Surroundings / Things to do
Nice places!
Istria, a region in western Croatia and situated on the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most popular regions in the country. It is an ultimate destination to spend the summer holidays and enjoy the sea, beautiful nature, delicious cuisine and Mediterranean influences. But that is not all! If you are looking for places in Istria that are really worth a visit, you should definitely visit these beautiful Istrian villages.
Pula
Loved for its numerous historical sights. Plunge back into Roman times at the Temple of Augustus, the Hercules Gate and the Gemini Gate that were used to close the city when night fell, not to forget the city's eyecatcher, the imposing 1st century amphitheatre. In this theatre, built under Emperor Augustus and enlarged by Emperor Vespasian, no less than 23,000 spectators came to watch the spectacular gladiator and animal fights. After such fights were banned in 404 AD, the theatre served as a marketplace and later as a quarry. It hosts an annual film festival and on balmy summer evenings you can enjoy opera and other performances, such as plays and rock concerts. A beautiful setting that fortunately has withstood the test of time
Opatija
Not just any bathing village! The Nice of Istria. The atmosphere you taste here stems from the star role the town played at the beginning of this century. Opatija used to be a favourite holiday resort of the Habsburg nobility and other members of the European elite. They spent their holidays there and had elegant villas and hotels built. These palaces still stand and contribute to the special character of Opatija.
Rovinj
The first sight of Rovinj, with the bell tower watching over the town, is unforgettable, also with its atmospheric narrow streets. Walk up the old rocky alleys to the St. Euphemia Church or through the picturesque harbour. Dive into the small shops with local crafts along the way.
Motovun
Motovun is a mountain village and is situated on a hill, 270 metres above sea level. From a distance, Motovun has a medieval appearance, its houses are scattered irregularly on the hill, which is also used for grape cultivation, from which Istrian wine is made. At the bottom of the hill on which the village is situated flows the Mirna River. On the other side of the river is the Motovun forest, where truffles are found. Motovun is known for its many restaurants where you can enjoy delicious dishes prepared with truffles.
Cape Kamenjak!
In the southernmost tip of the Istrian region, you will find the peninsula, nature park Cape Kamenjak. Cape Kamenjak is a protected nature reserve because of its beautiful nature, impressive cliffs and unique flora & fauna. A fun fact: dinosaur footprints have been found here on 2 different spots!
Cape Kamenjak organises many tours and excursions; among others romantic kayak tours, mountain bike tours, and a dinosaur tour. But also for a nice snack and drink you are at Cape Kamenjak at the right place, at the cosy beach bars you can really forget the time.
For the real plant lover there is enough to see, more than 550 plant species grow here. With 2300 hours of sunshine per year and the least precipitation in all of Istria, it is dry on the peninsula. With an area of no less than 14 square kilometres, there is plenty of room for every adventure.
Cape Kamenjak is surrounded on almost all sides by a crystal-clear sea. 30 km long coastline consists of high cliffs, from which you have a breath taking view. There are more than 30 bays and hidden beaches. Off the coast, there are also 11 uninhabited islands. There is plenty to do at Cape Kamenjak, as there are a number of beautiful walking paths along the coast, the hilly terrain is very suitable for mountain biking and with cliffs between 3 and 12 metres high, it is quite an experience to jump off of them. Not to forget, there are also 23 beaches that are perfect for a relaxing day at the beach.
Restaurants in Premantura
Konoba Finera
This cosy restaurant is within walking distance! A visit to this atmospheric place is therefore highly recommended. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, you are welcome all day for a nice bite or drink. The smell of fresh bread, the delicious fish dishes and meat from the grill, everyone can join in. Are you in the mood for a nice day around your apartment, and do you want to enjoy the service of Konoba Finera? You can! The delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes can be ordered right in your apartment! (Look at the extras how to book this)
Konoba Casa mia
In the absolute centre of Premantura, yet in a quiet alley. Outside you sit under a shelter where barn swallows keep a nest and inside you can sit in front of the woodstove. For delicious grilled fish and seafood, this is the place to be! The real grill taste really completes this food. For meat lovers and vegetarians there is also plenty of choice, the pasta with fresh truffle is recommendable for everyone.
Portich Beach Bar
On the beach of Mali Portic bay, in the middle of Kamenjak, is a small Burger café where you can enjoy a fantastic meal of Yammy burgers (original and patented recipe), tasty ribs and chicken wings! These burgers won the first prize at the Burger Contest in Zagreb in 2018! And they certainly deserve it! Children will enjoy different kinds of smoothies while the parents drink their beers or cocktails and listen to the overwhelming sounds of crickets in the shade of pine trees.
Mali Portic is the only sandy beach, it is wonderful and so safe that your children can splash around in the shallow water.
Konoba Ancora
Highly recommended during your stay in Croatia! The friendly and helpful staff will pamper you during a visit to this cosy restaurant. The establishment has a beautiful ambience and luxurious appearance. High-quality dishes and a great wine list will make your evening complete! Fresh pastas and the most delicious truffles are served here, so there is something there for everyone.