Exploring Parenzana on two wheels
Feel the special atmosphere of and old Parenzana trail. Once a railroad that connected Trieste with Poreč transporting agricultural products for 33 years, today is the most used trail by passionate walkers, researchers, cyclists and nature lovers. On this exciting trip you will pass through tunnels, over bridges and viaducts, between olive groves and vineyards that give this area a special charm.
HIGHLIGHTS: Cycling tour along the railway line Parenzana, Sightseeing tour of the Istrian mainland, Learning about its cultural heritage, Enjoying the culinary specialties, Visit Poreč and Euphrasian basilica
Mountain biking an old Parenzana trail
Join us in exploring the former narrow-gauge railway line Parenzana, which was turned into a true attraction for cyclists! You will be thrilled with the small picturesque towns, and landscapes dotted with old villages through which you pass. Sweeping into beautiful valleys with forests and rivers framing them and then emerging onto the slopes of the hills, the beauty of the nature will take your breath away.
In the past, this railroad used to connect with the lands of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy and served to send quality products from Istria to the imperial and royal courts. But it also connected 33 towns and villages on its way. After the economic and industrial crisis in 1935. the railway line was terminated and disassembled and today it offers to cyclist who follow its current path an exploration of the beauty of Istria.
Take a short break and soak up the abundance of peace and greenery. On this interesting trip you will pass through tunnels, over bridges and viaducts, between olive groves and vineyards that give this area special charm. The medieval hill towns of Grožnjan and Motovun will delight you as much as the unique Poreč and the former Roman colony of Pula and feel the magical spirit of the past there.
Highly recommended for MTB or gravel cyclist
This cycling tour is highly recommended for MTB or gravel cyclist seeking a blend of adventure, culture, history, and stunning natural scenery. The Parenzana Trail is an iconic route that offers the perfect mix of challenging terrain and breathtaking landscapes. You’ll have the opportunity to explore Istria’s rich cultural heritage, taste world-class food, and enjoy the peace of the countryside and the beauty of the Adriatic coast. It's an unforgettable journey that combines physical activity with the chance to fully experience the heart of the Istrian peninsula.
Availability
Self-guided MTB cycling Exploring Parenzana on two wheels CLASSIC– 5 days/4 nights
For the classic tour you’ll mainly stay in small, locally-run, guesthouses and 3 star hotels, which reflect the character of the area.
Self-guided MTB cycling Exploring Parenzana on two wheels PREMIUM– 5 days/4 nights
If you choose a premium tour you will be staying at 4* boutique style hotels.
Itinerary
Independent arrival in Trieste. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Trieste. Overnight in Trieste.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel B&B Trieste 3* or Hotel Roma 3* or similar in Trieste
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Urban 4* or Hotel Vis a Vis 4* * in Trieste or similar
Meals: not included
B&B Trieste
Vis à Vis 4*
At 9am we have a welcome briefing and those who have ordered bike rental will get fitted with our bikes and other equipment. To avoid cycling with traffic in Triest we suggest to take a ferry from Triest to Muggia, departure times are: 10:10am and 11:20, duration 30 minutes, price per person+bike EUR 5.80.
Cycling from Trieste to Buje is a scenic adventure through three countries (Italy, Slovenia and Croatia), each with its own unique charm. Whether you’re seeking stunning coastal views or quaint villages, this route offers an unforgettable experience.
Begin your journey in Trieste, a city with a unique mix of Italian, Slovenian, and Austrian influences. Explore the stunning Piazza Unità d’Italia and Miramare Castle before hitting the road. The initial ride along the coast provides breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, making for a refreshing start.
Parenzana will take you all along Piran Bay through Portorož and Lucija towns to Sečovlje Salt Pans. The Sečovlje salts pans are the northernmost salt flats in the Mediterranean. The salt is produced in the traditional way based on a 700-year-old method that harmonizes man and nature. You can visit it's museum. After you cross Slovenian - Croatian border Parenzana will take uphill along the gravel trail where you can enjoy the view on the whole bay with saltworks and the alps in the background. From Savudrija, you’ll head inland towards Buje. The route takes you through rolling hills and vineyards, showcasing the lush Istrian countryside. Once reached the hotel you can enjoy in Istrian specialities such as truffles and Istrian prosciutto. Overnight in Buje area.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Guesthouse La Parenzana 3* in Volpija or Guesthouse Lovac 3* in Kaldanija
PREMIUM HOTELS: Heritage Hotel San Rocco 4* in Brtonigla or San Servolo 4* near Buje
Meals: breakfast
Distance: 65 km / 40,6 miles
Elevation gain: +615 m / -481 m, +2017 ft / -1578 ft
Breakfast, apart from enjoying the breath-taking landscape of the terrace - styled vineyards which resemble to an image on the front page of a holiday guide to Tuscany, you can indulge the sensation the area of Buje gives, a real polyphony of fragrances and tastes. Head southeast from Buje and follow the winding roads through vineyards and olive groves. Along the way you can stop on many fascinating viewpoints from charming medieval town of Grožnjan to Oprtalj until we reach Motovun.
Take your time to explore Grožnjan, known for its art galleries and stunning hilltop views. Enjoy a coffee at a local café.
Continue from Grožnjan, taking the scenic route through the Istrian countryside. Enjoy the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes.Arrive in Motovun, a picturesque hilltop town renowned for its stunning medieval architecture and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Perched atop a 277-meter-high hill, it features narrow cobblestone streets, ancient city walls, and charming stone houses. The town is famous for its truffles, making it a culinary hotspot, especially during the annual truffle festival. Overnight in Motovun. Overnight in Motovun.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Kaštel 3* or Villa Borgo 3* in Motovun or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: Wine & Heritage Hotel Roxanich 4*, Motovun
Meals: breakfast
Bike distance: 39 km / 24 miles,
Elevation gain: +629 m / -496 m, +2063 ft / -1627 ft
Begin in the historic town center, enjoying the views before you set off. Cycle down the winding roads from Motovun towards Vižinada. Enjoy the beautiful Istrian countryside, with vineyards and olive groves lining your path. Taste home-made food, wine and honey produced in this area. Take a short break in Vižinada, a charming village with a local café.
From there, follow the bike paths leading to Poreč. The route offers lovely views of the landscape, and you may pass through other small villages along the way. You will pass by Nova Vas village where you can visit Baredine Cave. Once in Poreč, visit the famous Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and stroll along the seafront promenade. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the old town. Overnight in Poreč.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Poreč 3* in Poreč
PREMIUM HOTELS: BO Hotel Palazzo 4* or Martis Forum Heritage Hotel 4*
Meals: Breakfast
Bike distance: 38 km / 23,8 miles,
Elevation: +265 m / -514 m, +869 ft / -1686 ft
Departure after breakfast.
Map
Here you can find tracks and accommodation.
Conditions
Price includes
- orientation meeting with Fiore representative
- 1 x overnight in Triest
- 1 x overnight in Buje
- 1 x overnight in Motovun
- 1 x overnight in Poreč
- 4 x breakfasts
- Information package including detailed route description (map and road book), vouchers
- water bottle and luggage tags
- luggage transport between accommodations
- Use of Fiore App – offline navigation with voice guidance, info about the POI’s and restaurant recommendation
Not included in price
- travel and bike insurance
- arrival and departure from Istria
- transfer from airport to hotel and re-tour (can be organized)
- lunches, dinners and drinks
- bike rentals with equipment
