CROATIA’S BEST KEPT SECRET – Gardens and Parks of Kvarner and Istria 10108

We depart from London to Pula, Croatia. On arrival, transfer to our hotel in Opatija in the Kvarner Region. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to relax or explore. Dinner will be in the hotel this evening.
 
 

After breakfast we begin our day at Angiolina Park, the most famous and historic park in Opatija, which dates back to 1845. The park is home to a diverse collection of plants and trees from around the world including the Far East, South America and Australia. Here we can see bamboo and various species of palms, which thrive in Opatija’s mild climate, as well as the Japanese Camellia (Camellia Japonica) which has become a symbol of Opatija. We have some time to stroll the well-maintained pathways, taking in the beauty of the colourful flower beds, ornate statues, and charming fountains. The park’s serene atmosphere is perfect for a leisurely walk along the famous “lungomare” the seaside promenade where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, as well as stunning views of the Adriatic
Later, we head towards the American Gardens, a lesser-known yet equally enchanting Opatija green space. Located on a hillside, these gardens were created by Hungarian Mihaly Pal Kuczor in honour of his wife who was from Opatija. The gardens were named the “American Gardens” after the continent where Kuczor made his fortune selling paprika. As you wander through the terraced gardens, you’ll be surrounded by an array of Mediterranean and exotic plants. The garden’s design includes winding paths, stone stairways, and pergolas, all of which lead to breathtaking viewpoints of the sea and town below
 

This morning, we start our day in Krk Town, the island of Krk’s historic and cultural heart. We cross to the island of Krk via the road bridge. As we approach Krk Town on the south of the island we will be greeted by the city’s impressive medieval walls and fortifications, which have protected the city for centuries. The main attraction is the Frankopan Castle, a 12th-century fortress built by the powerful Frankopan family. We have some time here to explore before heading to the harbour of Punat, from where we take a short boat ride to the tiny Island of Kosljun, a pretty islet located in the middle of Puntarska Draga Bay. There, we visit an array of items, including rare books, ancient coins, and a collection of traditional Croatian folk costumes. We enjoy a walk through the island’s beautiful park and gardens, which are meticulously maintained by the monks and specifically include Mediterranean herbs which the monks planted for use in herbal medicine.
The island is home to a diverse array of plants, over 400 species, including many which are rare and protected. As we stroll through the peaceful grounds, we’ll encounter statues and chapels that add to the spiritual ambiance .
Later, we visit the Immortelle Farm on Krk Known as the “everlasting flower”, immortelle is a key element in natural cosmetics and essential oils, celebrated for its anti-aging properties and distinctive fragrance. This visit to a local farm dedicated to cultivating this precious plant explains the various growing and distilling processes, and we experience the unique environment where immortelle thrives.

Today we leave the Kvarner region and we move to the neighbouring region of Istria where we visit Veliki Brijun, the main island of the Brijuni National Park, located off the western coast of Istria. The archipelago has 14 small islands in a pristine natural haven that combines breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a wealth of historical and cultural treasures. Known for its crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation, and fascinating historical sites, Brijuni is one of Croatia’s most beautiful and unique national parks, home to a rich and varied history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Neolithic period. To reach the island there is a short boat trip from the pretty port of Fazana. Cars are not permitted and we will travel on a small electric train and on foot in places for short periods.
In the 20th century, Brijuni gained fame as the summer residence of Yugoslav President Josip Broz Tito who hosted numerous world leaders and celebrities on the islands, including Queen Elizabeth II, Sophia Loren and Richard Burton. Visitors can explore the Tito Museum photographs and maps depicting the unique period of the island’s history. The island is also home to the oldest Olive Oil tree in Croatia at over 1,000 years old and still producing oil yearly. Plant species include myrtle, marine poppy and flowering ash.
After our visit we continue to our hotel in Pula.

