Night 1-2
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHotel Kastel
Hotel Kastel is elegant and chic. Unwind in the sauna or spa or take a dip in the pool or book one of the most extensive wellness experiences.
Walk from the heart of Croatian Istria to the Adriatic Sea
The Istrian Castles to Coast Walking Tour is a relaxing walking trip from Motovun, the heart of Istria in northern Croatia, to Opatija, an elegant 19th century coastal resort on the stunning Adriatic coast. This town’s turbulent history is reflected in the wide variety of monuments, architectural styles, cuisine and even language that you’ll appreciate upon arriving. As you walk, the strong Italian influence of nearby Venice is unmistakable throughout the undulating hills and medieval hilltop villages that resemble those of central Italy 30 years ago.
Walk through small vineyards and olive groves, and in the early morning admire the truffle hunters with their dogs as they sniff their way through the vast oak forests. Stay in a variety of small friendly inns and hotels in well preserved walled hamlets where you can taste traditional local recipes. This walking tour is an idyllic way to embrace the charm of Croatian Istria.
Arrival in the famous town of Motovun on top of a hill in the heart of Istria. The hotel is on the central square on the highest point of the town and from the garden there are splendid views over the green surroundings. The afternoon is free to relax by the pool and stroll through the ancient cobbled streets.
The Kaldir Valley is situated at the foot of Motovun and is known for its fruit. Walk through orchards of apples, peaches, cherries, and plums. Along the route you will pass several national shrines and walk through small remote hamlets. An upper ridge offers great views of the top of the mountains and the sea on the other side. Find a nice picnic spot among the olive trees, look for honeybees and listen to the hammering of the lesser spotted woodpecker.
At the end of the walk a steep climb takes you back to the hotel in Motovun.
After descending from Motovun you walk through the Kadir Valley, then take a winding climb over small forest paths surrounded by greenery and many wildflowers. This path leads you past several small villages perched high above the Mrna River. You can hear the church bells ring down into the valleys and the blue rock thrush seen flitting among the branches as you continue the climb on a stony path used by merchants and travelers since the Middle Ages. In the distance you see Sovinjak already in front of you, a beautiful tiny hamlet with 29 inhabitants.
In the morning you’ll walk to the ancient thermal baths of Istarske Toplice where you can opt for a visit to the baths or to relax and have a drink at the bar. The warm thermal waters contain many healing minerals. To climb the impressive 85 meter high rocky outcrop which rises steeply above the baths, you follow a narrow path. From the top you have a beautiful view of the surroundings.
The route back to Sovinjak is on small paths and through quaint villages.
The first 3 km today are on a quiet asphalt road heading towards the town of Sveti Donat. From here on, you will venture into a remote area and will hardly see tarmac anymore. In Kozari you can make a stop at the local konoba before continuing through the woods.
After a steep descent you reach a well-marked trail that leads to Hum, officially the smallest town in the world, with a city wall, church and cemetery. On the way you pass the picturesque hamlet of Kotli which has a grand total of one permanent resident! Make sure to stop at the small little bar if it’s open.
The day begins with a transfer to Poklon Pass (922m) near the top of Ucka National Park. In good weather conditions you can climb up to the top of Mt. Vojak (1401m) for stunning 360° views. At Poklon you’ll begin the long descent to the Adriatic Sea, first over narrow, sometimes steep paths through the beech woods, later between buildings. The trail crosses the road, with regular views across the Adriatic and the many islands.
Once at sea level you follow a coastal footpath lined with small coves, inviting terraces, and classic style villas, built for wealthy Austrians and Hungarians who at the turn of the century came to spend the winter. Tonight you can try one of the many local restaurants near the marina.
The tour ends after breakfast unless you’ve pre-booked extra days to enjoy the coast. Safe travels home!
This self-guided tour to Croatia is always run as a private tour for your group only and the pricing depends on the time of the year, as well as the room types required.
The prices below are per person.
Departures on April 1st - 19th:
Departures on April 20th - May 26th:
Departures on May 27th - July 4th:
Departures on July 5th - August 27th:
Departures on August 28th - September 30th:
Departures on October 1st - 31st:
This tour is based in hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. Hotels on this trip are 2-3-star and offer modern conveniences that can make this trip more pleasant. Rooms may have fireplaces or access to amenities such as hot tubs, steam rooms, or private decks to lounge on.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
Rooms are double occupancy. You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel where possible. Solo travellers may be required to pay a supplement.
Hotel Kastel is elegant and chic. Unwind in the sauna or spa or take a dip in the pool or book one of the most extensive wellness experiences.
Enjoy the hospitality at this cozy guesthouse, which enjoys a beautiful location. Ask the helpful hosts if you want any local recommendations.
There’s nothing quite like a locally-run B&B in the countryside, and this one will have you feeling in touch with the Istrian countryside.
