Istrian wine roads short break
Scenic ride along magical Istria with green forests, historic hilltop towns, vineyards, olive groves and gentle rivers is a perfect short combination of nature, history and culture. Enjoy an easy bike ride from Buje passing through the hidden medieval towns of Grožnjan, Oprtalj, Motovun, Bale, Rovinj and the former Roman colony of Poreč whose charm will leave you breathless. Take a break at the winemakers and taste indigenous wines such as Malvasia and Teran. HIGHLIGHTS: Cycle Istrian hills and beautiful landscapes, Visit excellent wine producers, Explore the production of olive oil, Ride through Lim Bay and Rovinj, Visit UNESCO heritage in Porec
Treat yourself with tasty delicacies and experience all charms of Istria, exciting Croatian Terra Magica. Cycling, sightseeing, visiting cities!
There is something magical in Istria, the largest Croatian peninsula, immersed in the blue of the Adriatic. Its green forests, historic hilltop towns, vineyards, olive groves and gentle rivers are a perfect combination of the beauty of nature, history and culture. When you add to this the seductive tastes of excellent Istrian wines, you just know that this 1lend area which offers you everything you need. Enjoy an easy bike ride and explore Istria, passing through the hidden medieval towns of Grožnjan, Oprtalj, Motovun, and the former Roman colony of Poreč whose charm will leave you breathless. Passing through a landscape of hills framed by rivers, with forests, vineyards and olive groves, you’ll enjoy every moment. Take a break at the winemakers and taste indigenous wines such as Malvasia and Teran, treat yourself to tasty delicacies and experience all the charms of Istria, this exciting Croatian wine region.
Cycling from Buje to Rovinj, passing through Motovun and Poreč, offers a well-rounded Istrian experience, with beautiful inland landscapes, historical towns, and stunning coastal views. The route provides moderate challenges, cultural stops, and the opportunity to enjoy Istria’s food and wine, making it an unforgettable journey for all cycling enthusiasts.
Availability
Self guided cycling Istrian wine roads short break, 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 cycling Istrian wine roads short break, PREMIUM – 5 days/4 nights
If you choose a premium tour you will be staying at 4* boutique style hotels.
Itinerary
Arrival in Istria. Info meeting with Fiore representative at 7pm at the hotel reception area where we will provide you with the package including hotel vouchers, bicycle with all equipment, maps and a road book. 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*/5* in Buje
San Rocco 4*
Casa La Parenzana 3*
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.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Kaštel 3* or Villa Borgo 3* in Motovun or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: Wine & Heritage Hotel Roxanich 4*, Motovun
Meals: Breakfast included
Distance: 37 km / 23 miles,
Elevation: +693m /-585m, +2273 ft /-1919 ft
Begin in the historic town center, enjoying the views before you set off. This part of the trail goes from inland to the coast. It follows the road to Višnjan where you will pass by one of the 5 most famous observatories in the world. The road continues to the town of Višnjan which is on 246m altitude and from there you'll be able to catch a view on west Istrian coast and the coastal town of Poreč. In Višnjan surroundings is possible to visit many wine cellars with wine from Poreč area, especially Malvasia. Tour continues to Tar, a little town on the hill above the sea and to Nova Vas village by the famous 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 included
Distance: 40 km / 25 miles,
Elevation: +367 m /-614 m, +1204 ft /-2014 ft
You can choose between taking a car transfer to Kanfanar or reach it on your own bike. If you would like to take a car transfer to Kanfanar you have to inform us in advance (at least 24h before or on info meeting if possible).
Start riding on a secondary local roads through small villages. Passing vineyards, towns Sv. Lovreč and Kanfanar you will reach Svetvinčenat. With its grandiose Morosini-Grimani citadel with towers, parish church, municipal loggia and a line of 16th century houses of the Renaissance and a town cistern - šterna in the middle, Svetvinčenat really belongs to a range of the most attractive Venetian creations of that period effected in this region which held one of the rare witchcraft trials in Istria during 17th century.
Continue cycling on asphalted road you will reach Bale. You can visit the Bembo palace, city square and museum. From Bale you will be riding on mix of gravel and asphalted roads and trail all along the coast until you will reach Rovinj, the "Pearl of Adriatic“. Known for its picturesque old town and vibrant harbor. With narrow cobblestone streets, colorful Venetian-style buildings, and a bustling waterfront, Rovinj exudes a unique blend of history and Mediterranean charm. The town’s centerpiece is the Church of St. Euphemia, which offers stunning views from its bell tower. Rovinj is also famous for its lively arts scene, delicious seafood restaurants, and beautiful beaches. The nearby islands and nature parks provide opportunities for outdoor activities, making Rovinj a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure. Overnight in Rovinj.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Villa Lili 4* or Baron Gautsch 3* in Rovinj or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Angelo d’Oro 4* or The Melegran 4*
Meals: Breakfast included
Distance: Poreč to Kanfanar 34 km / 21,2 miles
Elevation: +680/-399m, +2230/-1305ft
Distance: Kanfanar to Rovinj 32 km / 20 miles
Elevation: +180/-455m, +590/-1492ft
Departure after breakfast.
Accommodation: -
Meals: Breakfast included
Map
Here you can find tracks and accommodation.
Conditions
Price includes
- orientation meeting with Fiore representative
- 1 x overnights in Buje area
- 1 x overnight in Motovun
- 1 x overnights in Poreč/Vrsar
- 1 x overnight in Rovinj
- 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
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
