Hidden Adriatic
Cres & Istria – A Laid-Back Journey Through Island Trails, Coastline & Wine Country
INTRO
SUMMARY
Over five days, we explore the magical landscapes of Cres along coastal and ridge trails, discovering epic views, hidden beaches, local food, and the spirit of island life along the way.
The journey continues to Istria, where the focus shifts toward gastronomy and lifestyle: carefully selected wineries, local producers, and some of the most beautiful hilltop towns in Croatia, combined with walks and relaxed evenings.
This experience brings together two distinct yet connected regions – the raw character of island Cres and the refined, culinary richness of Istrian peninsula.
Designed for the off-season, it avoids crowds and focuses on comfort, authenticity, and a balanced measure of movement and rest.
The itinerary remains flexible and adapts to arrival times and conditions.
Below follows is an indicative overview of the journey.
HIGHLIGHTS
- A carefully curated blend of hiking, sailing, and local culture.
- Walking through the beautiful landscape following idyllic routes, shepherd trails and venturing off the beaten path.
- Exploring the most captivating countryside of Istria through guided walks and hikes.
- Sunbathing in secluded coves of Cres, and relaxing on beaches.
- Enjoying homemade meals in family-run guesthouses and traditional taverns.
- Experiencing Istrian gastronomy, including wine tastings and local delicacies.
- Traveling in a small group (up to 6 guests) for a more personal and flexible experience.
- Accommodation combining the rustic charm of Pansion Tramontana in Beli with the comfort of boutique Hotel Kaštel in Motovun, creating a balanced 7-night stay.
- Private guiding and onsite support 24/7
WHY THIS JOURNEY
This is a carefully curated journey through one of the most striking and still underexplored regions of the Adriatic.
It brings together the landscapes of Cres with the cultural and gastronomic richness of Istria, and creates a balanced contrast between wilderness and cultivation.
The itinerary is not generic. It is built on local knowledge, long-term presence in the region, and direct relationships with small producers, winemakers, and hosts, which allows access to places and experiences that are not easily found or replicated.
At the same time, the journey remains highly accessible. With multiple international airports within reach (Pula, Ljubljana, Trieste, Treviso, Venice, Zagreb), travel logistics are flexible and reliable.
This experience is shaped to offer depth, authenticity, and a sense of place, while maintaining comfort and ease of travel.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Included in the Journey
- 5 nights at Pansion Tramontana in Beli with half board included (breakfast and dinner)
- 2 nights at Hotel Kaštel in Motovun with breakfast included
- Single occupancy accommodation throughout the journey
(shared room option available upon request) - All transfers from and to Pula Airport, including all transportation during the journey, fuel, parking fees, road tolls, and ferry tickets in both directions
- Full-day sailing experience along the Adriatic coastline, including:
- home-made prepared lunch on board (fish, meat, or vegetarian menu)
- welcome drink (homemade fruit liqueur or local rakija)
- premium Istrian wines served throughout the day
- coffee, fruit, snacks, crackers, and chilled water
- onboard refrigerator available for additional personal drinks or food
- One outdoor hiking picnic and one trail lunch package included
- Speedboat transfer from Sveti Blaž beach after the hiking section
- Two guided wine tastings at carefully selected Istrian wineries, accompanied by local platters and regional products
- Farewell group dinner on the final evening before departure day
- Wine tasting experience in nature during one of the hikes, led by a professional sommelier, with wines served outdoors in elegant glassware accompanied by stories about the region and its wine traditions
- Services of a professional hiking, mountain and cultural guide throughout the entire journey, including all organization, transfers, local interpretation, and personal support during the experience
Not Included
- Flights to and from Croatia
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Any services or items not listed under “Included in the Journey”
ITINERARY
DAY 1 ARRIVAL & SETTLING IN
Arrival at the airport, followed by a drive towards the hilltop village of Beli. After settling into the guesthouse, the rest of the day unfolds slowly, perhaps with a short walk through the surrounding forest trails, time by the sea, or exploring the old stone streets of the village. In the evening, we gather for a relaxed dinner and an easy introduction to the days ahead. The first day is about arriving into the landscape, and tuning into the atmosphere of the island.
DAY 2 INTO THE FORESTS OF TRAMONTANA
After a breakfast in Beli, we set out into the forests of Tramontana, one of the most distinctive landscapes on Cres Island. The walk follows quiet woodland paths beneath old oak forests, with time to pause often, enjoy the views, and move at an unhurried pace.
A picnic-style lunch is taken outdoors before returning to the village in the early afternoon. The rest of the day remains open for swimming below Beli, resting in the shade, wandering through the village, or visiting the Griffon Vulture Rescue Centre. Dinner together in the evening and another quiet night in the north of the island.
DAY 3 FROM OLIVE GROVE TO THE COVE
After breakfast, we leave the northern part of the island and continue toward Cres town, where today’s walk begins among centuries-old olive groves and paths leading toward a secluded island cove. The landscape gradually shifts from dry-stone walled olive grove parcels and low Mediterranean vegetation into deciduous forest and open sea views, with plenty of time to walk slowly and take in the surroundings.
