If you’re the kind of traveler who loves finding secret spots before they hit the mainstream, Kotli might just be your next favorite story to tell. Hidden in the Istrian hills east of Buzet, this abandoned village (no one’s lived there for over 40 years!) is a real-life fairytale—complete with cascading waterfalls, natural turquoise pools, and centuries-old stone houses.

A Hidden Oasis in Istria

The village sits peacefully in the valley of the river Rečina, which merges into the Mirna River. Over centuries, the flowing water carved deep, round basins into the stone—like nature’s own hot tubs (except, colder!). The name “Kotli” literally comes from these pot-shaped hollows ("kotao" in Croatian), and the effect is pure magic. Think turquoise water, mini waterfalls, and a vibe that’s both chill and photogenic. Many visitors, for this very reason, have noted that the area bears a striking resemblance to the famous Pamukkale in Turkey.

While Kotli’s beauty is undeniable, it’s also steeped in legend and history. According to local folklore, the charming towns and villages scattered across inland Istria were built by giants. These mighty beings would pass large stones from hill to hill, constructing picturesque cities as they went. When they finished creating towns like Motovun and Buzet, they dropped the remaining stones on the hill that now holds Hum, the smallest town in the world. After a long day of work, the giants would rest in Kotli, surrounded by nature’s beauty and lulled by the untouched serenity of the place.

Although no one has lived in Kotli for more than 40 years, the village has never lost its soul. The old stone houses, cobbled streets, and picturesque chimneys still tell stories from the past. The only working mill left of the original 60 adds to the rustic charm of the village, offering a glimpse into the old ways of life. Despite its no-permanent-resident status, Kotli is not off the radar. In fact, thanks to its magical vibe and perfect photo ops, it’s become a hot spot for nature lovers, hikers, and Instagrammers from all over the world. But don’t worry—it’s still peaceful, charming, and wonderfully unspoiled.

Hiking, Waterfalls, and Scenic Trails

For those who are more adventurous, Kotli is a fantastic starting point for exploring the Seven Waterfalls Trail—a scenic hiking route that takes you through the lush Istrian landscape, with one of the stunning waterfalls located right in Kotli itself.

If you’re visiting Kotli, don’t miss the chance to enjoy some authentic Istrian cuisine. The village is home to a cozy konoba (traditional tavern) perched above the turquoise pools, offering a perfect setting to savor some local delicacies. If you're hungry for more, there are several nearby eateries worth checking out, including Konoba Kotlić, Konoba Valter-Kolinasi, Konoba Hum, and Ročka Konoba. Each offers mouth-watering Istrian dishes that are as unforgettable as the landscape itself.

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Pro tip: The best times to visit Kotli are during the spring and autumn months when the waterfalls are flowing at their fullest, and the pools are at their most inviting. Summer can be beautiful too, but during the hotter months, the river can dry up, so plan accordingly if you’re hoping for a swim.

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Kotli may not have a bustling nightlife or endless activities, but it has something far more valuable—a sense of peacefulness and connection with nature. So, next time you find yourself in Istria, take a break from the crowded coastal towns and head inland to Kotli. It’s the kind of place that speaks volumes to your inner adventurer and makes your Instagram feed look even better.

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