Zagreb to the Sea Adventure

Our journey begins in Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital city. Groups typically meet in the afternoon or evening, so please keep this in mind when booking your flights. Many guests choose to arrive a day or two early to adjust to the local time and explore Zagreb’s charming streets, lively cafes and numerous parks. Before sunset we will meet for a welcome drink, dinner and brief orientation where we will have a chance to discuss the upcoming holiday and get to know our guides and fellow travelers.

Accommodation: Zagreb; Meals: Dinner.

Rising high above Zagreb is Mount Medvednica, a popular natural area for locals seeking a respite from the city. The hiking trail will take us through thick beech and pine forests, with several stops that offer a beautiful view of Zagreb spreading into the valley below. When we reach the summit of Sljeme, located at 1033 meters above sea level, we will be rewarded with a stunning view of the rolling green hills in Croatia’s Zagorje region and the Alps in the distance. On a clear day you can see three different countries: Croatia, Slovenia and Austria. You may bring snacks for a picnic lunch or purchase something from one of the mountain lodges at the summit.

After the hike we have a two-hour drive to our accommodation near Plitvice Lakes National Park. You will have time to settle into your room, relax and explore the area before dinner.

Accommodation: Plitvice Lakes NP guesthouse; Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

Today we visit one of the most beautiful and unique natural areas in Europe – Plitvice Lakes National Park. The park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 due to its stunning sequence of turquoise lakes separated by travertine barriers and over 90 waterfalls.

As we walk along the park’s wooden paths and bridges, we’ll take in views of 16 gorgeous lakes, fairy-tale forests and cascading waterfalls fed by both the Black and White Rivers. The seemingly endless beech and pine forests surrounding the lakes are home to extensive wildlife including deer, brown bears and wolves, numerous caves and an interesting karst landscape. There is an option to enjoy a picnic lunch in this pristine, natural area. After the hike, we’ll have the chance to admire the lakes from a different perspective on a short bus ride that will take us back to the starting point.

After visiting the park we will head to Istria, where we will stay for the remainder of the trip. We have a three-hour drive to our accommodation in the picturesque hillside town of Motovun. We will arrive in time to enjoy a dinner of truffles – a local specialty – and see a stunning sunset over the Mirna River Valley.

Accommodation: Motovun; Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

Our cycling trip today takes us on country roads that wind through rural Istria’s medieval hilltop villages, vineyards, olive groves and forests. The route passes through the charming hillside towns of Oprtalj and Groznjan, which we will have time to explore on foot. The second half of the trip follows the Parenzana, an old railroad bed that is now popular among cyclists and hikers. We’ll pedal through old railroad tunnels and over bridges until we reach the Mirna River Valley, enjoying spectacular views of the countryside along the way.

After the cycling trip you will have time to explore Motovun, walk along its old defense walls or relax before dinner.

Accommodation: Motovun; Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

Today there is an option to take a rest day or go on a day trip that your guide will help you organize. Possible options include:

Hiking Ucka Mountain: Hike to the top of the highest mountain on the Istrian Peninsula. This area is known for its unique climate and lush forests. Ucka’s meadows and woodlands are home to many protected, endemic plant and animal species. At the summit, we are rewarded with a breathtaking view of Istria’s rolling green hills, Adriatic Sea, Kvarner Islands and Velebit Mountains in the distance. On a clear day, it is possible to see the Italian Alps, and even Venice!

Wine Tour of Istria: Istria produces some of the best wines in the world. Taste the region’s Teran and Malvazija wines at family-owned wineries and enjoy a scenic drive with stunning views of the countryside.

Istrian Villages Sightseeing: Take a guided tour of the towns of Motovun and Groznjan in the heart of Istria and follow the Mirna River all the way to the Adriatic Sea.

For those who have decided to do the 5-day version of the tour, today marks the end of the trip. Our guides will help you plan the rest of your holiday and recommend places to visit throughout Croatia – don’t hesitate to ask them for any suggestions.

Accommodation: Motovun; Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

The picturesque town of Rovinj is one of coastal Istria’s most charming destinations. The historic town rises from the sea on a small peninsula surrounded by 14 stunning islands, which are best explored by kayak. Our kayaks will take you to the harbor, around Old Town Rovinj, to the Golden Cape and to Sveta Katarina Island and its hidden beaches. One of our secret spots includes optional cliff jumping into the crystal clear sea for more adventurous travelers. After kayaking, there will be time to enjoy a walk through the meandering, narrow streets of Rovinj and have a coffee, an ice cream or a glass of wine. We’ll then drive back to Porec for the next two nights.

Accommodation: Porec guesthouse; Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

The ancient Roman town of Porec is one of Istria’s most acclaimed seaside retreats. Today we’ll sea kayak around the Old Town and explore the islands and coves of the Porec riviera. As we paddle, take in views of the city’s ancient walls, UNESCO-protected Euphrasian Basilica and interesting mix of Gothic, Romanesque and baroque buildings. We’ll take a break on an island where you’ll have the chance to swim and snorkel in the crystal clear Adriatic Sea.

Accommodation: Porec; Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

Today our tour comes to an end. You are welcome to schedule your homeward transport for any time, but we suggest avoiding booking departures early in the morning and recommend arranging ground transportation from areas that are close to Porec.  When booking your return flights, please keep in mind that Porec is around a 3-hour drive from Zagreb. If you decide to extend your stay in Croatia, our guides will happily recommend other wonderful things to do and places to visit – especially local favorites that you won’t find in most guidebooks.

Meals: Breakfast.