Istrian historical influencesWhether or not you are interested in history, this is certainly worth a mention due to the extent that it has shaped and influenced the Istria we see today. In the distant past the peninsula was part of the Republic of Venice and Venetian influences can be seen in its architecture even today. Parts of it were also ruled by the Holy Roman Empire followed by a short period of Italian rule and some years under the Austrian empire. After World War I its citizens were exposed to a harsh period of suppression before the land was passed over to the former Yugoslavia after World War II. Since the break-up of the former Yugoslavia Istria has enjoyed peace and stability as well as some regional autonomy. This history has resulted in great cultural, linguistic and ethnic diversity among its people and has left a rich cultural heritage in its towns, villages and architecture. Istria attractionsIstria's breathtaking countryside is a must in any season: take the mountain massif of Ucka, home of several protected animals and plants, and the nearby Vela Draga Cave. The landscape is carpeted in thick forests and streams, vineyards and orchards, and tiny villages with ivy-clad rustic buildings where legends still abound. There are several forest parks and reserves as well as caves and quarries such as Baredine Cave near Porec, and Fantazija Quarry. Here in the countryside is where you can discover the best Istrian cuisine, cool refreshing wine cellars and enjoy walking and horse-riding and visits to tranquil old hilltop towns. A stroll around Istria's enchanting larger towns is no less rewarding. Rovinj is uniquely beautiful with winding cobbled streets and spectacular views across an azure bay dotted with tiny islands. It is home to 'Batana house', a unique museum dedicated to the town's own unique traditional fishing vessel. The town of Porec is rich in historical monuments, and houses the majestic Euphrasian Basilica from the 6th century displaying the beautiful Byzantine mosaics. Istria is no less for lovers of the sea as the coast stretches for 430 kilometres around the whole peninsula. |  View of Rovinj |
Although lacking in sandy beaches, visitors can discover beautiful private rocky coves and the water is clear and turquoise affording excellent opportunities for scuba-diving. The Brioni islands in contrast, are an archipelago of 15 tiny islets scattered along the South-West coast of Istria and are a national park, a natural habitat for many varieties of seabirds and wild deer. There is also a safari park and bird reserve. The Brioni islands are just a 15 minute boat ride from Fazana.
Istria rental accommodation
Istria is a resort of great class and culture as well as spectacular natural beauty and its balmy climate ensures a pleasant stay at any time of the year, whether it be on the coast, in one of the many historic towns or deep in the heart of the rustic countryside. Rental accommodation is plentiful in all areas thanks to recent property booms and can take the form of small apartments in the larger towns, modern villas with swimming pools in the coastal areas, through to large multi-bedroomed rustic stone farmhouses in rural areas or small hamlets. Landlords normally give clear information on the locality of their property and its closeness to amenities of interest and are on hand to offer any extra advice you may need on the local area.
