MTB cycling through unexplored Istria
Istria, as a small heart shaped Croatian peninsula, offers a wide range of services ready to meet each one’s desire. Whether you like peace and farmhouse lifestyle or you are eager to be a gastro-cultural active explorer, be sure all is approachable within an hour of pleasant ride. Taking and old railway path towards the medieval hill towns of Grožnjan and Motovun will delight you as much as the pristine nature of the protected areas of Lim Bay, the ornithological reserve at Palud and Cape Kamenjak. Of course, be sure not to miss the cultural heritage of Poreč and Pula for the end
HIGLIGHTS: Cycling through the beautiful landscapes of Istria, Parenzana trail, Visiting Motovun, Grožnjan, Pula, Rovinj and Poreč, Euphasisus basilica in Poreč (UNESCO), Amphitheater in Pula, Learning about the cultural heritage
Mountainbiking, sightseeing and exploring the Istrian peninsula by cycling through pristine nature, accompanied by expert guides
Enjoying local delicacies (truffles, prosciutto, wine)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. 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 pristine nature of the protected areas of Lim Bay, the ornithological reserve at Palud and Cape Kamenjak Rt Kamenjak). Do not miss unique Poreč and the former Roman colony of Pula and feel the magical spirit of the past there.
Cycling through unexplored Istria offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. The stunning natural beauty, combined with rich history and top-notch gastronomy, makes it a cyclist's paradise. If you're looking for challenging routes wanting to explore charming coastal towns, Istria has something to offer everyone.
With well-maintained routes, bike-friendly towns, and the opportunity to discover hidden gems off the beaten path, cycling in Istria is a fulfilling and immersive way to experience the best of Croatia’s most picturesque region. It’s not just about the destination—it’s about the journey through one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating landscapes.
Availability
Self-guided cycling MTB through unexplored Istria 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 MTB through unexplored Istria PREMIUM – 8 days/ 7 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/Brtonigla.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Guesthouse La Parenzana 3* in Volpija or Guesthouse Lovac 3* in Kaldanija
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel San Rocco 4* in Brtonigla or Hotel San Servolo 4* Buje
Casa La Parenzana 3*
San Rocco 4*
Starting in the historic town of Buje, the route takes you through charming villages like Krug and Bibali, with rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves lining the way. The journey goes through Momjan, famous for its medieval castle and renowned winemaking, providing both adventure and cultural immersion in one thrilling ride. Don’t miss the chance to sample the Momjan Muscat and other local delicacies, which are a highlight of this area. Overnight in Buje area.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Guesthouse La Parenzana 3* in Volpija or Guesthouse Lovac 3* in Kaldanija
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel San Rocco 4* in Brtonigla or Hotel San Servolo 4* Buje
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 43km / 27 miles,
Elevation: +705 m / -705 m, +2312 ft / -2312 ft
In the morning start your ride on Parenzana trail to Grožnjan, typical Istrian medieval town sprout high on top of a hill along the right coast of the river Mirna. If you just occasionally pass along its streets in which almost every door leads to art studios or galleries, and which windows from every direction echoes the sounds of different music genres, from classical to jazz, you’ll understand why Grožnjan is known as "The town of artists". From here you will ride on the legendary route of the Parenzana, the former narrow-gauge railway line which penetrates deeply into the Istrian peninsula connecting 33 Istrian towns between Porec and Trieste, which today are located on the territory of even three states. Passing through magnificent rolling landscapes and lively Istrian vineyards, it will become obvious why it was also known as the wine railroad. After passing through its several tunnels, over old bridges you can stop on many fascinating viewpoints between the charming medieval town of Grožnjan and Vižinada before reaching Poreč. 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
PREMIUM HOTELS: BO Hotel Palazzo 4*, Martis Forum Heritage Hotel 4*
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 73 km / 46 miles
Elevation: +636 m / -754 m, +2086 ft / -2473 ft
