Croatia with Poreč, Pazin & the Istrian Caves

Discover Istria on this unforgettable tour. Enjoy wine and truffle tastings, explore Pula and Grožnjan and visit Pazin's caves. Relax with a boat ride through the Limski Canal while staying at the elegant Valamar Parentino Hotel.

This thoughtfully paced, 7 night tour holiday, brings together the natural beauty, cultural heritage and culinary traditions of Croatia's captivating Istrian Peninsula. We explore the dramatic Limski Canal, visit charming towns like Poreč and Grožnjan and enjoy experiences that bring the region's flavours to life – from truffle hunting adventures to local wine and gin tastings. With our dedicated Tour Co-ordinator accompanying the group, every detail is taken care of, leaving you free to relax and enjoy each moment at your own pace.

Your Holiday Itinerary

Day1Arrival

Upon arrival at 11:30am, you'll be warmly welcomed by our Tour Co-ordinator and transferred to your hotel, arriving perfectly timed for 2:00pm check-in. The newly refurbished Valamar Parentino Hotel sits peacefully among pine trees, just 130 metres from the beach and your base for the week. Take time to settle in and explore what's on offer – perhaps a swim in the outdoor pool, a visit to the wellness centre, or simply enjoying the tranquil forest setting.

Poreč's charming Old Town is an easy 10-minute walk away, perfect for an afternoon exploration of its historic streets and waterfront. Return to the hotel for dinner in the restaurant, where you'll enjoy your first taste of traditional Istrian cuisine. As evening falls, take a stroll through the hotel's pine-scented grounds or relax with a drink at the bar, settling into the peaceful rhythm of this beautiful coastal region and anticipating the adventures ahead.

Day2Limski Canal

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast and a relaxing morning at the hotel, taking time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings at your own pace before your coastal excursion begins.

At 8:45am, you'll be transferred to Poreč's charming port, arriving with plenty of time to board your comfortable canal cruise boat for a delightful 6 hour coastal excursion departing at 9:30am. First, cruise to the picturesque town of Rovinj, often called the "Pearl of Istria," where Venetian architecture meets vibrant Mediterranean charm. Wander its narrow cobbled streets lined with art galleries and boutiques, admire the iconic bell tower rising above colourful houses, and soak in the atmosphere of this enchanting former fishing port. Continue through the stunning Limski Canal, where dramatic limestone cliffs rise from emerald waters, a delicious lunch will be served on board. Your canal cruise includes a stop in the authentic fishing village of Vrsar, where traditional Istrian life continues unchanged – perfect for a peaceful stroll along the historic waterfront and perhaps a coffee at a local café, before returning to Poreč at 4pm.

Upon arrival back at the port, you'll be transferred directly to your hotel, arriving in time for dinner and a relaxing evening after your perfect day exploring the Istrian coast.

Day3Truffle & Wine Tasting

After a delightful breakfast, your day begins at 8:30am with a scenic transfer to Livade, where you'll discover the fascinating world of Istrian truffles. Learn about the ancient traditions of truffle cultivation from local experts, who will share the secrets of this prized delicacy that has been treasured in Istria for centuries. Enjoy a generous tasting of freshly harvested truffles paired with exquisite local specialities and traditional breads - a perfect mid-morning feast that showcases the very best of Istria's culinary heritage.

Next, take a brief stop in the charming hilltop village of Grožnjan, known as the "Town of Artists," where medieval stone houses and cobbled streets create a perfectly preserved glimpse of old Istria. Continue to the renowned Cattunar Winery, where a knowledgeable guide will lead you through the vineyards, sharing the secrets of Istria's winemaking traditions. Explore the atmospheric wine cellars before indulging in a tasting of the region's finest wines, each sip capturing the essence of this beautiful land.

Return to your hotel by 3:30pm for some well-deserved leisure time. Unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings before dinner, reflecting on a perfect day of Istrian flavours and traditions.

Day4Day at Leisure

After a leisurely breakfast, spend the day at your own pace with the enchanting Old Town of Poreč just a 10-minute walk through tree-lined paths. Discover local artisan shops, browse for unique souvenirs, or settle into a charming café for coffee and people-watching. You might visit the stunning Basilica of Euphrasius with its magnificent Byzantine mosaics, or simply wander the ancient Roman streets at your own leisurely pace. Return to the hotel whenever you please, perhaps for a late afternoon drink on the terrace or an evening stroll through the peaceful surroundings.

Day5Pazin & Pula

After breakfast, your guide will accompany you on a full day excursion starting with a 9:00am departure to Pazin, famous for its impressive cave system. Upon arrival, you'll have a choice: join the fascinating 2-hour guided tour deep into the dramatic cave formed by the Pazinčica River, where expert guides will share its intriguing history and connection to Jules Verne's novel "Mathias Sandorf." For those preferring to avoid uneven cave terrain, there's an excellent alternative - a scenic 1,100-meter educational walking trail through the forest with multilingual information panels, offering spectacular views of the cave entrance from above.

Enjoy a delicious lunch with the group at a local restaurant in the Pazin area before your guide takes you to the historic city of Pula at 2:30pm. Here you'll discover one of the world's best-preserved Roman amphitheatres, a magnificent 2,000-year-old arena that once hosted gladiator fights. During your 2 hour guided tour, explore Pula's charming old streets, ancient Roman temples, and vibrant squares, with time to shop for souvenirs or relax at a café before returning to your hotel by 7:00pm.

Day6Day at Leisure

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast followed by a day completely at your own pace - the perfect opportunity to truly unwind and savour your beautiful surroundings. Perhaps relax in the peaceful pine forest setting that surrounds the hotel, or find a quiet spot on the terrace to enjoy the beautiful coastal views. Take a gentle stroll through the fragrant pine trees or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this idyllic retreat, returning to the hotel whenever you please for a relaxing afternoon.

Day7Kamenjak National Park & Gin Tasting

After breakfast, you'll depart at 8:30am for a full day exploring Istria's southernmost tip. Transfer to Kamenjak National Park, a stunning natural reserve known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters and scenic bays. Enjoy a gentle self-guided walk through the park at your own pace, taking in the breathtaking coastal views and diverse Mediterranean flora - the easy-going terrain allows you to walk as much or as little as you prefer. The tranquility of this pristine wilderness offers the perfect escape into nature.

Following your 2.5-hour exploration, enjoy a delicious lunch which is included at a local restaurant in nearby Premantura, where you can savour authentic Istrian specialities and relax in the charming fishing village atmosphere. Afterwards, you'll have some free time to explore the village before visiting the renowned Aura Distillery.

At the distillery, discover the secrets behind Karbun Gin, a unique Istrian spirit, and enjoy a tasting of this local specialty while learning about the traditional distillation process. Return to your hotel by 6:00pm after the scenic drive back, completing a perfect day of nature, cuisine, and local craftsmanship.

Day8Departure

After an early breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your return flight to Dublin, bringing to a close your wonderful week exploring Istria's natural beauty, history, and culture.