Istria: the green peninsula of Croatia

Istria offers natural beauty, cultural monuments and gastronomic delights. The peninsula, surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, captivates with its spectacular natural scenery and surprising diversity: one of the most breathtaking Mediterranean coasts with crystal-clear water, wild bays and hundreds of small islands. Not only sailors and water sports fans will find their hearts beat faster here - cycling and horse riding enthusiasts will also get their money's worth in the mountainous hinterland.

With an average of 2,388 hours of sunshine per year, Istria is a popular year-round destination and its location makes it quick and easy to reach by car. Wine, olive oil, truffles, prsut and cheese - gourmets enjoy culinary highlights: According to the renowned olive guide Flos Olei, Istria is one of the best olive oil regions in the world. The producers Chiavalon and Ipsa are among the favourites of many visitors.

Thanks to the perfect climate and at least four types of soil, Istria also produces a variety of exciting wines. First and foremost are the grapes Malvazija and Teran, which are cultivated mainly in Istria. A day trip to the wineries of the northern region can be excellently combined with a visit to Motovun or Groznijan. Recommended wineries include: Kozlovic, Meneghetti, Cuj, Matosevic, Kabola or Benvenuti. A lunch next to the vineyards in the "konobas" of Stari Podrum or Rino is the culinary highlight. A dish with freshly shaved truffles is a must.

Truffles are one of the great treasures of Istria. Istrian truffles are special because of their extraordinary smell and taste. They grow in the heart of the peninsula, in the fresh forests of Buzet. Join the owners on a truffle hunt in the woods and afterwards enjoy a fresh "fritaja" with truffles.

You should definitely try the Istrian pršut - the dried ham is a designated speciality of the country. High-quality raw materials and local herbs rubbed in by hand for months give it its characteristic, strong flavour. The ham dries in the Bora wind and then matures for 18 months in special cellars. The Pršutana Jelenić in Sveti Petar u Sumi is only a short drive away from CASA CONTE ISTRIA. A few minutes away you will also find the Latus cheese dairy - the truffle cheese Latufino or the Veli Joze, matured for over 1 year, are an absolute delicacy.