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    6 Types of People Who’ll Love Croatia’s Istria

    “Croatia’s westernmost peninsula of Istria is the up-and-coming star of the Adriatic”

    Here are 6 types who’ll struggle to stay away……

    • 6 Types of People Who’ll Love Croatia’s Istria

      Croatia’s westernmost peninsula of Istria is the up-and-coming star of the Adriatic. Here are 6 types who’ll struggle to stay away…

      Nature lovers

      Thanks to its rolling emerald hills and shimmering azure waters, the Istrian Riviera is often described as the Croatian Tuscany. In truth, that’s a little unfair – Istria undoubtedly deserves to be recognised in its own right – but, as a starting point, the comparison helps frame the region’s surging popularity. Like Tuscany, Istria is a paradise for those who love to explore the great outdoors. Take the hidden paradise of Brijuni National Park. As one of the true jewels of Istria, this spectacular location comprises of two large and twelve smaller islands, filled with unspoilt nature. The peninsula’s supersized coastline’s a bit special, too, rolling out for over 250 kilometres. It’s dotted with craggy coves and pebbly beaches, and backed by pretty green pines, which makes soul-feeding scenery practically inescapable.

      Limski Kanal Istria Croatia

      Water explorers

      The Limski Kanal looks like it’s been plucked straight out of Norway. This fjord-like waterway slices through the Istrian countryside between Porec and Rovinj. One of the best ways to see the canal is on a boat trip. Alternatively, find a table at one of the waterside restaurants and soak up the views over a bowl of fresh oysters and a glass of crisp white wine.

      Istria Croatia lake

      Foodies

      Istria is sandwiched by Italy to the north, and long stretches of ocean everywhere else, which means pasta and seafood dishes dominate restaurant menus – two big ticks in our box. Truffles feature heavily, too, owing to the region’s fertile soils and perfect climate. Why not combine your love of food and scenic trails and embark on a truffle hunt. Or, treat your other half to an extra-special meal. Rovinj, in particular, is home to a number of top dining spots. For gourmet grub, you’ll do well to beat Monte. It’s not cheap but, if Blumenthal-style food-science wizardry’s your thing, you won’t regret it. Barba Danilo, meanwhile, is a real hidden gem, offering top-notch nosh at a reasonable price. It’s located just outside the centre of Rovinj, set among the grounds of a holiday camp. Don’t let that deceive you, though, you’ll find daring dishes like saffron risotto and gorgonzola ice cream served up with a keen eye for presentation.

      Istria Croatia food

      Wine lovers

      Burgundy, Cape Town, Mendoza – watch out, there’s a new kid in town. It’s no secret that Croatian wine is on the rise, and Istria, home to over 100 wineries, is leading the ascent. If you’re keen to sniff out the best of the region’s vineyards, check out Eat Istria’s guide to the best wine-tasting tours. When it comes to bars, Rovinj’s Piassa Granda is arguably the area’s most dedicated purveyor of plonk, stocking an impressive collection of over 250 bottles. Sample regional tipples, such as the crisp Malvazija and the distinctively fruity Teran, or allow one of the friendly sommeliers to help find a match for your palate.

      History buffs

      Istria was conquered by the Romans in 178 BC, and remained under their rule for nearly 600 years. It’s no surprise, then, that the region’s home to a generous scattering of historic sites. If you’ve ever fancied yourself as a fearless gladiator, check out Pula Arena, one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in the world. Okay, so there’ll be no gory movie scenes re-enacted here (thankfully), but you will get the chance to take in a prime example of ancient architecture in all its glory. And, with all of its outer walls intact, it’s arguably better preserved than the Colosseum. If that’s not enough, Porec has been given the UNESCO treatment. It’s home to the protected 6th-century Euphrasius Basilica, which features a series of ancient mosaics made from gold and mother of pearl.

      Istria Crotia Pula Arena

      Festival fiends

      When it comes to music festivals, Istria’s on-the-pulse events draw a global crowd. Take Dimensions Festival, for instance. Revered around the world for its experimental electronic music programming, encompassing house, techno, and everything in between, this is Pula’s party piece – and she’s a real show pony. Tickets will put you in front of heavy hitters, like Midland, Benji B and 90s trip-hop outfit, Massive Attack. Then there’s Dimensions’ older sibling, Outlook Festival, where reggae and dub beats blare out alongside hip-hop and drum and bass. The best thing about both? They’re set in that amphitheatre. Tell mum it’s a history trip and the photos will look after themselves… And, if you’re a bit glam for camping, our Thomson Scene Hotel Park Plaza Arena Pula offers the perfect base, with stylish rooms and a central location.
      Istria Croatia 6

      Can’t resist Istria’s allure? Book now.

       

      Croatia Istria Tourist Board Thomson

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    7 of the best views in Europe

    7 of the best views in Europe

    Islands, castles and lakes. See some of the most beautiful places in...

    Best cable cars and mountain trains in Austria

    Best cable cars and mountain trains in Austria

    Your ticket to the top. Climb aboard a lift or train and...

    Multi-centre holidays to Europe

    Multi-centre holidays to Europe

    Find your perfect duo. See the best lakes, mountains and cities on...

    Author: Chris Rolinson

    Published: August 18, 2016

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    For the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information check www.gov.uk/travelaware and follow @FCOtravel and Facebook.com/FCOtravel

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    All the flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Some of the flights on this website are also financially protected by the ATOL scheme, but ATOL protection does not apply to all flights. This website will provide you with information on the protection that applies in the case of each flight before you make your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.caa.co.uk. ATOL protection does not apply to the other holiday and travel services listed on this website.