Villa Drvo

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Sleeps: 10 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 5
Oliver Approved

Overview

Recommended Pool Modern
Great Value
Ideal for Kids
Pets on Request

With a vast infinity pool and panoramic views over the surrounding natural landscape, Villa Drvo offers a sublime blend of contemporary design with traditional artistry in the quaint, traditional village of Smoljanci.

The villa was designed by the renowned Croatian designer Boris Ružić, and includes endless custom features, in particular, the beautiful fireplace in the living area! The main living room features two comfortable sofas and extends to a casual seating area by the fire, with a huge dining table for ten beside this area, enjoying spectacular views. The kitchen is besides this, with a large central island creating tons of space for plenty of chefs!

The main interior entertainment is found in the basement: a bar for your drinking-desires as well as a kitchenette and even a cinema room make this the ideal hang-out spot in the late evenings, while an incredibly well-equipped gym and a large shower create the perfect space for an intense workout!

The gym includes several trainers, a boxing bag, speedball, yoga mat, turbo trainer (on request), steps and weights – or can be made up as a soft play area with a Wendy-house and slide! All of this has been added for 2019, so it is totally modern and dazzlingly new!

There are five bedrooms in total: three beautiful doubles and two twin rooms. Each room is designed in a stunning Scandinavian, minimalist style, with monochrome designs and natural textures. Some have seating areas or even double-door access into the dazzling sunshine on their private terrace.

All three doubles and one twin are accompanied by incredible ensuite facilities, while there is an additional full family bathroom on the top floor. The bathrooms are hugely spacious, with large walk-in showers or large bathtubs. There is also a guest toilet on the ground floor.

Out in your magnificent garden, you will find the vast, private infinity pool, surrounded sun-loungers where you can soak up the sunshine in between refreshing dips into the pool’s depths! A lawn encircles the pool creating tons of space for fun and games with the family.

There’s an outdoor kitchen with wood fire and dining table for ten on the terrace, and even a herb garden to try your hand at recreating a few of the local delicacies! There are also two bikes at your disposal for exploring the incredible local surroundings!

Only 20 minutes from the beach and just over half an hour away from Učka Nature Park, a sprawling protected area with hiking routes leading to canyons, waterfalls and historic sites, you’ll find unspoilt nature a stone’s throw away.

 One-third of the Istrian territory is forested, and the rest is carpeted with vineyards, olive trees, pastures and orchards, with ancient walled cities perched atop hills in the mountainous landscape, so you need merely stroll out of your front door to find the richness of Istria.

Oliver Approved

What you should know…

  • Please note that published rates are only valid for the current year. Any bookings for subsequent years will be on request only, and correct prices will be confirmed at the time of booking
  • Please let us know if you would like the kids to play area set up in the basement
  • While you’re just a short walk from the train station, it’s highly recommended to have a car in rural Istria to make the most of your location!
  • Only two babaies can be accommodated additional to the number of beds.

This home is a part of our Great Value Collection!

Our great value homes:

  • may be traditionally styled for a laid back feeling
  • may have some simple amenities and features
  • mean that you can enjoy top holiday destinations for less!

Property Features

Private Pool Wi-Fi/Internet Air-Con BBQ Ground Floor Bed & Bath Satellite TV Bicycles Provided Gym/Fitness Room Home Cinema Working Fireplace/Woodburner

The Villa

Villa Drvo is a collaboration of contemporary design with traditional artistry. Is located close to the coast in the heart of Istria the house is found in a small, rural village with grocery & hairdresser. There are 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, and it can accommodate up to 10 people

Lower Ground Floor
- Kitchenette
- Bathroom
- Bar
- Cinema
- Gym

Ground Floor
- Dining & living area
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Bathroom
- Access to the patio & pool area

First Floor
- Bedroom with double bed, balcony access and en-suite bathroom
- Bedroom with double bed, balcony access and en-suite bathroom

Second Floor
- Bedroom with double bed, balcony access and en-suite bathroom
- Bedroom with twin single beds and en-suite bathroom (can be set up as a double room upon request at time of booking)
- Bedroom with twin single beds
- Family bathroom

Exterior Grounds
- Private swimming pool
- Sun loungers & parasols
- Outdoor lounge & dining area
- Large patio & garden area
- Covered terrace
- Bikes
- Outdoor kitchen
- Barbecue

Additional Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- TV
- Washing machine
- Iron & board
- Parking
- Cot & highchair available upon request
- Bicycles (please see Ts and Cs)

 

 

HR04932052774 Mike Breakwell

Location

About the surrounding area of Villa Drvo
<1hr to Airport Rural Location Outstanding Landscapes Outdoor Pursuit & Activities Tourist Towns & Villages
Loading map

Smoljanci is a quaint, rural Croatian village, located in the heart of the enchanting natural landscape of Istria!

