Why is Istria a must see?
Istria is the
largest green oasis of the North Adriatic. It is indeed a splendid view - with all the vineyards and valleys, wheat fields and the sea. The heart of Istria, green Istria, is worth exploring because of its peace and unspoiled nature.
Sail along Istria`s azure coast and discover the picturesque Mediterranean motifs - beaches, bays and coves.
Fun numbers of Istria
540. That’s the number of kilometres of Istrian coastline, islands included. When put in context of
average annual sunshine of 2400 hours, it is easy to understand what makes Istria such a popular holiday destination. Well preserved nature which includes 33 protected areas, includes Brijuni National Park, which boasts with almost 700 plant species.
Charming Towns
Hum, 100 m long, 30 m wide, a magical example of a hilltop town in Istria, is also said to be
the smallest town in the world.
One of the attractions in Istria is the
Pula Arena, the amphitheatre located in Pula. It is the only remaining Roman amphitheatre to have four side towers. It was constructed in 27 BC - 68 AD and is among the world’s six largest surviving Roman areas.
The most valuable cultural monument in Porec is the
Euphrasian Basilica, built on the remains of an earlier trip - naval basilica, in the first half of the 6th century. Visitors tours are possible every day except during religious rituals. It is possible to climb up to the steeple and view Porec and its surroundings.
Brijuni
Brijuni, is an
archipelago of islands and islets with a long and turbulent past. You can discover the most important parts of its history, from the time dinosaurs walked around these islands up until President Tito stayed here. On the island there is also a Safari Park, the home of exotic animals, which were gifted by diplomatic partners.
Wine
Wine is for the soul, they say. Despite the fact that Croatia is a small country, Istria itself is developed as a
wine producing region. It has high quality grape varieties ; Teran, Muskat, Malvazija. Certain well known international varieties are grown in Istria, such as red merlot and white ones like Chardonnay and Pinot.
Malvazija is definitely the best known Istrian white wine, which I highly recommend with fish, freshly caught from the sea. In some of our previous texts about Croatian gastronomy, you can find a list of best Istrian wines.
Truffles
The Truffle, one of the most
expensive gastronomic delicacy, is big business in Istria. Truffles are actually a subterranean fungus, growing amongst the roots of certain trees. They also need rocky and strong ground. Because they grow underground they are
very difficult to find, so dogs are trained and used to go truffle hunting. The best-known and largest hunting ground in Istria is the
Motovun Forest. The river Mirna flows through its centre and is used to flood the forest and provide the essentials for truffle growth.
Often compared to the smell of old socks ;), the taste of truffle is, thankfully, very different. In the kitchen, they combine best with pasta, scrambled eggs for example or rice. A local favourite is Biftek s tartufima ( beefsteak with truffles ).
So, if you are intrigued by the beauty Istria has to offer, stay in
one of our beautiful villas in Istria. Visit Istria, discover its hidden treasures and make some lifetime memories :)
Josipa Pejic
07.02.2020
MY ISTRIA GUIDE