Where better to end the tour than a hotel with a seaside pool, outdoor bar and terrace, and elegant rooms? You won’t want to head back home once you’re here!
6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners are included.
Accommodations for 6 nights are included.
Luggage transfer is included. Your transfer on Day 6 from Hum to Poklon is also included. Airport transfers are not included but can be added as an upgrade.
How hard is the Istrian Castles to Coast Walking Tour?
We rate this tour as a 2/5. The walks are mostly along vineyards, uneven footpaths, mule tracks, and small gravel roads. The trails through the vineyards can get slippery, muddy and heavy-going when wet or after heavy rain. The trails do not always have markings. This tour is mostly suited to fit, adventurous travellers who can walk several hours per day for consecutive days.
Do I need a visa to travel to Croatia?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
I’ve never been on a self-guided trip! How does it work?
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel, since you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided with all the information you’ll need to follow the route each day and often have access to phone support or other kinds of assistance. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
Are meals included on the Istrian Castles to Coast Walking Tour?
6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners are included.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Motovun to start this tour?
Fly to Pula International Airport (PUY), from where you will need a transfer to reach Motovun. You can also fly to Italy at Venice Airport Marco Polo (VCE), Trevor Airport (TSF), or Trieste Airport and travel by land or by boat to Motovun. Airport transfers can be added as an upgrade.
Where does the Istrian Castles to Coast Walking Tour end?
The tour ends in Opatija. You can either use trains or buses to reach your departure airport or arrange a transfer as an upgrade.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Croatia?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Croatia?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
All tours on 10Adventures are operated by highly vetted local tour operators and guides.
Having local tour operators and guides means you get a more authentic experience, and your booking creates jobs in the local communities you visit.
Details of the local tour operator will be listed on your booking invoice. If you have questions about the local operator prior to booking, please click the “Ask a Question” button below.
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Google ReviewStephen L.
I’ve been using 10Adventures route guides for a while, but had never booked a tour. My wife and I booked a self-guided hike in Greece and were so impressed with how we were able navigate the route without a guide with the detailed and easy to follow itinerary. We enjoy travelling independently, and 10Adventures made that happen.
Melinda S.
I was going through a tough time and really needed a getaway so I decided to book a tour through 10Adventures. My trip to Peru changed my life in so many positive and eye-opening ways. I am so thankful for the kind, empathetic team at 10Adventures.
Lina K.
I’ve adventured around a lot of Canada and the US, but I’ve always wanted to explore other parts of the world. I felt a bit scared before booking my trip to Israel, but my conversations with the team at 10Adventures helped ease any worry. I can’t wait to explore more of the world!
Gabriela H.
Travel companies have had to go through a lot during the pandemic but 10Adventures were super flexible and accommodating nonetheless. I had to cancel my tour in France due to the pandemic. 10Adventures was great and let me reschedule for a later date!
Mikael V.
My wife Sarah and I had a great experience booking our 7-day cycling trip through Portugal via 10Adventures. The communication between us and Nadine leading up the trip was top-notch!
Alexandra D.
Communicating with 10Adventures feels like talking with a family-run business. I love to explore and travel, and exploring with the comfort of knowing I can talk to the team at 10Adventures with almost immediate feedback helps to ease any stress that comes with adventuring!
Eric S.
Whenever I’m looking for my next adventure 10Adventures never fails. Their routes all over England are my main go to for exploring and I have only had great experiences booking both guided and self-guided trips in Europe and South America with them. I am looking into Africa next.
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I tend to have a lot of questions before travelling and was so happy to find that the team at 10Adventures responded to every single one of my inquiries in a timely fashion. I was never left waiting and waiting for a response. This was much appreciated!
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I have horrible dietary issues making it super hard to book a pre-planned trip sometimes, but the communication through 10Adventures helped me navigate this situation! I am so grateful for all of their help. I cant wait to book with them again!
Erika S.
I just got back from backpacking in the Sierra Nevada, and WOW. What an unreal journey! The alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the lakeside camping spot were memorable highlights! I wonder what other tours 10Adventures has to offer. That one went so well that I am now convinced I need to book another!
Robert D.
I'm not a big fan of traveling because of my fear of flying, but my girlfriend convinced me to go on the Aurora Borealis Tour in the Yukon. I will never forget the mesmerizing northern lights. Such a romantic (and cold) getaway. I would highly recommend it.
Monica L.
Wow! I am so happy with the experience I had with booking through 10Adventures for my tour in Italy! I worked with Nadine and she was super easy-going and helpful when it came to tweaking the itinerary provided on the website. 10/10 would book through 10Adventures again.
We rate this tour as a 2/5. The walks are mostly along vineyards, uneven footpaths, mule tracks, and small gravel roads. The trails through the vineyards can get slippery, muddy and heavy-going when wet or after heavy rain. The trails do not always have markings. This tour is mostly suited to fit, adventurous travellers who can walk several hours per day for consecutive days.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
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