Croatia

Croatia - Hiking adventure through Istria

7 days · Individual · from €1,050.00
‹ Adventure Europe
Duration
7 days
Start/End
Buje/Lovran
Tour type
Individual
Accommodation
Hotel, Pension
Price from · per person
€1,050.00
Dates & prices ›
Price from · per person
€1,050.00
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Croatia - Hiking adventure through Istria

Duration

7 days

Start/End

Buje/Lovran

Tour type

Individual

Level

Demanding

Accommodation

Hotel, Pension

Overview

Without a guide you hike across Croatia’s Istrian peninsula: from Buje via Brtonigla and the artists’ village of Grožnjan to Motovun, on to Buzet and Hum and through Učka Nature Park down to the sea at Lovran. Long stages of 16 to 26 km with truffles, wine and Roman traces.

Welcome! On your hiking trip through the Croatian peninsula of Istria, you'll discover the beauty of this unique region step by step. Here, nature, culture, and history blend together in an impressive way: tiny villages, idyllic landscapes, culinary specialties, and traces of the Romans await your exploration. Add to that breathtaking views of the rolling hills and the sea, and the warmth of the locals, and your journey will be an unforgettable experience.

Hiking
Culture

Tour Code

HRPUY001

Tour language

GermanEnglishGerman, English

Itinerary

  • Day 1
    Buje/Surroundings

    Guesthouse

    You'll travel independently to Istria and immerse yourself in the region's unique atmosphere. In the evening, at 7 pm, a welcome meeting will be held at the hotel reception, where you'll receive all the important information and your travel documents for the upcoming tour. Afterwards, you'll spend the night in the Buje area and begin your hiking adventure from there.

    Buje/Surroundings

    Day 1

    Guesthouse

    You'll travel independently to Istria and immerse yourself in the region's unique atmosphere. In the evening, at 7 pm, a welcome meeting will be held at the hotel reception, where you'll receive all the important information and your travel documents for the upcoming tour. Afterwards, you'll spend the night in the Buje area and begin your hiking adventure from there.

  • Day 2
    Buje/surroundings - Brtonigla - Buje/surroundings

    Guesthouse

    Walking time approx. 4-5 hours, hiking distance approx. 16 km, ascent 268 m, descent 278 m

    Your hiking adventure begins today with a short transfer to Brtonigla. Countless vineyards and olive groves stretch out around you, crisscrossed by quiet paths that lead deep into forests and across flowering meadows – far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Along the way, you can stop at traditional, family-run cellars and farmhouses where local olive oil and wine await – a truly sensory experience of the region. After about three hours of hiking, you'll return to Buje, a hilltop town offering magnificent views of terraced fields and fertile farmland. The town impresses not only with its Roman heritage but especially with its Venetian architecture, a reminder of the Venetian era. Take the opportunity to stroll through the old town before following the old narrow-gauge railway line, the "Parenzana." From 1902 to 1935, this 123-kilometer line connected Poreč and Trieste and now serves as an idyllic cycling and hiking path to your accommodation.

    Buje/surroundings - Brtonigla - Buje/surroundings

    Day 2

    Guesthouse

    Walking time approx. 4-5 hours, hiking distance approx. 16 km, ascent 268 m, descent 278 m

    Your hiking adventure begins today with a short transfer to Brtonigla. Countless vineyards and olive groves stretch out around you, crisscrossed by quiet paths that lead deep into forests and across flowering meadows – far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Along the way, you can stop at traditional, family-run cellars and farmhouses where local olive oil and wine await – a truly sensory experience of the region. After about three hours of hiking, you'll return to Buje, a hilltop town offering magnificent views of terraced fields and fertile farmland. The town impresses not only with its Roman heritage but especially with its Venetian architecture, a reminder of the Venetian era. Take the opportunity to stroll through the old town before following the old narrow-gauge railway line, the "Parenzana." From 1902 to 1935, this 123-kilometer line connected Poreč and Trieste and now serves as an idyllic cycling and hiking path to your accommodation.

  • Day 3
    Buje/surroundings - Groznjan - Motovun

    Hotel

    Walking time approx. 7-8 hours, hiking distance approx. 25 km, ascent 511 m, descent 573 m

    After breakfast, you'll set off today to discover three very special Istrian towns. A short transfer of about ten minutes will take you to the starting point in Grožnjan, right on the former railway line. This picturesque, romantic town has attracted many artists, whose studios and galleries shape the townscape. You'll encounter works of art everywhere and have the opportunity to look over the artists' shoulders as they work. On the way to Livade, you'll hike through old tunnels, cross bridges, and enjoy breathtaking views of the rolling hills of Istria. Livade is considered one of the truffle capitals of the world – one of the largest truffles ever found was discovered here: a whopping 1.3 kilograms! Take the opportunity to sample the regional truffle specialties – a true culinary highlight. The trail then leads you to Motovun, where you will spend the night. This charming town sits high above the Mirna Valley and is famous for hosting the annual Motovun Film Festival. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, there is an alternative, shorter 19-kilometer hiking route available that day, which can be completed in approximately 5–6 hours.

