Istra bicycling

It’s no great surprise to hear that Istria, Croatia’s famed heart-shaped peninsula, is being called ‘the new Tuscany’. Where the hidden charms of Central Europe meet the Mediterranean, lies a land of legendary beauty and a new marker on the tourism map. Fertile valleys and lush rolling hills provide a green canvas speckled with red-roofed villages and whitewashed towns. Broad brushstrokes of emerald stretch from mountainside to coastline where pine forests shade pristine beaches that slope gently into a crystal clear sea. And throughout this landscape a network of ancient paths and trails cut deep into the heart of Croatia’s culture allowing close-ups of a unique and wonderful culture. By far the best way to unearth the magic of Istria is by bike. More than 60 marked bike trails plus dozens of scenic coastal paths criss-cross the region providing healthy sightseeing excursions for riders of all abilities. Demanding routes such as the Truffle Trail weave through the truffle forests of Istria’s mountainous north, winding through olive groves and vineyards before crossing the heights of Sovinjak and Krtov breg. Other easier bike routes suitable for the whole family include the St. Mauro Trail, a two-hour jaunt following the stunning coastline of Poreč, and the fascinating Trail of The Roman Gladiators exploring the historical roots of Croatia in and around Pula. To traverse spectacular coastal paths and historical old quarters on two wheels is by far the best (and healthiest) way to get up close and personal to the real Istria.