Istrian wine roads tour
Starting from a northernmost point of Istrian peninsula – Savudrija, with the oldest lighthouse in the Adriatic, you will experience the downhill ride to the small city of Umag, once a summer residence of a Roman nobleman. Stop for a wine taste of delicious Muscat and other worldwide famous sorts. Reaching Buje and Brtonigla you enter a historical story of Istria followed by delicious olive oil products in the town of Novigrad. Grožnjan, Oprtalj, Motovun, Bale, Rovinj and the former Roman colony of Poreč all tell its stories along the way, a piece of history to remember forever HIGHLIGHTS: Cycle through Istrian hills, Visit wine cellars, Learn how to produce olive oil, Ride through beautiful landscapes, Lim Bay and Rovinj
Cycling, sightseeing, visiting cities
Visit Euphrasius basilica in Porec (UNESCO)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 lend 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, CLASSIC – 8 days / 7 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, PREMIUM – 8 days / 7 nights
If you choose a premium tour you will be staying at 4* boutique style hotels.
Self-guided cycling Istrian wine roads - 3*/4*– 8 days / 7 nights
For the classic / premium tour you’ll stay in 3 star hotels on first part of your tour and in boutique 4* style hotels on second part of your tour.
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/Brtonigla.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Guesthouse La Parenzana 3* in Volpija or Guesthouse Lovac 3* in Kaldanija
CLASSIC + 3/4*: 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* in Buje
Casa La Parenzana 3*
San Rocco 4*
This tour starts with easy downhill ride to the coast on the northest point of Istrian peninsula. There is a lighthouse which you can visit, according to the legend build by count Metternich as his love nest. Savudrija is one of the oldest lighthouse in the Adriatic, built in 1818. It is also the northernmost Istrian lighthouse. Its building is 36 meters tall and there is a keeper living inside it. The trail continues south to Umag. Umag's history is extremely interesting; it was founded by Roman nobleman who decided to make it his summer residence. The glamour, magnificence and glare of the times can be seen today in the Venetian houses of the old town. City walls and fortification are partially preserved as well as some renaissance and baroque buildings and churches. Vineyards and olive groves will create an atmosphere of typical west Istrian landscape. Overnight in Buje area.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Guesthouse La Parenzana 3* in Volpija or Guesthouse Lovac 3* in Kaldanija
CLASSIC + 3/4*: Guesthouse La Parenzana 3* in Volpija or Guesthouse Lovac 3* in Kaldanija
PREMIUM HOTELS: Heritage Hotel San Rocco 4* in Brtonigla or San Servolo in Buje
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 48 km / 30 miles
Elevation: +443/-442m, +1453/-1450ft
From Buje area you're cycling through Kršete picturesque village and arriving to small town Brtonigla. It has churches and monasteries from XV century. Further the trail leads through wine yards and olive groves of Brtonigla area. Wine is very popular from this area (Teran). Across endless vineyards You'll reach Novigrad where you can stop for ice cream or lunch in one of the many waterfront restaurants. Located on the western coast of the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia, N-ovigrad is a charming coastal town known for its blend of history, culture, and seaside beauty. Once a small fishing village, Novigrad has retained its authentic atmosphere while offering plenty for visitors. Through Dajla and Karigador villages on the coast you're getting to Lovrečica Venetian -Bishops coastal village. Following the road through Škrinjari, Babići and Buroli village you'll see traditional Istrian houses. Road by the vineyards will take you back to your hotel. Overnight in Buje area.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Guesthouse La Parenzana 3* in Volpija or Guesthouse Lovac 3* in Kaldanija
CLASSIC + 3/4*: 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* in Buje
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 50 km / 31 miles
Elevation: +422/-421 m, +1384 ft /-1381ft
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
CLASSIC + 3/4*: Hotel Kaštel 3* or Villa Borgo 3* in Motovun or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: Wine & Heritage Hotel Roxanich 4*, Motovun
Meals: Breakfast
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 or similar
CLASSIC + 3/4*: BO Hotel Palazzo 4* or Martis Forum Heritage Hotel 4*
PREMIUM HOTELS: BO Hotel Palazzo 4* or Martis Forum Heritage Hotel 4*
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 40 km / 25 miles,
Elevation: +367 m /-614 m, +1204 ft /-2014 ft
From Poreč the trail starts with sightseeing the Euphrasiana, the most valuable monument in Poreč, a church build in 6th century. Follow the road until you reach the village of Bačva village. Bačva is the highest point of this stage and there is local restaurant with traditional dishes where you can enjoy tasting local food. It continues to southern villages and it comes down to coast in the town of Vrsar.
Vrsar is a beautiful fisherman town preched on a hill, offering stunning views on the coast and islands. Take time ti visit the old town, St. Martin's church, or relax at the marina. Vrsar is known for its artistically significant history and its connection to the famous Italian adventurer who came back event two times. After Vrsar the trail passes Funtana fishing village, through Zelena and Plava Laguna touristic villages and it leads along the coast all the way back to Poreč. Overnight in Poreč.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Poreč 3* in Poreč or similar
CLASSIC + 3/4*: BO Hotel Palazzo 4* or Martis Forum Heritage Hotel 4*
PREMIUM HOTELS: BO Hotel Palazzo 4* or Martis Forum Heritage Hotel 4*
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 45 km / 28 miles,
Elevation: +515 m /-515 m, +1689 ft / -1689 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.
CLASSIC HOTELS: Guesthouse Baron Gautsch 3* or Vila Lili 3* in Rovinj or similar
CLASSIC + 3/4*: Hotel Angelo d’Oro 4* or The Melegran 4*
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Angelo d’Oro 4* or The Melegran 4*
Meals: Breakfast
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
- 3 x overnights in Buje/Brtonigla area
- 1 x overnight in Motovun
- 2 x overnights in Poreč
- 1 x overnight in Rovinj
- 7 x breakfasts
- Information package including detailed route description (map and road book), water bottle, vouchers, luggage tags,
- Use of Fiore App – offline navigation with voice guidance, info about the POI’s and restaurant recommendation
- luggage transport between accommodations
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