    Buje/surroundings - Groznjan - Motovun

    Day 3

    Hotel

    Walking time approx. 7-8 hours, hiking distance approx. 25 km, ascent 511 m, descent 573 m

    After breakfast, you'll set off today to discover three very special Istrian towns. A short transfer of about ten minutes will take you to the starting point in Grožnjan, right on the former railway line. This picturesque, romantic town has attracted many artists, whose studios and galleries shape the townscape. You'll encounter works of art everywhere and have the opportunity to look over the artists' shoulders as they work. On the way to Livade, you'll hike through old tunnels, cross bridges, and enjoy breathtaking views of the rolling hills of Istria. Livade is considered one of the truffle capitals of the world – one of the largest truffles ever found was discovered here: a whopping 1.3 kilograms! Take the opportunity to sample the regional truffle specialties – a true culinary highlight. The trail then leads you to Motovun, where you will spend the night. This charming town sits high above the Mirna Valley and is famous for hosting the annual Motovun Film Festival. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, there is an alternative, shorter 19-kilometer hiking route available that day, which can be completed in approximately 5–6 hours.

  • Day 4
    Motovun - Oprtalj - Buzet

    Hotel

    Walking time approx. 5-6 hours, hiking distance approx. 18 km, ascent 496 m, descent 700 m

    After breakfast, a short transfer will take you to the charming town of Oprtalj, in the heart of Istria. Here you'll join the Istrian Hiking Trail, which leads you downhill into the forest and past historical sites such as Sv. Ivan and Sv. Lucija with its picturesque church, as well as other small villages. It's always worth pausing to admire the enchanting views over the Mirna Valley. The view of Pietrapelosa Castle is particularly impressive – the "densely overgrown, hairy castle" rises up, nestled in lush thickets, and truly lives up to its name. Further along the trail, you'll pass a historic aqueduct before the path winds its way back up towards Mali Mlun. Finally, your destination for the day comes into view: Buzet. Through sections of forest and past fields, you'll reach the town, known for its culinary specialties and idyllic old town. Those who prefer a more leisurely pace can alternatively choose a shorter hiking route of 8 kilometers, which can be completed in approximately 2-3 hours.

    Motovun - Oprtalj - Buzet

    Day 4

    Hotel

    Walking time approx. 5-6 hours, hiking distance approx. 18 km, ascent 496 m, descent 700 m

    After breakfast, a short transfer will take you to the charming town of Oprtalj, in the heart of Istria. Here you'll join the Istrian Hiking Trail, which leads you downhill into the forest and past historical sites such as Sv. Ivan and Sv. Lucija with its picturesque church, as well as other small villages. It's always worth pausing to admire the enchanting views over the Mirna Valley. The view of Pietrapelosa Castle is particularly impressive – the "densely overgrown, hairy castle" rises up, nestled in lush thickets, and truly lives up to its name. Further along the trail, you'll pass a historic aqueduct before the path winds its way back up towards Mali Mlun. Finally, your destination for the day comes into view: Buzet. Through sections of forest and past fields, you'll reach the town, known for its culinary specialties and idyllic old town. Those who prefer a more leisurely pace can alternatively choose a shorter hiking route of 8 kilometers, which can be completed in approximately 2-3 hours.

  • Day 5
    Buzet - Hum - Buzet

    Hotel

    Walking time approx. 7-8 hours, hiking distance approx. 26 km, ascent 534 m, descent 534 m

    Today you have the choice between a round trip from Buzet to Hum and back or a simple route from Hum to Buzet – an optional transfer is available. From the riverbank, you hike leisurely into the forest, past small lakes and picturesque waterfalls, to the Korita springs and a historic watermill. Following the riverbed, you reach the abandoned village of Bencici, where you can admire some of the finest examples of traditional Istrian stone houses. In the distance, Hum appears, unmistakable by its small church tower. With just around 20 inhabitants, you'll understand why Hum is considered the smallest town in the world. At the local konoba (tavern), you can fortify yourself with traditional Istrian dishes before the "Mistletoe Trail" leads you back to Buzet. Those who prefer a shorter route can choose the alternative route: approximately 13 kilometers in 3-4 hours, also with optional transfer.

