Walking adventure through green Istria - Long tour
Starting from the intact nature of Brtonigla, family cellars and tasting premises that invite you to discover the local lifestyle, you end up on the old railway Parenzana. Walking along it you pass through the world’s truffle center Livade for a chance to taste a bit of this exquisite flavor. Continuing through Oprtalj, Buzet and Hum you finish your journey at the top of the Učka mountain for a stunning view of Kvarner Bay. Lovran is the last city you visit before your adventure ends HIGHLIGHTS: Sightseeing tours of Grožnjan, Motovun and Buzet, Explore Hum, the smallest town in the world, Hiking in Učka Nature Park, Exploring cultural heritage and local culinary delicacies, Walk on historical railway Parenzana
Istrian inland is full of vineyards, olive groves, peaceful rivers and green hills at every step of the way. Enjoy walking and hiking!
Imagine walking through green countryside full of vineyards, olive trees, rivers and forests, full of beautiful villages and medieval towns situated on hills. Indeed it sounds like a dream. This dream can come true! Join us on a walking adventure through green Istria. Learn about the natural beauty that will open before you every step of the way, and with every new winding of the road. Learn about the culture and heritage of Istria and visit picturesque towns on the hills with unforgettable views which will leave you breathless.
Visit Hum, the smallest town in the world and experience the spirit of the past in Motovun and Grožnjan, the town of artists. To get to know the best of Istria, walk through Učka Nature Park which contains a wealth of life and, finally, round off this green adventure with the delicious flavors of indigenous Istrian delicacies and wines.
Walking adventure for lasting memories
Green Istria is a hidden gem for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights, making it an ideal destination for those who love exploring on foot. Whether you're wandering through truffle-scented forests, admiring panoramic views from hilltop towns, or savoring a glass of Istrian wine in a vineyard, this walking adventure will leave you with lasting memories of one of Croatia’s most enchanting regions.
So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your backpack, and set off on an unforgettable journey through the green heart of Istria—where every step tells a story, and every path leads to a new discovery.
Availability
Self-guided Walking adventure through green 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 Walking adventure through green 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, maps and a road book, luggage tags. Overnight in Buje Area.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Guesthouse La Parenzana 3* in Volpija or Guesthouse Lovac 3* in Kaldanija or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: Heritage Hotel San Rocco 4* in Brtonigla or San Servolo 4* or similar
Meals: not included
Walking distance: no
Transfer:
Casa La Parenzana 3*
San Rocco 4*
Short transfer to Brtonigla. The numerous acres of vineyards and olive groves are surrounded by pathways that lead towards meadows and woods, deep into the center of vibrating nature that lives intact, far away from the modern civilization. It is also a place where you can find superior wines and olive oils - many family cellars and tasting premises invite the travelers to discover the authentic power of the local lifestyle. After 3 hours walking through vineyards we reach Buje, a small hilltop town. From the top of the hill you can enjoy the pretty view of terraced fields and arable land, vineyards and olive groves. Enjoy sightseeing in this town full of history and culture. The route finishes in front of your hotel where you will get by former old railway. Overnight in Buje area.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Guesthouse La Parenzana 3* in Volpija or Guesthouse Lovac 3* in Kaldanija or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: Heritage Hotel San Rocco 4* in Brtonigla or San Servolo 4* or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Transfer: 10 minutes transfer to the walking trail
Walking distance: 16-18 km / 10-11,25 miles
Elevation gain: +268m / -278m , +880ft / -912ft
Today you are ready to start exploring Istrian villages and hidden paths. After 10 minutes transfer walking stage starts on ex railway Parenzana, a narrow - gauge Austrian railway connecting Trieste with Poreč through a series of Istrian small towns, for 123 kilometers long. The railway was in function from 1902 until 1935, and today, the track has been rearranged for cycling and hiking paths wounding through Istrian hills. Grožnjan will be your start point. After you saw Its galleries and viewpoints you can pass through magnificent rolling landscapes and lively Istrian vineyards. After passing through several tunnels, over old bridges you can stop on many fascinating view point before reaching the village of Livade, the truffle center of the world where you can taste and buy some products with truffles. Your last stop for today is 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* in Motovun
Meals: Breakfast
Transfer: 10 minutes transfer + luggage transfer
Walking distance: 25 km / 15,6 miles
Alternative shorter walk is available at approximately 20 km / 12,5 miles
Elevation gain: +511m / -573m, +1676ft / -1879ft
Embark on a scenic hike from Motovun to Brkač, exploring the picturesque Istrian countryside. This route features stunning views of rolling hills and lush vineyards. Enjoy a leisurely visit to charming small wineries along the way, where you can sample local wines and experience the region's rich viticulture. The return journey takes you along the historic Parenzana Trail, offering a unique blend of nature and culture as you make your way back to Motovun, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and the tranquility of rural life. Overnight in Motovun.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Kaštel 3* or Villa Borgo 3*in Motovun or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: Wine & Heritage Hotel Roxanich 4* in Motovun
