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Parenzana Trail
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Istria · Old railway

Parenzana Trail

CycleEasyIstria
78 km
Distance
620 m
Elevation
8 h
Duration

Follow the gentle gradient of a 1902 narrow-gauge railway through tunnels, viaducts and hilltop villages. Smooth gravel, rolling Istrian hills, vineyards, and a truffle stop or two.

The route on the map

Start: Poreč Finish: Trieste border (Savudrija option to finish on the coast) Best time: April–June, September–October

Why this route is special

  • Nine restored tunnels with original stonework
  • Hilltop towns: Motovun, Grožnjan, Oprtalj
  • Olive oil and Malvazija tastings along the way
  • Mostly car-free, perfect for gravel or e-bikes

Step-by-step highlights

  1. 1

    Poreč

    Coastal start — espresso on the Decumanus before climbing inland.

  2. 2

    Vižinada

    First proper hilltop view over the Mirna valley.

  3. 3

    Motovun

    Truffle capital. Lunch at Konoba Mondo, then climb to the walls.

  4. 4

    Livade

    Truffle hunting ground — Zigante is just down the road.

  5. 5

    Oprtalj

    Sleepy stone village; the bakery does excellent fritule.

  6. 6

    Grožnjan

    Artists' town with summer jazz. Refill bottles here.

  7. 7

    Buje

    Last hill before the descent to the coast.

  8. 8

    Savudrija

    Croatia's oldest lighthouse and a swim to finish.