Istria's got quite the spotlight as a tourist magnet, but guess what? Amidst all the hustle and bustle, there are a handful of hidden gems waiting to be discovered! Today, we're thrilled to whisk you away on a journey through four extraordinary towns that often slip under the radar.
Photo credit:
Vrsar/ Depositphotos.com
Hum: The World's Tiniest Marvel
Legend has it that Hum sprang to life from leftover stones as giants built cities in the Mirna Valley. Embraced by ancient walls that once defied invasions, this petite town whispers tales of resilience. Don't be fooled by its size; within its charming streets, the Hum Tavern tempts with delectable Istrian flavors. Explore its medieval charm, and who knows, you might even partake in the yearly selection of the town's leader!
Vrsar: Casanova's Romantic Haven
Set snugly on Istria's western fringes, right where the Lim Bay unfurls, Vrsar is a hidden treasure, a seaside delight tucked on a hill. Imagine soaking in the breathtaking views of the endless waters and catching a glimpse of 18 adorable little islands scattered around. Sounds perfect, right? Well, the legendary heartthrob Giacomo Casanova would agree with you on this one. In the 18th century, this Italian adventurer, writer, lover, and famous gourmet visited Vrsar and wrote down his adventures in a famous memoir.
If you want to see this Istrian town in Casanova's eyes, dive into the Casanova Tour for a stroll through the town's romantic lanes and discover the love story woven into its cobblestones. The tour winds through viewpoints, painting an unforgettable narrative of Casanova's escapades in this charming haven.
Grožnjan: The Artist's Oasis
Picture-perfect like a postcard, Grožnjan crowns a romantic hill amidst Istria's gentle landscapes. It's no wonder it's dubbed the "Town of Artists." Every May, this enchanting place transforms into an artistic haven—summer music academies, painting workshops, and even peace activism sessions bloom within its lanes. But wait, there's more! Grožnjan is a treasure trove for hunters, blending hunting traditions dating back to the 1860s with its diverse wildlife, making it an ideal spot for combining leisure with the thrill of the hunt. You can find further information on hunting in Grožnjan in our earlier article.
Momjan: Vineyards and Timeless Charm
Perched at 270 meters above sea level, Momjan, a short distance from the Umag and Novigrad rivieras, exudes an ancient charm. Divided into Upper and Lower Momjan, the 15th-century church of St. Martin and a towering 22-meter bell tower grace the Lower Town. But it's the vineyards that steal the show, producing exquisite Malvasia and Momjan Muscat, cherished libations from the courts of Italy to Vienna. Take a sip of history at award-winning wineries like Kabola and Kozlović, indulging in the region's finest flavors.
We are sure that each of these towns will leave you in awe. Each one is packed with its own magic, charm, and beauty. Trust us; you won't want to miss out on these gems. Make sure they're right there on your itinerary because they're the kind of places that etch themselves into your memory.
Photo credit:
Shutterstock.com, Depositphotos.com