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Istria, Croatia’s northern peninsula has been hailed as ‘the new Tuscany’ and we can see why. The colourful region is home to Mediterranean coastal towns, rural hilltop villages, forests, home to the famous Istria truffle and boutique vineyards. We have created a delicious itinerary with hand-selected accommodation and activities for a luxury gourmet experience. This itinerary is perfect for a romantic getaway or an indulgent trip for groups of friends.

Your Itinerary

Amphitheatre in Pula

Day 1 - Welcome to Pula

Welcome to Pula! The entry point of Istria. Our driver will greet you on arrival and take you to your hotel, a short drive outside the main town and overlooking a charming bay. Spend some time settling in and enjoying a drink at your hotel before a private guided tour of Pula and the famous Pula Arena – the best-preserved Roman amphitheatre in the world. Enjoy dinner in the old town before returning to your hotel.

A plate with truffles

Day 2 - Three courses of truffles lovingly prepared by you

Today is all about Truffles! You will meet your guide at Pula Green Market to shop for ingredients before putting together a 3-course Truffle inspired menu, Yes, that’s right, even dessert will include the highly-prized ingredient! Your host is a trained sommelier and will also discuss the basics of wine pairing before you sit down to enjoy the end results.

Day 3 - A wine estate to remember

Today, you depart Pula and make your way further north, just outside the village of Bale. Your destination: The Relais & Chateaux Meneghetti Wine Hotel. One of Croatia’s boutique vineyards and luxury estates. Spend the afternoon settling in by the choice of swimming pools before a late afternoon wine and olive oil tasting. We highly recommend rounding off your day with dinner at the Michelin recommended restaurant.

Day 4 - Relax and enjoy your surroundings

Relaxation is the word of the day. Spend your day soaking in the lavender and sage scented air. Take the hotel shuttle to the private beach for some sea air or if you’d prefer to work up a thirst, take a bike for a leisurely cycle to explore the village of Bale and the surrounding area.

Rovinj with the famous St Euphemia Spire

Day 5 - Romantic Rovinj

After breakfast you depart your rural sanctuary to the colourfully charming Mediterranean town of Rovinj. Said to be the most romantic town in Istria. You will stay at the newly opened 5-star plus Grand Park Hotel. Enjoy an afternoon at the pool overlooking the marina. later in the afternoon wander through the cobbled streets and climb the church tower before returning to the restaurant for a 12-course tasting menu at the signature restaurant.

rock at rovinj at sunset

Day 6 - Explore Rovinj at your leisure

A day to spend at your leisure. We highly recommend a bike ride through the golden cape forest park. You’ll come across secluded pebbled bays to take a dip and if you are feeling adventurous there’s also a naturist beach. Be sure to pick up some delicious bites from the Deli in front of Hotel Grand Park to stop off for a picnic along the way.

Rovinj, St Euphemia Church

Day 7 - Until next time

It’s your final morning to soak up the rays and relax at the pool or go for a walk along the promenade before our driver meets you for your transfer to Pula airport. All good things must come to an end, so they say.

 

What's included?

Included:
  • Accommodation on B&B basis at selected luxury hotels
  • Private transfers (air-conditioned vehicle)
  • Private tour of Pula and entrance fees to the arena
  • Truffle Cooking class including market trip and 3-course meal
  • Wine tasting at Meneghetti
  • All trips are ATOL protected or ABTA bonded to ensure you are fully covered
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Rovinj
A charming, colourful, Meditteranean coastal town, said to be the most romantic destination in Croatia. More
Pula
The entry point to Istria and home to the world's 6th largest and the best-preserved Roman Amphitheatre - a unique venue with a seasonal programme of events. More
Bale
A hilltop village in rural Istria surrounded by olive oil and excellent wineries. Off the beaten track you will find the Meneghetti wine estate, one of our favourite locations to experience rural Istria. More
Zagreb
Croatia's vibrant capital city is often referred to as 'little Vienna' thanks to its architecture and cafe culture. The city is compact, has many parks and museums and nearby hiking on Medvednica, which also hosts a ski resort in the winter months. More
Dubrovnik
The medieval fortified town with iconic views from the top of the preserved medieval walls, overlooking the Adriatic. More
Split
Split is the second-largest city in Croatia and the largest in Dalmatia. A mix of modern urban life and ancient history. Home to the UNESCO world heritage site of Diocletian's Palace and the gateway to some of the well-known islands. More
Hvar
Touted as the new St Tropez, Hvar is a glamorous luxury island off the dalmatian coast that attracts the yacht set in the peak months to the trendy bars and restaurants. Aside from the glitz, it is also steeped in culture and history. More
Sibenik
An entry point to Krka National Park and to the Kornati islands. Sibenik is home to the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO heritage site. More
Plitvice Lakes National Park
A stunningly beautiful national park with 16 cascading emerald lakes and waterfalls to explore via boardwalks and trails.
Krka National Park
Situated on the Krka river, the national park has lively waterfalls.
Ston
Famous for the longest medieval stone walls in Europe and the world-class oysters farmed in the region. The surrounding Peljesac Peninsula is a famous wine region.
Trogir
This small preserved town is known for its Baroque, Renaissance and Romanesque buildings. Set on an island connected to the mainland by a bridge. The whole town is protected by UNESCO.

Your adventure starts here!

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