Meals: Breakfast
Transfer: none
Walking distance: 15 km / 9,4 miles
Elevation gain: +451m / -452m, 1479ft / 1482ft
Short transfer to Oprtalj. This picturesque hilltop town of offers panoramic views of the Mirna River valley, narrow cobblestone streets, and charming architecture. Visit the Venetian Loggia, the old city gate, and the Church of St. George before you start your journey. The route goes downhill into the forest and passing Sv.Ivan (st.John) village. Next village in st. Lucija with a very beautiful church. Through few villages you will get to Control point where is also one of the best views on river Mirna valley. After passing an aqueduct the trail goes on the hill towards the village of Mali Mlun and few more villages opens a beautiful view on the town of Buzet. Through the forest and fields a the trail will get you to Buzet. Known as the “City of Truffles,” Buzet is famous for its local truffle-based dishes, so make sure to reward yourself with a well-deserved truffle-infused meal. Wander around the medieval old town with its stone streets, town gate, and charming squares. Overnight in Buzet.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Vela Vrata 4*
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Vela Vrata 4*
Meals: Breakfast
Transfer: 15 min transfer to the walking trail+ luggage transfer
Hiking distance: 18 km / 11,25 miles
Alternative shorter walk is available at approximately 8 km / 5 miles
Elevation gain: +496m / -700m, +1626ft / -2296ft
Path from Buzet to Hum can be a circular trail or one way if you start from Hum. The trail starts by the river and turns into the forest, passing over shallow river or riverbed if it's dry. It's passing by some waterfalls with lakes. Nice, and not too steep, the trail leads you all the way to Kotli, the water springs with natural pools and an old watermill. The trail continues following the riverbed and it's passing through Benčići, an abandoned village where you can see traditional Istrian stone houses. From there you'll see Hum and its recognizable church tower in the distance. When you get to Hum, take a walk and you'll understand why it’s the smallest town in the world. In Hum you can eat in the local "konoba", a wordform the local dialect that means restaurant. The "konoba" in Hum offers you nothing but traditional istrian dishes.
The hiking trail from Hum to Buzet takes you on a scenic journey through Istria’s lush landscape, following the path of the Seven Waterfalls. This moderate trail offers stunning views of cascading waterfalls, verdant forests, and charming villages, perfect for nature lovers. Along the way, you’ll experience the region's diverse flora and fauna, pass through picturesque gorges, and discover peaceful spots for rest by the flowing rivers. The trail ends in the historic town of Buzet.Overnight in Buzet.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Vela Vrata 4*
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Vela Vrata 4*
Meals: Breakfast
Transfer: not included
Walking distance: Buzet to Hum 12,5 km / 7,8 miles + Hum to Buzet 12 km / 7,5 miles
Elevation gain: Buzet to Hum +343/-138, +1125ft/-453ft + Hum to Buzet +145m/-333m, +476ft/-1092ft
Transfer to Poklon, a saddle between two hills from where trail starts. It goes on the top of Učka mountain which is biggest mountain in Istria. Path is covered by oak and chestnut forests that give pleasant freshness in hot summers. The hike from Vojak, the highest peak of Učka Mountain (1,401 m), to the coastal town of Lovran offers stunning panoramic views of the Istrian Peninsula, Kvarner Bay, and islands. The trail winds through lush forests, Mediterranean vegetation, and rugged terrain, descending from alpine landscapes to the Adriatic coastline. Your hiking adventure through Istria ends in Lovran, a charming coastal town located on the eastern shore of the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia, along the beautiful Opatija Riviera. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lush Mediterranean vegetation, Lovran is famous for its well-preserved old town, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic buildings. The town is surrounded by chestnut and laurel forests, and its beaches offer crystal-clear waters. Lovran is also renowned for its culinary traditions, particularly the annual chestnut festival ("Marunada"). Overnight in Lovran.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Park 4* or Villa Eugenia 4*in Lovran or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Park 4* or Villa Eugenia 4*in Lovran or similar
Meals: Breakfast Included
Transfer: 30 min transfer from Buzet to Poklon (start point) + luggage transfer
Walking distance: 15 km / 9,4 miles
Shorter walk 6 km / 3,8 miles
Elevation gain: +783m / -1692m, +2568ft / -5550ft
Departure after breakfast.
Accommodation: not included
Meals: Breakfast included
Transfer: not included
Walking Distance: no
Map
Here you can find tracks and accommodation.
Conditions
Price includes
- orientation meeting with Fiore representative
- 2 x overnights in in Buje area/Brtonigla
- 2 x overnights in Motovun
- 2 x overnights in Buzet
- 1 x overnight in Lovran
- 6 x breakfasts
- information package including detailed route description (maps and route notes), water bottle, luggage tags, water bottle, vouchers for hotels
- use of Fiore APP -offline navigation with voice guidance, info about POI’s and restaurant recommendation
- luggage transport from hotel to hotel
- local transfers to start point during walking
Not included in price
- travel insurance
- arrival and departure from Istria
- transfer from airport to hotel and return
- lunches, dinners and drinks
- Hiking poles hire EUR 10 per pair for one week
- GPS Garmin hire for 1 week EUR 50,-
