Sports & adventure trip

Cycling through the hills and towns of Istria

The Istrian peninsula is a premier cycling destination in Croatia with more than 500 kilometres of bike trails and a dream scenery. Curvy roads take you along the bright blue Adriatic coastline and into the lush green interior peppered with small historical towns and villages, some predating the Roman times.

Trip highlights

  • Cycle through the breathtaking Italian and Istrian landscapes
  • Explore the former Parenzana railway
  • Taste the wines and culinary specialties of Istria
  • Visit the medieval towns of Motovun, Grožnjan, and Poreč
  • Walk the narrow cobblestone streets of Rovinj and admire the Roman amphitheater in Pula

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Istria, the largest Croatian peninsula located in the northern part of the Adriatic, was once part of the Roman empire, a civilization particularly fond of both hills and fortification.

It is a perfect cycling destination all year round. Besides challenging trails and picturesque landscapes, you will find well-marked routes are at the disposal of all cyclists. Often, you can choose easier or more challenging courses based on your ability and fitness.

No matter which trails you choose to explore this 2200 square kilometre peninsula - the charms of Istria will, without a doubt, leave you speechless.

Its green forests, historic hilltop towns, vineyards, olive groves, and gentle rivers are a perfect combination of the beauty of nature, history, and culture. When you add this to the seductive tastes of excellent Istrian wines, you just know that this is an area that offers everything you need.

Take a break at the winemakers and taste indigenous wines such as Malvasia and Teran, treat yourself to tasty delicacies and experience all the charms of Istria, this exciting Croatian wine region.

Springtime in Istria offers wild asparagus that can be plucked along the way, or if you are on two-wheels in autumn, you’ll be able to try your hand at finding the elusive white truffle in the Motovun Forest.

The greatest feature of Istria is the concentration of preserved mediaeval small towns located on hilltops which provided them natural protection. Even today they would not be easily conquered and to modern tourists on bikes they present a new challenge. Some of these towns are: Buje, Momjan, Grožnjan – “the town of artists”, Završje, Oprtalj, Motovun and Vižinada, and adding to the authentic ambience are the very picturesque villages of the upper Buje area.

Day-by-day itinerary

DAY 1

Arrival in Trieste

Arrive independently in the vibrant city of Trieste. Spend the day at your leisure, exploring the city's rich history and stunning coastal scenery. Overnight stay in Trieste.

DAY 2

Biking from Trieste to Buje

Start your day with a welcome briefing at 9 a.m., followed by bike fitting and breakfast at the hotel. Cycle along the Parenzana trail, passing through the towns of Portorož and Lucija towards the Sečovlje salt flats, the northernmost in the Mediterranean, where traditional salt production methods have been used for 700 years. Cross the Slovenian-Croatian border and bike uphill, enjoying panoramic views of the bay, saltworks, and Alps. Pass by Savudrija - Salvore train station and through Buje region villages, ending the day with a delicious Istrian dinner featuring truffles and prosciutto. Overnight in Buje.

  • Shorter Route: 41 km / 25 miles / Elevation Gain: +575 m / 1897 ft
  • Longer Route: 56 km / 35 miles / Elevation Gain: +620 m / 2035 ft

DAY 3

Biking from Buje to Motovun

After breakfast, continue along the historic Parenzana railway route. Ride through picturesque landscapes and vineyards, stopping in Grožnjan, the city of artists, to visit its galleries. Pass through tunnels and over bridges, reaching the truffle-rich village of Livade. End the day in the hilltop town of Motovun, known for its medieval architecture. Overnight in Motovun.

  • Bike Distance: 39 km / 24 miles / Elevation Gain: +740 m / 2430 ft

DAY 4

Biking from Motovun to Poreč

Begin your day with a ride overlooking the Mirna River valley. Cycle through the medieval town of Motovun, admiring its historic buildings and stunning views. Follow the Parenzana trail through Vižinada village, with an optional visit to Baredine Cave. Continue past vineyards to the coastal town of Poreč, where you can explore the Roman Forum and the Euphrasian Basilica. Overnight in Poreč.

  • Bike Distance: 36 km / 22 miles / Elevation Gain: +380 m / 1254 ft

DAY 5

From the Adriatic Sea to Baredine Cave

Today’s ride takes you through the scenic Poreč countryside. Start along the Parenzana trail and turn onto single trails and country roads to Baredine Cave. After exploring the cave, continue through wooded areas towards the sea, passing the archaeological site of Roman Villa Rustica. Enjoy the unspoiled wild beaches near Červar Porat before returning to Poreč. Overnight in Poreč.

  • Bike Distance: 30 km / 19 miles / Elevation Gain: +361 m / 1184 ft

DAY 6

Easy Ride through Poreč Countryside

Take it easy today with a short ride through the Poreč countryside. Cycle at your own pace, passing through peaceful villages, olive groves, and vineyards. Follow part of the old Roman road Decumanus Maximus Agri, and stop for a light lunch at Konoba Danijela in Veleniki. Continue on a shady forest trail back to Poreč, ending on the familiar Parenzana path. In the evening, return your bikes to our representative. Overnight in Poreč.

  • Bike Distance: 16 km / 10 miles / Elevation Gain: +211 m / 700 ft

DAY 7

Explore Rovinj and Pula

Enjoy a break from cycling with a guided road trip to Rovinj and Pula. Start in Rovinj, known as Little Venice, and explore its narrow cobbled streets and colourful buildings. Continue to Pula, Croatia’s answer to Rome, and visit the impressive Roman Amphitheatre. After a day of sightseeing, return to Poreč for your final night in Croatia.

DAY 8

Departure from Poreč

Depending on your departure time, take a last stroll through Poreč, savor a final coffee, or indulge in one last ice cream. A private transfer to the airport, harbour, or bus station can be arranged upon request. 

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