Istria is often most popular as a seaside getaway destination as its beautiful coastline boasts lots of pretty coastal towns but, in addition to this part of the region in Croatia, there is the inland, “Green Istria.” This part of Istria is lush and green and scenic, with a landscape dotted by exceptionally pretty little villages, orchards, olive groves, vineyards, and rolling hills. It is also well-known for its incredible gastronomic heritage and, therefore, there are lots of delicious things to snack on as you explore this gorgeous part of the world. However, if you have found a villa in Istria and you are taking time to venture into Green Istria, whether you are staying on the coast or inland in the midst of it, then we recommend that you make a point to plan a day-trip to the unbelievably picturesque town of Motovun.
Motovun is a picture-perfect gem of a 14th century walled town that was fortified by the Venetians and rises up on a hillside that overlooks green pastures and hills all around in the Mirna River Valley. With the deep green Motovun forest at its base and the old walls, church tower, and pretty houses with terracotta roofs crowning the town, Motovun truly looks like something that has been plucked straight from the pages of a fairytale and that has been frozen in time. Throughout the streets of the town, once you have climbed the little road that stretches up the hill and passes through the houses and business on the outskirts into the wall historic core of the town, you will find an elegant and atmospheric cluster of astounding Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance buildings that house restaurants, coffee houses, artists’ studios, and little shops.
Though the town seems a sleepy and uneventful, if remarkably charming, place at first glance there is actually much more to Motovun. That forest below the town is a hub for truffle-hunting and is a major attraction for foodies looking to experience joining a hunt themselves or to merely sample some Istrian truffles in dishes served up in town when they are in season or to purchase some to prepare for yourself in your vacation rental in Istria. This wonderful and magical leafy space is also popular for those looking to stretch their legs and enjoy walks in a very picturesque setting, with trails that are suitable for both those looking to stroll and more strenuous options for those who are after a bit more of a challenge. Over 10 square kilometres in size with 280 hectares being specially protected, this forest is home to a rich wildlife, moist soil, both black and white truffles, and impressive oak trees. Furthermore, it is steeped in some rather storybook local legends of a kind giant, about whom you can learn more information at the Hotel Kaštel, where there is a small museum with exhibits about the tale and more history of the town in the courtyard.
Those who enjoy wonderful views should also pay to explore the old town walls, which only take about ten minutes to circle but offer extraordinary panoramas over the surrounding area and some brilliant peeks into some rather impressive gardens, as well as access to a museum that displays an exhibition of great photographs of this gorgeous local scenery. The Renaissance Church of St Stephen that crowns Motovun is also a must-see as it is thought to have been designed by the hugely influential and famous Venetian architect Palladio. Finally, the town is actually also home to quite a famous annual film festival, the Motovun Film Festival, which takes place in July and August of each year. Showcasing a programme of around 70 independent films from all over the world each summer, it is a bombastic celebration of culture that is popular among Croatian youths and international visitors in the know.
In addition, of course, merely wandering this lovely town, enjoying its beauty and the views, grabbing food or coffee or some of the wonderful local wines produced in the vineyards on the hillsides of the town, visiting the little shops, and just relaxing are all reason enough to plan a trip to Motovun if you have found a holiday rental in Istria and are planning to explore the area on vacation in Croatia.
