Istra, the heart-shaped, biggest peninsula in Croatia is surrounded by glimmering waters of the Adriatic and offers spectacular floral scenery. On the coast, charming fishing villages reflect perfectly the spirit of the Mediterranean, whilst inland, among the pretty hilltop settlements, one can almost feel like in Provanse or Tuscany. The fertile plains and hills of inland Istra, combined with centuries of hard-work by the locals, produce some of the most mouth-watering gastronomical wonders, with a strong Italian influence. Prime white and black truffles, wild asparagus and mushrooms, locally grown olive oil and wines and fresh seafood are some of the more noted delicacies one encounters in Istra. The Brijuni archipelago near Pula are a good choice for a starting point if you are planning in sailing in Croatia.
Charter bases in Istra region
Very well connected with the rest of Europe, Istria is an acclaimed web of charter harbors, being located on the northern part of the Adriatic coast, from where it is easy to follow the coastline, all the way down to Dubrovnik. There are several notable stops on the way.
Istria's chartering mecca Pula is the largest and most important city in Istria, located in the south of the Istrian peninsula. Three millennia has ancient Pula stood strong, with roots of the mighty Roman Empire encompassing the whole city and producing many wonderful archeological sites. Most notably, the Arena, the best-preserved Roman amphitheater in the world. Amongst other notable buildings, it is worth mentioning the Temple of Augustus, the Triumphal Arch of the Sergi, Hercules’ Gate and Twin Gates. The influence of Italian cuisine is felt in Pula - there are pizzerias serving pasta and gelato on almost every corner. Wine-making is a tradition in these parts and quality cabernet sauvignons and muscats at affordable prices are available. Locally grown Malvasia grapes produce a fine white wine that goes excellent with fresh sea food. Rakija is also a worthy mention, since this strong liqueur is very popular with the locals. Pula`s shoreline does not contain many islands, but the Brijuni National Park are not far. A visit worth taking, Brijuni archipelago are a marvel to behold and a perfect sailing spot. The mainland is a walk-in zoo in the summer, where you can watch wild animals whilst sunbathing or swimming. The coastline is untouched rock, where coves of all sizes hide a bounty of aquatic life. While the summer lasts, Pula hosts a good number of festivals, plays. concertos and concerts. Films are shown during the Pula Film Festival, one of the most recognized film festivals in Europe, attracting numerous celebrities.
Medulin is a small fishing village that evolved into a sprawling, modern tourist center. Medulin successfully combines the peacefulness of the Adriatic with modern infrastructure such as numerous bars, restaurants, clubs and galleries with cultural heritage, like Vizhules archaeological site or the forts on Vrchevan hill. Also, to be noted is St. Agnes Church, with twin bell towers. Medulin has a one kilometer long sandy beach Bijeca. The entrance in the sea is shallow and long, ideal for families with children, but in the late afternoon and at night is a good place to get some peace and quiet and watch the stars. During the short summer darkness, many festivities are held, such as Fisherman`s nights, concerts of classical music, dancing galas and competitions with live music on numerous restaurant terraces.
An oasis of peace and gentle summer sky, Pomer is very close to Pula - not even 10 kilometers away. Roman influence can be felt in the atmosphere of Pomer, where Latin roots run deep and where rich Romans built luxurious villas, standing to this day. Pomer Marina is located in a well - sheltered area of Medulin bay, boasting 250 berths and 50 dry berths. Visitors and sailors can enjoy numerous folk festivals and chamber music concerts held in local churches, as well as the welcoming hospitality of the local populace.
Joining the Istrian hinterland with the Adriatic, Vrsar is small fishing village. Rich in history reaching more than 2000 years into the past, the Old Romanesque gate or the Basilica of St. Mary of the Sea stand as a proud reminder of times past. Lim Bay hosts the Marina in Vrsar, which is a popular place to charter a yacht and go exploring the nearby archipelago, with 18 uninhabited isles. The waters around Vrsar are calm and the winds are mild, with above-average temperatures in summer, reaching well above 30 degrees Celsius. The quiet and romantic atmosphere of Vrsar was even complemented by enlightenment-era Italian seducer Giacomo Casanova, who visited Vrsar twice
When to visit Istra region while sailing?
Brijuni and Pula should be stops for any sailor on a vacation in Istra. The clear waters around Brijuni will seduce all sea-farers in taking a jump and the rich history of Pula, together with fine chartering service, will provide a perfect excuse to come ashore and see the sites.