in the 16th century. Enjoy the regional cuisine and quiet surroundings of Buje, away from the coastal resorts of Istria but with easy access to the beach.
Overnight in Buje
La Parenzana
La Parenzana is a family-run guest house located near Buje, on the tracks of the old Parenzana railway line and a few kilometres from the historic towns of Motovun and Groznjan.
It was built on an old rustic farm with thick stone walls, wooden beams and fireplaces.
It offers simple yet comfortable rooms with heating, a private bathroom and a TV. Free internet access is available. Its restaurant, Konoba, serves traditional local food, such as Cripnja or its exquisite truffle dishes.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
It was built on an old rustic farm with thick stone walls, wooden beams and fireplaces.
It offers simple yet comfortable rooms with heating, a private bathroom and a TV. Free internet access is available. Its restaurant, Konoba, serves traditional local food, such as Cripnja or its exquisite truffle dishes.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Brtonigla to Buje 8,5 miles | 14 km
Start this beautiful walk by travelling on to Brtonigla, a small village, a centre for viticulture and rural tourism located northwest of Istria, which was originally on top of a hill but eventually spread and then occupied it completely.
Visit the church dedicated to St. Zenone, Bishop of Verona and patron saint of the city. If you prefer, change direction and discover on the coast of the municipality one of the largest campsites in Croatia, "Park Umag" or Istralandia Water Park, one of the two best of its type in Europe.
Walk the paths while enjoying the views it offers of the surrounding landscape rich in agriculture, dominated by Mediterranean flora, cornfields, vegetable orchards, vineyards, olive groves and the mild Mediterranean climate.
Once you return to Buje, you can take a stroll on the promenade outside its walls to appreciate the landscape of Istria.
Visit the church dedicated to St. Zenone, Bishop of Verona and patron saint of the city. If you prefer, change direction and discover on the coast of the municipality one of the largest campsites in Croatia, "Park Umag" or Istralandia Water Park, one of the two best of its type in Europe.
Walk the paths while enjoying the views it offers of the surrounding landscape rich in agriculture, dominated by Mediterranean flora, cornfields, vegetable orchards, vineyards, olive groves and the mild Mediterranean climate.
Once you return to Buje, you can take a stroll on the promenade outside its walls to appreciate the landscape of Istria.
Overnight in Buje
La Parenzana
La Parenzana is a family-run guest house located near Buje, on the tracks of the old Parenzana railway line and a few kilometres from the historic towns of Motovun and Groznjan.
It was built on an old rustic farm with thick stone walls, wooden beams and fireplaces.
It offers simple yet comfortable rooms with heating, a private bathroom and a TV. Free internet access is available. Its restaurant, Konoba, serves traditional local food, such as Cripnja or its exquisite truffle dishes.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
It was built on an old rustic farm with thick stone walls, wooden beams and fireplaces.
It offers simple yet comfortable rooms with heating, a private bathroom and a TV. Free internet access is available. Its restaurant, Konoba, serves traditional local food, such as Cripnja or its exquisite truffle dishes.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Groznjan to Motovun 16 miles | 26 km
We will take you to Groznjan, one of Croatia's most charming and evocative villages in Italian Tuscany. In the 1960s, it was "redesigned" by a group of artists, who gave their own, distinct and abstract style to entrances, portals and cobblestoned streets.
Visit in this bohemian village, where they play jazz and blues , the Spinotti Morteani Palace with its courtyard of Venetian architecture and one of its many galleries or shops, where you can buy handmade souvenirs: lavender chocolates, truffle oil or soaps with the symbol of the country.
Climb steep slopes and venture on a stretch of one of the most popular routes with cyclists: The Parenzana Trail or the Path of Health and Friendship, which runs through Italy, Slovenia and Croatia crossing the old Parenzana railway.
It crosses the bridges and tunnels of this railway that was created to introduce Europe to the trade of different native products, such as the salt from the Secovlje salt flats or the famous oil from Istria.
Then visit the village of Livade, the world centre of the Istria white truffle, where you should definitely try it before continuing on to Motovun. In this medieval village, get to know the most visited place in Istria by paragliders and encourage yourself to take a flight over the valley.
