Villa Biserka

Fazana is a traditional little fishing town with a charming waterfront lined with cafes. Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Fazana is peaceful and languid. Located on the heart-shaped Istrian peninsula, it's great for an authentic Croatian experience. It's also just a short drive from lots of amenities and the largest town and capital of Istria, Pula.

Fazana is also a perfect jumping off point to visit Brijuni National Park, an archipelago of 14 islands. The wild, unspoilt natural beauty of the islands, teamed with its stunning coastline makes it a truly idyllic day trip. It can be accessed by a 15-minute boat ride from Fazana, which is scenic in itself. There are dinosaur footprints on the largest island, Viliki Brijuni and plenty of archaeological wonders. Those who enjoy hiking will love the trails around the islands, with interesting flora and fauna at every turn.

Beaches in the nearby vicinity include Bi Val beach, which is part of a resort yet accessible to non-guests. The blue-flag beach is popular with families, thanks to its sloped, sandy entrance to the sea. The rest of the beach is made up of fine gravel characteristic of Istrian beaches. Guests can try watersports here, including parasailing.

San Lorenzo beach is in Fazana centre, backed with trees, with warm turquoise water. For those in search of a more natural beach, head to Oliva beach, on the island of St. Nikola. Accessed by a five-minute boat ride, Oliva has a forest of oak and pine trees and the beach itself has a wild, untouched feel.

Istria as a region has a strong Italian influence, being just two hours from Venice and with a Roman history. It's easy to hop across the border and spend a day exploring Italy during your holiday. Istria's heart-shaped coastline is absolutely stunning and a little less touristy than other areas in Croatia.

Istria has strong culinary pride - the region is well known for its delicious gastronomy and fresh ingredients, like wild asparagus. A local dish to try is pljukanci, a hand-rolled pasta dish served with a variety of punchy sauces. Fazana itself is known for its sardines, so don't hesitate to try these! Vineyard tours are also popular throughout Istria. You can take a tour of a winery or vineyard and enjoy a glass of famous wines including Refošk or Malvazija. Admire the views of rolling hills and rows of grapes.

Take a trip to Pula, bursting at the seams with culture and history, particularly of the Roman era. There's a famous colosseum here that now hosts concerts and events - in the days of the Romans it hosted gladiator fights. In the summer months, the Pula Arena hosts re-enactments of this. There are lots of carnivals in Pula, so keep an eye out for these during your visit. Another Roman sight to behold is the Temple of August in the main square.

Read more about Pula

Pula, located on the southern tip of Croatia's Istrian Peninsula, is a city with a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene. Exploring the city's old town, you'll find charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and picturesque squares. A stroll through the heart of the city allows visitors to immerse themselves in its unique blend of architectural styles, from Baroque palaces to Venetian facades.

Pula is a city steeped in history, with its roots dating back to Roman times. The most iconic symbol of the city is the Pula Arena, a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheater. Built during the 1st century AD, it is one of the six largest surviving Roman arenas in the world and one of Croatia’s most famous sights. Visitors can explore the galleries, stand on the arena floor, and even attend various events, including concerts and festivals held within its ancient walls.

The Istrian Peninsula is known for its stunning coastline, and Pula boasts numerous pristine beaches and coves. One of the most popular spots is Kamenjak, a protected natural park featuring rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. Nature enthusiasts can hike or cycle through the park's trails and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic Sea. The coastal location is also ideal for water-based activities. Scuba diving enthusiasts can explore underwater caves and shipwrecks, while sailing and windsurfing are popular options for those seeking an adrenaline rush.

Just a short drive from Pula, the seaside town of Medulin offers a lovely promenade along the coast. You can take a leisurely walk, rent bicycles, or enjoy an ice cream by the sea. The shallow waters here make it a great spot for kids to play and swim.

For more family-friendly beaches, Verudela, Valkane, and Ambrela are all excellent options, offering playground facilities and water sports for older kids. Verudula beach is the home of Pula Aquarium which features a variety of Adriatic Sea creatures, including fish, seahorses, and various sea plants. The aquarium also has a touch tank, where children can get hands-on with the marine life!

Just a short boat ride from Pula is a collection of islands that make up Brijuni National Park. The park offers a unique combination of untouched nature, diverse flora and fauna, and historical sites. Visitors can explore the enchanting landscapes, visit the safari park, and explore the ruins of Roman villas and ancient churches. The park has golf carts available for touring, making it easily accessible for families with young children.

No visit to Pula is complete without indulging in the flavours of Istrian cuisine. The region is renowned for its truffles, olive oil, and world-class wines. Local restaurants offer a wide array of dishes that incorporate these prized ingredients. Be sure to try traditional Istrian dishes such as fuži (pasta) with truffles, maneštra (a hearty bean soup), and fresh seafood prepared in various ways.

Istria is also famous for its winemaking, and Pula is an excellent starting point for exploring local vineyards. Istrian wines, particularly Malvazija and Teran, are known for their unique character and are often paired with Istrian delicacies, creating a delightful culinary experience.

Whether you're exploring the ancient Roman heritage, relaxing on pristine beaches, or indulging in Istrian cuisine, Pula offers a unique and unforgettable Croatian adventure.