The truffle flavor of Istria

The Croatian peninsula Istria is the greenest place in the northern Adriatic. If some colors were assigned to it, it would be green (forests) and blue (seas). The Istrian air is saturated with the scents of conifers and macchia, the coastline consists of dozens of coves, lagoons and points of larger and smaller islands, and the heart of the peninsula are mountains climbing towards the sky. The region is extremely sunny (almost 2400 hours of sunshine a year), and the water surrounding it is characterized by a high degree of purity. No wonder that so many tourists decide to spend their holidays here - they are guaranteed to rest in a beautiful place with an excellent aura.

Istrian truffles are to die for

Istria boasts a long coastline, approx. 445 km. The peninsula itself is the largest in the entire Adriatic, and at the same time it is the most western part of the country, which is not only visible when you look at it geographically, but also culturally. One of the main towns of the peninsula, Rovinj , was in the past associated with the neighboring Venetian State by the sea. The influence of the Venetians is clearly visible in the architecture of the resort - there are many palaces in it, which we can see on the Apennine Peninsula. The most famous typically Italian monuments in Istria are the Balbi Gate and the Clock Tower. In addition to the buildings, the Italians have also marked their presence in the local cuisine, which today makes it very similar to the Mediterranean. The conclusion is therefore that during your vacation in Croatia (or at least in this part) you can feel like you are on vacation in Italy.

A typical Istrian specialty are truffles, known to tourists, e.g. in the form of a paste or a truffle omelette. Exquisite mushrooms are added to cheese and oil on the peninsula, and can be found in dishes served in local restaurants. There are many enthusiastic opinions on the web saying that Istrian white truffles (Tuber magnatum) are to die for. And any price. Many tourists plan their holidays in Istria in the fall (September-November) in order to be able to take part in the attractions organized on the occasion of the Truffle Days. Then you can enjoy tasting, watch cooking demonstrations, go to the regional products fair and stock up on truffle specialties.

Active recreation on the Adriatic

This wonderfully green region of Croatia is not only about tempting tourists with truffles. The mild climate, azure water and fresh air also attract enthusiasts of active leisure. Istria is very popular with fans of diving, surfing and sailing. There are 9 marinas on the peninsula, including the Blue Flag marina in Umag . The resort is also a Mecca for tennis players - it invites you to over 60 courts, and in August to the ATP Croatia Open competition. Lovers of basketball, jogging, cycling (numerous routes with beautiful views) or rock climbing will also get rid of excess energy in Istria. Golf courses await the calmer ones, and paragliders for adrenaline-seekers.

Camping in Istria

People interested in free sunbathing - and really relaxed ones - often choose Istria because it is home to Valalta Naturist Camping . Located between Rovinj and Vrsar, it is the first and so far the only facility of this type on the Adriatic. Apart from the obvious advantage of freely enjoying the sunshine, the campsite offers its guests accommodation in mobile homes, cottages and apartments as well as on spacious lots. It has a small port, and there are several shops (grocery, clothing, beach equipment), bicycle rental, gym and sauna, as well as a beauty and hairdressing salon. There is also a newspaper stand, a pharmacy and a clinic where you can undergo a range of treatments.

The campsite has a swimming pool complex, including a heated swimming pool, baths (including Turkish, Finnish) and a jacuzzi. In a word, the facility has such a rich offer that it can be described as fully self-sufficient. Add to that the possibility of buying excursions (by bus or boat) and taking advantage of an interesting entertainment program, and as a result, we will get a really attractive option for recreation in Istria.