Istrian Odyssey: A Luxury Culinary Cycling Expedition Through Croatia's Gourmet Peninsula
Embark on an extraordinary seven-day cycling adventure through Croatia’s gastronomic heartland, where ancient hilltop villages, award-winning vineyards, and crystal-clear Adriatic waters create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable journey.
Summary
This meticulously crafted itinerary blends exhilarating daily rides with exclusive culinary experiences, allowing guests to immerse themselves in Istria’s rich cultural tapestry while enjoying premium accommodations and personalized service throughout. Our intimate groups of 2-8 riders (maximum 16 with additional support) enjoy an exceptional 1:6 guide-to-guest ratio, ensuring attentive service and expert guidance as you pedal through landscapes that have inspired chefs and vintners for generations.
7 days
202 km
Istria
PRICE PER PERSON
(based on double occupancy)
€ 3,995
Single supplement: €595
Tour Highlights
- Experience daily rides along picturesque Istrian countryside and coastal routes
- Indulge in exclusive tastings at award-winning olive oil estates and family-owned wineries
- Savor traditional Istrian cuisine including fresh seafood, prized truffles, and heritage recipes
- Enjoy luxurious accommodations in carefully selected 4-star boutique hotels
- Discover ancient Roman architecture, medieval villages, and hidden natural wonders
- Participate in unique experiences including truffle hunting and horseback riding
- Benefit from comprehensive support with expert local guides and full vehicle assistance
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Istria - Arrival in Fazana
Your Istrian adventure begins with a personal welcome at Pula Airport, where our team will transfer you to the charming fishing village of Fazana(one trip included for all group). Check into the elegant Heritage Hotel Chersin, a meticulously restored 4-star boutique property nestled in the old center, just steps from the Adriatic Sea and 900 meters from pristine beaches. The hotel’s allergy-free rooms feature luxurious décor and modern amenities, providing a perfect sanctuary for the exciting days ahead. We’ll host a welcome reception with local wines and appetizers where you’ll meet your guides and fellow cyclists while receiving a comprehensive briefing on your upcoming adventure. The evening is yours to relax after travel or perhaps take a gentle stroll along Fazana’s picturesque waterfront.
Welcome drink and evening at leisure
Heritage Hotel Chersin 4*, Fazana
Rest day (0 km)
Day 2: The Olive Oil & Roman Heritage Route
After a nourishing breakfast, we embark on our first cycling day, heading toward the historic towns of Bale and Vodnjan. The gentle Istrian landscape unfolds before us as we pedal through olive groves and vineyards on our way to Chiavalon, one of Croatia’s most prestigious olive oil producers. Here, we’ll enjoy an exclusive tasting of their organic extra virgin olive oils, which rank among the world’s top 15 and have garnered numerous international awards. The Chiavalon family cultivates 7,500 olive trees across 15 hectares, focusing primarily on indigenous varieties like buža, moražola, and bianchera. Continuing our journey, we’ll visit Pula’s magnificent Roman Amphitheater, one of the world’s best-preserved ancient monuments, before enjoying a sumptuous lunch featuring local specialties. We return to Fazana in the afternoon.
Breakfast at hotel, lunch in Pula
Heritage Hotel Chersin 4*, Fazana
40 km | Gentle rolling terrain
Day 3: Vineyards & Coastal Splendor to Rovinj
Today’s spectacular route leads us along the stunning Istrian coastline toward the jewel of the peninsula—romantic Rovinj. Our morning ride brings us to the exclusive Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery, an exquisite estate where traditional Istrian stone buildings with red pantile roofs are surrounded by 12 acres of vineyards producing 14 varieties of robust reds and crisp whites. We’ll indulge in a premium wine tasting experience guided by knowledgeable sommeliers who will explain the terroir and winemaking philosophy that makes Istrian wines increasingly sought-after by connoisseurs worldwide. After this delightful interlude, we continue to Vila Dobrovac winery, perched in a position offering magnificent views over Rovinj. Here, we’ll enjoy a farm-to-table lunch featuring estate-grown ingredients while sampling their exceptional wines. The afternoon allows time for swimming in the azure Adriatic or exploring Rovinj’s enchanting old town with its winding cobblestone streets and vibrant artistic atmosphere.
Breakfast at hotel, wine tasting at Meneghetti, lunch at local rural restaurant
Boutique hotel in Rovinj
40 km | Moderate coastal route
Day 4: The Count's Sunny Coast & Equestrian Adventure
Our day begins with a captivating circular route following the famous Sunčana Obala Grofa Hüterotta trail (The Count’s Sunny Coast), a beautiful coastal path showcasing the enchanting beauty of Rovinj’s shoreline with stunning views of the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, picturesque beaches, and lush Mediterranean vegetation5. As we cycle through this picturesque landscape, we’ll have the opportunity to appreciate the captivating charm of Rovinj’s old town with its colorful houses and historic landmarks, including the iconic St. Euphemia’s Church. A special treat awaits mid-route as we stop for an exhilarating 30-minute horseback riding session, allowing a different perspective of Istria’s natural beauty. Our lunch today features the traditional peka—a signature Croatian dish slow-cooked under a bell-shaped dome—accompanied by premium local wines. The complex flavors of this heritage preparation epitomize Istrian cuisine’s rustic elegance, where simple ingredients transform into extraordinary dishes through time-honored techniques.