You’ll find a few small grocery shops, a pharmacy, doctors, dentist and a few restaurants and coffee shops in the nearby town of Svetvinčenat about a 5-minute drive away, as well as a very picturesque castle and a moat! The nearby train station has trains running between Buzet and Pula, and it’s just a 30-minute journey to the heart of the enchanting city of Pula.

Just 25 minutes away, you can’t miss the delightful Venetian coastal town of Rovinj half-way up the western coastline. Wander the old city, with its Venetian architecture and marble streets and admire the views across the marina before settling for a meal in one of its many beautiful sea-side restaurants. And be sure to stop off in Lim Bay while you’re there – a dramatic Fjord stretching for miles inland!

From breath-taking scenery, rich history and a world-famous culinary scene – you will find it all in Istria! A charming heart-shaped peninsula in the north-west of Croatia, Istria is warm, welcoming and perfectly-sized – you can drive the length in around an hour, putting everything within easy reach!

Active holiday-makers will be delighted with the offerings: from windsurfing in Medulin to scuba diving in the Brijuni National park and rock climbing, hang-gliding and walking in Buzet along the 15km ‘seven waterfalls’ walk, Istria has it all.

Both along the dramatic coastal paths and in the mountains inland, you will find an abundance of natural ways for cycling (including the scenic Parenzana route over an old railway line from Viznada to the Slovenian border) and rugged off-road hiking trails.  

Much like its neighbouring Italy, Istria is a gastronome’s paradise, home to world-class cuisine and endless rows of vineyards. Be sure to try the local wines, which are often sweet and fruity, using a wide variety of grapes including white Malvasia, red Terrano and Moscato. Istria is especially famous for its truffles, which you will find served with any dish and sauce!

Both Rijeka and Pula have international airports within a short drive of the villa, while Pula is the central hub for those getting ferries, although there is a daily ferry between Poreč and Venice.

Read more about Istria

Local Amenities
Nearest Airport Pula Airport

(38km)

Nearest Ferry Port Pula Ferry Port

(29km)

Nearest Village Smoljanci

(300m)

Nearest Town/City Žminj

(10km)

Nearest Restaurant Restaurants & Shops

(4km)

Nearest Beach Pebble Beach

(20km)

Nearest Golf Golf Course

(30km)

Nearest Tennis Tennis Court

(28km)

Region

Nestled along Croatia’s enchanting Adriatic coastline, Istria welcomes visitors with open arms and a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be unraveled. Whether you're seeking adventure in nature, indulgence in culinary delights, a glimpse into history and culture, or simply a warm and inviting atmosphere, the peninsula of Istria has it all.

Istria's diverse and unspoiled landscapes will be the first thing to capture your attention! The region is renowned for its lush green hills, rolling vineyards, and enchanting coastline: the stunning scenery is a playground for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and beachgoers alike.

Offering a remarkable 445 kilometres of pristine coastline, including tranquil coves and sandy beaches, visitors can find plenty of secluded spots to soak up the sun. The clear, azure waters of the Adriatic are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving, making it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy an active day of water sports.

Venture inland and you'll discover picturesque villages set amidst rolling hills and verdant forests. Istria is home to over 30 nature reserves - an absolute haven for hikers and cyclists, with an abundance of well-marked trails to explore. The Učka Nature Park, in particular, stands out as a hiking and nature lover's paradise, offering waterfalls, historic villages, and breathtaking panoramic views of Istria's outstanding scenery.

Istria's rich history is woven into the fabric of its towns and cities. An ever popular choice for tourists is the impressive port city of Pula, full of quaint town squares and local restaurants, and home to one of the most well-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. This ancient arena, known as the Pula Arena, is a testament to Istria's Roman heritage and hosts numerous events, including concerts and film festivals.

The medieval towns of Rovinj and Motovun enchant visitors with their cobbled streets and historic charm. The Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning example of early Christian art and architecture.

Istria's culinary scene is a treat for the taste buds: the region is famous for its truffles, particularly the elusive white truffle, and you can savour dishes infused with this prized delicacy in charming local restaurants across the region. Wine and olive oil lovers will find joy in Istria's vineyards and olive groves, offering tastings and insights into traditional production methods. Fresh seafood, often served with a Mediterranean twist, is a staple that you can enjoy at quaint waterfront eateries along the coastline.

