Croatia Gastro Experience: Private Heart of Istria – from Poreč and Rovinj

Pick-up from the hotel.

Guided walking tour and free time.

Svetvinčenat, Savičenta, San Vincenti, three names for the same place, deriving from the name of its patron, Hispanic martyr Saint Vincent and the abbey holding the same name around which the town has developed.

The renaissance town of Svetvinčenat, one of the pearls of Istria, which has become a tourism hot spot due mainly to the many events taking place in the attractive historical corners of our town. The very heart of Svetvinčenat is its main square, called „Placa“, together with Morosini-Grimani castle, the landmark of the place and one of the most important Venetian fortifications in Istria. What makes the cultural heritage of Svetvinčenat a memorable experience are the wall frescoes to be found in St Vincent’s chapel next to the cemetery and in St Catherine’s church.

Every year, this special little town is home to many visitors attracted by its rich tradition and its interesting and diverse events, among which the best known are the Medieval Festival, the Cheese Festival and the Dance and Non-Verbal Theatre Festival.

In the surroundings of Svetvincenat, in the village of Pekići, lies the spectacular lavender fields. 

More than 36 000 different lavender seedlings are planted here by the family Pekica, whose local family household located in the middle of the property is a perfect example of a traditional home in Istria, surrounded by local flowers and plants and animated by local animals and the sound of children play and family talks. 

Lavender here is used to flavor foods and beverages and as a fragrance ingredient in soaps and cosmetics. 

After lunch of local specialties accompanied by lavender scented snacks prepared by the family we will drive towards Rovinj, one of the most picturesque and romantic little towns in the world.

Guided walking tour and free time.

Rovinj is a charmingly picturesque town with narrow, cobbled streets, striking many visitors as being very Italianate in nature. It is famous for the St. Euphemia's Cathedral, the highest church tower in Istria at 61 meters high.