Visit in this bohemian village, where they play jazz and blues , the Spinotti Morteani Palace with its courtyard of Venetian architecture and one of its many galleries or shops, where you can buy handmade souvenirs: lavender chocolates, truffle oil or soaps with the symbol of the country.
Climb steep slopes and venture on a stretch of one of the most popular routes with cyclists: The Parenzana Trail or the Path of Health and Friendship, which runs through Italy, Slovenia and Croatia crossing the old Parenzana railway.
It crosses the bridges and tunnels of this railway that was created to introduce Europe to the trade of different native products, such as the salt from the Secovlje salt flats or the famous oil from Istria.
Then visit the village of Livade, the world centre of the Istria white truffle, where you should definitely try it before continuing on to Motovun. In this medieval village, get to know the most visited place in Istria by paragliders and encourage yourself to take a flight over the valley.
Overnight in Motovun
Villa Borgo B&B
Villa Borgo is located in the old centre of the picturesque village of Motovun, and within walking distance of the old city gates. It offers a spacious terrace with panoramic views of the valley and the River Mirna.
All rooms come with free Wi-Fi, a fan and a private bathroom. It also offers satellite TV and an equipped kitchenette.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
All rooms come with free Wi-Fi, a fan and a private bathroom. It also offers satellite TV and an equipped kitchenette.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - Oprtalj to Buzet 11 miles | 18 km
After a short transfer, you reach the small and picturesque village of Oprtalj, where the Istrian mountain trail begins. Enter wooded paths, cross small villages and farmland in Sveti Ivan and St. Lucija, before climbing up to a wonderful viewpoint over the River Mirna and extending your view to Mount Ucka.
Traverse the ruins of Pietra Pelosa Castle while enjoying the breathtaking views over the River Mirna Valley before you spot, on a wooded hill, views of your next destination: Buzet.
Explore the old town of Buzet or Pinguente, known as the city of truffles (especially white ones) and for its local "grappa" production. Visit the local brewery to sample some of its different flavours, wines and olive oils.
If you want to, you can also visit the Captain's Palace, the Parish Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Churches of St. George and the Holy Spirit or Kosmati Grad Castle.
Traverse the ruins of Pietra Pelosa Castle while enjoying the breathtaking views over the River Mirna Valley before you spot, on a wooded hill, views of your next destination: Buzet.
Explore the old town of Buzet or Pinguente, known as the city of truffles (especially white ones) and for its local "grappa" production. Visit the local brewery to sample some of its different flavours, wines and olive oils.
If you want to, you can also visit the Captain's Palace, the Parish Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Churches of St. George and the Holy Spirit or Kosmati Grad Castle.
Overnight in Buzet
Hotel Boutique Vela Vrata
It is located in the old town of Buzet, surrounded by the natural landscape of north-eastern Istria and overlooking the valleys of the River Mirna.
All rooms are equipped with satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a minibar and a modern bathroom.
Relax in the spacious wellness centre with a jacuzzi and sauna, and enjoy a truffle-sprinkled steak with a glass of local wine on the private terrace.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
All rooms are equipped with satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a minibar and a modern bathroom.
Relax in the spacious wellness centre with a jacuzzi and sauna, and enjoy a truffle-sprinkled steak with a glass of local wine on the private terrace.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Enjoy your day in Hum 15,5 miles | 25 km
Start a beautiful and long day of walking along the river until you reach the Korita Trail, a path with an old water mill and natural pools where you can take a relaxing swim before continuing on your walk.
Hum, a city from in the Middle Ages, just 100 metres long, 30 metres wide and with about 17 inhabitants, is the smallest city in the world according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
Visit its 11th-century castle and try some of its natural medicine, such as the mistletoe brandy, before continuing to climb a valley of forests called "The Mistletoe Way" to a viewpoint, the point of return back to Buzet along a picturesque and undulating path with waterfalls.
Hum, a city from in the Middle Ages, just 100 metres long, 30 metres wide and with about 17 inhabitants, is the smallest city in the world according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
Visit its 11th-century castle and try some of its natural medicine, such as the mistletoe brandy, before continuing to climb a valley of forests called "The Mistletoe Way" to a viewpoint, the point of return back to Buzet along a picturesque and undulating path with waterfalls.
