Villa Nautica, Istria | Oliver's Travels

CroatiaIstria

Villa Nautica

8 guests

4 bedrooms

4 bathrooms

Luxurious sea-view villa with pool, hot tub, sauna, and stylish interiors near Novigrad, Croatia.

Key Highlights

Private Pool

Air-Con

Wi-Fi/Internet

Location

On the Istrian coast, Novigrad is one of the highlights of the north. Famed for its excellent restaurants and colourful waterfront, it’s quieter than the likes of Rovinj and Poreč, and makes a lovely place to take a break.

Notable for its streets being adorned with brightly hued umbrellas, the picturesque Old Town is surrounded by 14th-century town walls which provide one of Novigrad’s points of architectural interest. The Church of St Pelagius and St Maximus, with its tall bell tower, is another distinctive landmark. At the Lapidarium Museum you can find artefacts collected from the church.

You have a couple of family-friendly excursions nearby – the Špilja Mramornica caves and the big Aqualand Istralandia water park. During the year, Novigrad also hosts lots of cultural festivals and events.

The Gnam-Gnam Fest is one highlight, showcasing the area’s foodie credentials. You will find at least a couple of the town’s restaurants in the Michelin Guide, Marina and Damir & Ornella being the big names. There’s good dining to be found in many places around Novigrad, however, with plenty of seafood and local takes on pizza and pasta. Istrian wine is a discovery well worth making too – look out for the local Malvasia.

Head further north and you’ll come to pretty Umag shortly before you reach the Slovenian border. Another quieter alternative to the big resorts further south, this historic town has nice beaches and good Mediterranean-style eateries in its labyrinthine Old Town streets. A town museum and a local winery are among the sights you could explore, as well as the nearby Savudrija Lighthouse.

While one of the coast’s most touristy spots, Poreč is well worth a visit. The Roman Old Town, where the Zuccato Palace and Euphrasian Basilica can be found, is the main attraction – the latter, famed for its stunning mosaics, being Poreč’s big hitter. Boat trips out to the nearby island of Sveti Nikola are also popular.

Another Poreč highlight is the spectacular Baredine Cave, some 60m underground, which contains incredible rock and stalactite formations. During summer, you will find all sorts of concerts and festivals around town, including those devoted to jazz and classical music.

East of Novigrad, the town of Motovun lies high on a hilltop, surrounded by verdant countryside. This especially picturesque place hosts an annual International Film Festival each summer, but is a local favourite at any time of year. On the eastern side of the Istrian peninsula, the mountainous Učka Nature Park and glamorous resort of Opatija are more than worth the drive of just over an hour.

Getting to and around

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.

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Villa Nautica

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