Breakfast at hotel, traditional peka lunch with domestic wine
Boutique hotel in Rovinj
40 km | Varied terrain with coastal sections
Day 5: Medieval Villages & Culinary Treasures
Today’s adventure takes us through some of Istria’s most captivating landscapes as we cycle from Rovinj to Bale, Svetvinčenat, the ruins of Dvigrad, and over Kanfanar before returning to Rovinj. This route showcases the peninsula’s diverse terrain, from coastal flatlands to the undulating interior dotted with medieval hilltop villages. In Dvigrad, a hauntingly beautiful abandoned medieval town, we’ll pause to sample Istria’s renowned pršut—a delicate prosciutto dry-cured with aromatic herbs in the region’s particular microclimate. Upon returning to Rovinj, we’ll be rewarded with a memorable lunch at Konoba Jure, known for its generous portions and authentic Istrian cuisine. Their specialty fish cooked in salt crust represents the pinnacle of traditional coastal gastronomy, preserving the delicate flavors while creating a theatrical dining experience. In the late afternoon, we’ll transfer to the spectacular hilltop town of Motovun, checking into the elegant Boutique Hotel Kastel perched atop the medieval walls with sweeping views of the surrounding valleys.
Breakfast at hotel, local prosciutto tasting, lunch at one of he best local restaurant with traditional Croatian food
Boutique Hotel Kastel, Motovun
40 km | Moderate with some challenging sections
Day 6: The Parenzana Trail & Truffle Treasures
Our final full cycling day offers a magical ride along the Parenzana, a converted railway track that once connected Trieste to Poreč. This well-maintained trail provides a mostly flat and scenic route perfect for enjoying Istria’s interior landscapes as we pedal from Motovun to the artistic village of Grožnjan and back. En route, we’ll stop in Livade—Croatia’s truffle capital—for a delightful tasting of locally produced artisanal honey, showcasing the diverse floral notes from Istria’s varied ecosystems. Brunch today represents a culinary highlight at local restaurant. The afternoon brings a truly memorable experience—joining experienced hunters on an authentic truffle hunt through the forests of the Mirna Valley. We’ll learn about these prized culinary treasures before enjoying a special tasting menu showcasing both black and white truffles in various preparations.
Breakfast at hotel, honey tasting, lunch at Ponte Porton Dining
Boutique Hotel Kastel, Motovun
42 km | Relatively flat railway trail
Day 7: Farewell to Istria
After a final breakfast at Hotel Kastel, we’ll arrange a comfortable group transfer to Pula (one per group). As you bid farewell to Istria, you’ll take with you unforgettable memories of sun-drenched landscapes, world-class gastronomy, and the warm hospitality that makes this peninsula a true cyclist’s paradise.
Breakfast at hotel
Homeward bound
Rest day (0 km)
THE GUIDES
Zoran
Zoran’s vision is simple yet profound: “I want every guest to feel the heartbeat of Croatia—the scent of lavender on Hvar, the taste of freshly pressed olive oil in Istria, and the joy of pedaling along the Adriatic coast.” His dedication to safety, comfort, and authentic experiences ensures that every tour is as enriching as it is exhilarating.
GALLERY
The Istrian Odyssey Experience: Premium Ride Support
Expert Local Guides: Your Cultural Ambassadors
At the heart of your Istrian cycling adventure stands our exceptional team of local guides—true ambassadors of Croatia’s gastronomic peninsula who transform a great cycling holiday into an unforgettable journey of discovery. Born and raised in the region, our guides possess intimate knowledge of Istria’s hidden gems, from secret swimming coves accessible only by local paths to family-owned konobas serving dishes prepared according to closely guarded recipes passed through generations. Their passion for sharing authentic Istrian culture shines through in every interaction, whether explaining the nuances of olive oil production or recounting historical tales of Venetian influence as you cycle past ancient bell towers.
With advanced cycling qualifications and comprehensive mechanical knowledge, our guides ensure your riding experience remains smooth and enjoyable. Their expertise extends beyond cycling to encompass deep cultural and culinary understanding, allowing them to explain the historical significance of the Parenzana railway trail or the specific microclimate that makes Motovun’s forests ideal for truffle cultivation. Maintaining our guaranteed 1:6 guide-to-guest ratio ensures you receive personalized attention throughout your adventure, with guides who quickly understand your preferences and cycling style.