Overnight in Buzet
Hotel Boutique Vela Vrata
It is located in the old town of Buzet, surrounded by the natural landscape of north-eastern Istria and overlooking the valleys of the River Mirna.
All rooms are equipped with satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a minibar and a modern bathroom.
Relax in the spacious wellness centre with a jacuzzi and sauna, and enjoy a truffle-sprinkled steak with a glass of local wine on the private terrace.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
All rooms are equipped with satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a minibar and a modern bathroom.
Relax in the spacious wellness centre with a jacuzzi and sauna, and enjoy a truffle-sprinkled steak with a glass of local wine on the private terrace.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Poklon to Lovran 7,5 miles | 12 km
You will start the route in the Ucka mountain range, after moving to Poklon, from one of the trails that cross the mountain range to Plomin Bay in the Adriatic Sea. From Poklon (which in Croatian means reverence) the sea, the city of Rijeka and Trsat Hill are first sighted, where pilgrims used to kneel to greet the Virgin of Trsat.
Climb to the summit of Ucka, declared a nature park, towards Vojak Peak, where you'll have one of the best views in Croatia. On clear days, you can see the Istrian Peninsula, the Gulf of Kvarner with its islands, the Gorski Kotar Mountains, Mount Velebit, the Alps and Italy.
Use your mountaineering and climbing skills in the many speleologists' favourite crevices and caves, or by descending the limestone range to the historic and coastal town of Lovran, to the east of the peninsula. If you prefer, take a taxi from Vojak to avoid this steep descent.
Climb to the summit of Ucka, declared a nature park, towards Vojak Peak, where you'll have one of the best views in Croatia. On clear days, you can see the Istrian Peninsula, the Gulf of Kvarner with its islands, the Gorski Kotar Mountains, Mount Velebit, the Alps and Italy.
Use your mountaineering and climbing skills in the many speleologists' favourite crevices and caves, or by descending the limestone range to the historic and coastal town of Lovran, to the east of the peninsula. If you prefer, take a taxi from Vojak to avoid this steep descent.
Overnight in Lovran
Hotel Park
Hotel Park is 50 metres from the sea and the famous Lungo Mare promenade in Lovran, at the foot of Ucka Nature Park.
It offers rooms with sea views, breakfast and free use of the indoor pool and gym. The hotel's spa area can be used for an additional fee, subject to availability and upon prior reservation.
Free Wi-Fi is available and half board can be booked upon request, including breakfast and dinner. The hotel serves buffet or individual meals and offers vegetarian and diet meals upon request.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
It offers rooms with sea views, breakfast and free use of the indoor pool and gym. The hotel's spa area can be used for an additional fee, subject to availability and upon prior reservation.
Free Wi-Fi is available and half board can be booked upon request, including breakfast and dinner. The hotel serves buffet or individual meals and offers vegetarian and diet meals upon request.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - Enjoy your day in Lovran
Discover Lovran, one of the oldest settlements on the east coast of the peninsula, nestled at the foot of the Ucka mountain range. Visit its historical-cultural heritage composed of rural environments and architectural buildings, turn-of-the-century villas with orchards full of cherries and chestnuts, its church with medieval frescoes and the tower in St. George's Square dating from the 14th century.
Explore the unforgettable coastal landscape that connects Lovran with Volosko and Opatija, on the Lungo Mare seafront, built in 1900, a total of 12 km. Relax on one of the beaches in this town recognized as a climatic and therapeutic centre thanks to its lush Mediterranean vegetation and salt-laden atmosphere.
Try truffles, chestnuts and asparagus, known as Sparoge, fresh seafood and local wine.
Explore the unforgettable coastal landscape that connects Lovran with Volosko and Opatija, on the Lungo Mare seafront, built in 1900, a total of 12 km. Relax on one of the beaches in this town recognized as a climatic and therapeutic centre thanks to its lush Mediterranean vegetation and salt-laden atmosphere.
Try truffles, chestnuts and asparagus, known as Sparoge, fresh seafood and local wine.
