360° panoramas from Istra
This Google map of Istra, Croatia, shows the locations of 360° panoramic images taken around the region. Each panoramic image is accompanied with some local information helping you to explore the region. Many also come with some travel information. Simply click on the pins on the Google map to begin to see what Istra has to offer.
Istra
Istra is a large peninsula in north-west Croatia. To the north of it lies Slovenia, and to the west is the Mediterranean Sea, and then Italy. It is the most visited part of Croatia, no least for the long (430km) coastline dotted with picturesque towns and villages, and indented with beautiful coves and beaches. Much of the interior is covered with vineyards and olive groves, with the rest being forest. The most popular holiday destinations in Istra are Umag and Poreč. These two continually top the annual poll of best holiday resorts in Croatia, as organised by the Croatian National Tourist Board and Croatian TV.
In the Labin / Rabac region where the green hills meet the sea, nature and heritage become one and offer a paradise for artists and photographers. The medieval architecture in the renaissance town of Labin, including it's 17thC church spire boasting views all the way to Radic and the Kvarner coast, and the many palaces and ancient fortifications both along the coastline and inland are witness to a colourful history which fascinate lovers of art and history. Kvarner bay offers beautifully maintained beaches, many attended by lifeguards and marked with the Blue Flag - including Maslinica, specially adapted for disabled persons. Further inland, the mountainous terrain offers great hiking, mountain-biking and lots of trails to explore.
In the Pula / Medulin region, get ready for a feast of ancient architecture, history and mythology coming to life! Pula has one of the best preserved Roman Amphitheaters in the world with a capacity of 25,000. Pula was the site where Jason and his Argonauts searched for the fabled Golden Fleece. It was also the largest port in the Austrian Empire and as such, of immense importance and influence by the touch of many Mediterranean regions. Through history, it has been home to Romans, Histrians, Venetians amongst others and each inhabiting civilisation has added to a complex and treasured heritage still traceable through the many baroque palaces, early Christian churches, Austrian villas - no wonder it is often used as a film set, open-air theatre and a haven to photographers. To the north of Pula, picturesque small towns with stone houses and grand churches offer calming scenery and a glimpse into the peacefulness of times past. To the south, towards Medulin, the archipelago or small islands, sea-inlets, beaches and coves offer an ideal location for a family holiday or relaxed exploring the many protected beaches and their calm, safe Mediterranean waters. Further still, towards Pomer and Premantura, the coastline was once home to a thriving fishing industry but now welcomes tourism to it's nature reserves and sleepy tranquility.
Rovinj region is promoted as being the most romantic place in the Mediterranean. Sentimental, picture-book towns built with narrow streets and archways reminiscent of times long ago, unspoilt by urban life. Pilgrims flock to the baroque churches and thousands of birds - and ornithologists - flock to the pine, oak and holly forests and dramatic cliffs where they can nest safely in stunning and unspoilt habitats.
The small region between Vrsar and Funtana, between the town of Porec and the Lim canal, has a strong fishing and maritime tradition. Sailors drew fresh water from the canal, indeed the Romans built an aqueduct to supply inland areas with water from the springs which give this region it's name. Much of this area's heritage has been influenced by Christianity and it's history tells of the many Christians, the saints and monks to whose lives their churches and monuments still stand in testimony.
Poreč region is the hospitality region catering to every need the tourist could wish for. The night life and socialising venues around Poreč town on the coast are plentiful and the fun lasts 24 hours a day between the beaches, bars and cafes. Further inland, the Romanesque, Venetian and Byzantine cultures have left their mark on architecture. The 6thC Euphrasius' Basilica in Poreč with it's mosaics is listed as a World Heritage Site. However, Poreč region is widely known as attracting those wanting an active holiday and thus is a haven for sports and adventure based holidays.
Umag & Novigrad region to the north of Istra is the European gateway into Istra and not surprsingly has the strongest connections to the Roman and Italian heritage. Having grown popular for it's "wellness tourism", there are still many spas and health centers offering diverse holistic and complimentary therapies. Vineyards, olive-groves, long countryside paths between small villages taking in hidden corners and treasures of scenery and architecture along the way. Very much a place to "get away from it all". The region offers fishing, hunting, camping and relaxing outdoors as it's main attractions, essentially seeking to cater for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and return to an earlier, gentler time and more natural lifestyle - but of course, with great food and fine wines!
Central Istria is by far the largest region. Without a coast, but with breath-taking, almost unreal scenery throughout. Natural dramatic landscapes and beautiful towns adorn this region but it's vast history and cultural significance equally as impressive, varied and ripe for exploring. In the mountainous region of the Cicarija plateau, Učka dominates the natural park and you may be lucky enough to catch sight of a griffon vulture or golden eagle. Agricultural tourism (Agritourismo) is an important rural industry throughout central Europe and very much so here, whereby farmers and small-holders open their homes to visitors who wish to assist on the farm and experience rustic lifestyle while actively contributing to it's sustainment. More than just bed and breakfast, it offers a taste of real life to the visitor and a major source of income to their hosts.