By early afternoon, we reach the bay for swimming, resting, and an outdoor meal (with local olive oil) prepared for you in advance. Later in the day, a speedboat takes us back across the sea to Cres, revealing the town from the seaside before the evening continues relaxing by the waterfront. Dinner in Cres before returning to Beli for the night.
DAY 4 SAILING INTO SUNSET
This morning is reserved for sleeping in and a long breakfast, or an early solo walk – whatever suits your mood. The rest of the day is spent aboard a sailboat, exploring the coastline of Cres. Time for sunbathing, swimming in a secluded cove, lunch on board, and a glass of wine while enjoying the beauty of the Adriatic in full. Return to Beli in the evening.
DAY 5 LOŠINJ ISLAND & LUBENICE CLIFFS
In the morning, we visit Mali Lošinj, a charming coastal town on the neighbouring island south of Cres. We visit the Apoxyomenos Museum and spend some time exploring the town and its waterfront. In the afternoon, we continue toward the cliffside village of Lubenice, one of the oldest settlements on the Cres island, overlooking the open Adriatic. Time is left open to wander through the stone streets, sit along the cliffs, explore the surrounding paths, or descend toward the secluded beach below with your guide for those who feel like a short but proper hike.
In the evening, we gather for dinner with your hosts in Beli, enjoying one final evening on the island as the village slowly settles into the night.
DAY 6 WELCOME TO ISTRIAN PENINSULA
After breakfast, we leave Cres and return to the mainland, gradually moving away from the coast and into the inland landscapes of Istrian peninsula. Along the way, we pause at a small family-run estate in the countryside for wine tasting, local products, and a relaxed lunch surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills.
In the afternoon, we continue through the hilltop towns of inland Istria, with time to wander through narrow stone streets and enjoy the views across the valleys and forests. By early evening, we arrive in Motovun, where the rest of the day is left open to rest, explore and settle into the town and the atmosphere of Istria.
DAY 7 ISTRIAN WINE & WALK EXPERIENCE
After breakfast, we set out for a walk through the landscapes of central Istria, following paths between vineyards, forests, and hilltop villages. Along the way, we pause for local wine tasting before continuing toward one of the region’s carefully selected wineries for a guided tasting accompanied by local platters.
Later in the day, we continue exploring inland Istria with a visit to a second winery, offering a deeper introduction to the region’s wine culture, landscapes, and domestic rhythm of life. In the evening, we return to Motovun for a shared dinner and the final evening of the journey.
DAY 8 DEPARTURE
After breakfast, we depart Motovun and transfer towards the airport.
If flight schedules allow, there is an optional stop in Rovinj – one of the most picturesque coastal towns in Istria – with time for a short walk and lunch at your own pace.
Arrival at the airport is scheduled at least two hours prior to departure.
PRICING
The pricing below is based on a group of 6 guests.
For smaller or larger groups, feel free to get in touch for a tailored quotation.
8-day journey: €1,850 per person
(single occupancy accommodation included throughout the entire journey)
Shared room option available:
€1,670 per person
Included in the Journey
- 5 nights at Pansion Tramontana in Beli with half board included (breakfast and dinner)
- 2 nights at Hotel Kaštel in Motovun with breakfast included
- Single occupancy accommodation throughout the journey
(shared room option available upon request) - All transfers from and to Pula Airport, including all transportation during the journey, fuel, parking fees, road tolls, and ferry tickets in both directions
- Full-day sailing experience along the Adriatic coastline, including:
- home-made prepared lunch on board (fish, meat, or vegetarian menu)
- welcome drink (homemade fruit liqueur or local rakija)
- premium Istrian wines served throughout the day
- coffee, fruit, snacks, crackers, and chilled water
- onboard refrigerator available for additional personal drinks or food
- One outdoor hiking picnic and one trail lunch package included
- Speedboat transfer from Sveti Blaž beach after the hiking section
- Two guided wine tastings at carefully selected Istrian wineries, accompanied by local platters and regional products
- Farewell group dinner on the final evening before departure day
- Wine tasting experience in nature during one of the hikes, led by a professional sommelier, with wines served outdoors in elegant glassware accompanied by stories about the region and its wine traditions
- Services of a professional hiking, mountain and cultural guide throughout the entire journey, including all organization, transfers, local interpretation, and personal support during the experience
Not Included
- Flights to and from Croatia
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Any services or items not listed under “Included in the Journey”
TERMS
Booking & Confirmation
All bookings are confirmed upon agreement of dates, availability, and final pricing. A deposit (typically 30%) is required to secure the booking, with the remaining balance due prior to departure.
Payment Terms
Payment conditions (deposit and balance) are agreed in advance with each partner agency.
Cancellations
Cancellation terms are aligned with the Operator’s general conditions and agreed in advance with each partner.
Minimum Group Size
The journey is based on a minimum number of participants. In case the minimum is not reached, alternative arrangements or revised pricing may apply.
Flexibility
The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather conditions, safety considerations, or other operational factors, always with the aim of maintaining the overall quality of the experience.
Responsibility
The Operator is responsible for the organization and delivery of the program as described. Partner agencies are responsible for client communication, sales, and any additional services not included in the program.
B2C
The Operator’s General Terms and Conditions (GTC) for end clients apply where relevant.
Specific conditions for each tour are agreed separately with partner agencies.