Most importantly, our guides are masters at creating moments of delight—surprising you with a chilled glass of Malvazija at a panoramic viewpoint just when you need refreshment or arranging an impromptu meeting with a local artisan whose family has crafted traditional Istrian instruments for centuries. These unscripted moments often become travelers’ most cherished memories.
Comprehensive Vehicle Support: Comfort and Convenience
Throughout your Istrian cycling adventure, our support vehicle remains strategically positioned to enhance your experience while never intruding on the immersive nature of cycling through this beautiful landscape. This isn’t merely transportation—it’s an essential component of your premium experience featuring:
Sophisticated bike repair equipment for immediate adjustments and maintenance
Climate-controlled compartments storing fresh local fruits, homemade energy snacks, and regional specialties
Refrigerated sections keeping mineral water and electrolyte drinks at optimal temperature
Secure storage for personal belongings, photography equipment, and shopping acquisitions
Comfortable seating for anyone wishing to rest while still enjoying the day’s route
Our support system operates with precision and discretion, with the vehicle leapfrogging the cycling group to establish welcoming refreshment stations at scenic viewpoints and logical rest stops. This approach allows you to cycle with minimal personal equipment while ensuring everything you might need is readily available just when required. For larger groups, we deploy additional vehicles to maintain our exceptional service standards.
Tailored Cycling Experience: Your Ride, Your Way
We understand that each cyclist brings unique abilities, preferences, and interests to our Istrian adventure. Our boutique approach accommodates different riding styles while preserving the cohesive group experience:
Daily route options with alternative distances to match different energy levels
GPS-equipped bikes for those preferring to occasionally explore at their own pace
Flexible morning departures allowing early risers to maximize photography opportunities
Customized bike fitting before the tour begins to ensure optimal comfort
Attentive accommodation of dietary preferences throughout the culinary journey
This flexible approach ensures everyone enjoys their ideal balance of challenge and pleasure, whether you’re seeking vigorous exercise or a leisurely exploration of Istria’s gastronomic treasures. E-bikes are readily available (included in your package) for those wishing to level the playing field on hillier sections or simply conserve energy for afternoon explorations.
Beyond The Bicycle: Comprehensive Care
Our commitment to exceptional service encompasses every aspect of your Istrian experience:
Seamless airport transfers with climate-controlled vehicles and refreshments
Meticulous luggage handling throughout the journey—your bags await in your room at each new location
Expert sommeliers enhancing wine tastings with engaging explanations of terroir and production methods
Coordination with restaurant chefs to accommodate dietary requirements while maintaining authenticity
Cultural interpretation bringing Istria’s rich heritage to vivid life
24/7 on-call support for any needs that arise during free time
From the moment you book until your final transfer to Pula Airport, our attentive team works diligently behind the scenes, anticipating needs and managing every detail so you can immerse yourself fully in the cycling, scenery, and sensory pleasures of Istria’s magnificent landscapes and cuisine.
THE TOUR IN DETAIL
What's Included
ACCOMMODATIONS
- 2 nights at Heritage Hotel Chersin 4* in Fazana with sea views
- 2 nights at premium 4-star boutique hotel in Rovinj
- 2 nights at Boutique Hotel Kastel in Motovun
- All accommodations feature comfortable rooms with premium amenities in ideal locations. If specified hotels are unavailable for any reason, they will be replaced with similar or better ones.
DINING EXPERIENCES
- Daily gourmet breakfast buffet at all hotels
- 6 lunches at carefully selected authentic restaurants featuring traditional Istrian cuisine
- 30 minutes horse riding
- Welcome drink reception on arrival
- Multiple wine tastings at premium local wineries
- Olive oil tasting
- Traditional peka meal experiences
- Artisanal honey tasting in Livade
- Truffle hunting experience with tasting menu
CYCLING SUPPORT
- High-quality road or hybrid bikes tailored to your size and preferences
- E-bikes available as optional
- Helmet, water bottle
- Full vehicle support throughout all cycling routes
- Professional cycling and vehicle support (1:6 ratio)
- GPS routes provided for personal devices
TRANSFERS & TRANSPORTATION
- Airport pickup and drop-off at Pula Airport (one group)
- All transfers between cycling locations as per the itinerary
- Luggage transportation between accommodations
EXPERIENCES & ACTIVITIES
- Guided tours of cultural and historical sites
- 30-minute horseback riding experience
- Truffle hunting adventure with expert guide and trained dogs
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
- 24/7 local support and emergency assistance
- Souvenir water bottle
- Digital photo collection of your journey
- Detailed pre-departure information package
NOT INCLUDED
- Flights to and from Croatia
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages outside of mentioned and tastings
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Activities not specified in the itinerary
2025 Tour Dates
A 40% deposit secures your place on this exclusive journey
Final balance due 90 days before departure
Flexible cancellation policy available upon request
Single supplement: + €595