Excursions in Istria, Italy and Slovenia from Bale
Brijuni National Park
Just 15 minutes from Bale is Fažana, an ideal starting point from which to explore the Brijuni National Park. A group of two larger islands and 12 islets is a truly hidden paradise, which deservedly bears the status of national park.
Rovinj
Rovinj is a romantic town located on the western coast of Istria. The old town, under UNESCO protection, is interwoven with stone streets and squares. Follow them and you will certainly not miss the most imposing city building, the church of St. Euphemia.
Dvigrad
The medieval town of Dvigrad is the most visited cultural heritage in the area, and represents the foundation of the Municipality of Kanfanar’s cultural identity.
Mošćenice
Mošćenice - a medieval, fortified Istrian town located on a 173 m high hill, on the eastern slopes of Mount Učka overlooking the Kvarner Bay and its islands. Indulge your imagination and let it wander. Wander off to some past "better" times by walking...
Pula
Its 3,000 year old history is embedded in every corner of the city. The Pula Arena, the Temple of Augustus, the cobbled streets, museums and various events are offered to visitors looking for the cultural and historical sites of the peninsula.
The Church of St. Peter on the peak
The Church of St. Peter on the peak is situated on a large cliff, ensuring that nature lovers will be impressed by its beautiful views.
Svetvinčenat
The medieval town of Svetvinčenat is one of Istria's jewels, which has recently become a centre of cultural events taking place on its attractive historical sites.
Lim Bay
The Lim Bay is part of the 35 km long Lim Valley, which extends almost to the centre of Istria, and is one of the most beautiful natural resources of the Istrian peninsula. The bay itself is slightly longer than 10 km, 30 m deep, with its widest part bein
Poreč
Poreč is a place where the natural beauties of Istria bond with its fascinating culture and historical sites. The Euphrasian Basilica, protected by UNESCO, the old town, the naturally beautiful beaches...
Histria Aromatica
At just a few minutes drive from Bale enjoy the scented plantations of autochthonous aromatic herbs, meadows and forests of Istrian land, as well as the flora and fauna they hide.
Grožnjan
This picturesque Istrian town located on the top of a hill is of great cultural importance. Globally important works of art have been created in the maze of its narrow streets.
Motovun
This best-known and most attractive medieval town is situated in the northern part of Istria, above the Mirna River valley. It is known for a number of events, and lovers of the seventh art will certainly be attracted by the international Motovun Film Fes
The Church of St. Blaise in Vodnjan
The church of St. Blaise in Vodnjan was built between 1760 and 1800 and is the largest church in the wider area.
Cape Kamenjak
Located on the southernmost part of Istria, on the approximately 9-kilometre long peninsula is Cape Kamenjak. The peninsula's coast is highly indented and known for its numerous coves, bays, capes and beaches.
Višnjan Observatory (Tićan)
If you like science and astronomy, do not miss the Višnjan Observatory on the western edge of Istria's tableland. Enjoy the magical nature surrounding the complex and take part in interesting lectures on the Solar system or the view from a telescope.
Postojna Cave
Postojna Cave is the most famous cave in the area and one of the largest karst monuments in the world. Sightseeing of its natural sculptures starts by train that covers the 2-kilometre distance, then the tour continues on foot.
Hum – the smallest town in the world
Hum is located in central Istria, and today has a population of 20 inhabitants. Surrounded by nature, it attracts the attention of all those lovers of magical and intimate places.
Oprtalj
If you decide to head from Bale to the north, follow the signs for Oprtalj, one of the most romantic towns in northern Istria.
Venice
Just 15-20 minutes from Bale, in Pula, Rovinj and Poreč you can embark on one of the catamarans that will take you on a day trip to magical Venice. Do not miss the enjoyment of this city over 118 islands connected by more than 300 bridges.
Završje
This picturesque town is situated on a 240 metre high hill in the north of the Istrian peninsula. The historical core of Završje is a protected urban entity which has been included in the Register of Croatian cultural monuments...
Saint Fosca
Saint Fosca is an impressive building erected in 1600. It is situated in a secluded place, away from the houses, because apparently there is a strong energy radiation from the earth, which is said to have a positive effect on people.
Zarečki krov
Zarečki krov is one of the most interesting natural attractions of the Pazinčica River valley. It is a cave that resembles a roof over which the river along its course creates a ten-metre-high waterfall and a small lake.
Fort Forno
Fort Forno is a coastal fortress located in Barbariga, which was built by the Austrian Navy in 1904 to protect its main port. The fort is classified as a coastal armoured fortress.
Opatija
Enjoy its architecture and beautifully landscaped parks, and do not miss the chance to take a walk along the 12 kilometres long sea promenade.
Vrsar
Just 20 minutes drive from Bale you will find the fishing town of Vrsar. Located on a hilltop, it offers views of the surrounding islets and beautiful sunsets....
Beram - Church of St. Mary of the Rocks
Departure from Bale and discover central Istria by taking a look in the Church of St. Mary of the Rocks close to the picturesque town of Beram. History enthusiasts will be enchanted as it holds one of the most valuable accomplishments of medieval Istrian
Ljubljana
If you are spending time in Bale and Istria, do not miss the one-day excursion to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, which bears the title of European Green Capital for 2016.
