Walking tour tastes and flavors of Istria

Today's hike you will start from your hotel descending from the hilltop to a small village where you will meet local family. They will introduce you in truffles of Istria, prepare a light lunch with wine and then show you how to find a truffle with dressed dogs and educated truffle hunter in nearby forest. Transfer back to your hotel. Overnight in Motovun.

Remark: in case this family is not available we will organize the same truffle hunt on day 6.

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, light lunch with truffles and wine

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. The trail is passing by the Petrapilosa castle and leads down in the valley. The castle is partially restored and usually open for visits. It’s one of the lesser-known gems of Istria, making it a peaceful and unspoiled site to explore. 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. Wander around the medieval old town with its stone streets, town gate, and charming squares. You can stop in a grappa brewery where they will show you how they prepare over 100 different typed of brandy and have opportunity to taste few different grappas. Overnight in Buzet. 

Accommodation:

CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Vela Vrata 4* in Buzet

PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Vela Vrata 4* in Buzet

Meals: Breakfast, grappa tasting, dinner – 3 course menu

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* in Buzet

PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Vela Vrata 4* in Buzet

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

CLASSIC 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

After breakfast departure.

Accommodation: Not included

Meals: Breakfast included

Transfer: Not included

Walking Distance: None