The ride along this trail is particularly pleasant because you're riding along the coastline with beautiful bays where you can enjoy the breath-taking Mediterranean landscape with green vineyards and olive groves and taste home-made food, wine, brandy and honey produced in this area. Continuing along the trail, you will reach Višnjan, a little place that vaunts an astronomical observatory ranked among the 5 most important observatories in the world. . If you have found here your guiding star, or if you have refreshed yourself with a glass of excellent home-made wine we can continue our ride towards Poreč where our adventure has, actually, began.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Poreč 3* in Poreč or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: BO Hotel Palazzo 4*, Martis Forum Heritage Hotel 4*
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 57 km / 36 miles
Elevation: +539 m / -540 m, +1768 ft / -1771 ft
After riding along the coastline we reach Vrsar, a romantic fishermen village where the famous Casanova came back even two times. Our bike ride continues through the magical forest Kontija with a panoramic view of the beautiful landscape of the Lim bay, passing by the old Benedictine abbey at Kloštar and to the ruins of the medieval town Dvigrad. Just to stir your imagination – you are now in an area where many legends and mysteries based on historical events still live on: that of Dvigrad devastated by the plague because of an ancient curse, of the buried treasure of Captain Morgan's pirates near the village named after him (Mrgani), of the cave where the remains of the primitive man were found and where, as legend has it, St Romuald used to live as a hermit in the Middle Ages. From Kanfanar you will take an old railway called “Štrika ferata” converted into a trtaffic free gravel bike path finishing in 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: Baron Gautsch 3* or Vila Lili 4* in Rovinj or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Angelo d’Oro 4* or The Melegran 4*
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 62 km / 38 miles
Elevation: +732 m / -713m, +2401 ft / -2339 ft
After breakfast we start riding along the coastline towards Pula. On the way you will pass through Fažana. Situated on a low coast, well protected from the open sea by the enchanting Brijuni National Park and surrounded by vineyards and olive groves in the hinterland. Here you can stop for a drink and enjoy the beautiful view of Brijuni Islands or you can take a walk through one of the most charming old town on the Istrian coast. – Pula!
Which city is situated on seven hills, has a magnificent Amphitheatre and is not Rome? The answer is No, it is not a mistake – you are, indeed, in front of Pula, the largest city in Istria. Pula is an enchantress with thousand appearances which has been casting spell on its visitors for centuries. This day we finish visiting the old city with the Sergius' Triumphal Arch and famous Arena, a Roman amphitheatre (from the 1st century B.C.). Overnight in Pula.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Amfiteatar 3* or Galija 3* in Pula or similar in Pula
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Park Plaza Histria 4* or Hotel Milan 4*
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 42 km / 26 miles
Elevation: +309 m / -320 m, +1013 ft / -1050 ft
Gravel biking from Pula to Cape Kamenjak and Medulin offers a scenic coastal adventure through Istria, Croatia. The route combines rugged off-road trails and picturesque seaside paths, winding through lush nature reserves, ancient ruins, and hidden beaches. Starting in the historic city of Pula, riders journey along the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea towards the protected landscape of Cape Kamenjak, famed for its cliffs and wildlife. Kamenjak is a protected nature reserve known for its rugged coastline, clear blue waters, and scenic viewpoints. The gravel paths here are perfect for biking, with views of rocky beaches, coves, and small islands. Don’t miss the Safari Bar, a hidden bar nestled among the trees, perfect for a break.Visit the Dinosaur Footprints along the coast for a unique stop.Continue through Medulin, a charming coastal town back to Pula.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Amfiteatar 3* or Galija 3* in Pula or similar in Pula
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Park Plaza Histria 4* or Hotel Milan 4*
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 40 km / 25 miles
Elevation: +410 m / -411 m, +1345 ft / 1348 ft
After breakfast transfer on your own.
Map
Here you can find tracks and accommodation.
Conditions
Price includes
- orientation meeting with Fiore representative
- 2 x overnights in Buje area
- 2 x overnights in Poreč
- 1 x overnight in Rovinj
- 2 x overnights in Pula
- 7 x breakfasts
- Information package including detailed route description (map and road book), vouchers,water bottle, 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
