Garden of Eden

Discover the magic of Valbandon, where fresh and saltwater converge to create a paradise for bird and nature lovers. You might catch a glimpse of a graceful heron or hear the croak of a lively frog. Listen for the call of seagulls and the rustle of wild ducks in the dense reeds! Isn’t this the perfect place to escape into the embrace of nature, while also experiencing the rich diversity of Southern Istria?

Upon arriving to Olive Alley in Fažana, take a moment to look around and experience the timeless beauty of this ancient olive grove, where some trees have stood proudly for over 400 years, and their winding branches tell the stories of the winds they have withstood. This grove is not only a natural oasis in the heart of Fažana, but also a living witness to over 2000 years of olive growing heritage – a tradition that we continue to pass on through a modern interpretation. With a view of the magnificent Brijuni Islands, what more could you need, except the shade of these ancient trees that have survived centuries and gift us with liquid gold?

Veliki Brijun is the largest of the 14 islands of the Brijuni National Park. Mediterranean vegetation such as holm oak makes this place very special, as well as the man who bought the overgrown islands more than 130 years ago. Paul Kupelwieser, with the help of forester Čufar, created this harmonious example of what can be achieved when man approaches nature with respect.

While exploring this area, you will be accompanied by Mediterranean plants, so it's time to get to know them better. We know the perfect place: the World of Plants near Vodnjan. Here, a pair of scientists mixed drops of innovation into traditional knowledge of herbs and poured the newly created mixture into bottles. Now the fragrant wisdom of the Mediterranean can travel with you to every corner of the world.

The oldest story of the forest is told to us by prehistoric finds from the Šandalja cave. The name Šijana probably comes from an ancient name, and some call it Kaiserwald (Imperial Forest), as in the Austro-Hungarian era. For centuries, people have been looking for rest and relaxation in Šijana. If the company of oak and hornbeam is not enough for you to relax, look for meditative labyrinths.

On the peninsula of Punta Christo, there is a military fortress bearing the same name dating back to the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It deserves a visit because of its size (it used to have 270 rooms) and its rich cultural programme. Don't forget about its neighbour, the almost 200-year-old Fort Grosso, whose remains have been embraced by wild nature and thus resemble a temple. Which fortress has a better view? We will leave the difficult verdict to you.

This adventure has just turned into a search for the most beautiful viewpoint in Istria. Many newlyweds agree that this one is definitely the most romantic. To discover it, head from Rakalj towards Stari Rakalj. You will reach the church of St. Agnes from the 15th century, the remains of a medieval castle and the unforgettable view. From this viewpoint, enjoy the view of Luka Bay, the Bay of Raša and the red lighthouse of St. Nicholas.

There are over 1,000 ponds in Istria. In the vicinity of Marčana alone, more than 40 ponds have been discovered and we’ll take you to the picturesque Vrulja, hidden in the forest near Krnica. Vrulja is an oasis of peace and natural beauty, and a source of rich biodiversity. This pond has always been carefully guarded by the locals.

The path leads you to the military fortress of Monte Madonna. In its underground, there are tunnels at a depth of 30 metres, which is about the height of the Pula Arena. On the surface, there is a view of the indented coastline and the Kvarner Bay. Today, we gladly take on the role of an observer – not the one who looks for a threat in the distance, but the one who surrenders to the unreal beauty.

On our way, we also approach a lighthouse. His closest neighbours, the people of Ližnjan, call it Lantern. However, those closest neighbours are a few kilometres away, so the melancholy of the lighthouse here on Cape Marlera feels strong, just as if it were located on an island. This solitary light has provided safety for ships for more than 150 years.

This is what the people of Medulin themselves called the ladonja, the nettle tree here. It is a deciduous tree with chocolate-flavoured fruits. Under the nettle tree, mulberry tree or linden tree sat "merige" (lat. marici villarum, or prefects) – village chiefs who presided over everyday matters and judged village disputes. In 2020, the people of Medulin promoted the "chocolate tree of their memories" so wholeheartedly that the oldest Medulin citizen was declared the Croatian Tree of the Year. Thus, a silent old tree became a symbol of unity.

Here we are, on the Kamenjak Peninsula. Choose one of the educational trails and dive into the incredible diversity of this protected area. We suggest Dinosaur Paths. Dozens of dinosaur footprints have captured millions of years-old moments. We hope that this adventure has forever imprinted the footsteps of Southern Istria on your heart.