This morning after breakfast we explore the city of Pula. Located on the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula, it is one of Croatia’s most historically rich and vibrant cities, known for its impressive Roman architecture and beautiful coastline. We begin at the Pula Forum, the city’s central square, which has been the heart of Pula since Roman times. Today, the Forum is still a bustling hub, lined with cafes, restaurants, and historic buildings. At the centre of the square, we find the Temple of Augustus, dedicated to the first Roman emperor. We then walk along Sergijevaca Street, one of the main pedestrian thoroughfares, leading to the Arch of the Sergii, a triumphal arch erected in the 1st century BC before arriving at the Twin Gates and the City Walls, remnants of Pula’s ancient fortifications. Later we head to we explore the famous Pula amphitheatre, locally called “arena”, the sixth largest Roman amphitheatres in the world and is the only remaining Roman theatre in the world with all four side towers preserved. The arena dates back to the 1st century AD and could accommodate over 20,000 spectators. As we approach the Arena, its massive stone walls and towering arches immediately capture your attention, demonstrating the grandeur and engineering prowess of the Roman Empire. Today, as was intended the arena is still an entertainment venue and there are world-class concerts (former performers include Luciano Pavarotti, Tom Jones, Elton John).
This afternoon, you may wish to return to your hotel to spend it at leisure or alternatively you may wish to join our optional excursion which visits the village of Vodnjan. An interesting spot for those looking to explore Istria further, Vodnjan’s centre is characterised by its well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow streets, and charming squares. Following this there is also a chance to visit an award-winning, local olive oil mill and enjoy a tutored tasting of various olive oils.

Today we explore Rovinj north of Pula, once an island and one of the most picturesque towns on the Istrian Peninsula. Our tour will take us through the charming streets of Rovinj and we then continue to Histria Aromatica, a beautiful botanical garden and estate near the town of Bale, a 20 minute drive which grows a wide range of aromatic herbs and plants such as fennel, sage, pine, rosemary, lavender blended for use in natural oils and balms. This combination offers a perfect mix of coastal charm and the fragrant landscapes of inland Istria. Rovinj is famous for its old-world charm, pastel-coloured houses, and narrow, winding streets, along with its waterfront where we can admire the fishing boats and water taxis bobbing in the crystal waters before taking a stroll through the Old Town, a maze of cobblestone streets lined with quaint houses, art galleries, and boutique shops. The architecture reflects the town’s Venetian past, with its narrow alleys and hidden courtyards. We visit the Church of St. Euphemia, its most iconic landmark. Perched on the highest point of the Old Town, this Baroque church dominates the skyline. We will pass galleries and studios where we can see local artists at work. In the afternoon, we continue to Histria Aromatica, enjoying a sensory journey through Istria’s rich botanical heritage. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the beautiful landscapes which cover several hectares of rolling hills and terraced fields. We begin our visit with a guided tour of the botanical gardens, where we learn about the various aromatic and medicinal plants that are cultivated here. Explore the distillery, where the estate produces essential oils and other natural products from the plants grown on-site. We can stroll through the estate’s gardens and enjoy the fragrant atmosphere, beautifully landscaped paths which lead through fields of lavender and other herbs, offering stunning views at every turn. We conclude our visit with a tasting session, where you can sample local products such as herbal liqueurs, olive oils, and honey, all infused with the aromatic plants grown at the estate.
 

Today is free to spend at leisure or alternatively you can join our optional excursion. Spend the day exploring the beautiful Istrian countryside, with a focus on the region’s famous frescoes. Our tour begins in the heart of Istria in the small village of Beram, a hidden gem rich in history and culture. Perched on a hilltop surrounded by lush forests and rolling vineyards, Beram exudes a tranquil charm and has a charming “time-warp” atmosphere. This village is particularly famous for its remarkable frescoes, which are among the finest examples of medieval art in Istria. The highlight of Beram is the Church of St. Mary of the Rocks (Sveta Marija na Škriljinah), located just outside the village in a serene, wooded area. The most famous fresco within the church is the “Dance of Death” (Danse Macabre), a hauntingly beautiful depiction of the universality of death and the medieval understanding of mortality. We continue to Draguc, a picturesque village often referred to as the “Village of Frescoes”, renowned for its wealth of historic churches adorned with beautifully preserved frescoes. With its cobblestone streets, stone houses with rustic, red-tiled roofs, the village feels like a living museum – It’s no wonder that Draguc often serves as a filming location for various historical films. Take a gentle stroll through the narrow streets, visiting several small churches dating back to the 12th and 15th centuries. We then take a short drive to Roc, a charming village known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Enjoy a guided walk around the town’s historic centre. One of Roc’s most significant contributions to Croatian culture is its association with the Glagolitic script, the oldest known Slavic alphabet, created in the 9th century by Saints Cyril and Methodius. Visit the Church of St. Anthony, a small church dating back to the 12th century. Inside, you’ll find a series of frescoes from the 14th century, depicting religious scenes with a distinct medieval style. These frescoes, although modest in scale, are significant for their age and the insight they provide into the religious art of the time. Participate in a short, guided fresco painting class led by a local artist where we learn the basics of fresco technique and create your own small fresco as a keepsake.

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our return flight to London.