Istria & the Kvarner by Boat: Rovinj, the Brijuni Islands & Truffle Country
A northern-Adriatic sailing guide — Venetian Rovinj, the Brijuni national-park islands, the Kvarner gulf, and Istria's truffles, olive oil and Malvazija wine.
Istria is Croatia's Italian-accented north — a heart-shaped peninsula of Venetian harbour towns, hilltop villages, truffle forests and some of the country's best food and wine. Paired with the islands of the Kvarner gulf, it makes a quieter, more gastronomic alternative to the busy Dalmatian coast.
Rovinj — the Venetian jewel
Rovinj is the star: a huddle of pastel houses rising to the tall campanile of St Euphemia, cobbled lanes tumbling to the water. Anchor off, tender in, and lose an evening in the old town. It is arguably the prettiest town on the whole Croatian coast.
The Brijuni Islands
A national park of 14 islands once Tito's summer playground — parkland, Roman ruins, even a safari of animals gifted by visiting statesmen. Anchoring is regulated; day visits and the marina at Veliki Brijun are the way in.
The Kvarner gulf
South and east, the Kvarner opens to the islands of Cres, Lošinj and Rab. Lošinj is fragrant with pine and herbs and known for its dolphins; Rab's medieval town of four bell-towers is a lovely landfall.
Truffle and wine country
Istria's interior — Motovun, Grožnjan — is truffle country, and the coast produces award-winning olive oil and crisp Malvazija white. A charter here is a food trip that happens to be afloat.
Practical notes
- When to go. June and September are ideal; late spring pairs the coast with Istria's asparagus and the first truffles. See the best time to sail Croatia.
- Ready to plan? Browse Istria charters, or compare grounds on where to charter.
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