Overnight in Lovran
Hotel Park
Hotel Park is 50 metres from the sea and the famous Lungo Mare promenade in Lovran, at the foot of Ucka Nature Park.
It offers rooms with sea views, breakfast and free use of the indoor pool and gym. The hotel's spa area can be used for an additional fee, subject to availability and upon prior reservation.
Free Wi-Fi is available and half board can be booked upon request, including breakfast and dinner. The hotel serves buffet or individual meals and offers vegetarian and diet meals upon request.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
It offers rooms with sea views, breakfast and free use of the indoor pool and gym. The hotel's spa area can be used for an additional fee, subject to availability and upon prior reservation.
Free Wi-Fi is available and half board can be booked upon request, including breakfast and dinner. The hotel serves buffet or individual meals and offers vegetarian and diet meals upon request.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Lovran
For your return from Lovran, you can go to Pula Airport or Trieste Airport, take a bus or private transport booked in advance, which is the most recommended option.
End of our services.
End of our services.
Itinerary map
Services
Included
- Accommodation in en suite rooms in charming hotels
- Daily Breakfasts
- Luggage transfers between accommodations
- Transfers as specified in the itinerary
- Transfer from Pula Airport to Buje
- Information dossier with maps and routes
- 24-hour telephone support
- Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
- Taxes
Extras
- Travel insurance
- Cancellation insurance
- Additional nights
Accomodation
General information
The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available.
Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip.
The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip.
We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.
The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.
Room types
It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms.
All rooms have private bathrooms.
Travel & transfers
You must arrive at Pula Airport in Croatia, or Trieste Airport in Italy. From the city of Pula you can reach Buje by bus or private transport that you must book in advance, this is the most recommended option if you arrive in Trieste, as public transport is limited.
For the return from Lovran take the bus to Pula Airport or private transport booked in advance. Both options can also be used to head to Trieste Airport and continue your journey to your next destination.
For the return from Lovran take the bus to Pula Airport or private transport booked in advance. Both options can also be used to head to Trieste Airport and continue your journey to your next destination.
FAQs
Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
Absolutely! Each traveller has included 1 piece of luggage that we will transfer between your accommodations. It's important that this piece of luggage meets the following criterias:
- Maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg).
- Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
- Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
- Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
What is the best time of the year to travel?
We recommend starting the route in spring, from April to June, when the weather in Croatia is ideal.
The months of July and August are another alternative, and although the heat increases, Croatia organises a host of varied seasonal festivals that you can enjoy.
Please note that in early April and the end of October, in-unit pools may not be available and restaurant service may be more limited.
What should my physical preparation be?
This route is classified as of medium-low difficulty and with ascents between 400 m to 800 m each day over rugged, slippery terrain and with a little difficulty in the wettest areas or seasons, it will be easier for those who have an active lifestyle and walking experience.
The duration of the walks varies each day, from 4 to 5 hours, and on some routes there are shorter options to avoid difficulties on your return or on descent.
While some routes are signposted, many are not, and are very distant, so we recommend that you pre-check our directions and check the maps before embarking on the walks.
What if I'm not able to finish one of the stages?
You can call us to arrange a private transfer for you. If you prefer, you can also use public transport or local taxis to get to your next accommodation.
How far in advance should I book my trip?
We recommend that you book as soon as you are sure about your dates, as accommodation can fill up very quickly in this area.
What equipment do I need to bring?
Once you make your reservation we will send you all the detailed information about the specific equipment you need for this route, considering recommendations for shoes, boots, clothes and a day-to day backpack.
Is this walking holiday for me?
This route is ideal for those looking to walk and relax in a real natural paradise, breathe fresh air, explore beautiful almost unspoilt beaches, coves, and cliffs in the middle of true natural parks.
If you are a lover of history, archaeology, vegetation, exotic fauna, gourmet food, and you also like to experiment with new local flavours, truffles, local wine or whisky, you will find a perfect plan on this route through Croatia.
Why Choose Orbis Ways?
Find Your Ideal Trip
Explore over 200 carefully designed routes tailored just for you.
Tailor-Made Budget
We adapt to your needs to provide you with the best possible experience.
Get the Most Out of Your Trip
Join the Orbis Ways community and embark on an unforgettable adventure.
