Istria

From Trieste, the ferry takes you to Muggia, where the dreamlike hiking route begins for you on this day. A breathtaking view of the Julian Alps appears shortly after you have crossed the border to Slovenia, here you have to completely enjoy every moment. The descent via the Slovenian Alpine Trail opens up a view of the gentle landscape over the Gulf of Koper, nestled in the vineyards.

Today you leave Koper and hike to the charming fishing town of Izola and on to Piran & Portorož. Your constant companion is the impressive Stunjan National Park. Arriving in Piran, the birthplace of composer Giuseppe Tartini, you can let yourself be enchanted by the Venetian influences. Enjoy the flair on the Piazza Tartini in the centre and stroll through the small alleys.

Your journey begins with a short bus ride to Portorož and with it you leave the picturesque coast. You continue hiking across the border into Croatia, your path leading you to the heart of the country, to Buje. This region is home to 23 of Croatia's best-known winemakers, who allow their exquisite varieties of wine to thrive in this fertile soil. Your walk will take you through vineyards and olive groves around the small town.

Surrounded by green fields and olive groves, you walk to Brtonigla. Here you will encounter the typical Istrian cuisine, with many Mediterranean delicacies. A visit to the Mramornica cave should also be on your list.

The hiking route today takes you through the Skarline Nature Park, which is named after the Škarlina stream that rises nearby. In Kastelir you will discover a military road that once led to Pula via Trst and Poreč. All kinds of Mediterranean plants adorn the path along the way. From Kastelir you will take a transfer to Tar.

The last day of your hike through Istria takes you to Poreč. While walking along the coast, you will discover the Euphrasius Basilica, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over a glass of wine in the old town, you can end your trip in a relaxed way and review your experiences.

From Trieste, the ferry takes you to Muggia, where the dreamlike hiking route begins for you on this day. A breathtaking view of the Julian Alps appears shortly after you have crossed the border to Slovenia, here you have to completely enjoy every moment. The descent via the Slovenian Alpine Trail opens up a view of the gentle landscape over the Gulf of Koper, nestled in the vineyards.

Today you cross the border into Croatia. You hike through the interior to Momjan, where 23 of Croatia's best-known winegrowers cultivate their wines. The small town used to tower over the Dragonja Valley as a strategically important Venetian fortress. Wine roads lead you through the vineyards and olive groves around the small town. In the evening, the famous wine cellars and restaurants invite you to enjoy the delicacies of Istrian cuisine.

Starting from Momjan, you hike through green fields, olive groves and vineyards to Brtonigla. Brtonigla combines typical rural Istrian cuisine with Mediterranean seafood. Sacred buildings such as the parish church of St. Zenon are worth seeing here. The Mramornica cave is also worth a visit.

You hike through the Skarline Nature Park. The park is named after the Škarlina stream, which has its source nearby. North of Kastelir, above the valley of the Mirna River, are the ruins of the medieval settlement of Nigrinjana, now Gradina. The municipality of Kastelir is surrounded by Mediterranean plants, olive trees, vineyards and fields. The surrounding forests are rich in mushrooms and wild asparagus. From Tar, take the bus to Poreč.

A transfer will take you to the starting point of the stage. While walking along the coast, you will discover the Euphrasius Basilica, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over a glass of wine in the old town, you can end your trip in a relaxed way and review your experiences.