Istria, A Timeless Getaway For All Seasons

Nestled along Croatia’s northern Adriatic coast is Istria, a region that beckons travellers with its picturesque peninsula landscapes, colourful cultural heritage, and a tapestry of flavours waiting to be discovered. Its diverse scenery invites exploration, where olive groves cascade into crystal-clear waters and vineyards yield renowned wines. Its culinary prowess permeates through various aromas, from treasured truffles to hand-rolled pasta. And its vivid history echoes through mediaeval hilltop towns, all decorated with quaint cobblestone streets and vibrant markets where locals meet.

Unlike much of Croatia’s coastline, Istria is not limited to summer travel. It is a region that wows any time of the year, with activities that tantalise travellers away from the sun and sea, from cosy nature walks to olive oil and truffle tastings, standout restaurants serving rich and hearty regional fare and wines that warm you up even in the winter months.

Steeped in coastal charm and enveloped by culinary wonders, Istria presents the perfect offseason getaway for sophisticated travellers looking to uncover Croatia outside of the busy summer buzz. And we have the ideal itinerary to tempt your offseason travel palate.

Amongst Istria’s many gems lies Meneghetti, an idyllic estate wrapped by nature’s warm embrace – and the perfect choice for your offseason base. Meneghetti stands as a timeless testament to Istria’s allure. Tucked away into the countryside with thriving olive groves and vineyards huddled around its guests, these elegant grounds harmoniously blend a Mediterranean village-style resort with rustic yet opulent charm. From lavish accommodations to exquisite dining experiences, Meneghetti epitomises the art of refined living. Guests immerse themselves in the region’s beauty and indulge in farm-to-fork dining, wine-tasting sessions, vinotherapy spa treatments, and unparalleled comfort in its tranquil 5-star rooms and residences.

Embark on a sensory journey through Istria’s wine culture by visiting its renowned wineries. Nestled on the slopes of Momjan is Kabola, where the Teran grape variety takes centre stage. Sample their exceptional Malvasia and Teran wines and sip your pick under an old oak tree, soaking in panoramic views of the Istrian countryside. Their Muškat Momjanski is one of their proudest creations and pairs perfectly with apple pie or a variety of fruit cakes best enjoyed in the cooler months. In winter, you can warm up next to the open fire in their tasting room, which cosily emulates a Croatian village kitchen. A stop at Kabola should not be skipped even if you’re visiting during the summer, as it sits near Slovenia, the Alps, and the Adriatic Sea, where a soft breeze can be felt at any time.

Tomaz Winery is a family-owned gem where visitors are welcomed with warm hospitality and a diverse selection of award-winning wines. While slightly more modern than Kabola, guests can sip excellent wines with stunning views of nature and the town of Motovun in the distance. Known for their ‘frameless wines’ that do not fit into any box, spend an afternoon tasting your way through Tomaz’s sparkling, fresh, aged and premium wine selection.

Add the thrill of truffle hunting and you have a quintessential Istrian adventure awaiting exploration. Karlić is a family-owned truffle haven that invites adventurers to delve into the fascinating world of truffle hunting in Istria. Accompanied by expert truffle hunters and their trusty dogs, don’t miss the chance to venture into the forests in search of these elusive culinary gems. Experience the thrill of discovering these prized black and white truffles and gain insights into the art of the hunt. Round off your adventure with a truffle-infused tasting session led by the warmest Karlić team, and savour each earthy note that defines Istria’s gastronomy.

End your day with a quiet stroll through the captivating town of Motovun. Perched atop a lush hill as a time capsule preserving Istria’s mediaeval legacy, explore Motovun’s cobblestone streets, charming squares, ancient walls, and breathtaking vistas. You’ll stumble upon local artisans’ shops, indulge in Istrian delicacies at quaint taverns, and absorb the town’s historical charm, transporting all of its visitors to a bygone era.

Istria unfolds as an enthralling tapestry of experiences, blending natural beauty, gastronomic delights, and cultural treasures. From the luxurious seclusion of Meneghetti to the enchanting Kabola and Tomaz wineries, adventurous truffle hunting experiences, and endless explorations of towns such as Motovun, each stop unveils a facet of Istria’s attraction and offers a glimpse into the region’s rich offseason offers.

Discovering Istria is not just about meeting its landmarks; it’s about sinking into its soul – its people’s warmth, the abundance of its flavours, and the timelessness of its peninsula landscapes. It’s time to savour the essence of this captivating Croatian region no matter the time of year! 

Take a look at our authentic experiences in Istria and other Croatian regions.