Croatia, situated in southeastern Europe, offers a diverse terrain with low mountains, highlands along the Adriatic coastline, flat plains near the Hungarian border, and a myriad of islands. Our trip in 2025 will take us through the stunning Istria region.
Istria is often called the Croatian Tuscany, boasting breathtaking natural beauty that rivals its Italian counterpart. Just like Tuscany, Istria offers a truly indulgent experience. The idyllic Croatian peninsula of Istria is located in the very west of Croatia, bordering Slovenia and near Italy, which has had a strong influence on the cultural and gastronomic development of Istria throughout history.
Istria stretches through three countries, Croatia, Italy and Slovenia, with as much as 90% of the area being in Croatia. Due to the very specific soil color, Istria is usually divided into three parts: white, red and gray. Riding through its picturesque hills, spacious olive groves, and numerous vineyards, you will easily notice whether you are in white, red, or gray Istria. It is also ideal for cycling so no wonder that the Tour d’Istrie, which has been part of the UCI World Tour for a long time, has been held here since 1949.
Istrian cuisine stands out as truly unique within Croatia, with influences from the gastronomy of Venice, which ruled the region for nearly five centuries until 1797. This rich historical connection has greatly shaped the distinctive flavors and culinary traditions of Istria.
The cuisine of Istria is heavily influenced by Mediterranean and Italian flavors, as well as French and Austrian culinary traditions in some areas. Istrian dishes feature high-quality ingredients such as fresh seafood like langoustines, oysters, and crabs, the finest truffles, and exceptional olive oils. Istria is renowned for its abundance of truffles, which are available year-round. Different varieties of black truffles are harvested throughout the months, while the most prized White Truffle is in season from September to mid-January. Many villages offer truffle-hunting experiences with dogs.
As far as olive oils are concerned, Istria has been declared the best olive growing region in the world for the last 8 years according to Flos Olei, or as it is also known by the ‘’Michelin for olive oils’’. This respected Italian olive oil guide has awarded numerous small Istrian producers of extra virgin olive oils with the maximum number of points for many years. Istria is a boutique olive growing region with many small, ultra-quality olive oil producers such as Chiavalon, Belić, Ipša, Mate and many others.
Istria is renowned for its excellent wines, particularly those made from local varieties such as Istrian Malvasia, Teran, Refošk, Borgonja, as well as international varieties like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The most widely planted variety is Malvasia Istriana, which is often served fresh, but has also won numerous awards when aged or in the form of a dessert wine. During the summer, local sparkling wines are quite popular and have gained recognition in recent years. The dessert wine Muškat Momjanski is especially well-liked and is often served with traditional Istrian desserts such as “kroštula,” “cukerančići,” and “povetica,” or enjoyed at the end of a good dinner alongside the excellent “Bumbarska torta,” a traditional almond cake from Vodnjan.
Traditionally, many people start their meal with a glass of local schnapps such as biska, medica, or ruta. In local taverns, trattorias, and osterias, you will be offered maneštra (a corn and bean stew), fuži (a type of pasta) with Istrian truffles, gnocchi with wild game sauce, goulash, pasutice with cod, ombolo and homemade sausages, Istrian prosciutto, fish prepared in various ways, raw or grilled langoustines, pasta with clams, and boškarin (Istrian cattle) ragu or other types of meat. Fresh fish from the Adriatic Sea is served in a brodetto, boiled, baked, fried, or prepared in many other ways. Also, be sure to try brodeto, buzara, seafood risotto, baked grouper, sea bream on gradelas, and the fantastic sardines.
In spring, dishes featuring wild asparagus are a must, from frittatas to soups, salads, pasta, and other dishes. Istria is also renowned for its high-quality cheese, with the best varieties coming from Stancija Kumparička (goat milk cheese) and the Latus family (cow milk cheese).
Istria is an ideal destination for both relaxation and an active holiday. The coastline boasts clean and untouched beaches, while the inland areas are great for recreation. You should visit Motovun and Grožnjan, quaint towns with wonderful views of the valley. Enjoy a glass of wine in Brtonigla, stroll around Rovinj, dine in one of its top restaurants, or visit the beautiful amphitheater in Pula. Additionally, you can taste the world’s best olive oil in Vodnjan, try oysters directly from the sea in the Lim Bay, or experience truffle hunting in Buzet and its surrounding areas.
Istria has always been a fantastic host, eagerly welcoming visitors and unveiling its extraordinary natural treasures. Join us in 2025!