    Buzet - Hum - Buzet

    Day 5

    Hotel

    Walking time approx. 7-8 hours, hiking distance approx. 26 km, ascent 534 m, descent 534 m

    Today you have the choice between a round trip from Buzet to Hum and back or a simple route from Hum to Buzet – an optional transfer is available. From the riverbank, you hike leisurely into the forest, past small lakes and picturesque waterfalls, to the Korita springs and a historic watermill. Following the riverbed, you reach the abandoned village of Bencici, where you can admire some of the finest examples of traditional Istrian stone houses. In the distance, Hum appears, unmistakable by its small church tower. With just around 20 inhabitants, you'll understand why Hum is considered the smallest town in the world. At the local konoba (tavern), you can fortify yourself with traditional Istrian dishes before the "Mistletoe Trail" leads you back to Buzet. Those who prefer a shorter route can choose the alternative route: approximately 13 kilometers in 3-4 hours, also with optional transfer.

  • Day 6
    Buzet - Ucka Nature Park - Lovran

    Hotel

    Walking time approx. 5-6 hours, hiking distance approx. 16 km, ascent 783 m, descent 1692 m

    The final day of hiking begins with a transfer to Poklon, an idyllic saddle between two mountains, from where your final leg starts. The trail leads you up to the summit of Vojak in the Učka Mountains – at 1,401 meters, the highest peak in Istria. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view: the inland region, Risnjak National Park, the coastal towns, and the islands of the Adriatic Sea with their shimmering waters lie at your feet. On a particularly clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Venice and the Alps to the north. After this unforgettable panorama, you hike downhill on a path lined with oak and chestnut trees, which offers a pleasant cooling effect in summer. Your destination is Lovran, situated at sea level, whose winding old town and charming alleyways invite exploration. Lovran became known as a health resort at the beginning of the 20th century and still exudes a unique flair today. Those who wish to skip the summit can choose an alternative route: 6 kilometers, 2 hours, +90/-390 meters – also full of beautiful views, but without climbing Vojak.

    Buzet - Ucka Nature Park - Lovran

    Day 6

    Hotel

    Walking time approx. 5-6 hours, hiking distance approx. 16 km, ascent 783 m, descent 1692 m

    The final day of hiking begins with a transfer to Poklon, an idyllic saddle between two mountains, from where your final leg starts. The trail leads you up to the summit of Vojak in the Učka Mountains – at 1,401 meters, the highest peak in Istria. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view: the inland region, Risnjak National Park, the coastal towns, and the islands of the Adriatic Sea with their shimmering waters lie at your feet. On a particularly clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Venice and the Alps to the north. After this unforgettable panorama, you hike downhill on a path lined with oak and chestnut trees, which offers a pleasant cooling effect in summer. Your destination is Lovran, situated at sea level, whose winding old town and charming alleyways invite exploration. Lovran became known as a health resort at the beginning of the 20th century and still exudes a unique flair today. Those who wish to skip the summit can choose an alternative route: 6 kilometers, 2 hours, +90/-390 meters – also full of beautiful views, but without climbing Vojak.

  • Day 7
    Lovran

    After breakfast, your hiking adventure in Istria comes to an end. You begin your individual journey home – with unforgettable impressions of nature, culture, and the charming places you discovered on your trip.

    Lovran

    Day 7

    After breakfast, your hiking adventure in Istria comes to an end. You begin your individual journey home – with unforgettable impressions of nature, culture, and the charming places you discovered on your trip.

Price from

€1,050.00

Phone: +43 512 209071

Services

What's included

  • 2x guesthouse, 4x mid-range hotel

  • Accommodation is in double rooms in good guesthouses and mid-range hotels.

  • 6x breakfast

  • Luggage transfer from accommodation to accommodation

  • Access to the Travel App with comprehensive information and maps (for offline use and navigation on smartphone or tablet)

  • Minibus, On foot

  • Local transport to the starting point

  • Briefing and information material for the trip (upon arrival, in English)

  • Roadbook with detailed stage descriptions

  • 24-hour emergency telephone number

  • The accommodations mentioned are examples and may vary depending on availability.

What's not included

  • Individual travel to and from the destination (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)

  • Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)

  • personal equipment

  • Personal expenses, tips

  • Meals and drinks not mentioned

  • Optional excursions and activities

Character of the trip

Fitness

Demanding

Altitude

Low

Culture / nature

Balanced

This self-guided hiking trip requires a good level of fitness. The stages last approximately 4 to 8 hours, covering about 16 to 26 km and up to approximately 700 meters of elevation gain. Experience with long day hikes is recommended.

Since you are traveling without a tour guide, you should be able to find your way around using directions and a map.

Dates and prices

January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

There are no departures available at the moment. Send a request and we will find a suitable date.

Request

Notes on the trip

Notice

GPS devices (EUR 50/week) or hiking poles (EUR 10/week) can be rented for an additional fee.

Notice in accordance with EU Directive 2015/2302:

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.