One of the most enduring memories visitors take away from Istria is the warmth of its people. The locals are known for their friendly, welcoming nature and their willingness to share their traditions and stories with tourists. You'll find yourself immersed in the local way of life, whether you're exploring ancient towns or enjoying a meal in a family-run tavern.

Istria is easily accessible, with Pula Airport serving as a major gateway. Once you arrive, navigating the region is a breeze with well-maintained roads connecting major towns and villages. Language barriers are minimal, thanks to the widespread use of English, Italian, and German, alongside the local Croatian language.

Istria’s unique blend of pristine landscapes, rich traditions, and warm-hearted locals creates an experience that will linger in your memories long after you've returned home.

Download our Istria Travel Guide >> 

Kids

Best Suited For: All Ages
Ideal for Kids Ideal for Teens

Villa Drvo is the ideal home for your family holiday. With a fabulous array of onsite facilities including a home cinema and so much to explore nearby, you can guarantee making memories to treasure!

In the heart-shaped bubble of Istria, you will find many activities specifically designed for families, including the two sensational water parks of Aquapark Istralandia, around 20 minutes away, near Novigrad and Aquapark Aquacolors in Poreč.

There is also the Dino Park just outside the town of Funtana where the kids can enjoy seeing life-size dinosaurs in the wilderness, an amusement park and even a dino shooting range!

On the theme of Dinosaurs, just a short drive from Pula, on the very southern tip of Istria, is the Kamenjak National Park where you can follow the ‘Dinosaur Path’ to discover dinosaur footprints and admire stunning views over the bay.

All along the coastline you will find opportunities to rent boats, pedalos and snorkelling equipment (or even scuba diving if you’re feeling up to it!) to enjoy the pristine beaches and bays, while inland among the deep green, rolling mountains there are some of the most beautiful cycling and hiking trails in Europe.

Kids Activities Close-by

  • <1hr to Airport
  • Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
  • Tourist Towns & Villages

Onsite Facilities

  • Bicycles Provided
  • Home Cinema

Extras

At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:

- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- Babysitting/childcare services

Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team.

Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!

Terms & Conditions

These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.

Security deposit For groups under 25 years olds, €500 paid in cash to the owner upon arrival and refunded upon departure, subject to full inspection.
Arrival time 4pm
Departure time 10am
Energy costs included? Yes, included in the rental price.
Heating costs included? Yes, included in the rental price.
Linen & towels included? Yes, included in the rental price.
End of stay cleaning included? Yes. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit.
Internet access? Complimentary Wi-Fi internet access is included in rental price. It is good to note that the speed is dependent on the local provider and technical issues may cause reduced speed or cut of service.
Minimum stay 7 nights. All other durations on request.
Changeover day Saturday. All other changeover days on request.
Pets welcome? Not allowed.
Smoking Allowed? Smoking & Vaping are not permitted.
Pool heating charge? For those who require pool heating, there will be an additional charge of €200 per week (to be paid locally on arrival). Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures.
Tax Included in the rental rate.
Insurance Guests are required to be in possession of a valid insurance policy, which covers them for cancellations, loss of personal belongings, personal liability and any accidental damage caused during their stay.
Other Ts and Cs Please request at time of booking whether you would like the second twin bedded room to be set up with twin beds or with a double.
Other 2 Bicycles are available upon request for short trips to the local shops or similar. For guided tours, please bring your own bikes or hire bikes from nearby Rabac.

Rental Rates

Prices based on an occupancy of 10 people:

Rental period Weekly
Mar 29th 2024 - May 11th 2024 £3,503
May 11th 2024 - Jun 8th 2024 £4,003
Jun 8th 2024 - Jun 29th 2024 £3,753
Jun 29th 2024 - Jul 13th 2024 £4,754
Jul 13th 2024 - Aug 24th 2024 £5,004
Aug 24th 2024 - Aug 30th 2024 £4,503
Aug 30th 2024 - Sep 14th 2024 £4,503
Sep 14th 2024 - Sep 21st 2024 £3,753
Sep 21st 2024 - Dec 23rd 2024 £4,003
Dec 23rd 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 £5,004
Jan 4th 2025 - May 10th 2025 £3,503
May 10th 2025 - Jun 7th 2025 £4,003
Jun 7th 2025 - Jun 28th 2025 £3,753
Jun 28th 2025 - Jul 12th 2025 £4,754
Jul 12th 2025 - Aug 23rd 2025 £5,004
Aug 23rd 2025 - Aug 29th 2025 £4,503
Aug 29th 2025 - Sep 13th 2025 £4,503
Sep 13th 2025 - Sep 20th 2025 £3,753
Sep 20th 2025 - Sep 30th 2025 £4,003