Veprinac
On the streaked slopes of the Učka Mountain and just an hour’s drive away from Bale, protrudes the ancient town of Veprinac. The name of this small town is usually associated with the butcher's-broom that found its home here. Encounter the town’s rich...
Labin
When you set off from Bale along the magical windy roads and through the picturesque interior of the Istrian peninsula towards the east, just before the seashore you will be welcomed by an artist’s paradise, the small town of Labin.
Kastav
A pleasant drive from Bale, through the Istrian interior or along the coastline, will take you to the small town of Kastav situated 365 metres above sea level overlooking the Kvarner Bay and well worth a visit....
Vodnjan
Art, gastronomy and oenology are what perfectly describe Vodnjan...
Učka Nature Park
Mount Učka represents the natural border between Istria (and its mild continental climate) and the County of Primorje and Gorski Kotar (and the Mediterranean climate of the Kvarner bay). It is possible to cross from one county to another through the Učka.Piran
Piran is a small Slovenian town located by the coast on the Gulf of Piran. The center of Piran is known for its history, culture, and medieval architecture. In addition to bordering Croatia to the south, Piran also borders Italy at sea. The immediate...
The Pula market
The Pula market started operating in 1902. It consists of the main building and an open space area. This market is certainly one of the most beautiful ones in Croatia. It is recognizable by chestnut trees that surround it, stone tables, and red umbrellas.Draguć
Draguć is a small Istrian village located on a hill above Cerovlje. It is an ideal destination for all of you who love to learn about history and culture. Today, Draguć is home to less than 80 inhabitants which makes this place perfect for quality...Sovinjak
Sovinjak is a small village on the hill. It is located about 8 km from Buzet. This place is known for the finest Istrian olive oil and wine. If you find yourself in central Istria at the beginning of October, you shouldn't miss the folk festival Bela...
Momjan
Momjan is a small Istrian town located on a hill (about 270 m above sea level). It is not far away from Umag or Novigrad. Thanks to the proximity of the sea, the soil in Momjan is perfect for the cultivation of vine, fruit, and olives. The inhabitants of.
Stjepan Hauser hiking trail
The Stjepan Hauser hiking trail is located in the Istrian village Rakalj. This trail is perfect for all hiking enthusiasts. Besides that, the trail offers a beautiful panoramic view of the islands of Cres and Lošinj.The trail was named after the...
Istrian desert
Have you already heard of the Istrian desert? It is located in the proximity of Grožnjan and very close to a small village Šterna. And no, this is not a desert one would immediately think of. The Istrian desert consists of marl dunes. ...Dajla
Dajla is a small village along the coast near Novigrad with just under 400 inhabitants. What makes Dajla interesting are the remains from the Roman era that you can notice on old inscriptions, graves, etc. In addition to that, here you can visit the...
The Butoniga Lake
The Butoniga lake is located in the central part of Istria, near Motovun. This lake is artificial and was created in the 80s of the last century. It is used as the water supply for the larger part of Istria. For this reason, swimming in this lake is...
Umag
The town of Umag is located in the northwest of Istria, only 10 kilometers from the Slovenian border. Umag is best known for tourism and sports. It is also called the capital of Croatian tennis because the oldest Croatian tennis tournament named Croatia..Boljun
Boljun is a small ancient town in the Lupoglav Municipality. It is situated on a hill around the medieval castle. From the top of the hill, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the Učka mountain and Boljun Valley. ...
The Mirna River
The Mirna River is the second largest river in Istrian County. It is about 53 km long. Hum - the smallest town in the world - is located on its coast. The river Mirna springs in the Kotli valley and passes through the Buzet valley and the Motovun forest,.The Raša river
Raša is a 23-kilometer-long river in Istria. It springs on the slopes of the mountain Učka and flows through Raška inlet and the municipality of Raša. The Raša river flows into the sea near the Raša bay....
Trieste
Trieste is an Italian port and border town located on the northeast coast of the Adriatic Sea. In addition to shipbuilding, the complex of Trieste port also includes industrial and commercial zones....
Possert Castel
The fortress Kaštel Possert is located next to Paz and just above Letajski potok. It was built in the late Middle Ages. It was a sign of the property of the feudal estate. Over the years, this fort belonged to several families (Kožljak, Guteneck, Moyses,.Rabac
Rabac is a small fish village by the sea. It is located only a few kilometers from Labin. It is recommended to visit both places in one day and enjoy a great view of Rabac from Labin. Rabac is a perfect destination for a summer vacation. It offers...
Three Istrian Rivers
While in Istria, you will surely notice at least one of the three Istrian rivers: Mirna (50 km), Dragonja (30 km), and Raša (20 km)....Buzet
Buzet is another Istrian town definitely worth visiting. The Old Town of Buzet is located on a hill. However, most inhabitants of Buzet live in the newer part of Buzet, just below the hill.The river Mirna passes near Buzet. Thanks to the river, the soil..