Croatia's Istrian Peninsula is one of Europe's best kept secrets. Buckets of historical charm, endless rolling hills, pretty medieval villages and delectable cuisine. Combined with dramatic coastal scenes, pristine wilderness preserved in national parks with impressive waterfalls, endemic flora and a maze of walking trails, this is an ideal destination for active travellers. On this week long walking holiday, discover the Venetian styled village of Motovun with its striking hilltop setting, surrounded by vineyards and truffle forests. Explore Brijuni (or Brioni in Italian) National Park where ancient pine forests meet with the azure coastal waters and the Ucka Nature Park where an ascent to Mount Vojak (1401m) will reveal sweeping views of the Istrian Peninsula from the snowy peaks of the Dolomites to the Adriatic. During the trip there are plenty of opportunities to swim, relax in small cafes and experience the local culinary specialties, while at night stay in handpicked hotels and pensions specially chosen for their great atmosphere.
We really enjoyed the cycling in Istria. The roads were in great shape for road bikes and had very little traffic except getting in and out of Pula which is to be expected. There were lots of places to stop for cappuccino, snacks and lunch, bikes were a perfect way to visit so many villages in the hills and on the coast. The hotels were great with variety from resort style hotels to boutique hotels in the old towns. The luggage transfer was smooth. We were given maps, an app and gpx files so we were never in danger of getting lost.
Take a scenic journey through Croatia and Slovenia on this 14-day trip from Dubrovnik to Ljubljana. See both history and nature at their best, including Roman ruins, walled cities, unspoilt beaches and rugged islands just off the Adriatic Coast. Taste wine with locals on Vis Island, stroll through Plitvice Lakes National Park or hike through the Hvar hinterland in your free time. Explore the green islands of Mljet, snack on salty cheese and discover Diocletian’s Palace on a guided tour in Split. Learn about the region’s rich history and architecture and lose yourself in the serenity of this beautiful and historic region.
Sightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House, Hostel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Bled, Zadar, Plitvice
Dubrovnik, Bled, Zadar, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Pula, Rovinj, Korcula Island, Hvar, Split, Ljubljana
With a sun-kissed coast and historic towns, the Istrian Peninsula of Croatia holds beauty at every turn. But some views outshine the rest. So, join our expert tour leader to follow the prettiest coastal trails, cycle through vineyards and olive groves, and discover centuries of history, from the Roman amphitheatre of Pula to medieval castles. This is Istria’s beauty on full display and your saddle is the best seat in the house.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Journey through Croatia, Slovenia and Italy on an intimate small-group exploration of the Adriatic. Stroll through Zagreb’s historic squares, cruise across Lake Bled in a traditional pletna boat and marvel at the vast karst formations of Postojna Cave. Discover Istria’s coastal gems — from the Roman heritage of Pula to the Venetian charm of Rovinj — before arriving in Venice, where a gondola ride through hidden canals brings your journey to a memorable close.