Nestled between the Alps and the Adriatic sea, this small triangular patch of land is perhaps the best testament to the old saying that good things come in small packages. In Istria’s case, this is certainly true.
This little peninsula has been standing on the crossroads of three cultures (Latin, Slavic and Germanic) for centuries and as always where peoples meet, they mix and create new cultures. Spread out on no more than 3.500 square kilometers (just slightly bigger than Luxembourg) Istria is divided among Italy, Slovenia and Croatia with the latter getting more than 90% of the peninsula. This westernmost county of Croatia is home to around 250.000 inhabitants. The countryside features mountains in the north and east and lavish green hills that gradually descend from the mountains to the azure sea in the rest of the peninsula.
Istria can be seen as a perfect mix of the greeness of the hinterland and the blue of the calm sea. The region is also known for its mild climate and rich gastronomical offer. Heavily influenced by Italian cuisine, Istria offers such delicacies as prosciutto, goat and cow cheese, olive oil, truffles, exquisite wines, asparaguses as well as a variety a fish and shells to choose from.
While most tourist do come for the sea and the sun, Istria offers much more than the opportunity to spend your holiday sunbathing on the beach with a cocktail nearby. History buffs can choose from the likes of ancient Roman towns Pula, Rovinj and Poreč, the adrenalin junky can do his or her share of rock climbing, mountain biking, wind surfing or hang gliding while the gourmets while certainly have lots to look forward to. If you get bored lying on the beach, little medieval towns like Motovun and Grožnjan are true hidden gems of the greener part of Istria that leave you breathless.
Come and see for yourself why is the Istrian flag half green and half blue. Istria – where the hills meet the sea.