Prices based on an occupancy of 10 people:

Rental period Weekly
Mar 29th 2024 - May 11th 2024 €3,803
May 11th 2024 - Jun 8th 2024 €4,346
Jun 8th 2024 - Jun 29th 2024 €4,074
Jun 29th 2024 - Jul 13th 2024 €5,160
Jul 13th 2024 - Aug 24th 2024 €5,432
Aug 24th 2024 - Aug 30th 2024 €4,889
Aug 30th 2024 - Sep 14th 2024 €4,889
Sep 14th 2024 - Sep 21st 2024 €4,074
Sep 21st 2024 - Dec 23rd 2024 €4,346
Dec 23rd 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 €5,432
Jan 4th 2025 - May 10th 2025 €3,803
May 10th 2025 - Jun 7th 2025 €4,346
Jun 7th 2025 - Jun 28th 2025 €4,074
Jun 28th 2025 - Jul 12th 2025 €5,160
Jul 12th 2025 - Aug 23rd 2025 €5,432
Aug 23rd 2025 - Aug 29th 2025 €4,889
Aug 29th 2025 - Sep 13th 2025 €4,889
Sep 13th 2025 - Sep 20th 2025 €4,074
Sep 20th 2025 - Sep 30th 2025 €4,346

Prices based on an occupancy of 10 people:

Rental period Weekly
Mar 29th 2024 - May 11th 2024 $4,129
May 11th 2024 - Jun 8th 2024 $4,719
Jun 8th 2024 - Jun 29th 2024 $4,424
Jun 29th 2024 - Jul 13th 2024 $5,603
Jul 13th 2024 - Aug 24th 2024 $5,898
Aug 24th 2024 - Aug 30th 2024 $5,308
Aug 30th 2024 - Sep 14th 2024 $5,308
Sep 14th 2024 - Sep 21st 2024 $4,424
Sep 21st 2024 - Dec 23rd 2024 $4,719
Dec 23rd 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 $5,898
Jan 4th 2025 - May 10th 2025 $4,129
May 10th 2025 - Jun 7th 2025 $4,719
Jun 7th 2025 - Jun 28th 2025 $4,424
Jun 28th 2025 - Jul 12th 2025 $5,603
Jul 12th 2025 - Aug 23rd 2025 $5,898
Aug 23rd 2025 - Aug 29th 2025 $5,308
Aug 29th 2025 - Sep 13th 2025 $5,308
Sep 13th 2025 - Sep 20th 2025 $4,424
Sep 20th 2025 - Sep 30th 2025 $4,719

Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.

Reviews

  • Beautiful villa!

    on 08/08/2023

    Easy to find, very welcoming hosts and beautiful villa that is living up to all our expectations!

  • Villa is great!

    on 31/07/2023

    Villa is great, has everything we need. The owners are really helpful and accommodating.

  • Wonderful

    on 02/08/2019

    We had a wonderful time at Villa Drvo. It’s a beautifully and, most importantly, thoughtfully designed place. The large beds are super comfy, the rooms are very spacious, the kitchen is well stocked with lots of extras and the location is super safe and quiet. The basement den cinema room and gym were a great bonus for our two boys. There are bikes which we used to bike to a nearby supermarket, a nice little local shop with good bread and a village train station (which we used to go to Pula). The pool and the house were sparkling clean. There is absolutely loads to do in the surrounding area if you have a car - Pula is half an hour by car or train, Rovinj 20 mins. The owners are lovely people and came up with so many good ideas for things to do. It really was a home from home and we’d love to come back.

  • Fantastic

    on 28/06/2019

    This is a fantastic property in a tiny village. We all loved the pool. It's very easy to reach lots of Istria from here. The owners were superb and we all had a wonderful time.

  • We'd go back.

    on 20/09/2018

    Villa Drvo lives up to and even surpasses the high quality photos that you see. Located in a quiet village about 30 minutes drive from Pula it was exactly what we were looking for on a week of relaxation with ample space for our party of 9 and a pool. The owners were very friendly and more than happy to provide us with tips on where to visit/eat out. That said we only actually left the villa on two evenings because it’s so nice to just stay there. Would highly recommend and we’d definitely go back again!

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