Riviera Rovinj

One of the most romantic spots in Croatia stretches along the western coast of Istria between the Lim channel, mountainous hinterlands and the Adriatic coast. Rovinj, a picturesque town displaying a Venetian tradition is surrounded by beautiful islets from the Lim Fjord on a peninsula just a few kilometers away. Enclosed by the sea, protective walls and defiant watchtowers the town encompasses with its enchanting location and layout a very unique, timeless charm - and thus also the Riviera sharing its name. In addition to its scenic location between beautiful beaches and protected forests, its exciting diving spots and pine-covered bike paths, it is also has a rich historical heritage- all making the region so attractive. Here, where wealthy Venetians once maintained their trade relations, and settlers once hunted and fished as early as the Bronze Age, visitors today can admire the embossed Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical cityscape. A special attraction is the picturesque harbor of the village, where, recreational boats rock gently next to one fishing boat and another in the water. A boat trip is worthwhile if only to see how the city's special magic unfolds in the backdrop of its towering campanile on the pretty colorful facades of water. The small streets and alleys of the old town invite you to drift through the summer hustle and bustle- have you discovered the many small clues going back to the long Venetian rule?

By the way: Modeled after the Campanile of Venice, the almost 60 meters high bell tower of Rovinj, the landmark of the city, will provide you with the most beautiful view over the entire Riviera. Keep your eyes to the sky, especially in April. In April, the city hosts the Red Bull Air Race. Even if you can not get ahold of any tickets, you will still be able to see the pilots do their breakneck stunts and daring maneuvers in the skies above Rovinj. It is no coincidence that the Riviera is home to this legendary air show: Rovinj, due to its ideal location and climatic characteristics has the perfect conditions for pilots almost all year round. It is a well-known hotspot for those who like to escape the force of gravity for a while.

A wonderful antidote to the hustle is Rovinjsko Selo, a small town less than ten kilometers away from Rovinj and the coast. The predominantly rural town offers not only fantastic views of the coast and the fertile, green surroundings. Here, among the vineyards and country estates, the little sister of the picturesque Rovinj invites you to decelerate and enjoy life in rural and rustic setting. Traditions are of very high priority for the farmers and wine-makers in the region - in living style as well as in the ways of life and cuisine. It is no wonder that agricultural tourism and its private accommodations are so inviting to guests, providing the perfect experience of the rural side of this Riviera. After a walk through the vineyards, a trip to the nearby Lim Fjord or a bike ride through the gently rolling, green countryside, there is nothing better that can follow except grilled seafood or hearty stews prepared according to family recipes. These meals harmonize perfectly with the local wines - and in the open air, the chirping of the cicadas make it taste that much better.